News

Across the country, ARCS Foundation chapters are celebrating dedicated members, highlighting groundbreaking research and creating opportunities to connect. Here's a look at what's happening throughout our chapter network!

Metro Washington Chapter: Honoring Members Past and Present

The Metro Washington Chapter is celebrating the contributions of longtime member Lynn Dillon, who joined in 2000 and previously served as chapter president. Dillon credits the chapter's volunteer-driven mission and opportunities to connect with inspiring Scholars for her continued involvement.

The chapter also welcomes Dr. Jeanne Van Briesen, a former ARCS Scholar (1992–1997), the inaugural ARCS Alumni Hall of Fame inductee in 2016 and current dean of the College of Engineering and Information Technology at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.

Northern California Chapter: Scholar Research Spotlight

UCSF doctoral student and ARCS Scholar Zoe Platow is investigating how the Alzheimer's disease risk gene APOE4 affects brain cells, particularly during early adulthood. Inspired by her grandmother's battle with Alzheimer's, Platow hopes her research will advance understanding of the disease. ARCS funding is helping her expand promising preliminary experiments.

During a recent chapter meeting, Platow shared a heartfelt reminder about the power of mentorship:

“Finally, I’d like to say that in a world full of the Internet and artificial intelligence, if you get the chance to inspire curiosity and a love for learning in a young potential scientist, please do it. I am sure that many of you are role models to young ones, and your influence and mentorship have the power to touch their lives forever, just as my Nana did for me.”

Utah Chapter: Exploring AI in Healthcare

The Utah Chapter will welcome Dr. Adam Dubis of the University of Utah's John A. Moran Eye Center for its November 17 meeting. His presentation, “The AI Will See You Now,” will explore how artificial intelligence is helping physicians improve care for patients with vision-threatening conditions while preserving the essential human connection between doctors and patients.

The meeting will take place November 17, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. MT.

Visit your local chapter's website to discover more inspiring Scholar stories, member achievements and upcoming events from across the ARCS Foundation network.