Guarini Students Bring Science Advocacy to Capitol Hill

Four Guarini School of Graduate and Advanced Studies students traveled to Washington, D.C. this month to participate in the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Catalyzing Advocacy in Science and Engineering (CASE) conference, an immersive workshop that introduces graduate students to the federal policy-making process, highlights the role of science in shaping public policy, and empowers them to become lifelong advocates for research.

Doctoral students Mohamed Moustafa Dawoud, Jonathan Lindbloom, Galini Poimenidou, and Jannitta Yao joined participants from across the country for a multi-day program of learning about the structure and function of Congress, as well as strategies for communicating science to policymakers. Their visit culminated in meetings with congressional staff.

"Applying to the CASE workshop was the fulfillment of a long-held dream," said Dawoud, a PhD student in computer science whose research focuses on human-centered cybersecurity and privacy. "It was my first opportunity to move from curiosity to action."

Earth sciences PhD student Yao was similarly motivated by prior advocacy work. "After meeting with New Hampshire representatives during the American Geophysical Union fall meeting, I came away with a real interest in science policy," she said. "This workshop helped me better understand the role scientists can play in shaping research policy, especially during times of political uncertainty." 

The opportunity to connect science with public service was a highlight echoed by all participants. "It's easy to get lost in the lab," said Yao. "But the CASE workshop reminded me that our work can have real-world impact—and that scientists have a voice in shaping the future."

Student participation in the CASE workshop is sponsored by the Guarini School of Graduate and Advanced Studies in collaboration with Dartmouth's Office of Federal Relations.