Thursday, August 15, 2019: 11:30 AM-1:15 PM
M112, Kentucky International Convention Center
Co-organizers:
Sarah Anderson
and
Caroline E. Ridley
Speakers:
Sarah Anderson
,
Skylar Bayer
,
Nicole Zimmerman
and
Johnny J Quispe
Public engagement in policy by scientists has gained interest in recent years. In the United States, anyone can engage in public discourse if they would like, but it is not always obvious where to insert scientific expertise into policy. The goal of this workshop is to introduce the term, science policy, and show that ecologists of any career stage, and from all backgrounds, can engage in policy processes. We will begin the session defining science policy and the nuanced ways scientists can insert themselves into the policy process. We will then follow with a series of short talks describing concrete ways scientists can actively get involved in helping influence policy. Presenters will provide tools and resources to attendees they can use following the workshop. The workshop will conclude with how representation, diversity, equity, and inclusion influences science policy, or why having more diverse voices in the room makes better policy. There is a huge role for scientists in policy making - scientists understand the science used to actually make the policy! Therefore, this workshop will be essential for any scientist that wants to make a difference in how data is used in decision making. We expect attendees to leave understanding how a scientist can use their expertise for policymaking and concrete ways they can do it now. We also expect our materials to be used by attendants to teach others at their universities and institutions. The symposium will have broad interest for meeting attendees from undergraduates to emeritus faculty.
