It is my honor to welcome each of you to the 2011-2012 year for the Phoenix chapter of ARCS^® Foundation, Inc.! A sincere thank you goes out to our members who are providing invaluable time, talents and support toward the success of our mission.  The ARCS Foundation advances science and technology in the United States by providing financial awards to academically outstanding U. S. citizens studying to complete degrees in science, engineering and medical research.

This year begins with an “All Member” Chapter Retreat on Monday August 29^th at the home of Sandra Matteucci. We welcome Lynne Brickner, ARCS Foundation National and Los Angeles member, who will provide insight into non-profit governance.  She is also excited to speak about the new national membership manual that our own Lynne Sonntag was instrumental in getting complete.  Please plan to attend this insightful planning session.

Thanks to Hospitality Directors Kathey Plenge and Diana Finley for setting up our upcoming board and general meetings.   The October 3^rd board and general meeting will be held at the El Chorro Lodge. The event pavilion has parking in the back of the property. The December holiday luncheon will be held December 5^th at Vincent’s on Camelback. What a lovely way to welcome the holiday season with friends! Our spring board and general meeting will be held May 7, 2012, location to be announced soon. 

Mark your calendar, October 17^th, for the fall field trip that has been planned by Field Trip Vice President Pat Elder, who is excited to have us tour the brand new Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center. Dr. Edgardo Rivera, medical director for the center, will speak to our group.    Field Trip Vice President Melanie Brewer will plan our spring field trip. 

We will be “Howling for Scholars” at the Fall Benefit on Sunday, October 30^th.  Carolyn Evani, Emily Myers and the Fall Benefit committee are planning a Halloween themed day at the Valley Field and Riding Club.  Invite your friends and families, and wear your favorite Halloween costume.   

The Awards Dinner committee has once again secured the Phoenix Art Museum as the venue for our April 27, 2012 Awards Dinner. What a wonderful time to meet our scholars who will present their research. 

This year we welcome two new members, Dr. Laura Bird and Dawn Carson Senger. I hope that you will have the opportunity to meet and work with these dynamic women. We are blessed to have such a wonderful, hard working chapter, and I can’t wait to see everyone on October 3^rd. 

Fondly,  

Anna Maria Matteucci

ARCS^® Foundation, Inc.

Phoenix Chapter President