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Committees at the Core of the ACA

The American Crystallographic Associations' standing committees play a vital role in guiding the work of the Association and supporting its mission. Each committee is charged with specific responsibilities that help shape the ACA’s governance, programming, communications, and member services. Composed of dedicated volunteers from across the community, these committees provide expertise, ensure transparency, and foster collaboration, making them an essential part of the ACA’s ongoing growth and success.  More information on the composition and responsibilities of the committees can be found here.

 

Communications Committee

The Communications Committee helps share the ACA’s message with the broader structural science community. Members contribute by managing social media posts (Facebook, X, LinkedIn) alongside ACA staff and the YSIG Chair, and by looking at requests for outreach funding to support community activities. The group meets at least once a year, and the Chair provides an update to Council during the Annual Meeting.

Education Committee

The Education Committee focuses on supporting learning and professional development within the ACA community. Members review workshop proposals for the Annual Meeting, proposals for the ACA Small Molecule Crystallography School, and applications for Student Travel Awards, making recommendations to Council on each. The committee meets at least once a year, and the Chair shares an update with Council at the Annual Meeting.

Meeting Committee

The Meeting Committee, established in 2018, plays a key role in planning the ACA’s Annual Meeting. The committee acts as program chairs—gathering and prioritizing session proposals, shaping the schedule, and coordinating special lectures, events, and ceremonies. They also help with selecting future meeting locations, propose meeting themes, and explore new ways to enhance the overall meeting experience.

Engagements in Structural Sciences Committee

 The Engagements in Structural Sciences Committee, established in 2024, is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment within the ACA and the broader scientific community. The committee helps organize training opportunities, supports SIGs in hosting sessions at the Annual Meeting, and works with leadership to identify potential funding to support these efforts. It also collaborates with committees to encourage a broad and representative pool of nominees for leadership roles and awards, contributes related content to ACA communications, and provides input to larger community initiatives. The group meets at least once a year, with the Chair presenting a report at the Annual Meeting.