Supporting Members

The quote “you don’t get harmony when everyone sings the same note” captures the philosophy of the Society and highlights the value of diversity.  Social and professional diversity bring a wide range of perspectives and contribute to effective governance. This amendment to the Society’s standing rules was approved by the council and the Board of Directors at the ACS Spring 2021 meeting. As a result of this rule change, more ACS members are now provided with more opportunities to volunteer on society committees. 

I have worked with teams of ConC members to promote DEIR within the committee structure. We developed the Online Preference Form to match the skills, interests, and expertise of volunteers to appropriate committees.  We continue to identify and communicate best practices for onboarding new members.  This year, ConC initiated annual training on coaching and mentoring for ConC members with an emphasis on DEIR. To help identify gaps and concerns it is important to identify the status of diverse volunteers. Working with the office of DEIR, we are developing ongoing communication for outreach to organizations that serve underrepresented groups to promote ACS committee service. These DEIR initiatives create opportunities for diverse talent by building networks to drive engagement and belonging.

As an elected councilor since 2004, I represent the members of the North Jersey Section on issues of importance to all chemical scientists.  During my term as chair of the section I supported the topical groups who provided excellent symposia and innovative programming for their members, public outreach programs such as Chem Expo during NCW, professional development programs for K-12 teachers, programs such as Project SEED, Chemistry Olympiad, and Chemistry Olympics for K-12 students, and the annual Research Conference for undergraduates.