The American Society of Mammalogists has a long-standing commitment to providing legislators and public policy officials with the best available science.  We are committed to communicating the results of our research to a broad audience and engaging the public in the process of scientific inquiry through increased understanding.  In the spirit of creating a scientifically informed society, we offer this award to graduate students as an opportunity to further their professional development and increase their skills in communicating science. Established as an internship program in 2005, the nature of this award has shifted over the years.  However, ASM remains committed to providing graduate students experience in the realm of science