The Sharon Begley Fund

Donate

The Sharon Begley Science Reporting Award

Sharon Begley (1956-2021) was a science journalist of unflinching dedication, skill, moral clarity, and commitment to mentoring. Over more than four decades, her coverage of science for national news outlets was renowned for its authoritative insight and depth, accuracy, scientific rigor, lyrical prose, and myth-busting impact.

The Sharon Begley Science Reporting Award will provide lasting recognition of this remarkable journalist. And at a time when accurate, incisive, responsible science journalism is more essential than ever, this significant award will provide urgently needed recognition and support for reporting that embodies the high standards that Sharon epitomized.

The Council for the Advancement of Science Writing will bestow the Sharon Begley Award in the form of a grant of at least $20,000 to enable a mid-career science journalist to complete a major reporting project they would otherwise be unable to undertake. We aim to create a new and significant award that will inspire and support high standards of excellence in coverage of science, technology, medicine, and the environment.

Funding the Sharon Begley Award

The award is established and funded through the efforts and personal generosity of Edward (Ned) Groth, Sharon’s husband, and other donors, with the support and assistance of CASW’s board and staff. Groth is a scientist, author, and food safety and environmental health consultant who was the longtime director of public service projects for Consumers Union, the publisher of Consumer Reports magazine. Our goal is to create a $1 million dedicated fund, sufficient to support the annual cash grant, ceremony, program administration, and an annual submission and judging process.

Thank you!

More than $700,000 had been raised when the award was announced on September 29, 2021. CASW extends special thanks to Ned Groth, founder; the CASW board members and presidents; and other early endorsers and volunteers who together were responsible for the successful private launch of the campaign.

CASW is deeply grateful to all who have generously contributed to the Sharon Begley Fund. (If you’ve donated but don’t see your name listed here, please let us know at info@casw.org).