Cornell Advancing Science and Policy Club (ASAP)

The Cornell Advancing Science and Policy Club (ASAP) is a student-led organization based at Cornell University that offers public relations and communications services, primarily focused on the intersection of science, policy, and advocacy. While operating as a club, ASAP functions similarly to a boutique PR agency, providing strategic communications support to organizations and initiatives that align with its mission to advance evidence-based policymaking and scientific literacy. Based in Ithaca, New York, the club leverages the academic resources of Cornell University to deliver thoughtful, research-driven communications solutions.

Industries and Focus Areas

Cornell Advancing Science and Policy Club (ASAP) specializes in public relations and communications for organizations operating at the nexus of science and policy. This includes nonprofits, research institutions, advocacy groups, government agencies, and academic departments that require clear, persuasive messaging to bridge the gap between complex scientific data and public understanding. The club's work often involves translating technical jargon into accessible language for policymakers, media, and general audiences. Given its academic roots, ASAP is particularly adept at handling communications for initiatives related to climate change, public health, technology ethics, and science education. The club’s deep understanding of both scientific rigor and policy processes allows it to craft messages that resonate with diverse stakeholders, from legislative aides to community organizers.

Services and Capabilities

As a PR-focused organization, Cornell Advancing Science and Policy Club (ASAP) offers a range of communications services tailored to the specific needs of its clients. While not a traditional agency with paid staff, the club draws on the talents of Cornell students studying communications, government, biology, and other fields. Typical services provided include:

• Media relations and press release writing
• Social media strategy and content creation
• Messaging development for advocacy campaigns
• Fact sheets, white papers, and policy briefs
• Event promotion and public speaking support
• Crisis communications planning for science-related issues
• Stakeholder mapping and audience analysis

These services are delivered with a focus on accuracy, clarity, and timeliness. The club’s members often collaborate with faculty advisors and external experts to ensure that all communications are grounded in solid research and ethical standards. This approach makes ASAP a valuable resource for organizations that need high-quality PR support but may have limited budgets.

Methodology and Approach

Cornell Advancing Science and Policy Club (ASAP) follows a structured methodology that emphasizes collaboration, research, and measurable outcomes. The process typically begins with a needs assessment, where the club’s leadership meets with clients to understand their goals, target audiences, and key messages. From there, student teams conduct background research on the issue, including reviewing scientific literature and analyzing media coverage. This research informs the development of a customized communications plan, which may include timelines, deliverables, and key performance indicators. Throughout the project, the club maintains regular communication with clients to ensure alignment and adjust strategies as needed. The final phase involves evaluation, where the club assesses the impact of its efforts through metrics such as media mentions, social media engagement, or policy citations. This rigorous, academic-style approach ensures that clients receive thoughtful, data-informed PR support that can make a tangible difference in their advocacy or outreach efforts.

Location and Reach

Based in Ithaca, New York, Cornell Advancing Science and Policy Club (ASAP) serves clients both locally and nationally. While the club’s physical presence is rooted in the Cornell University campus, its work often extends to organizations based in Washington, D.C., New York City, and other hubs of science policy activity. The club’s location within a major research university provides unique advantages, including access to cutting-edge research, expert faculty, and a diverse student body with a wide range of skills. This allows ASAP to offer PR services that are deeply informed by the latest scientific developments and policy trends. For organizations seeking communications support that is both academically grounded and practically oriented, Cornell Advancing Science and Policy Club (ASAP) represents a compelling option.

Who This Agency Is a Good Fit For

Cornell Advancing Science and Policy Club (ASAP) is an excellent fit for nonprofit organizations, research institutes, advocacy groups, and academic departments that need strategic PR and communications support but have limited budgets. The club is particularly well-suited for projects that require a strong understanding of science and policy, such as campaigns to promote evidence-based legislation, communicate research findings to the public, or raise awareness about emerging scientific issues. Organizations that value collaboration with bright, motivated students and appreciate a fresh perspective on communications challenges will find ASAP to be a valuable partner. While the club may not be appropriate for large-scale corporate campaigns or high-stakes crisis communications, it excels in delivering thoughtful, impactful PR for mission-driven clients focused on science and policy.