January Issue
Happy New Year! I am pleased to begin this year and to build upon the momentum and successes achieved in 2025. Last year, our committees were led with renewed energy and leadership. The Women Chemists Committee has reinvigorated the Philadelphia Area Girls Exploring Science (PAGES™) program under the leadership of Dr. Brisa Hurlocker, Dr. Jessica Myers, and Ms. Gwenny Go. In parallel, the Younger Chemists Committee embarked on an exciting new chapter under the leadership of Drs. Andres Vazquez-Lopez and Kunyu Wang, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to support early-career chemists.
I am grateful to work alongside the Executive Committee of Dr. Matt Irwin, Dr. Wei Gao, Mrs. Ivona Macor, and Ms. Greglynn Gibbs as we continue to strengthen our committees and advance the mission of the Section. Together, we aim to sustain our signature events while also introducing new initiatives.
As we move forward, we also pause to remember members we have lost, including Marge Matthews, a devoted member and a cornerstone of the Communications Committee. While we mourn her passing, we honor her legacy by continuing the work of the Section with the same dedication, care, and commitment she exemplified.
Looking ahead to 2026, my goal is to further strengthen member engagement by empowering our committees, listening closely to the interests and needs of our membership, and expanding outreach efforts that positively impact the scientific community throughout Philadelphia.
Sincerely,
Anthony Devany
Chair, Philadelphia Local Section
American Chemical Society
PhillyACS 