The ARCS Atlanta Chapter has been honored with the 2025 Golden Helix Award for Community Service by Georgia Life Sciences. The award was presented in late August at the Georgia Life Sciences Summit and accepted by Frances Swensson, President of ARCS Atlanta.

In presenting the award, Maria Thacker Goethe, President & CEO of Georgia Life Sciences said, “ARCS Atlanta’s steadfast commitment to advancing science, research, and innovation through support of emerging scholars aligns deeply with our mission to foster a healthier, more informed future. Their impact in our community is both measurable and inspiring.”

Georgia Life Sciences, founded in 1989, is a non-profit, membership-based organization that promotes the interests and growth of the life sciences industry. The Golden Helix Awards recognize excellence and achievement in Georgia’s life sciences sector, celebrating individuals, companies, and institutions whose contributions drive scientific discovery, health innovation, and economic growth. This year’s winners were announced during the Summit’s welcome reception and awards ceremony, attended by leaders from industry, academia, and government.

“We are deeply honored to receive the Golden Helix Award for Community Service,” Swensson said. “This recognition highlights both the dedication of our members—who contribute their time, talent, and resources—and the extraordinary achievements of our scholars, whose work is advancing science, improving health, and strengthening Georgia’s life sciences community.”

The two-day summit event brings together leaders, innovators, researchers, and investors related to life sciences in Georgia. Bioscience is the fastest-growing segment of Georgia’s economy, with more than 4,000 establishments and over 70,000 employees. The state’s research universities, entrepreneurial environment, and engaged industry leaders position Georgia as a hub for innovation.

ARCS Atlanta was founded in 1992 and has awarded over $8 million in unrestricted funding to academically outstanding US students pursuing degrees at Emory University, Georgia Institute of Technology, University of Georgia, and Morehouse College. Each year, ARCS Atlanta supports more than 50 scholars across these partner institutions, with two-thirds focused on life sciences and 85% pursuing doctoral research that addresses critical challenges in health, medicine, and technology.

By providing sustained, unrestricted funding, ARCS Atlanta helps ensure Georgia retains exceptional scientific talent and remains at the forefront of life sciences innovation.