FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
14 May 2025
The Geological Society of America
Release No. 25-07
Contact: Katie Busser
+1-303-357-1044
kbusser@geosociety.org
GSA and GSA Foundation Announce Unprecedented Support to Bolster Geoscience Advancement Amid Federal Funding Challenges
In an extraordinary move underscoring the critical importance of Earth sciences amid a shifting scientific and socioeconomic landscape, The Geological Society of America (GSA) and its charitable arm, the GSA Foundation (GSAF), today declared a historic increase in financial support dedicated to the geoscience community. This decision follows a thorough assessment of ongoing and emerging challenges facing federal scientific agencies, such as the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the United States Geological Survey (USGS), whose budgetary constraints have created significant barriers to research, education, and policy engagement in geosciences.
The amplified funding aligns with GSA’s core mission to advance geoscientific knowledge and support the pipeline of researchers, educators, and practitioners who contribute invaluable insights into Earth’s dynamic systems. In an era marked by climate variability, ecological shifts, and resource pressures, the geosciences stand at the forefront of understanding planetary processes and offering empirical frameworks vital for adaptation and mitigation strategies worldwide.
GSA Executive Director and CEO Melanie Brandt articulates, "This historic investment represents more than just financial backing; it is an emphatic vote of confidence in the Society’s capacity to shepherd crucial research initiatives, foster the development of emerging scientists, and strengthen science-policy dialogues. Our commitment is unwavering in establishing a resilient foundation for geoscientific discovery despite the tumultuous funding environment.”
The additional resources from this record level of support will be strategically allocated to enhance research grant availability, which sustains exploratory and applied studies in disciplines ranging from tectonics and sedimentology to geobiology and geochemistry. Travel awards will be significantly expanded, enabling wider participation of students and early-career scientists in premier scientific conferences including GSA Connects and regional Section Meetings. These gatherings provide vital platforms for peer interaction, dissemination of novel findings, and cultivation of professional networks crucial for career progression.
Moreover, the enhancement of membership benefits and professional honors aims to incentivize excellence within the geoscience community. Recognition programs not only spotlight pioneering research but also encourage the sustained contributions of seasoned experts whose work underpins geoscience education and public outreach. The resources will also contribute to the longevity and expansion of the On To the Future program, which targets equitable support to underrepresented groups within the discipline, thereby advancing diversity and inclusivity that enrich scientific perspectives and innovation.
Beyond internal community support, GSA will bolster the global profile of its James B. Thompson Jr. Distinguished International Lectureship. This initiative facilitates the exchange of cutting-edge geoscientific research across borders, reinforcing international collaboration vital to addressing transnational challenges such as natural hazard prediction, mineral resource management, and climate change impact assessments.
Policy engagement forms another cornerstone of this multidimensional investment. Enhanced funding will support GSA-led initiatives such as Geosciences Congressional Visits Day, which fosters direct communication channels between geoscientists and lawmakers, translating complex scientific insights into actionable policies. Similarly, fellowships in congress and science policy will be expanded, cultivating leaders who integrate rigorous scientific understanding with legislative acumen to champion science-based decision-making at the highest levels of government.
GSA’s acting president, Nathan Niemi, emphasizes the timeliness and gravity of these efforts. “As the world contends with accelerating climate crises, dwindling natural resources, and increasing geological hazards, the role of the geosciences is paramount. This renewed support empowers the community to accelerate vital research that underpins societal resilience and sustainable development,” says Niemi.
Lydia Fox, chair of the GSA Foundation Board of Trustees, notes the outpouring of generosity from donors who have recognized the urgency of sustaining geoscientific progress during uncertain times. “Our donors’ commitment to the future of the geosciences has been truly inspiring. Their contributions catalyze critical advancements that will resonate for decades across academic, governmental, and public sectors.”
The current boost in funding is not merely a financial infusion but a strategic reinforcement of the geoscience infrastructure. It serves as an adaptive measure to counterbalance unpredictable federal budgets and fluctuating grant landscapes, ensuring continuity in long-term research projects, educational outreach, and community-building activities. This initiative sends a robust signal to the global geoscience community that GSA stands prepared to shoulder leadership responsibilities and act decisively amid challenges.
Scholarly publications, including the highly regarded journal Geology and other influential series managed by GSA, will benefit indirectly through sustained memberships and growing research outputs supported by these funds. The society’s dedication to amplifying the reach and impact of geoscience research remains steadfast, enabling scientists to communicate critical discoveries to both specialist audiences and the broader public.
As the geoscience discipline grapples with pressing global issues—ranging from deciphering Earth’s climatic past to forecasting natural disasters and managing Earth’s resources sustainably—this unprecedented funding commitment from GSA and GSAF promises to invigorate the community at a moment when robust scientific input is most needed.
Stakeholders and interested parties are encouraged to explore opportunities for involvement with GSA initiatives, including philanthropic support through the GSA Foundation. Detailed information on upcoming funding possibilities, events, and programmatic activities can be found via GSA’s official channels.
About the Geological Society of America
The Geological Society of America is a preeminent global professional organization representing over 17,000 members worldwide, encompassing scientists, educators, and policymakers dedicated to the Earth sciences. By advancing understanding of geological processes, GSA fosters interdisciplinary collaboration and disseminates influential research through its scholarly publications, conferences, and outreach efforts, thereby shaping the trajectory of geoscientific innovation and application.
About the Geological Society of America Foundation
The GSA Foundation serves as the philanthropic backbone of the Geological Society of America, managing charitable funds to support GSA’s mission-driven activities. Since its inception in 1980—originating as a financier of the landmark Decade of North American Geology initiative—the Foundation continues to enable GSA’s growth, amplifying its capacity to foster excellence and inclusivity within the geoscience community.
Subject of Research: Advancement and funding support for geoscience research and education
Article Title: GSA and GSA Foundation Announce Unprecedented Support to Bolster Geoscience Advancement Amid Federal Funding Challenges
News Publication Date: 14 May 2025
Web References:
- https://www.geosociety.org/GSA/News/pr/2025/25-07.aspx
- https://www.geosociety.org/
- https://www.gsa-foundation.org/
Keywords: Geology, Geosciences, Research Funding, NSF, USGS, Climate Change, Earth Sciences, Scientific Grants, Science Policy, Diversity in STEM, Geoscience Education, Professional Societies
