212 Possibility thinking mini-workshop: Generating impact through effective animal science communication.

Abstract As society becomes increasingly removed from the realities of food production and animal agriculture, animal scientists must step beyond traditional academic boundaries to engage meaningfully with diverse audiences. Misinformation and polarized narratives surrounding animal agriculture underscore the urgent need for professionals who are not only technically competent, but also skilled communicators, capable of translating complex science results into relevant, accessible messages. These topics have been reviewed and highlighted in Animal Frontiers, Vol. 15, 2025. This interactive session is designed preferentially for graduate students, recognizing them as the emerging leaders and public-facing voices of the animal sciences. This one-hour mini-workshop combines two essential threads: (1) establishing the imperative for proactive communication leadership within the discipline, and (2) equipping participants with some actionable tools for impactful messaging. We begin by framing the societal knowledge gap that exists around animal agriculture and the consequences of ceding the narrative to others. Through data, case studies, and current public discourse examples, we will underscore why animal scientists must actively shape the conversation and offer trusted, science-based insights that resonate across educational, consumer, policy, and media audiences. Building from this rationale, the session transitions into a hands-on “possibility thinking” mini workshop. Rooted in creativity and solution-focused reflection, possibility thinking invites participants to reimagine their communication potential—not as an add-on to technical training, but as an integral professional competency. Participants will explore foundational principles of science communication, including clarity, audience-awareness, and message framing. Drawing from a variety of resources and examples of best practices in Agri-science communication and depending on time and attendee dynamics, students may engage in guided exercises to practice distilling a technical message into a brief, audience-specific pitch. Key components of the mini-workshop may include: a) Crafting one-sentence “core messages” using value-driven framing; 2) Identifying common communication barriers and how to avoid jargon traps; 3). Exploring the role of emotion, story, and credibility in building trust; and 4) Peer-to-peer practice with real-time feedback from facilitators. The session will close with a reflective discussion on how participants can leverage their communication strengths within the broader context of workforce readiness. Facilitators will emphasize how these skills empower scientists to participate in public discourse, support policy decisions, lead interdisciplinary teams, and advocate for agricultural literacy and evidence-based food systems. This session aligns with ASAS mission to advance animal science education, research, and outreach by preparing the next generation of scientists to proactively lead with clarity, confidence, and purpose. Participants will hopefully leave with tools, resources, and inspiration to begin crafting their own science communication strategies—and a renewed sense of ownership over how their research results are understood and valued by society.