Engaging Scientists in Policy and Advocacy (ESPA) is a National Science Policy Network (NSPN) chapter at the University of Michigan. ESPA is a graduate student-led organization that provides training in and opportunities to implement effective science communication, advocacy, and comprehension and analysis of science policy to its members. Membership is open to undergraduate and graduate students, post-doctoral fellows, faculty, and staff in STEM-related fields at the University of Michigan. Learn more about how to become involved below!
Upcoming ESPA Events
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ESPA @ U-M Museum of Natural History Science Cafe
March 19 | 6:00PM - 7:30PM | Conor O’Neill’s Irish Pub
Join EPSA at the monthly Science Cafe hosted by the U-M Museum of Natural History!! This month’s topic is “A Prehistoric Paring: The love lives of Neanderthals and Homo sapiens.” Dr. Molly Hirst and Dr. Susanna Gutierrez from the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology will be presenting on their study of contemporary hybridization and how it can provide insight into human evolution. You can either meet us at the event or meet in the Chemistry Atrium at 5:30PM to walk over together! Please RSVP using the link above!
Practice Your Networking Event
Part 1 | March 25 | 4PM - 5PM | LSA 1040 | RSVP for Part 1
Part 2 | March 25 | 5:30PM - 6:30PM | LSA 1280 | RSVP for Part 2
Want to improve your networking skills? Come attend this two-part networking event to learn more about networking and practice your skills! In Part 1, attendees will receive an overview on networking and then can practice networking with their peers over food in Part 2. You do not need to attend Part 1 to be able to attend Part 2. Please RSVP using the link(s) above!
Science Advocacy Workshop - SAVE THE DATE!
March 27 | Time and Location Coming Soon!
ESPA Government Engagement Chair, Ally Tonsberg, is organizing a Science Advocacy Workshop with Jimmy Brancho from the Sweetland Writing Center. The reference material to be used for this workshop is Beyond the Sage on the Stage: Communicating Science and Contemporary Issues Effectively by Sherry Seethaler. The time and location of this event will be announced soon. In the meantime, please mark your calendars for Thursday, March 27 as the date this event will be held!
How to Write a One-Pager Workshop - SAVE THE DATE!
April 3 | 12PM | Location TBD
Be sure to attend our upcoming workshop on preparing one-pagers for policy makers, led by Dr. Julie Berson Grand, Education Manager for the STPP program at the Ford School. Interested in taking part in ESPA's planned Advocacy Day in Lansing, MI? Please note that attendance at this workshop is an expected prerequisite for Advocacy Day. However, this workshop is open to all regardless of interest in participating in Advocacy Day.
A location and RSVP form will be distributed soon! Until then, please mark your calendars for April 3, 12PM as the date and time of this workshop. Food will be provided!
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You can explore all of our upcoming and recent events by checking out our event calendar
ESPA Announcements
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ESPA to Visit Lansing in Winter 2025!
Please fill out this form if you would be interested in joining ESPA on a trip to Lansing, MI to meet with legislators and be a policy advocate! Look for more information coming soon on pre-Lansing events as well as our Lansing visit date for late April/early May.
ESPA is now on Bluesky!
ESPA has joined Bluesky where we will post activity and event updates. Stay up to date by following us @espaumich.bsky.social
Our March Newsletter is available
Read our March newsletter on our website today!
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EUpcoming Events offered by NSPN & UCS Allied Groupsents
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March 3, 11:59PM EST
Deadline to enroll for NSPN Science Policy Skills Course
NSPN is offering a science policy skills course for STEM students and professionals interested in a science policy career. This course will provide education that deepens your understanding of state and local policy, gain practical skills to engage stakeholders, and navigate the policy landscape effectively. This is an 8-week course beginning on March 5.
For questions, reach out to info@scipolnetwork.org
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March 3, 11:59PM EST
Deadline to enroll for NSPN x Meridian Diplomatic Skills for Scientists Course
NSPN is hosting a diplomatic skills course in partnership with the Meridian Center for Diplomatic Engagement. Beginning in July 2025, this course is focused on developing skills in effective communication, negotiation, and cross-cultural navigation. The course ends with in-person training and networking in Washington, DC. Learn more here and apply before March 3!
Applicants can be considered for financial assistance if they apply by March 3. For questions, reach out to info@scipolnetwork.org
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Advocacy Training for Scientists & Technologists
April 3 | 6 - 7PM | Virtual | Part 1
April 10 | 6 - 7PM | Virtual | Part 2
ENROLL by April 3, 5PM EST
NSPN is hosting a two-session workshop on March 3 and March 7 designed to provide education in science advocacy. Workshop attendees will learn how to "identify the right audience, connect with key decision makers, and tailor your message for maximum impact. Your voice matters – and you don’t have to go to Washington to be heard! Elected officials need to hear from their constituents in their home states. Transform your expertise into impactful advocacy in your home state." In Part 1 of this workshop series, learn how to develop your pitch by identifying your audience, crafting the right message, and creating a structured outline. In Part 2 of this workshop series, present your advocacy pitch in a realistic, interactive setting and receive feedback from experienced policy practitioners.
Participation in both workshops cost $39. Enroll by March 3 to take advantage of this opportunity!
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NSPN Annual Symposium
May 3 | Location: Rainier Club, Seattle, Washington | In-person
Abstract Submission Deadline: January 6, 2025
Early Bird Registration Deadline: February 1, 2025
Final Registration Deadline: May 3, 2025
Join NSPN for a symposium exploring global challenges including climate change, public health, privacy, and more through the lens of different industries. This a fantastic opportunity to connect and network with other professionals interested in science policy. Learn more here and register!
Stay Connected!
Join our email list and Slack channel by following the link below and filling out the ESPA interest form
Follow us on LinkedIn and Bluesky to stay up to date
