Natalie LaFranzo on 2017

The ceremonial transition got most of the media attention (you remember the Continuity Dinner, right?), but the official transition is calendrical. And the calendar is about to give us all a swift kick. So, heeeeeeeere’s Natalie LaFranzo, incoming Section Chair, with words for the upcoming year.

Natalie LaFranzo

As we wind down from the excitement of the holiday season, I am beginning to feel anticipation about what’s to come in 2017. We have such a strong tradition of volunteerism in the St. Louis Section, with many productive years of service to the chemistry community, and beyond. I look forward to continuing this tradition, and hope to see more local chemists join in the fun!

I became active in the Section as a graduate student, eager to meet mentors and learn more about chemistry in St. Louis. From growing my network, to organizing fun events, and eventually taking on a leadership position, the time and energy I’ve invested has been returned to me many times over.

If you’ve been considering becoming more active and investing in your career, this is the year! There are both big and small roles available that you can contribute in. Whether you’re a student, academic, industrial or government scientist, non-traditional, retired, or just love chemistry, we’d be thrilled to have you on our team of diverse, passionate professionals. It’s never too early (or late!) to get involved.

Please consider visiting our monthly Board Meetings — the food is good (your first dinner is free, after which students and unemployed members pay half price!), the company is great, and you’ll learn what we’re about. Meetings not your thing? No problem — send me an email at chair@stlacs.org and we’ll take it from there.

Thank you to everyone who has come before me and paved the path to success for our Section. I look forward to serving alongside both our seasoned and newest members in 2017!

Cheers,
Natalie