Join the Sci4Ga Board!

As a nonprofit organization, Science for Georgia is guided by a Board of Directors, who are a dedicated and amazing group of people from academia, industry, medicine, and other fields. Our board represents diverse backgrounds and experiences, equipping us to consider all angles as we accomplish our mission and have broader impacts. The goal of the Board of Directors is to reflect on Science for Georgia’s mission, to create and oversee the organizational strategy, and to ensure that the staff have the resources they need to execute on that strategy.

We are actively seeking new board members, and since you’re reading this, you’re a good candidate!

Science for Georgia - talking to community members about speaking up for science

Science for Georgia is a 501(c)3 nonprofit that works to bridge the gap between scientists and the public. We

Empower communities with data based on their concerns
Increase public engagement with science by creating spaces and programs where science experts and the general public (focusing on adults, not K-12) can have productive and informative discussions
Work with elected officials in Georgia, on both sides of the aisle, to advocate for responsible public policy based on evidence and informed by data
Teach science communication workshops (including ones that leverage humor) that train people in technical fields to communicate more effectively

So You Want to Be a Science Superhero (a.k.a. Board Member)?

Four years ago, I got one of those mysterious emails that usually end with “click here for a free cruise.” Except this one wasn’t about a boat — it was an invitation to join the board of Science for Georgia. A former committee member from my Emory PhD days vouched that this was legit, so I hopped on a Zoom call with strangers, had a blast, and after a little deliberation, signed up. Fast-forward four years: I’m still here, still smiling (mostly), and still convinced that this quirky little nonprofit is one of the most important science forces in Georgia.

What exactly is Science4Georgia? Think of it as the state’s nerdy translator — helping scientists explain their work without PowerPoint-induced comas, making science accessible for everyone, and pushing for public policy that actually uses evidence (gasp!). We’re like the Hogwarts for science communication — minus the wands, plus way more wombat poop jokes.

Being a board member means late-night Monday Zoom calls where the dress code is officially “PJs and wet hair.” Sometimes we’re logging in from kitchens, airports, or even airplanes. Kids pop in, pets steal the show, and at least one person is mid-dinner. Our president’s giant headphones have become legend, and Anne’s mood is the ultimate predictor of whether the money talk will be cause for celebration or commiseration. (Pro tip: if she sighs before speaking, brace yourself.)

And yet, in the middle of all the tangents about chicken poop, the Okefenokee swamp, and “can we actually afford this?” we’re united by a mission: science matters, and people deserve to understand it. We’re scrappy, nerdy, endlessly tangential, and proud of it. If you’ve ever thought, “I wish I could help make science more human, more fun, and more useful in Georgia,” then guess what? You’d fit right in. Come join us — wet hair, dinner plate, and all.

— An inside take from BOD Member, Amy Abdulovic-Cui

What does a member of the Science for Georgia Board of Directors actually do?

Board members are expected to review a slide deck and financial report in advance of attending bimonthly 1-hour online meetings (about 6/yr) along with an annual board “retreat” (typically a 4-hour weekend in-person event). They help advance the work by attending public events, amplifying our social media, and volunteering for committee work. They also serve as informal ambassadors for the organization, help to spread the word through their professional networks, identify potential partnerships, and provide strategic guidance to make sure the organization remains aligned with its mission. Note that none of this requires that you have a science or technology background!

What is expected of board members?

As with most nonprofits, board members must follow our bylaws, policies and code of conduct (all very standard). The board has collective fiduciary oversight responsibility for the organization, so they help develop and approve an annual budget. The board also raises funds and resources needed to accomplish the mission by providing a meaningful donation of time, talent, and/or treasure. There are no fixed amounts expected, since charitable contributions are personal financial decisions. Some board members are also elected to officer positions (President, Vice-president, Treasurer, Secretary) which may entail additional duties and meetings. Board members serve a 3-year term and are eligible for re-appointment for an additional 3-year term.

How would being a board member benefit me?

You’d be doing something concrete and meaningful to help bridge the gap between science and the public. And, research shows there is a significant relationship between volunteering and good health. Individuals who volunteer live longer and can improve mental health, too. But the real reason is that it’s fun and you get to meet and network with a bunch of smart, new, people who share some of your interests. And, we like to enjoy tacos!

This is great - how do I get started?

Reach out to to our Executive Director, Amy Sharma, amy (dot) sharma (at) sci4ga (dot) org.

She will get you in contact with one of our current board members to buy you a beverage and close the deal. Email us and let’s continue the conversation. Thanks for your interest!

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