The Spivack Program in Applied Social Research and Social Policy works to connect sociological knowledge to broad issues of social policy. The program has a 7 person Advisory Panel that provides peer review for proposed initiatives within the Spivack Program. Six of the members are appointed (2 each year with 3-year terms) on the recommendation of the Executive Officer; recommendations are presented to Council in August for approval. In addition, the President selects one Council member to serve as Liaison to the panel. The Advisory Panel typically meets by conference call during the year and face-to-face at the ASA Annual Meeting if necessary.