ASHE & Scholars Strategy Network: Policy Brief 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 Policy Brief Writing Workshop, presented by the Scholars Strategy Network, provides scholars an introduction to effective strategies to ensure their findings and perspectives inform policy. Attendees will learn how to write compelling and jargon-free policy briefs, receiving guidance through each step of the policy brief drafting process as they actively shape their idea into a first draft. The workshop includes practical information on how to distribute your policy brief for maximum impact.

Who should attend

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

Learning/Program Outcomes

Attendees of the Policy Brief Writing Workshop will:

1. Learn how policy briefs are used, the best practices for writing one, and common mistakes to avoid

2. Develop an outline of a policy brief and receive feedback on it