An independent non-profit group, the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) was created by Congress under President Abraham Lincoln. Per its mission, NAS provides independent and objective science and technology guidance to the United States. Among its activities, NAS operates a number of special forums, exhibitions, and events to educate and inform.
One of these programs, Distinctive Voices, provides a public forum for discoveries and emerging issues in the sciences. The program covers a range of topics, such as advances in biotechnology and space exploration. Showcasing contributions by members of the NAS, the Institute of Medicine, and the National Academy of Engineering, Distinctive Voices presents events to the general public in California, Massachusetts, and via the program’s YouTube channel. Upcoming events include a presentation on cancer care and a discussion on disaster resilience, both in May of 2014.