SfN continued and expanded its role as an advocate for neuroscience throughout its second 25 years, developing and refining its strategies to have the greatest impact. The initial basic goal of increased research funding developed into a wider advocacy for scientific freedom in research, in the face of political challenges such as crusades against animal research and restrictions on the use of stem cells. Lobbying at the congressional and local levels continued into the new century, including the annual "Hill Day" and meetings during legislative recess; but SfN expanded in several directions, partnering with disease advocacy groups, training young members for careers in science policy and helping international partners to develop advocacy programs in their own countries. "Over time," Nick Spitzer (Chair, Public Education and Communication Committee, 2006-09) has commented, "we have learned how to be sophisticated, how to share the message."363