National Association of Science Writers

Founded in 1934, the National Association of Science Writers (NASW) is the largest organization devoted to the professional interests of science writers. As stated on the association's Web site, NASW was incorporated in 1955 with a charter to “foster the dissemination of accurate information” about science through the media to the public. In other words, NASW fights for the free flow of science news. What began as a group of colleagues meeting informally to discuss the field has grown into a 2,600-member organization that holds annual workshops, publishes a quarterly magazine, hosts an active Web site, funds travel and reporting fellowships, and conducts activities designed to advance the field and craft of science writing. Though it has grown, NASW still fosters a collegial atmosphere for members, creating networking opportunities, both virtual and physical, that bring together science writers from all over the United States and multiple foreign countries.

NASW is fueled by volunteer power. Four officers and an 11-member executive board, elected for 2-year terms, lead NASW. Officers are required to be working members of the press. Over the years, NASW officers have included employees of most of the major newspapers, wire services, magazines, and broadcast outlets in the United States. Board membership is open to any NASW member in good standing. Committees change over time to reflect the needs and interests of members and to keep up with a changing field; volunteer liaisons form a bridge between NASW and other journalistic organizations.

Membership in this professional society is achieved through an application process in which the applicant demonstrates evidence of published work. Regular memberships are for working journalists, authors, editors, producers, public information officers, science-writing educators, and people who write and produce films, museum exhibits, and other material intended to inform the public about science and technology. Student memberships were established to foster interest in the field and do not require the same stringent application process as regular memberships. Student memberships exist for those currently enrolled in a journalism or science program or who are serving as a reporter or editor at a school newspaper.

NASW's code of ethics stipulates that NASW or its members, when invoking their NASW membership, must act in accordance with the organization's aims, in keeping with the highest standards of journalism. NASW does not take political positions, endorse candidates, support specific legislation, or allow the use of its name in connection with any political events. NASW may, however, take a position on issues related to journalism, freedom of information, and other public policy debates that relate to the members' ability to act in keeping with the highest standards of journalism.

Resources for members focus on professional development. An annual meeting that is held in a different region of the country each year offers skills and topical workshops as well as copious social opportunities. Other regional workshops are held as topics and interest arise. NASW sponsors travel fellowships for the annual meeting as well as other meetings relevant for members. The quarterly magazine, ScienceWriters, in publication since 1952, highlights developments, issues, and [Page 501]controversies relevant to the field with reports by members and outside experts. Members also have access to a jobs board, a grievance system that helps freelancers get paid for their work, and professional e-mail and Web hosting services. Other member services are periodically added to reflect the changing needs of members.

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