NEW ORLEANS – A two-day workshop hosted by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine brought together leaders from government, academia, industry, and philanthropy to discuss strategies for strengthening the nation’s science and technology enterprise.
The event, titled “Bolstering National Science & Technology Competitiveness Through Effective Science Communication,” took place on Feb. 25–26 in Washington D.C. and
was organized as part of the Government-University-Industry-Philanthropy Research Roundtable (GUIPRR).
This unique forum facilitates dialogue among top stakeholders dedicated to advancing the national science and technology agenda.
A key session of the workshop, “Fostering Public Trust and Economic Development Through Strategic S&T Communication,” was moderated by the CEO and Founder of STEM NOLA, Dr. Calvin Mackie.
“Public trust in science and technology is essential for fueling innovation and driving economic growth,” said Mackie. “Inclusive and transparent public engagement strategies can bridge the gap between scientific advancements and societal understanding, positioning science as a tool to address shared challenges and unlock economic opportunities.”
STEM NOLA has been actively engaged in promoting science and technology education and communication for over a decade.
“This session explored how building trust through public engagement strengthens economic resilience, accelerates innovation, and enhances national competitiveness,” said Mackie.
The panel featured experts from a range of disciplines:
• Brian Southwell, Distinguished Fellow and Lead Scientist for Public Understanding of Science at RTI
• Melissa Edwards, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
• Ruth Freeman, Director of Research for Society at Research Ireland
• Hollie Mackey, Chief Executive Officer of the NSF Engine: North Dakota Advanced Agriculture Technology Engine
Discussions underscored that fostering a well-informed public is essential not only for scientific progress but also for creating a robust economic environment.
The workshop highlighted the need for strategic communication efforts that make scientific research accessible and relevant to broader audiences, ensuring that societal challenges are met with informed and collaborative solutions.
The National Academies’ commitment to excellence in science communication, coupled with the collaborative efforts of GUIPRR, reflects a growing recognition that effective engagement with the public is a cornerstone of sustained innovation and national progress.
Originally established in 1984 as the Government-University-Industry Research Roundtable (GUIRR), the group expanded its membership to include philanthropic leaders and subsequently rebranded to GUIPRR. This reflects the growing importance of private investment in science.
The roundtable event brought together around 60 senior representatives from government, academia, industry, and philanthropy to address challenges that hinder the U.S. research enterprise.
“Thank you to the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine for having me and for the commitment to excellence that benefits all of society,” said Mackie in a public statement.
GUIPRR meets three times a year and has been instrumental in shaping discussions on how to leverage diverse funding sources, improve collaboration, and strengthen the nation’s competitive edge in science and technology. Its evolving role underscores a broader recognition that sustainable innovation relies on inclusive partnerships across all segments of the research ecosystem.
