Trust in Science grants aim to build bridges with the public

The Trust in Science Roundtable is a grassroots effort to keep the momentum going from ACS immediate past president Judy Giordian's work during her tenure to reverse declining trust in science. The roundtable is composed of representatives from the Committee on Chemistry and Public Affairs (CCPA), the Committee on Public Relations and Communications (CPRC), and the Division of Professional Relations (PROF). To increase citizens' trust in science, we need to build bridges so that they trust in scientists as people first. To do this, we must not minimize or belittle them but explain science using terminology and concepts that are consistent with their education and experiences. Not everyone will listen. It can be difficult. But most people listen to those they trust. Let's start with a story. Every day for several years, you drop your elementary schoolchildren at the crosswalk. You make friends with other parents, neighbors, and even the