Alexa Johnson MS, graduate student researcher at the Sports Medicine Research Institute, was one of few chosen to represent the University of Kentucky at the Catalyzing Advocacy in Science and Engineering Workshop, sponsored by the American Association for the Advancement of Science and Association of Public & Land-Grant Universities. This event will be held March 18th-21st  in Washington DC.She will learn about federal funding, appropriations, science policy and science communication. Alexa’s research interests focus on lower extremity biomechanics, especially in individuals with low back pain. When she completes her doctoral studies she is hoping to continue this research, working at a government research institution, where federal funding is critical to success. She is also very passionate about promoting women in science. Alexa hopes to use this conference to advance her knowledge of science policy and science communication to become a more experienced and knowledgeable advocate for Women in STEM.