Our Story
The Grad Club is owned and operated by the Society of Graduate Students (SOGS), a not-for-profit student advocacy organization at Western University. The Grad Club is not only an eatery and pub; it’s also an academic, social, and wellness space for the campus community. The Heart of Grad Life at Western U, the Grad Club is a home away from home for all graduate students and associate members.
The Grad Club has existed in many forms over the last half-century. In 1968, SOGS inaugurated “Happy Hour” for graduate students every Friday in the Graduate Student Dining Room in Somerville House. By 1977, when SOGS moved to the University Community Centre (UCC), “Happy Hour” extended from Monday to Friday. In 1979, SOGS established the “Grad Centre’’ in Middlesex College in order to expand and replace its “Happy Hour” operation. In 2004, the Grad Club underwent a major renovation, doubling its size and adding kitchen facilities, and obtaining the rights from Western Food Services to offer year-round food service.
Since establishing its permanent location in 1979 in Middlesex College, the Grad Club has incorporated and developed numerous events and services that have become integral to its operations, such as the grad life tradition of Trivia Tuesdays, and the famous Goblet of Knowledge. We have over 60 board games for your to enjoy during your visit. Additionally, we feature an array of student-focused events hosted by various SOGS committees such as Board Game Night, Karaoke Night, Gradtoberfest, and more. As an inclusive and safe community space, the Grad Club has become a hub for various clubs, community groups, cultural and social events, informal meetings, and weddings.
Partnering with local breweries, the Grad Club offers a wide selection of craft beers, featuring a rotation of local seasonal brews that complement our domestic and import selections. When you stop in for a refreshing beverage, don’t miss our extensive food selection. The Grad Club offers a variety of hearty breakfast options, daily lunch specials, savoury pub fare, and delicious dinners. Planning an event? Check out our catering options.
The Grad Club is situated on the traditional territories of the Anishinaabeg, Haudenosaunee, Lunaapeewak and Attawandaron peoples, who have long-standing relationships to the land and region of southwestern Ontario and the City of London. SOGS values the significant historical and contemporary contributions of local and regional First Nations and all of the Original peoples of Turtle Island.
