ARCS Foundation, Minnesota Chapter

Imagine a better future....

and support top graduate students in science, technology, engineering and medical research (STEM) at the University of Minnesota.  

We are a group of women who are dedicated to helping the best and brightest University of Minnesota scholars.  Our goal is “Advancing Science in America AND Minnesota.”

The Minnesota Chapter works to advance science in Minnesota by:

• Engaging ARCS scholars and scholar alumni
• Promoting diversity, equity and inclusion in STEM fields
• Providing outreach and education about science-related advances to the Minnesota community
• Expanding the scholar support base (3M has 3 named scholars!)

ARCS Scholar Awards have an Impact!

ARCS Scholars have an Impact!

Minnesota Chapter Scholar Awards
This year we are gave awards to 7 outstanding graduate students in 7 ARCS-approved departments at the University of Minnesota, including the new Department of Neuroscience. These students have been identified by their departments for their potential of greatly impacting the advancement of science in their fields.

Donate today and support top U of Minnesota STEM graduate students!

About ARCS Foundation

ARCS Foundation, MN Chapter is a 501(c)3.ARCS stands for Achievement Rewards for College Scientists. Our Chapter is an all-female, all-volunteer organization that operates virtually. We have no office, no paid staff and dedicate 100 percent of monies raised to provide scholar awards and support these promising students. We believe that all of us together provide a powerful impetus to our national goal of advancing science by tapping into the connections and financial power of our community. Please join us. Explore our site to learn more about the Minnesota Chapter of ARCS Foundation and how to become involved.https://minnesota.arcsfoundation.org/

ARCS Foundation is the largest private, member-based donor to college-level science students in the United States.

Scientist of the Year for 2020

Rhonda Franklin, PhD
Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering, U of MN
Institute of Engineering in Medicine, Inspire Program Co-Director

Building on the Minnesota Chapter’s spring webinar about “The Need for Science Advocacy,” we recognized Dr. Franklin, not only for her ground-breaking research, but for her work mentoring and encouraging students to follow careers in science. 

In 2020, Dr. Franklin received one of the inaugural Institute of Engineering in Medicine (IEM) Abbott Professorships in Innovative Education, awarded to the co- directors of the Inspire Program in IEM at the University of Minnesota. The award is intended to help advance the IEM's mission to inspire students from diverse communities in eighth grade through junior college to see themselves in STEM careers in biomedicine and healthcare. Watch a short video about Dr. Franklin here!

Dr. Franklin told us the fascinating story of her journey as a scientist and how she inspires young people to follow STEM careers.