VASEM Spring/Summer 2026 Newsletter

Thursday, October 8, 2026

Lipman Auditorium

J. Sergent Reynolds Community College

1651 E. Parham Road, Richmond

 

The financial impact of H.R. 1, officially titled the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) represents one of the most significant shifts in U.S. healthcare funding in decades. The legislation is projected to cut over $1 trillion in healthcare spending through 2034, primarily through substantial reductions to Medicaid.

This high-stakes policy change requires states and private industry to work together to make highly strategic healthcare investments in order to avoid significant and harmful reductions in care, especially for those most at risk. Emerging healthcare investments will be heavily focused on mitigating rising costs, stabilizing access to primary and rural health care, adopting AI-driven efficiencies, developing U.S.-based pharmaceutical capacity, and building the necessary workforce to serve patient needs.

For more info, contact Nat Draper, VASEM Executive Director, ndraper@vasem.org

Due to surging AI data center-driven electricity demand now and into the foreseeable future, electricity has become a highly critical issue for the State of Virginia, where the concentration of data centers is higher than in any other state in the U.S. To provide independent advice to the Commonwealth, the Energy Working Group (EWG) of VASEM invited a team of VASEM Members and technical experts to develop a White Paper, “The Future of Electric Power in Virginia: The Essentials for Decisionmakers,” based on a comprehensive Study Report titled, “Electrical Power Technologies for a Decade of Extreme Virginia Demand Growth.” Both the EWG White Paper and Study Report have been completed and are in production for public release.

Through our intensive work on electric power generation, transmission, and distribution over the last several months, VASEM has developed a credible resource grounded in science and engineering to support Commonwealth policy-making. The EWG greatly appreciates the contributions of the distinguished team of co-authors and the reviewers of the EWG Study Report and White Paper, led by Prof. Haydn N. G. Wadley, UVA (pictured above), and Dr. Charles Feigenoff, respectively.

On Friday, March 27, 2026, the Virginia Academy of Science, Engineering, and Medicine (VASEM) was proud to participate in a hybrid summit focused on advancing flood resilience across the Commonwealth.

In partnership with the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, NASEM Climate and the UVA School of Engineering, this day-long event brought together scientists, decision-makers, and community partners to explore solutions for both urban and rural flooding—and the innovations shaping science-informed policy in Virginia’s changing climate.

This was the very first time VASEM and NASEM have partnered in such an event. VASEM was well represented throughout the day, including President Alfred Grasso, David Roop, Jennifer West, Jim Aylor, Anita Jones, Tom Young, and Flood Resilience Committee Chair Jonathan Goodall.

The symposium featured three engaging panels:

• Session 1: Urban Flood Resilience
  Marcus Aguilar, Daniel Medina, Brian Batten, Tom Allen, and Jon Derek Loftis
• Session 2: Rural Flood Resilience
  Tanya Denckla Cobb, Patricia Nylander, Maria Mutuc, PE, Chris Bell, and Majid Shafiee-Jood
• Session 3: Innovations in Flood Resilience
  Jessica Whitehead, Jay Bernas, P.E., Paul Robinson, Julie Shortridge, and Debbie Messmer

The day concluded with 13 graduate students participating in a flash panel session detailing their flood-resilience research.

This was a wonderful opportunity for the audience to learn about new research advances from our Virginia universities.

As we move through another productive year for VASEM, I am pleased to share several important milestones that reflect both the strength of our community and the momentum of our mission.

First, it is my distinct honor to welcome two new members of the National Academies into VASEM: Dr. Michael King and Dr. Richard Oberman. Their election represents the highest level of professional distinction, and we are proud to have their expertise and leadership contributing to the Academy and the Commonwealth.

I would also like to recognize the outstanding leadership of Dr. Chen-Ching Liu and Dr. Wadley Haydn in guiding our Energy Working Group. Under their direction, the group has made significant progress, including the development of two important papers aimed at informing policymakers, staff, and others as they navigate complex energy decisions. My sincere thanks go to all members of the Energy Working Group for their dedication and thoughtful contributions.

We are equally excited about the expansion of our partnerships. Our collaborations with XPRIZE and CCAM are already opening new avenues for impact, and we are actively cultivating a promising new partnership with NAAS. Together, these relationships enhance our ability to convene expertise, accelerate innovation, and better serve the Commonwealth. We were also proud to co-host the Climate Crossroads Workshop on flood resilience with NASEM, bringing together leaders and practitioners to advance solutions in this critical area.

Another important area of focus is increasing industry engagement within VASEM. As the innovation landscape evolves, industry plays an increasingly central role in research and development. In response, we are implementing two key initiatives. First, we are revising our nominating process to include two distinct tracks—one for academic candidates and one for industry leaders—ensuring we recognize excellence across the full spectrum of innovation. Second, we are launching an Industry Affiliates Program, designed to foster deeper collaboration between industry, academia, and policymakers while maintaining VASEM’s independence and integrity. This program will provide meaningful opportunities for engagement, insight sharing, and workforce development, while strengthening Virginia’s competitiveness.

We are also proud to support the next generation of leaders. This year, we congratulate the 19 COVES Fellows who will be placed across an equal number of host offices, contributing their expertise to critical policy work. In addition, 12 undergraduate participants in the UPP program will gain invaluable, firsthand experience in Virginia’s policymaking process. These programs remain central to our mission of developing future science and policy leaders.

Finally, I want to extend my deepest appreciation to our Board and all VASEM members for your continued commitment. Your engagement, expertise, and service enable VASEM to fulfill its mission and make a lasting impact on the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Together, we are building a stronger, more connected, and more innovative future.

Al Grasso

VASEM President

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dr. Ken Ball and GMU UPP student Fatima Majid at the March 4 event; VT and Radford members meet at Hahn Garden during the April 8 event; and our hosts, LD Britt and Milton Brown, at the EVMS/ODU campus on April 16.

 

Across March and April 2026, the Virginia Academy of Science, Engineering, and Medicine (VASEM) hosted a series of regional membership events that brought together members and university partners from across the Commonwealth to strengthen collaboration and advance shared priorities in science, engineering, and policy.

The series began on March 4 at George Mason University, where discussions focused on VASEM’s energy white paper, the 2026 COVES Fellowship, the Undergraduate Policy Program (UPP), and planning for the 2026 VASEM Annual Meeting & Summit on healthcare innovation, access, and affordability. Attendees also heard from UPP student Fatima Majah, who shared how the program is supporting her growth in cybersecurity and policy.

On April 8, members gathered at Virginia Tech’s Hahn Horticulture Garden to discuss expanding VASEM’s programs and partnerships. Leaders highlighted the importance of science-informed policy and shared updates on initiatives including the COVES Fellowship, UPP, and collaborations with organizations such as the XPRIZE Foundation, CCAM, the National Academies, and AAAS.

The series concluded on April 16 at Eastern Virginia Medical School in Hampton Roads, where representatives from several VASEM university affiliates discussed programs and initiatives that connect research, policy, and community impact across Virginia.

Together, these regional events reflect VASEM’s continued commitment to convening experts, fostering collaboration, and advancing solutions that benefit the Commonwealth.

The Virginia Academy of Science, Engineering, and Medicine (VASEM) is pleased to announce the addition of two new institutional affiliates: Christopher Newport University and Marymount University. Their inclusion marks an exciting expansion of VASEM’s collaborative network across the Commonwealth.

Since its founding in 2013, VASEM has brought together leading academic institutions to advance science, engineering, and medicine in Virginia. By fostering partnerships among universities, industry, and policymakers, VASEM serves as a vital convener for innovation and evidence-based solutions to the Commonwealth’s most pressing challenges.

With the addition of Christopher Newport and Marymount, VASEM now includes thirteen distinguished institutional affiliates:

• Christopher Newport University
• George Mason University
• Hampton University
• James Madison University
• Marymount University
• Norfolk State University
• Old Dominion University
• Radford University
• University of Virginia
• Virginia Commonwealth University
• Virginia State University
• Virginia Tech
• William & Mary

Together, these institutions represent a powerful and diverse network of academic excellence spanning the Commonwealth.

VASEM looks forward to collaborating with Christopher Newport University and Marymount University to further its mission of fostering interdisciplinary research, strengthening policy engagement, and advancing innovation across Virginia. Their unique strengths and perspectives will help enrich the Academy’s work and deepen its impact statewide.

Please join us in welcoming our newest affiliates to the VASEM community.

 

The Virginia Academy of Science, Engineering and Medicine (VASEM) is proud to host the seventh cohort of the Commonwealth of Virginia Engineering and Science (COVES) Policy Fellows this summer from May 26–August 14, 2026. Through this fellowship, STEM-H graduate students from 10 universities across Virginia serve as science advisors while gaining firsthand experience in public service and policymaking through placements in legislative offices, executive agencies, and nonprofit organizations throughout the Commonwealth.

This year marks several exciting milestones for the program. With Radford University participating for the first time, the 2026 cohort represents the largest number of participating universities in the fellowship’s history. In addition, with 19 fellows in this year’s cohort, the COVES Fellowship has now supported 100 fellows since its launch in 2020. VASEM is also excited to welcome several new host offices to the program this year, including the Office of the Lieutenant Governor, Department of Rail and Public Transportation, Office of Delegate Mark Downey, Virginia Workforce Development Authority, Virginia Center for Health Innovation, and Department of Social Services.

The fellowship began with an in-person orientation and science policy boot camp in Richmond, VA, on May 21–22, 2026. This training featured experts in science policy, science communication, and Virginia government, providing fellows with foundational knowledge and practical skills for their summer placements.  The orientation began with opening remarks from Secretary David Bulova and continued with an informative lineup of speakers who covered a wide range of topics. Hallie Thompson (Radicle Consulting) provided an overview of science policy, while Jodi Kuhn (JCOTS) and Sarah Stanton (JCHC) provided an overview of emergent policy issues in Virginia. The fellows learned about the legislative and budgetary process from Megan Davis and Levi Goren (The Commonwealth Institute) and Michael Maul (Department of Planning and Budget). The fellows also heard perspectives from leaders across state agencies on implementation and priorities, on a panel with Nikki Rovner (DCR), Jonathan Rak (DEQ), and Aaron Proctor (DWR). The day ended with a session on politics, stakeholders, and trade-offs in State policy, during which Fellows heard from Jay Ford (CBF), Scott Johnson (Hancock, Daniel & Johnson), and Laura Novey (McGuire Woods Consulting).  The second day was a hands-on policy analysis workshop led by Deborah Stine (S&T Policy Academy), equipping fellows with practical tools they can apply throughout their summer experiences across Virginia.

The fellows began full-time work with their host offices on May 26, 2026, and we are excited to see the impact their work has this summer!

Our focus over the last few months has been on advocating for the two VASEM budget amendments through the second annual legislative breakfast and face-to-face meetings with key policy makers. In addition, we helped recruit COVES placements within state agencies and legislative offices. We look forward to continuing to gain awareness of VASEM and seek partnerships to advance policy in the Commonwealth.

Here is a summary of some of our efforts this spring:

Legislative Breakfast
In February, we hosted our second annual Legislative Breakfast for the members of the new administration, the House, the Senate, and their staff. Our notable attendees included:

• Jodi Kuhn, Executive Director of the Joint Commission on Technology and Science
• Jeffrey Smith, Secretary of Education
• Connor Andrews, Deputy Secretary of Education
• Kristen Dahlman, Deputy Secretary of Commerce and Trade
• Representative from the Office of Delegate Phil Scott (R-63)
• Senator Schuyler VanValkenburg (D-16)
• Delegate Dr. Mark Downey (D-69)
• Delegate Bonita Anthony (D-92)
• Delegate Wendell Walker (R-52)
• Senator Christie New Craig (R-19)
• Representative from the Office of Senator Bill DeSteph (R-20)

The breakfast provided a valuable opportunity to build awareness of VASEM’s work and strengthen relationships with legislators and the new administration during a transitional year.

Budget Amendments
We secured $70,000 in the first year and $125,000 in the second year for additional operating support to expand the fellows’ program and produce white papers, operational support in the Senate Finance and Appropriations conference report, and $75,000 in the first year for operational support in the House Appropriations budget. Unfortunately, budget negotiations have stalled over the debate over the sales and use tax exemption for data centers. The budget conferees must reach an agreement before June 30. The House is scheduled to meet on June 18, and the Senate will return on June 22. The budget must be made publicly available for 48 hours before voting.

Senator Creigh Deeds and Delegate Michele Maldonado carried a budget amendment for an additional $75,000 in public funding for operational support of VASEM efforts, including the annual summit and white papers.

Chairman of the Joint Commission on Technology and Science (JCOTS) Delegate Cliff Hayes and Senator Creigh Deeds continued to strengthen our partnership with the Commonwealth by championing our efforts to become one of the twelve states selected for the Pew-Moore Post-Doctoral fellowship program.

Although the 2026 Session has adjourned, the General Assembly has not agreed on a budget at this time. Budget conferees will have until June 30 to negotiate a budget for the FY26-FY28 biennial budget.

Legislative Visits
We worked diligently to assist the Executive Director of VASEM, Nat Draper, in navigating the necessary relationships essential to securing the appropriations from the Commonwealth. We were able to meet with numerous lawmakers this session, including:

• Delegate Cliff Hayes, Chairman of the Joint Commission on Technology and Science
• Delegate Amy Laufer, member of the House Committee on Appropriations
• Office of the Majority Leader Charniele Herring
• Office of Senator Adam Ebbin, formerly served on the Joint Commission on Technology and Science
• Delegate Bill Wiley, member of the House Committee on Appropriations
• Office of Delegate Karen Keys-Gamarra
• Delegate Rodney Willett, Chairman of the House Committee on Health and Human Services
• Delegate Anne Tata, member of the House Committee on Appropriations
• Delegate Rob Bloxom, member of the House Committee on Appropriations
• Office of President Pro-Tempore Senator Louise Lucas
• Kendra Shifflet, Senate Finance and Appropriations Staff
• Senator Favola, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Education and Health
• Office of Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell
• Delegate Buddy Fowler
• Delegate Paul Krizek, Chairman of the House Committee on General Laws and Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Agriculture, and Natural Resources
• Kim McKay, House Appropriations Committee Staff

The Virginia Academy of Science, Engineering, and Medicine (VASEM) is proud to announce the selection of the second cohort for its Undergraduate Policy Program (UPP), an immersive initiative designed to prepare Virginia’s next generation of STEM-H leaders to engage at the intersection of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, health, and public policy.

The 2026 Undergraduate Policy Program will take place July 13–16 in Richmond. This year’s cohort includes twelve outstanding undergraduate students representing nine Virginia colleges and universities. Over four days, students will participate in intensive STEM-H and policy training to strengthen their understanding of how science and technology inform policymaking at the state and national levels.

The Undergraduate Policy Program provides students with a unique opportunity to explore real-world policy challenges while developing leadership, communication, and analytical skills essential to future careers in science and public service. Through interactive sessions, policy discussions, and engagement with experts and leaders across government, academia, and industry, participants will gain valuable insight into the policymaking process and the role STEM-H professionals play in shaping the future of the Commonwealth.

The 2026 Undergraduate Policy Program cohort includes:

 

The diversity of academic disciplines represented in this cohort reflects the growing importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing today’s most pressing societal and technological challenges. Students from fields including engineering, public policy, environmental science, neuroscience, cybersecurity, nursing, and biology will work together to better understand the relationship between scientific innovation and evidence-based policymaking.

VASEM launched the Undergraduate Policy Program to inspire and equip undergraduate students across the Commonwealth to become informed leaders and advocates for science and technology policy. By engaging students early in their academic careers, the program aims to strengthen Virginia’s future STEM-H workforce and cultivate a deeper understanding of how policy decisions impact research, innovation, healthcare, and economic development.

Cayelan Carey and Amy Pruden – Virginia Tech

Virginia Tech professors Cayelan Carey and Amy Pruden received the 2026 Virginia Outstanding Faculty Award, the Commonwealth’s highest honor for faculty at Virginia colleges and universities. The award recognizes excellence in teaching, research, and public service.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vint Cerf and Bob Kahn – Industry

Vint Cerf and Bob Kahn received the 2026 World Digital and Frontier Technologies (WDFT) Lifetime Achievement Award for their foundational contributions to the development of the internet through the creation of the TCP/IP protocol suite. Cerf was also named the recipient of the 2026 World Leader for Peace and Security Award from the Boston Global Forum.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tom Dingus – Virginia Tech

Tom Dingus received the James J. Howard Highway Safety Trailblazer Award from the Governors Highway Safety Association in recognition of his decades of leadership and innovation in transportation safety research. His work at the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute has significantly influenced national roadway safety policies and technologies.

 

 

 

William A. Hopkins – Virginia Tech

William A. Hopkins, professor of fish and wildlife conservation at Virginia Tech, was named a Thomas H. Jones Professor and elected a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). He was recognized for his leadership in environmental research, teaching, and mentorship.

 

 

 

Mark Peters – Industry

Mark Peters was elected president of the American Nuclear Society (ANS) and will assume the role in June 2026. He was also named a recipient of the 2026 Wash100 Award from Executive Mosaic.

 

 

 

Bob Phillips – Industry

Bob Phillips has been elected Home Secretary of the National Academy of Medicine (NAM) for a three-year term, with the official announcement expected later this month.

 

 

 

Amarda Shehu – George Mason University

Amarda Shehu was recognized as one of EdTech Magazine’s “Twenty-Five Higher Ed Influencers to Follow in 2026.” She was also named a Tech100 Executive Honoree by the Northern Virginia Technology Council and elevated to IEEE Senior Member status in 2025.