The importance of increasing public understanding of scientific issues, like the environment and health, is rising. As a result, scientists are learning the importance of making their work more accessible. But at the same time, there are still marginalized communities that aren't well served by mainstream science media and traditional educational systems. In addition, women and people of color face long-lived cultural and societal prejudices perpetuating inequality.

By directly involving specific communities in the science communication processes, addressing issues of increasing importance to the communities, and presenting scientific role models and spokespersons from within those communities, we can begin to ensure that science communication and education are really available and accessible to all.

Our guest speaker, Dr. Dione (Dee) Rossiter, is a science communication, engagement, and outreach expert who has previously worked with non-profits, universities, government offices, and for-profit businesses to improve their science engagement efforts; this includes creating new and/or improving existing science communication, marketing, education, diversity, and outreach initiatives.

Dee is currently the Executive Director for Science at Cal, a program that shares the excitement and relevance of UC Berkeley research with public audiences through lectures, street fairs, festivals, and more. She also works with scientists across campus to build sustainable and impactful science outreach collaborations with community and campus partners. Dee's previous positions include the Director of the Mass Media Fellowship at the American Association for the Advancement of Science and Scientific Programs & Outreach Manager at the Carnegie Institution for Science. Dee received her bachelor's degree from UC Berkeley and her Ph.D. from UC Santa Cruz, both in Earth & Planetary Sciences.

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