Announcing the 2025 CCST Leadership Awards for Science in Public Service

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SACRAMENTO, Calif.—The California Council on Science and Technology (CCST) is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2025 CCST Leadership Awards for Science in Public Service: Senator Ben Allen, Speaker Robert Rivas, and Secretary Amy Tong.

The CCST Science in Public Service Award is given to public servants who have a clear track record of advancing science and technology issues and value efforts to connect science to policy. This year’s awardees are being recognized for their career-long leadership on implementing science-informed solutions in California.

“Each year, the CCST Leadership Awards honor the visionaries and changemakers who are advancing science-informed policymaking in California,” says CCST CEO Julianne McCall, PhD. “This year’s honorees embody the power of collaboration, innovation, and dedication to creating a better future for all Californians. It is a privilege to recognize these extraordinary leaders for their contributions to evidence-based solutions and science and technology policy workforce development.”


Senator Ben Allen

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Throughout his career, Senator Ben Allen has exemplified leadership in integrating science and technology into policymaking. His landmark bill, SB 867, has set a new standard for climate resilience in California by boosting funding for wildfire prevention, climate adaptation projects, and research into renewable energy technologies. Beyond legislative action, Senator Allen’s commitment to expanding clean energy infrastructure, incentivizing technological innovation, and enhancing community preparedness for climate impacts has transformed California’s approach to environmental sustainability.

Senator Allen’s dedication extends to empowering future leaders in science policy. As a steadfast mentor for the CCST Science & Technology Policy Fellows program, he has guided Fellows toward impactful careers, fostering a generation of professionals who integrate scientific expertise into public service. Senator Allen’s influence on these individuals and the broader science policy community is immeasurable.


Speaker Robert Rivas

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Through his leadership as Speaker of the California State Assembly, Robert Rivas has significantly advanced California’s science and technology landscape. In 2024, Speaker Rivas championed legislation to improve oil transportation safety, safeguarding coastal regions from potential environmental disasters. His advocacy for environmental sustainability—including accelerating renewable energy projects and exploring innovative carbon sequestration methods—underscores his commitment to integrating technology with environmental stewardship.

Speaker Rivas’s support for the CCST Science & Technology Policy Fellows program has been transformative. By mentoring and guiding Science Fellows, he has helped them transition from the lab to influential careers in public policy. His dedication has empowered these individuals to shape California’s policy landscape and address complex scientific challenges.


Secretary Amy Tong

A graphic with a large photo of the award recipient on the right, and the award title, name, and job title of the recipient on the left with a blue background with CCST's logo in the bottom left.

As California’s Secretary of Government Operations, Amy Tong’s visionary leadership has been instrumental in driving the state’s technological progress. In 2024, Secretary Tong led the development of the nation’s largest broadband middle-mile network, bridging the digital divide and expanding connectivity across California. Her innovative integration of Generative Artificial Intelligence into state operations has enhanced public service efficiency and innovation.

Secretary Tong’s dedication to embedding diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) principles into state operations further demonstrates her commitment to equitable technological advancement. Her trailblazing efforts have not only modernized government operations but have also ensured that California remains a leader in inclusive technology initiatives.


Honoring Science-Driven Leadership

CCST celebrates the outstanding contributions of Senator Ben Allen, Speaker Robert Rivas, and Secretary Amy Tong to advancing science-informed public policy. Their leadership and commitment to evidence-based solutions have helped California remain a global leader in addressing critical challenges and fostering innovation.

Please join us in congratulating this year’s awardees for their extraordinary achievements in public service and their unwavering dedication to improving the lives of all Californians through science and technology.

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About the California Council on Science and Technology
The California Council on Science and Technology is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization established via the California State Legislature in 1988. CCST responds to the Governor, the Legislature, and other State entities who request independent assessment of public policy issues affecting the State of California relating to science and technology. CCST engages leading experts in science and technology to advise state policymakers—ensuring that California policy is strengthened and informed by scientific knowledge, research, and innovation.

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