ESPP Student Jeremy Rapp Recognized by AGU for Outstanding Science Policy Engagement

The American Geophysical Union (AGU) has formally recognized Michigan State University graduate student Jeremy Rapp for his outstanding contributions as a participant in AGU’s prestigious Local Science Partners Program.

In a letter sent to Dr. Jeff Freymueller, Chair of MSU’s Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, AGU highlighted Rapp’s “outstanding work” and the significant impact he is making through the program. Now in its fifth year, the AGU Local Science Partners initiative empowers selected AGU members to help strengthen the role of science in policy and decision‑making by combining scientific expertise with effective public communication.

“We are thrilled to have Jeremy in our program,” the AGU Science Policy and Government Relations team wrote, noting that the program leverages the skills of scientifically trained constituents to ensure that evidence-based insights inform civic and governmental conversations.

The Local Science Partners Program is designed to “cement the place of science in decision‑making,” and Rapp’s selection reflects both his academic excellence and his commitment to bridging the gap between scientific research and public policy. Through the program, he will engage with policymakers, build communication networks, and contribute to community‑focused efforts that highlight how geoscience research can support informed societal decisions.

Rapp, a graduate student in Earth and Environmental Sciences, and a dual major doctoral student in the Environmental Science and Policy Program (ESPP) acknowledged the ESPP’s “strong influence” in shaping his interest and preparedness for science-policy engagement. He emphasized that he looks forward to applying the skills developed through ESPP coursework and professional development opportunities to his work with AGU and beyond.

This recognition places Rapp among a select cohort of early-career scientists nationwide who are working to elevate the visibility and value of science in public life—a mission that aligns strongly with MSU’s commitment to engaged scholarship and societal impact.