ASHE & Scholars Strategy Network: Op-Ed Writing Workshop

ASHE has partnered with the Scholars Strategy Network since 2021 to offer a series of professional development events. The Scholars Strategy Network (SSN) is a national membership organization made up of college- and university-based researchers interested in improving policy and strengthening democracy. Founded in 2011 by Theda Skocpol, Victor S. Thomas Professor of Government and Sociology at Harvard University, SSN has grown into a network of over 1800 researchers in 47 states. SSN members organize themselves into local chapters across the United States, working to advance the use of research wherever policy decisions are made - from city halls to state legislatures to Washington.

About the Workshop

The Op-ed Writing Workshop, presented by the Scholars Strategy Network, teaches foundational media skills for academic researchers. The workshop focuses on how to write and pitch compelling, research-based op-eds. Attendees will learn how to craft a good lede, incorporate timely news hooks, signal the author’s relevant expertise, increase the likelihood of publication, structure an oped for maximum impact, and will be guided through shaping an idea into a first draft.

Who should attend

All researchers who are interested in honing strategies for engaging in media work should attend. Scholars from any career stage, including graduate students, are encouraged to attend.

Learning/Program Outcomes

Attendees of the Op-Ed Writing Workshop will:

1. Know the different types of OpEds academic researchers commonly write

2. Understand the parts of an OpEd and know how to craft an effective one based on their own research and goals

3. Have concrete strategies for pitching their OpEds to editors