ARCS Light Award

Each year, ARCS chapters select one member to be recognized for providing the highest quality of long-time service to her chapter. The distinctive ARCS Light Award recognizes recipients for continuous service that has made a positive impact on ARCS Foundation and its mission of advancing science in America. These unsung heroes of ARCS Foundation are honored at the ARCS Foundation All Members Conference.

Marcia's impact on ARCS Foundation Seattle Chapter cannot be overstated. Her strategic thinking and organizational skills are only second to her gifts for nurturing connections.    

She joined in 2006 and served as a VP of Membership, Programs, Nominations and Communications. Marcia is a natural leader whose skills at organizing and delivering within any role are legend. During her Seattle Chapter presidency from 2015-2017, Marcia served with incredible diplomacy, compassion and energy. Her successor, Amy Rudolf observed: "She touches many with her grace and generous spirit. I am extremely grateful to work with her.”

Marcia helped organize ARCS National’s Council of Presidents and continues her work for our chapter as an advisor to the board, generously providing wise council. She has supported four ARCS Fellowships and has advanced ARCS’ fundraising efforts through her dedication and stewardship. 

During her years of professional experience in fundraising, Marcia developed a deep network within the Seattle nonprofit community and honed skills in public relations. Her leadership roles include Director of Communications at The Lakeside School, stints as Director of Major and Planned Gifts for Virginia Mason, the American Heart Association, and United Way of King County. 

Among her volunteer experiences are Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle Children’s Hospital and Washington Women’s Foundation. 

Marcia attended the University of Washington and is a graduate of Gonzaga. She is a mother to 3 and grandmother to 7. Marcia enjoys traveling and writing and has published feature articles and stories in numerous magazines and online publications.