Calling all high school students with a passion for robotics and a drive to make a difference: get ready to embark on a transformative journey at the highly anticipated 10th Annual National Advocacy Conference!

Taking place from June 25th to June 27th, 2023, at the Holiday Inn Capitol in Washington D.C., this conference is tailored specifically for mentors, parents, and students on U.S. robotics teams, offering a unique opportunity for young people to become successful leaders and advocates. Open to individuals, small groups, and teams of students, this conference will equip you with the necessary tools and knowledge to build relationships with elected officials to advance STEM initiatives in your communities.

Simply put, advocacy is what empowers all of us to influence the decision-making processes at play in our country, regardless of our background. Being able to spur change through communication is one of the most powerful and important skills young people can have, which is why the National Advocacy Conference provides students with hands-on and practical instruction to show them how to get involved with local, state, and national leadership.

By attending this conference, students will not only acquire essential advocacy skills, but also notice their self-confidence grow, their public speaking abilities refine, and their capacity to take charge of influential meetings strengthen. As aspiring advocates, you’ll gain the art of effectively conveying your ideas, articulating a compelling vision for change, and engaging with policymakers to drive positive transformations for underserved and underrepresented populations.

This conference is not just about lectures and theory; it’s about practical application, guided from the ground up. The National Advocacy Conference provides a platform for students to discuss issues specific to their schools with local education professionals, creating a collective voice to speak on what matters most to the people in their day-to-day lives.

Through a series of workshops, interactive sessions, and engaging presentations, participants will learn the basics of advocacy, including crafting persuasive messages, conducting research, and presenting ideas with confidence. Additionally, expert speakers will share their experiences, providing valuable insight on how to network with elected officials, navigate the complex world of policymaking, and make a tangible difference in the field of education.

Over the past nine years, the National Advocacy Conference has successfully coached over 2,000 students, arming them with everything they need to feel confident engaging with Congress members, communicating their issues and ideas, and taking an active role in their futures. By participating in this event, you will become part of a growing community of passionate young advocates who are driving positive change in the STEM landscape.

To register for the conference and access more information, visit the SASA website at https://www.mysasa.org/national-advocacy-conference. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to learn from a panel of dedicated experts, connect with like-minded students, and leave a lasting impact on the future of STEM education!