University students take a picture inside Congressman Paul D. Tonko’s office
The 2025 Material Advantage Congressional Visits Day (CVD) brought 36 university students to Washington, D.C., for two days of science advocacy, professional development, and connection with peers and policymakers. Hosted by the Material Advantage student program, this annual event gives students in materials science and engineering the chance to engage with policymakers and their staff on Capitol Hill to advocate for federal funding of research in materials science and related fields.
This year’s event kicked off with an opening reception and training session at the Credit Union House on April 2. Students heard from professionals working at the intersection of science and policy, including Dr. Alessandra Zimmerman, Senior Manager of R&D Policy at the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS); Dr. Adriana Bankston, a federal science policy advocate currently serving as the first-ever AAAS/ASGCT Congressional Policy Fellow; and Dr. Mark Feuer DiTusa, who currently works in Senator Chris Coons’s office to improve policy in workforce, biomanufacturing, and education. The guest speakers provided valuable insights on the federal budget, careers in science policy, and the importance of student advocacy. Students also had time to practice their talking points and make final preparations for their scheduled meetings on the Hill the next day.
Students from the University of Virginia posing outside the U.S. Capitol Building
“I enjoyed learning more about how our government and the federal budget works. It was cool to see how I could participate in that large process,” one student reflected.
On April 3, students from 16 universities participated in congressional visits throughout the day. They shared personal experiences, emphasized the impact of federal research funding on their education and career goals, and brought visibility to the materials science and engineering community. Many participants teamed up with students from other universities in their state or district to visit offices together.
“I had eight meetings—one with a senator and seven with representatives—and I have to admit, it was one of the most memorable experiences of my life. The discussions were incredibly productive, and I was able to engage with each of them on the importance of research funding. I am truly grateful for this amazing opportunity,” another student shared.
The impact of the experience extended beyond the policy discussions themselves. “Being surrounded by students equally as passionate about MSE as I am was so empowering. Not only was I able to talk about the importance of materials research in our lives, but I had the opportunity to learn from my peers, make new friends, and better understand how our federal government works. I left the event feeling more confident in my ability to advocate for what I believe in,” said Marlena Alexander, a student at the University of Tennessee.
Zane Smith, Patrick Angelino, Staffer Andrew Guffee, Grace Chrisman, and Marlena Alexander following their meeting with Senator Blackburn’s staff.
The Ceramic and Glass Industry Foundation and the Material Advantage partners—ACerS, AIST, ASM International, and TMS—thank all the students who participated and represented their universities and the broader materials community with professionalism and enthusiasm. Special thanks to Marlena Alexander for contributing to this article.
To support student opportunities like the Material Advantage Congressional Visits Day, consider making a donation to the Ceramic and Glass Industry Foundation at foundation.ceramics.org, or contact foundation@ceramics.org to learn more.
