New Educational Support for Branches

By Dr. Ann Turner, Executive Director

During the AALAS National Meeting in Atlanta, the Board of Trustees announced the establishment of the Ben Cohen Branch Educational Fund. This program honors one of the founding fathers of AALAS, Dr. Ben Cohen, who was committed to enhancing the training and education of all those who work in the laboratory animal science field. It is fitting that this fund was established to support educational programs offered through the AALAS branches.

Branches may apply for up to $1,000 per year for regular programming, and up to $5,000 for supplemental funding for large or special events in addition to the regular funding. Examples of eligible expenses include speaker’s fees, travel, and expenses; workshop/wet lab expenses; and local AREA (student) program expenses.

To be eligible to apply for financial support, the branch must meet these criteria:

• have at least 10 members who are AALAS national members;
• provide to the AALAS national office a list of current officers within 30 days of the election;
• provide a current membership roster, including contact information for members, to the AALAS national office by May 1;
• provide a current copy of their constitution and bylaws; and
• provide evidence of IRS tax-exempt status or evidence of IRS tax filing.

Compliant branches may submit to the national office (by mail or email, addressed to me) a request for funding to support qualified educational programs offered by the branch. Applications must include a letter of support from at least one Trustee from the applying branch’s district. Applications for regular funding (up to $1,000) must be received by the national office at least 60 days prior to the event. Applications for supplemental funding (up to $5,000) must be received approximately 6 weeks prior to the regularly scheduled board meeting preceding the event. Funding cannot be awarded retroactive to the event or program.

For questions about the Ben Cohen Branch Educational fund, contact me at the national office at ann.turner@aalas.org.