The AMS Beacons Program is rooted in former Executive Director Kenneth Spengler’s legacy of fostering the AMS as an open, inclusive, and welcoming organization. At Annual Meetings, Beacons are available to assist anyone in attendance—from the first-timer who needs directions to a seasoned attendee who needs some timely and thoughtful advice. Beacons, who may be identified by their bright yellow lanyards, are a volunteer, complementary resource to the AMS staff and are trained on what questions and information should be referred to AMS staff members.

Beacons contribute to a vibrant AMS community by:

• Welcoming new members
• Helping attendees (especially students and other newcomers) navigate AMS Meetings
• Guiding professionals looking for advice
• Helping other members share their knowledge and build a sense of community
• Facilitating introductions and connections between members across fields and institutions
• Sharing expertise and contributing to conversations on the AMS Community online platform
• Fostering an inclusive, equitable, and welcoming culture and environment at AMS Meetings, on the AMS Community online platform, and within the weather, water, climate enterprise. 

Expectations and responsibilities:

• Required: Behave in accordance with the letter and spirit of the AMS Code of Conduct
• Required: Participate in training sessions, as needed
• Required: Respond to inquiries from AMS staff through email and the AMS Community  online platform
• Wear the yellow AMS Beacon lanyard at AMS Meetings (including Annual and Specialty meetings) for visibility, and serve as a resource for other attendees
• When attending the AMS Annual Meeting, participate in Sunday’s “Newcomer's Welcome and Informational Exchange” session
• Create and post new discussions (stories of the week) on the AMS Community online platform
• Compose posts on areas of expertise on the AMS Community online platform
• Participate in Beacon community discussions and give feedback
• Help to recruit new Beacons

AMS Beacon Application