October 22, 2019
A delegation from Russia, Sigma Xi staff, and members of Science Communicators of North Carolina met at the Sigma Xi headquarters on October 18.
Media Contact:
Heather Thorstensen
Manager of Communications
Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Honor Society
hthorstensen@sigmaxi.org or (919) 549-4691 ext. 216
RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, NC—Eight science advocates and journalists from Russia and three interpreters visited the headquarters of Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Honor Society on October 18 in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina. They came to network with their professional counterparts, discuss American best practices for educating the public about false scientific claims, and to improve the objectiveness of Russian mass media.
Sigma Xi is an honor society that recognizes scientists and engineers from all research areas for their excellence. A part of Sigma Xi’s mission is to promote the public understanding of science. Many members join a local chapter to promote science in their communities. The Society also publishes American Scientist magazine, which is written by researchers who work in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) and has been a trusted STEM resource for more than 100 years.
The Russian delegation’s visit was arranged by Meridian International Center, a global leadership institution, for the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP). The program enables emerging leaders from other countries to meet their professional counterparts and gain first-hand knowledge about American society, culture, and politics.
The Russian delegation met with Sigma Xi staff who produce American Scientist and Sigma Xi Executive Director and CEO Jamie Vernon, American Scientist’s publisher. Vernon previously traveled to Russia to learn about research and science communications there. Members of Science Communicators of North Carolina were also in attendance. The group includes science writers, journalists, public information officers, and institutional communicators from across the state.
“Sigma Xi is thrilled to share our expertise with our Russian counterparts and to make connections that will promote the public understanding of science worldwide.” Vernon said.