Science Journalism Annual Conference Seeks New Home After University Withdrawal

Science Journalism Annual Conference Seeks New Home After University Withdrawal

According to an Associations Now article by Mark Athitakis, two leading science journalism organizations, the Council for the Advancement of Science Writing (CASW) and the National Association of Science Writers (NASW), are urgently seeking a new host for their annual conference after the University of Pittsburgh unexpectedly withdrew its support. 

The university and its partner, Carnegie Mellon University, had initially agreed to host the event in November 2025, continuing a long-standing practice in which the organizations partner with academic institutions to secure venues, lodging, and logistical support. However, in February, Pittsburgh officials cited financial constraints as the reason for stepping back, leaving CASW and NASW scrambling for alternatives.

The decision was a surprise, as the university had been actively involved in planning efforts. Despite the setback, both organizations remain committed to securing a physical venue for the annual conference, emphasizing the importance of in-person gatherings for professional solidarity, especially in a year following a US federal election. The search, however, is complicated by the financial realities of their audience; science journalists need affordable lodging options, a consideration that limits venue choices.

The sudden withdrawal has prompted a wave of support from the journalism and academic communities, generating leads on potential hosts. While some universities are hesitant to invite journalists to campus, others are eager to collaborate. CASW and NASW are optimistic about finalizing a replacement by the end of March and see the situation as an opportunity to build new relationships for future events. This experience underscores the importance of strong institutional partnerships and contingency planning for nonprofit associations relying on external hosts.