By SUSAN JONES
A national conference for science writers that Pitt and Carnegie Mellon were set to host this fall is now in limbo after the two universities withdrew their commitment.
The ScienceWriters2025 conference, sponsored by the Council for the Advancement of Science Writing and the National Association of Science Writers, was supposed to take place in October in Pittsburgh.
In a joint statement, the two groups said that, “On Feb. 13, 2025, representatives of both universities informed CASW that they were withdrawing their commitment, including the financial support, for the conference. Despite our efforts, subsequent discussions have not led to a resolution.”
A University of Pittsburgh spokesperson said in a statement: “Recognizing the changing circumstances and need for fiscal prudence while we evaluate the evolving landscape, the University of Pittsburgh regrettably is no longer in a position to co-host the National Association of Science Writers Conference. We are working with conference organizers to support a smooth transition.”
The statement from the organizations said that Pitt made the commitment in November 2024 to host ScienceWriters2025, which included paying a hosting fee and providing substantial logistical and financial support for the conference.
“This year, more than ever, providing an opportunity for the professional science writing community to convene, network, learn, and support each other is critical,” the groups’ statement said. “To that end, we are actively seeking new venues, sponsors, and partners.”
The National Association of Science Writers has close to 3,000 members — journalists, authors, editors, producers, public information officers, students and people who write and produce material intended to inform the public about science, health, engineering, and technology.
The science writers’ groups are trying to find a new venue and are seeking the following information:
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Local and regional science writers’ groups interested in partnering with NASW and CASW to bring ScienceWriters to your area.
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Contacts at universities, ideally at the level of deans, directors and higher, that might be interested in hosting the conference, at a reduced rate/commitment, in fall 2025.
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Philanthropic foundations or donors who could provide financial support for programming.
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Accessible meeting facilities for 400-700 attendees, preferably with nonprofit pricing or donated in-kind.
Information can be sent to sciwri25@nasw.org.
Susan Jones is editor of the University Times. Reach her at suejones@pitt.edu or 724-244-4042.
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