Resources

Support the ASC, NASW, and PRSA

Association of Science Communicators: Empowering Science Communication Worldwide

https://www.associationofsciencecommunicators.org/

The Association of Science Communicators (ASC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering and inspiring the science communication community to expand their communication potential and effect the world. Through their annual conference, Science Talk, and other activities, ASC promotes responsible practices in science communication, facilitates discussion and exchange of ideas, enables professional development, and fosters a sense of community among its members.

History and Evolution: Founded in 2017 as Science Talk Northwest, the organization’s initial conference brought together the regional science communication community in the Pacific Northwest. The success of this event led to the formation of the Association of Science Communicators in 2022, with the aim of better reflecting the organization’s mission and serving a broader audience. The name change also highlighted the importance of science communication and the need for a professional organization to support and advance the field.

Membership and Benefits: ASC welcomes individuals from diverse backgrounds, including scientists, journalists, educators, and communicators, who share a common goal of effectively communicating science to the public. Members benefit from networking opportunities, access to a vibrant community of like-minded professionals, and the chance to exchange ideas and collaborate on projects. Additionally, members have the opportunity to attend the annual Science Talk conference, which features keynote speakers, panel discussions, and workshops on various aspects of science communication.

Science Talk Conference: The annual Science Talk conference, organized by ASC, is a premier event for science communicators. It offers a platform for attendees to learn about the latest trends and best practices in science communication, network with peers, and engage in thought-provoking discussions. The conference features a diverse range of speakers, including scientists, journalists, educators, and communication professionals, who share their insights and experiences in effectively communicating science to the public.

Professional Development and Resources: ASC is committed to providing its members with opportunities for professional development. This includes access to a variety of resources, such as webinars, workshops, and online courses, designed to enhance their skills in science communication. The organization also maintains an active blog and social media presence, sharing relevant articles, news, and events in the field of science communication.

Community Engagement and Advocacy: ASC is actively involved in promoting responsible practices in science communication and advocating for the importance of effective science communication in society. The organization supports initiatives that aim to improve the public’s understanding of science, address misinformation, and promote evidence-based decision-making.

The Association of Science Communicators plays a crucial role in empowering and inspiring the science communication community to expand their communication potential and effect the world. By providing networking opportunities, professional development resources, and a platform for the exchange of ideas, ASC fosters a sense of community among its members and contributes to the advancement of science communication worldwide.


The National Association of Science Writers: Fostering Excellence in Science Communication

https://www.nasw.org

The National Association of Science Writers (NASW) is a community of professionals dedicated to the promotion and dissemination of accurate, responsible, and engaging science communication. Established in 1934, the organization has grown to become a leading voice in the field of science writing, representing journalists, authors, editors, producers, public information officers, and students who share a common goal of effectively communicating science to the public.

History and Mission: Founded by a group of pioneering science reporters, NASW was established to foster the dissemination of accurate scientific knowledge to the public and to promote the professional development of science writers. Over the years, the organization has expanded its scope to include a wide range of media platforms and communication channels. The mission of NASW is to support and enhance the professional development of its members, promote the highest standards of science writing, and advocate for the importance of science communication in society.

Membership and Benefits: NASW welcomes members from diverse backgrounds, including journalists, authors, editors, producers, public information officers, and students. Membership in the organization provides access to a wealth of resources and opportunities for professional growth, including networking events, job listings, and professional development workshops. Members also have the opportunity to participate in the annual ScienceWriters conference, which features keynote speakers, panel discussions, and hands-on workshops on various aspects of science writing and communication.

ScienceWriters Conference: The annual ScienceWriters conference, organized by NASW in collaboration with the Council for the Advancement of Science Writing (CASW), is a premier event for science communicators. The conference offers a platform for attendees to learn about the latest trends and best practices in science writing, network with peers, and engage in thought-provoking discussions. The event also includes the prestigious Science in Society Journalism Awards, which recognize outstanding science writing in various categories.

Professional Development and Resources: NASW is committed to providing its members with opportunities for professional development. This includes access to a variety of resources, such as webinars, workshops, and online courses, designed to enhance their skills in science writing and communication. The organization also maintains an active blog and social media presence, sharing relevant articles, news, and events in the field of science communication.

Advocacy and Support: NASW is actively involved in advocating for the importance of science communication and promoting the highest standards of science writing. The organization supports initiatives that aim to improve the public’s understanding of science, address misinformation, and promote evidence-based decision-making. Additionally, NASW provides support and resources for its members, helping them navigate the challenges of a rapidly evolving media landscape.

The National Association of Science Writers plays a crucial role in fostering excellence in science communication. By providing networking opportunities, professional development resources, and a platform for the exchange of ideas, NASW supports its members in their pursuit of accurate, responsible, and engaging science writing. Through its advocacy and support initiatives, the organization contributes to the advancement of science communication and the public’s understanding of science.


The Public Relations Society of America: A Pillar of Ethical Communication

https://www.prsa.org

The Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) is the leading professional organization serving the communications community through a network of more than 400 professional and student chapters in the U.S., Argentina, Colombia, Peru, and Puerto Rico. Since its establishment in 1947, PRSA has been dedicated to empowering its members to succeed at every stage of their careers through a wide breadth of premium professional development programs, exclusive networking events, and leadership opportunities. Guided by its Code of Ethics, PRSA has played a pivotal role in promoting the highest standards of ethical communication and professional conduct in the field of public relations.

History and Mission: PRSA was formed in 1947 by combining the American Council on Public Relations and the National Association of Public Relations Councils. The organization’s mission is to support, empower, and advance the careers of communication professionals while promoting the highest standards of ethical practice in the field. Over the years, PRSA has expanded its presence on college campuses, with chapters across the U.S. and in several Latin American countries.

Membership and Benefits: PRSA welcomes members from diverse backgrounds, including journalists, authors, editors, producers, public information officers, and students. Membership in the organization provides access to a wealth of resources and opportunities for professional growth, including networking events, job listings, and professional development workshops. Members also have the opportunity to participate in the annual International Conference, which features keynote speakers, panel discussions, and hands-on workshops on various aspects of public relations and communication.

Code of Ethics: PRSA is committed to promoting ethical communication and professional conduct among its members. The organization’s Code of Ethics outlines the core values and principles that guide the practice of public relations, including advocacy, honesty, fairness, independence, loyalty, and professional development. By adhering to these principles, PRSA members contribute to the credibility and integrity of the public relations profession.

Professional Development and Resources: PRSA is dedicated to providing its members with opportunities for professional growth. This includes access to a variety of resources, such as webinars, workshops, and online courses, designed to enhance their skills in public relations and communication. The organization also maintains an active blog and social media presence, sharing relevant articles, news, and events in the field of public relations.

Advocacy and Support: PRSA is actively involved in advocating for the importance of ethical communication and promoting the highest standards of public relations practice. The organization supports initiatives that aim to improve the public’s understanding of public relations, address misinformation, and promote evidence-based decision-making. Additionally, PRSA provides support and resources for its members, helping them navigate the challenges of a rapidly evolving media landscape.

The Public Relations Society of America plays a crucial role in promoting ethical communication and professional conduct in the field of public relations. By providing networking opportunities, professional development resources, and a platform for the exchange of ideas, PRSA supports its members in their pursuit of excellence in public relations. Through its advocacy and support initiatives, the organization contributes to the advancement of ethical communication and the credibility of the public relations profession.