Dean of the Stony Brook University School of Communication and Journalism, Laura Lindenfeld, who also serves as the Executive Director of the Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science, was recently invited to present to the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Directorate for the Engineering Advisory Committee by Dr. Susan Marguiles. Marguiles asked Lindenfeld to provide strategies on how the NSF can strengthen communication about engineering.
“At the Alda Center, we have the opportunity to leverage our 15 years of experience in science communication and apply the knowledge and tools we have developed to support engineering,” said Lindenfeld. “I am personally and professionally committed to ensuring that we help to foster stronger linkages between engineering and society so that the benefits and importance of engineering are communicated clearly and accurately.”
Lindenfeld co-presented with the President of the National Academy of Engineering, Dr. John Anderson, following the release of an NAE report commissioned by the NSF to highlight major achievements in engineering that have received NSF funding. Lindenfeld was a member of the committee and co-author of this prestigious report.
Lindenfeld and her team at the Alda Center work closely with federal science agencies to help agency researchers pay close attention to their message and how others respond to it. The Alda Method combines social science research and applied improvisational exercises to support researchers as they develop communication strategies that work for them. This combination helps people build interpersonal connections and trust across backgrounds, experiences, and expertise.
Located in Washington D.C., SBU’s Office of Federal Relations supported Lindenfeld during her visit to the NSF and works closely with Alda Center leadership to promote both the Center and its communication strategies.