A group of Stony Brook University students recently visited Washington, DC, to participate in the Catalyzing Advocacy in Science and Engineering (CASE) Workshop organized by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). Students from across the nation convened to discuss how science intersects with public policy and advocated for federal support of scientific research.
The CASE Workshop is designed for graduate and upper-level undergraduate STEM students to engage directly with science policy and advocacy experts. During the event, participants attended briefings with federal agency leaders, participated in workshops on effective science communication, and learned about the federal policy-making process. This experience is intended to equip students to advocate for science throughout their careers.
“The CASE conference was a great reminder that those of us training in both medicine and research have a unique perspective to offer in science policy,” said Rohini Guin, MD-PhD candidate and a member of Stony Brook’s Advocacy Corps. “The workshop reinforced how crucial it is for scientists to engage with policymakers — not just to secure funding, but to ensure that science continues to inform public decisions in a meaningful way.”
During their visit, the Stony Brook group met with Rep. Nick LaLota, representative of New York’s 1st Congressional District, which includes Stony Brook University. During the meeting on Capitol Hill, the students discussed the impact of federal research funding, shared stories from their academic work, and stressed the importance of supporting early-career scientists.
“Attending the AAAS CASE conference was an incredible opportunity to step outside the classroom and see how science and policy intersect in real time,” said Malak Makled, BA Political Science and Psychology ‘26, and a Stony Brook’s Advocacy Corps member. “As a Stony Brook undergrad, it was empowering to connect with leaders in science advocacy and realize that students like me can have a voice in shaping policy that impacts research and society.”
Rep. LaLota expressed appreciation for the students’ efforts and reaffirmed his support for research, innovation, and higher education on Long Island and nationally.
“We’re incredibly proud of our students for taking the initiative to represent Stony Brook on Capitol Hill,” said Kristen Adams, Stony Brook’s Director of Federal Relations. “They are developing the skills not only to excel in their fields, but to help shape the future of science policy.”
Upon returning to their campus, students bring back valuable knowledge, new connections, and a deeper understanding of advocacy in amplifying the impact of scientific research in society. Stony Brook’s Office of Federal Relations organized the students’ Washington visit, which also included a Capitol tour and a meeting with Senator Schumer’s staff.