Founded in 1848, the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) is an international organization dedicated to advancing science around the world by serving as an educator, leader, spokesperson and professional association. AAAS fulfills its mission to advance science and serve society through initiatives in science policy; international programs; science education; and more. AAAS serves some 262 affiliated societies and academies of science, serving 10 million individuals. In addition to organizing membership activities, AAAS publishes the journal Science, as well as many scientific newsletters, books and reports, and spearheads programs that raise the bar of understanding for science worldwide.