The Entomological Society of America and Science Policy Engagement

After years of not engaging in policy affecting entomology and entomologists, the Entomological Society of America (ESA) has developed a set of coordinated initiatives to have the Society and its members become engaged in science policy activities. From its beginnings as a mere commitment to development of a program, the ESA’s science policy program has become robust and active, including engaging an advocacy firm to represent ESA and guide Society initiatives and training, and developing a Science Policy Fellows program with selected fellows representing all parts of the membership, to creating a ‘tiered agenda’, with priorities stated for key issues. Here, we recount some of the history of ESA’s advocacy efforts and highlight the value of the ESA as an advocate, providing policy makers with timely and reputable evidence-based information, while developing engaged members to become future Society leaders.