Stand up for Science: Practical Approaches to Discussing Science that Matters

Expert Voice Q&A – Cynthia Wilbanks

Cynthia Wilbanks on Audience

Who do you interact with when working in policy and advocacy? What makes this audience different from other groups that you might interact with?

Policymakers and legislators at all levels of government.

What suggestions do you have for making interactions with policymakers, legislators, and/or advocacy groups as effective as possible?

It has been my experience that when working in the advocacy role, you approach the work by being prepared.  If meeting with a policy maker for the first time, I have studied their bio, their resume, their family background, if available.  And generally speaking, a first encounter is not one where I want to “deliver a message” or make a request for support.  My goal is to get acquainted on the “first date,” see what issues they are looking to impact, and determine where or if our interests might intersect.  This first encounter, in my experience, can often set the stage and impact the quality of follow-on interactions.

I also believe that as advocates, we should be prepared to meet policymakers “half-way.”

It’s important to acknowledge that views may diverge – but what we’re looking for is some common ground, a meaningful exchange even if there are areas of disagreement.  My definition of failure is walking out of a meeting with little hope of being able to engage again.

Information about Cynthia Wilbanks

What is your name, title, and role at the University of Michigan?

Cynthia Wilbanks, Vice President for Government Relations

I have responsibility for managing the federal, state and community relations activities for the UM.  The Office of State Outreach is also an integral unit of my office.  We have experienced staff members in each of these activities that create and sustain advocacy opportunities with policymakers and legislators at all levels of government. 

I have worked for the UM for 23 years in the government relations role.  My prior 20 years of work was on the staff of two members of Congress, both of whom represented Ann Arbor and the UM.  I managed the District Staff and offices and represented the Congressmen to constituents, organizations and institutions throughout the district. As I like to say, I have had experience on “both sides of the desk.”

Why are your public engagement efforts in education and/or outreach important (to you and/or to the cause you’re working to promote)?

What I find especially exciting is the growing acknowledgement that university expertise, shared more broadly and with the potential for greater impact, is being strongly promoted and supported by the leadership of the university.  This trend has been building for some time, and if we can be successful in this broader type of engagement with the public (in all its forms), the long-standing view of the university as an “ivory tower” can be dispelled for the greater public good.  I feel privileged to do this work on behalf of the UM.