UR SPI Memo Writing Workshop: Talking Science to Congress

UR SPI is announcing its Policy Memo Competition! Communicating science policy to policymakers can be challenging for STEM academics. Here, we provide an opportunity for members to develop and hone these skills through a workshop and two-part competition (with cash prizes).

Workshop: Thursday, July 8, 2021, 2:00 - 3:30 pm
Policy Memo Competition: Friday, July 30, 11:59 pm
Presentations of Policy Memos: Friday, August 6, 1:00 - 3:00 pm

This CCC event/registration page is for the workshop only. Use the links below for the competition details.


##### WORKSHOP #####
Communicating and advocating for action on science policy topics to legislative or executive officials, many without technical backgrounds, can be challenging for STEM academics who interact mostly with those in their same fields. This workshop will help attendees develop their skills in writing concisely, clearly, and persuasively for these audiences. This is a follow-up to our spring workshop where we went over the structure and format of policy memos.

Topics in this workshop include:
- Structure and composition of US government institutions
- Format and function of a 1-page flyer, 4-page policy memo, and a longer-form
white paper
- How to convert the jargon of scientific research and outcomes into actionable items
- How to take your memo to Congress

This event is the prelude to our Memo Writing Competition in August.


##### COMPETITION #####
Groups and individuals from the university are invited to submit one-page memos and present on a science policy topic. Team registration is now open!

Team registration: Friday, July 23, 11:59 pm (https://bit.ly/32qsMR5)
Memo Submissions: Friday, July 30, 11:59 pm (https://bit.ly/3alaFjZ)
Presentations: Friday, August 6, 1:00 - 3:00 pm

Full rules and schedule: https://bit.ly/3sy9Ha6

Top 3 teams will win $200, $100, and $50.

University of Rochester Science Policy Initiative | Website | View More Events