ARCS Foundation Oregon was founded in 2004 by a group of women philanthropists dedicated to advancing science and technology. Today, we are one of 15 Chapters in the United States that provides financial awards to academically outstanding students who are U.S. citizens studying to complete PhD degrees in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) at Oregon's top research Universities - Oregon Health & Science University, Oregon State University, and the University of Oregon. Our Chapter is led by accomplished women who believe that "Science is the Solution."
Since 2004, we have awarded $5.9 million to 360 young scientists. Through their research and collaborations, ARCS scholars are discovering answers to some of today's most complex scientific questions. By supporting these top young scientists, we have hope for a better future. A future when renewable energy is abundant and affordable, when cures for common diseases like cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer’s and HIV/AIDS will be found, when clean water will be accessible by all and clean living will be ubiquitous, when mankind will be safe in the face of cataclysmic forces of nature. We take great pride in the accomplishments of our scholars and the impact we know they will have on our collective future.
Commitment to Inclusive Excellence
ARCS Foundation Oregon embraces inclusive excellence as a core value critical to science and innovation. We believe that science is the solution to many of the world's most pressing problems, and diverse perspectives are critical to achieving those solutions. We commit to ensuring that inclusive excellence is honored and upheld within our membership and in our relationships with partner institutions.
Now more than ever, "Science is the Solution" and our impact must continue.
ARCS Foundation was launched shortly after Sputnik in the late 1950’s. Some concerned, philanthropic women approached the President of Cal Tech, asking what could be done to reassert U.S. leadership in science and engineering. The response: help fund early PhD candidates in science and engineering. From that beginning, in one location, ARCS Foundation now has 15 chapters throughout the country. ARCS Foundation Oregon is one of those chapters operating independently under the umbrella of ARCS Foundation, Inc.