OUR HISTORY
The National Science Policy Network (NSPN) started in 2018 as a project to unite and support early-career scientists and engineers in their efforts to engage with policy at all levels of government and in public and private organizations.
While interest in science policy had been growing, there was a lack of organized support and community for those at the beginning of their careers. NSPN was created to fill this gap, providing training, resources, and a platform for these emerging leaders. The organization quickly grew, hosting events, workshops, and networking opportunities that drew participation from across the nation.
NSPN’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive science policy community has helped it thrive, establishing it as a vital part of the science policy landscape.
Meet the Team
At the National Science Policy Network (NSPN), we are a passionate and driven team committed to advancing science policy by empowering early-career professionals. Our mission is to inspire, support, and equip the next generation of scientists and engineers with the tools and knowledge to meaningfully contribute to the intersection of science and policy. With diverse expertise in science, policy, and advocacy, we empower the next generation of STEM policy professionals to shape the future. Through mentorship, hands-on training, leadership programs, and policy communication workshops, we provide the tools and support needed to make a meaningful impact. Our team is committed to fostering an inclusive, forward-thinking community where every STEM voice matters.
Contact us at info@scipolnetwork.org
Tepring Piquado, Ph.D.
Chief Executive Officer
tepring@scipolnetwork.org
Annabel Ortiz
Chief Operations Officer
annabel@scipolnetwork.org
Marion Kerr
Development Manager
marion@scipolnetwork.org
william@scipolnetwork.org
William Ota, Ph.D.
External Relations Manager
Board Members
Our Board of Directors plays a vital role in guiding the organization toward its mission of developing the next generation of science policy leaders, the board provides strategic oversight, supports program development, and ensures NSPN remains at the forefront of advancing evidence-based decision-making. Meet the dedicated individuals behind our mission to transform science into action and create a thriving community of change-makers.
For questions or more information, please reach out to us at board@scipolnetwork.org.
Donna Gerardi
Board Chair
Christofer Nelson
Board Secretary
Aaron Mitchell
Board Treasurer
Avital Percher, PhD
Board Vice Chair
Robbie Barbero, PhD
Board Member
Susan Hackwood, PhD
Board Member
Holly Mayton, PhD
Board Member
Caitlin Warlick-Short
Board Member
Champions of Science-Informed Policymaking
The Champions of Science-Informed Policymaking recognition honors elected officials who advance policies grounded in evidence, transparency, and public service. These leaders demonstrate a sustained commitment to integrating scientific insight into decision-making that strengthens communities and improves lives.
* This section is organized by State.
State Senator
Robert Peters
Illinois
State Senator
Jacob Oliveira
Massachusetts
State Senator
Michael O. Moore
Massachusetts
State Senator
Nathalia Fernandez
New York
State Senator
Vandana Slatter
Washington State
State Representative
Bob Morgan
Illinois
State Representative
Meghan K. Kilcoyne
Massachusetts
State Representative
Debora Lekanoff
Washington State
INCLUSION, DIVERSITY, EQUITY, ACCESS
NSPN aims to build an inclusive community by training diverse leaders to become trusted and sought-after science policy professionals. Acknowledging the historical exclusion of diverse voices, particularly Black, Indigenous, Latino, and other people of color, which has led to inequitable policies and systems of oppression, NSPN is committed to promoting diversity, inclusivity, and accessibility. We strive to ensure that policies align with our equity goals, broaden participation among underrepresented minorities, and support those traditionally excluded from policymaking. Understanding that achieving diversity, inclusivity and accessibility is an ongoing process, we continually seek feedback and reflection from our community, center traditionally marginalized voices, and commit to actions that advance the justice and equity we seek in the world.
ABOUT OUR LOGO
The NSPN molecule features four outer elements that represent the four disciplines of STEM connected in the middle by the red dot symbolizing NSPN. The diameters of the circles are inspired by the nature of a Fibonacci sequence: 1, 1, 2, 3, 5 — another nod to the sciences.
