Strengthen your skills through “Insight to Impact” data visualization and science communication workshops
PRI’s Insight to Impact workshop series equips researchers with advanced tools and strategies for effective science communication at any stage of their careers. The series features experts from across the University of Illinois, covering topics ranging from mastering media relations to transforming complex science into impactful narratives.
These workshops will be held virtually on select Wednesdays from 3–4 p.m. Each session includes a 45-minute presentation followed by a 15-minute Q&A.
Upcoming Workshops
Feb. 12 – Mastering Media Relations
Presented by Andrea Darlas, Senior Director of Constituent Engagement, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
Andrea Darlas is an Emmy-nominated, award-winning radio and television news anchor/reporter and talk show host based in Chicago. She currently works with StratCom, the Office of the Chancellor, and the Office of Advancement as a media liaison, promoting and advancing the University of Illinois throughout the Chicago metropolitan area. Darlas has served on the U. of I. College of Media’s National Alumni Board, the university’s Alumni Association, and the Campus Alumni Advisory Boards. In 2019, she was inducted into the prestigious WGN Radio Walk of Fame, and in 2023, she was inducted into the Illini Media Hall of Fame.
Feb. 19 – Connecting Science With Everyday Audiences
Presented by Esther Ngumbi, Professor, Departments of Entomology and African American Studies, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Esther Ngumbi, Ph.D., is a scientist, educator, and advocate for food security and sustainable agriculture. With a background in entomology and a passion for using science to drive social change, Ngumbi has received numerous accolades, including recognition from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. She champions science communication, empowering emerging scientists to share their research effectively with diverse audiences.
Session highlights
Ngumbi will explore the intersection of science and public engagement, demonstrating how researchers can effectively communicate complex ideas to inspire action. Her talk will highlight strategies for writing impactful opinion pieces and using storytelling to bridge the gap between academia and the public.
Feb. 26 – Communicating Climate Solutions for Action
Presented by Cassandra Troy, Professor, Department of Journalism, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
About the speaker
Cassandra Troy is an assistant professor of Journalism with an appointment at the Institute of Communications Research. She holds a Ph.D. in Mass Communications from Penn State and researches environmental communication.
Troy’s research focuses broadly on strategic environmental communication. Much of her work focuses on climate change, and she is specifically interested in examining positive or solutions-oriented environmental messaging as well as psychological drivers and inhibitors of collective pro-environmental and pro-social action in response to such content.