The Fellowship (Fellowness?) of Lisa Balbes

Lisa Balbes, newly minted ACS Fellow
Photo credit: Linda Wang

Lisa Balbes is the latest STLACS section member to be elected an ACS Fellow. Chair Natalie LaFranzo passed the word along last week when she heard it from the National horse’s mouth.

Lisa is principal in Balbes Consultants, under which she offers career, editorial, grantsmanship, and training services. Yes, that is a broad brush: more of a roller, actually. In the local section, Lisa has been Career Services coordinator since forever, and much, much more. Let’s not burden you with the whole story here; instead, you can see it in her Board of Directors profile there.

The ACS Fellows program is intended, according to program guidelines, to “recognize and honor members of the American Chemical Society for their outstanding achievements in and contributions to the science and the profession and for their equally exemplary service to the Society.” (Emphasis in the original.)

Lisa’s citation as Fellow on the national ACS website reads as follows:

Contribution to the science/profession: Honored for her instrumental role in producing millions of dollars in successful grant applications. Brings transformative leadership to the STEM program of the Boy Scouts of America, including the 2017 National Jamboree STEM Quest program.

Contribution to the ACS community: As Chair of the Committee on Economic and Professional Affairs, she transformed ACS career efforts into a vital asset for members during the difficult employment situation of 2007, including a vibrant workshop program and additional career tools.

Lisa’s election as ACS Fellow was greeted with widespread huzzahs from other members of the Board. Now you, gentle readers, can huzzah right along.