Who We Are

Scientists Supporting People Advocating for Community Equity (SSPACE) is a student-led organization at California State University, San Bernardino. We bring students together to use science, education, advocacy, and community engagement in service of the public good.

 

We believe science should extend beyond classrooms and laboratories. Scientific knowledge can help communities understand the challenges they face, evaluate evidence, access resources, advocate for their needs, and develop solutions that improve people’s lives.

Our Story

SSPACE was founded in 2024 by a group of CSUSB biology students and Dra. Contreras who believed that students should not have to wait until after graduation to make a difference. Together, they created SSPACE to help students use science, education, and advocacy to address inequities, support their communities, and promote positive change.

The organization grew from a shared belief that scientists have a responsibility to remain connected to the communities their work is intended to serve. Science becomes more relevant, responsive, and equitable when scientists listen to community members, understand their priorities, and work alongside them.

 

 

 

What We Believe

At SSPACE, we believe:

• Scientific knowledge should be accessible to everyone.

• Science should be used ethically and in service of the public good.

• Communities should have a voice in decisions that affect their health, environment, education, and future.

• Scientists have a responsibility to communicate clearly, listen respectfully, and engage with the public.

• Students can use their knowledge and voices to make a meaningful difference right now.

• Collaboration across disciplines, backgrounds, and lived experiences makes our work stronger.

What We Do

Through outreach, education, advocacy, and collaboration, SSPACE creates opportunities for students to connect scientific knowledge with community priorities. Our activities may include:

• Educational programs and science outreach

• Community service and partnerships

• Discussions of public policies involving science

• Programs addressing environmental justice and public health

• Advocacy for science, education, equity, and access

• Professional and leadership development

• Opportunities for students and community members to share their knowledge and experiences

 

Our goal is not to speak for communities, but to listen, learn, collaborate, and support people advocating for themselves and their communities.

Who Can Join?

SSPACE membership is open to students from all majors and academic backgrounds who believe in our mission and want to contribute to positive change. You do not need to be a scientist to support science, equity, education, or community empowerment.

 

To preserve SSPACE’s identity as a scientist-led organization, elected leadership positions are reserved for students pursuing science majors. All members, however, are encouraged to participate, contribute ideas, support projects, and help shape the organization’s work.

Find Your Place in SSPACE

Whether you are interested in science, education, public health, environmental justice, community service, policy, communication, or advocacy, your knowledge and experiences can contribute to our work.

Join us as we use science to inform, support, and uplift our communities—because knowledge should serve everyone.