I’ve spent a lot of time this year thinking about what it really takes for someone to become an advocate—and eventually, a leader. It’s rarely one workshop or one congressional meeting. More often, it’s a series of moments where someone gains confidence, learns a new skill, and realizes their scientific expertise belongs in public policy. In a year when it would have been easy for scientists to disengage, we saw the opposite. That inspired us to launch our first online learning certificate program, creating an accessible entry point into advocacy. Participants’ confidence in contacting policymakers, developing advocacy messages, and starting policy conversations increased from an average of about 2.5 to more than 4 out of 5, and every survey respondent said they would recommend the course. It reinforced that when scientists are given the right tools, they’re ready to use them.

The certificate program was never intended to be a one-off course, but the beginning of a much longer journey into science policy engagement. One of my priorities this year has been creating opportunities for AGU members to keep growing through Voices for Science, Local Science Partners, congressional visits, and other advocacy experiences. Along the way, members progressed from learning advocacy fundamentals to meeting with policymakers, submitting public comments, publishing op-eds, and contacting Congress. It has also been exciting to see Voices for Science continue its global expansion, bringing scientists from new countries into our community. More than recruiting advocates, we’ve focused on building the confidence, skills, and relationships that encourage AGU members to stay engaged for the long term.

Perhaps the most rewarding accomplishment has been watching that investment come full circle. Despite an exceptionally challenging year for the scientific community, AGU members didn’t burn out; they stepped up. Scientists traveled to Washington on their own time, returned to lead congressional meetings, mentored first-time advocates, and encouraged colleagues through uncertain moments. We nearly doubled our grassroots network this year, but I’m most proud that we’re growing more than a list of supporters. We’re building a community where people move from learning to advocating to leading others. Watching scientists move from wondering whether they belong in these conversations to becoming trusted mentors and leaders has been one of the clearest indicators that our long-term strategy is working.