CCASS Talk - The Making of Federal Science Policy: How the Sausage Gets Made and the Need for More Engaged Scholarship and Decision Making

Speaker: Melanie Stansbury, Sr. Advisor and Consultant, Utton Transboundary Resources Center, University of New Mexico

Science research and development drives global innovation and underpins every sector of our economy and social well-being.  Globally, the U.S. accounts for more than a quarter of the world’s R&D spending.  This talk examines federal policy and decision processes from the White House to Congress that drive this R&D engine—with a focus on the earth science infrastructure that supports decision-making in communities across the country.   After a discussion of several cases, the talk will address how scientists can more effectively engage in the federal policy process and engaged scholarship. 

Melanie Stansbury is a policy consultant and senior advisor to the Utton Transboundary Resources Center at the University of New Mexico School of Law.  Melanie works with organizations to develop strategies for a more sustainable world—with a focus on water security, natural resources, and community development. Previously, Melanie worked in Washington DC in the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources and at the White House Office of Management and Budget.  A native New Mexican, Melanie has worked with communities across the state and the U.S. at the federal, tribal, state, and local levels.  She is currently running for office in New Mexico. 

Stansbury’s visit to the UA is sponsored by CCASS.