What is Buckeye Commons?

Foundations

For a student to have a successful college experience, there are many critical factors that occur both inside and outside of the classroom. Decades of research on student success, retention and graduation recognize that student success is multi-faceted. To achieve student success, the university must utilize a holistic approach that incorporates all aspects of the student experience, including but not limited to:

-         Academic performance

-         Career and post-graduate outcomes

-         Engagement on campus

-         Health and well-being

-         Learning, growth and development, in and outside the classroom

-         Retention, persistence and graduation

-         Sense of belonging and mattering

For a student to be successful, each of these components must work together to build a foundation for all students to thrive and feel connected to the university now and in the future as alumni.

The Vision for Buckeye Commons

The vision for the Buckeye Commons was designed for students by students. In spring 2025, the Senior Vice President of Student Life charged a group of student leaders to facilitate listening sessions and gather feedback from their peers to determine what is needed as part of the Ohio State student experience. From this, Buckeye Commons was founded.

Student leaders identified the following themes and needs for the Buckeye Commons:

–      Students want an open, inviting and multi-purpose space to connect, build community and network with each other, faculty, staff, alumni and student organizations; this will include renovated physical space and tailored programming. 

–      Students want support to connect them with campus partners and resources

–      Students want the space to be a place where they can go for mentorship, advocacy and an overall sense of care and belonging. 

Students collaboratively brainstormed and provided feedback on various names for the new area. Buckeye Commons was selected because “commons” conveys openness, community and shared purpose—like a town square for Buckeyes. 

Buckeye Commons is now open! The concept and offerings of Buckeye Commons will grow and evolve so students have an open, flexible space where they can meet, engage and learn from each other and access resources and support from a variety of campus partners and programs focused on their success. Buckeye Commons will be a one-stop shop to empower students to engage, learn and thrive on campus.