Candidate Bios – 2027
Meet your candidates running for office in the Division of Professional Relations for 2027!
The Division of Professional Relations hosts annual elections for a number of positions on our Executive Board.
In the coming weeks, you will receive an email from the Division via SurveyMonkey asking you to cast your ballot by November 8, 2026. All ballots are anonymous, so please make sure to cast your vote!
Please note – you will receive multiple ballots if you belong to more than one subdivision! Check your spam folder for your ballots. If you cannot find them, please get in touch with the PROF Secretary at secretary@acsprof.org immediately.
| Office | Candidates |
|---|---|
| Chair-Elect1 position available | |
| Secretary1 position available | |
| Councilor and Alternate Councilor2 positions available | |
| Member-at-Large2 positions available | |
| Chemists with Disabilities1 position available | |
| Ethics1 position available | |
| International Chemists1 position available | |
| ACS Pride1 position available | |
| Minority Affairs1 position available | |
| Women Chemists1 position available | |
| Younger Chemists1 position available |
Chair-Elect
Succession: 2027–2029
Anthony M. Mariniello
Business Manager, Nordmann Global · Councilor, ACS Rubber Division
Candidate statement
I am honored to be considered as a candidate for Chair-Elect of the ACS Division of Professional Relations (PROF). With over 25 years in the rubber and specialty chemicals industry, I have built my career on developing people, forging partnerships, and creating value – from managing multinational technical sales and marketing organizations to leading volunteer governance for the Rubber Division of ACS, where I have served as Chair, Executive Committee for 2 years (first time), Chair-Elect, Secretary, Treasure and Area Director, among other roles. This experience, together with my service on the Society’s Budget and Finance Committee (CFA), has given me a broad view of the professional development, career resources, and networking opportunities our members depend on ACS to provide. If elected, I will bring my business leadership experience, collaborative style, and commitment to mentoring the next generation of chemists and engineers to PROF’s mission of supporting members throughout every stage of their careers. I would be honored to serve.
ACS Bio — Anthony M. Mariniello
- Academic Record
- B.S., Chemical Engineering, Bucknell University, Lewisburg, PA (1990); M.B.A., Southern New Hampshire University, Manchester, NH (2004)
- Honors
- Rubber Division Chair-Elect (2022) and Chair (2023 and 2024), Rubber Division Executive Committee, ACS Budget and Finance Committee; President-Elect (2023) and President (2025) of Executive Board of Directors, Bucknell Engineering Alumni Association
- Professional Positions (for past ten years)
- Business Manager, Nordmann Global (current). Previously Technical Sales Manager, ChemSpec Ltd/Safic Alcan Group, Uniontown, OH (2012–2023): managed technical sales for the New England region extending into NY, NJ and PA, managed magnesium oxide product development with global producers, and grew an underperforming market 20-fold to over $8.25MM in annual sales.
- Service in ACS National Offices
- Councilor (Current), Rubber Division of ACS; Board Member, Marketing Committee and Exhibits & Meeting Sites Committee, Rubber Division; Chair-Elect (2022) and Chair (2023 and 2024), Rubber Division Executive Committee; ACS Budget and Finance Committee (Now Committee on Fiscal Affairs)
- Service in ACS Other (Local, etc.)
- New England Rubber and Plastics Group – Board Member (current); Area Director (2019–2022); Chair (2018); Vice-Chair (2017); Secretary of the Board (2016). Active member
- Member
- Member, ACS Other memberships related to chemistry profession: Chemical Club of New England; Board of Directors, Bucknell University Alumni Association, Executive Board of Directors, Bucknell Engineering Alumni Association.
- Related Activities
- Presents annually to elastomer industry leaders; developed a patented process for removing electroless nickel from wastewater to below 1 part per million, enabling continued nickel-plating operations in California; featured in the Rubber News industry anniversary edition; Chair, Alumni Engagement Committee, Bucknell Engineering Alumni Association (2022–2023); Board Member, Strategic Planning Committee, Bucknell University Alumni Association (2004–2012).
Secretary
2027–2028
Annabelle Lolinco
Chemical Society of Washington · AAAS Science & Technology Policy Fellow, Washington, DC
Candidate statement
It would be an honor to serve once again as PROF’s Secretary. During my 2023 – 2024 term, I focused on increasing visibility into how our membership was evolving and growing. I also streamlined processes for better engagement with communities interested in partnering with the Division. I would like to continue this work alongside my fellow leaders in service as we advance the division’s vision of elevating professionalism. I firmly believe that the Division of Professional Relations, is home for all chemical scientists, wherever their careers and life takes them. Thus, I hope to continue serving all chemical scientists in the development of their professional skills.
ACS Bio — Annabelle Lolinco
Lolinco, Annabelle. Chemical Society of Washington. AAAS Science and Technology Policy Fellow, Washington, DC, USA.
- Academic Record
- Biochemistry, B.S., California State University, Fresno, 2016. Communication, B.A., California State University, Fresno, 2016. Physical Chemistry, M.S. Iowa State University, 2020. Chemistry – Chemical Education, Ph.D., Iowa State University, 2024.
- Honors
- Sally Casanova California State University Pre-doctoral Fellow, California State University, 2016 – 2017; ACS Younger Chemists Committee Leadership Development Award, 2021; U.S. Young Observer and Younger Chemist Delegate, International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry, 2025.
- Professional Positions
- United States Department of Agriculture – Agricultural Research Service, Biological Science Technician, 2017; National Science Policy Network, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, Chair, 2020 –2022; U.S. House of Representatives – Office of Congresswoman Doris Matsui, California 7th District, ACS Congressional Science and Technology Policy Fellow, 2024 – 2025. Energy Science, Economics, and Policy Fellow, Office of Policy, U.S. Department of Energy, 2025-2026.
- Service in ACS Offices
- Younger Chemists Committee: Member, 2024 – 2026; Associate, 2023. Division of Professional Relations: Social Media Chair, 2020 – 2023. Communications Chair, 2021 – present. Member-At-Large, 2022. Secretary, 2023– 2024. Ames Section: Younger Chemists Committee Representative, 2017 – 2019. San Joaquin Valley Section: Student Representative, 2014 – 2016.
- Member
- Project Management Institute since 2026. American Association for the Advancement of Science since 2025. National Science Policy Network, 2019 – 2024. ACS Member since 2013. ACS Divisions: Chemical Education and Professional Relations.
Councilor and Alternate Councilor
2027–2029
Michelle Cummings
ACS Midland Local Section · Senior R&D Leader, Dow
Candidate statement
As a Senior R&D Leader at Dow and long-time ACS volunteer, I am committed to helping chemists succeed through professional development, inclusion, and engagement. My experience as Chair of the ACS Committee on Chemists with Disabilities, Midland Local Section Chair, Committee on Membership Affairs member, and current PROF Chair has given me a broad perspective on the needs of ACS members across career stages and sectors. As PROF Councilor, I will advocate for a strong, inclusive, and member-focused ACS that delivers value through career growth, leadership development, and connections across industry, academia, and government. I would be honored to serve and represent the interests of the PROF membership.
ACS Bio — Michelle Cummings
- Academic Record
- B.S., Chemistry, Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant, MI (2006)
- Honors
- ACS Fellow (2022), Division of Professional Relations- Chair (2026), Committee on Chemists with Disabilities- Chair (2021-2024), National Technical Institute for the Deaf National Advisory Group- Member (2023-2026), National Technical Institute for the Deaf Employer Advisory Group (2021-2023), ACS I&EC Division Fellow (2017).
- Professional Positions (for past ten years)
- Senior R&D Leader, Dow (current). Previously: Research Scientist- Technical Leader (2014-2020). Delivered broad and lasting impact by driving organizational change, advancing Dow’s optical moldable silicone technology platform, and enabling successful commercialization of products that generated millions of dollars in revenue. Through cross-functional leadership, strategic technology evaluation, process innovation, and customer engagement, accelerated innovation, expanded business growth, and strengthened commercialization success. Beyond technical contributions, advanced Dow’s safety culture and talent pipeline by leading safety integration efforts and mentoring the first Dow Silicones NTID summer intern, helping foster a more inclusive and capable future workforce.
- Service in ACS National Offices
- Committee on Membership Affairs- Associate Member (2026), Committee on Chemists with Disabilities- Member (2019-2025), Division of Professional Relations, chair-elect (2025), CWD subcommittee chair-elect, chair (2022-2024).
- Service in ACS Other
- ACS Midland Local Section- Board (2008-2026)- Chair (2014).
- Member
- Member ACS since: 2008
- Related Activities
- Leads and develops high-performing teams of scientists, engineers, and researchers, fostering technical excellence, talent development, strategic innovation, and operational integrity across a diverse R&D portfolio. She drives business impact through cross-functional collaboration, portfolio governance, facility leadership, and a strong commitment to safety, compliance, and organizational effectiveness. Recognized advocate for accessibility, inclusion, and professional development within the chemical enterprise. Leads an ACS Title II Accessibility Working Group, spearheads Dow's People with Disabilities Hiring Taskforce, and serves as a lead recruiter for students with disabilities, helping build diverse talent pipelines into STEM careers. Through extensive mentoring of students and early-career professionals, she is dedicated to developing the next generation of chemists and ensuring opportunities are accessible to all members of the scientific community.
Vishal Yadav
The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA
ACS Bio — Vishal Yadav
Yadav, Vishal. The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA.
- Academic Record
- Bachelor of Science in Chemistry (with University Honors), University of Calcutta, 2014; Master of Science in Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, 2016; Master of Arts in Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University, 2018; Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University, 2022.
- Honors
- CAS Future Leaders Winner (Top 35), 2026; ACS PROF Leadership Development Institute Award, 2025; Merck Next Gen Leaders Award, 2025; Travel Award, ACS Division of Biochemistry and Chemical Biology, 2025; Career Impact Award, Doctoral Life Design Studio, Johns Hopkins University, 2024; Gompf Family Fellowship for Excellence in Graduate Studies, Johns Hopkins University, 2021; Ontario-Maharashtra-Goa (OMG) Scholarship, Ontario-India Student Exchange Program, 2015.
- Professional Positions (for the past 10 years)
- Postdoctoral Research Scholar, Department of Chemistry, The Pennsylvania State University, 2022–present; Graduate Research Assistant, Department of Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University, 2016–2022.
- Service in ACS National Office
- Chair-Elect, Young Chemist Subcommittee, Division of Professional Relations (PROF), 2026; Selected participant, ACS PROF Leadership Development Institute, 2025; Selected participant, ACS Postdoc-to-Faculty (P2F) Workshop, 2025.
- Service in ACS Office
- Member ACS since 2020. Co-Chair, Early Career Investigators in Bioinorganic Chemistry Symposium, ACS Fall 2025; Presider, ACS Fall 2026, ACS Fall 2024.
- Member (current)
- ACS Division(s): Inorganic Chemistry (DIC); Biochemistry and Chemical Biology (BIOL); Professional Relations (PROF); History of Chemistry (HIST).
- Related Activities
- Co-Chair, Gordon Research Conference on Bioinorganic Chemistry, 2025; Chair-Elect, Gordon Research Seminar in Bioinorganic Chemistry, 2024; Co-Chair, 17th Annual Postdoctoral Symposium, Office of Postdoctoral Affairs, The Pennsylvania State University, 2024; My Green Lab Coordinator, Penn State Sustainable Labs, 2024–2025; Mentor, STEM-Village Community, 2020–present, and research mentor to nine undergraduate, graduate, and visiting scientists. Member, Royal Society of Chemistry, Society of Biological Inorganic Chemistry, and American Association for the Advancement of Science. Author of 19 peer-reviewed publications in inorganic and bioinorganic chemistry.
Manju Venugopal
Georgia Local Section · Alpharetta, GA
Candidate statement
I am honored to be a candidate for Councilor/Alternate Councilor for the ACS Division of Professional Relations (PROF). ACS has been an important part of my professional journey, and I welcome the opportunity to give back by helping ensure that the experiences, concerns, and aspirations of PROF members are represented within ACS.
Over more than 25 years in chemistry and the life sciences, my career has evolved across research, diagnostics, medical devices, regulatory affairs, scientific and medical writing, project management, consulting, and entrepreneurship. Like many professionals, I have learned that a career rarely follows a perfectly straight path. Industries change, technologies evolve, and professionals continually adapt, develop new skills, and sometimes reinvent themselves. Those experiences have made me particularly passionate about professional development, mentoring, networking, and helping scientists recognize opportunities throughout every stage of their careers.
My ACS service has given me many opportunities to put those values into action. Through leadership in the Georgia Local Section, service with the Committee on Local Section Activities (LSAC), leadership in the International Chemists Subdivision of PROF, and participation in career, mentoring, education, and community outreach programs, I have worked with students, early-career scientists, experienced professionals, volunteers, and ACS leaders. I have seen how powerful ACS can be when we connect people—not only to scientific knowledge, but also to one another.
As Councilor or Alternate Councilor, I would bring to ACS governance the perspective of a longtime industry professional, consultant, entrepreneur, mentor, and active ACS volunteer. I would advocate for stronger professional and career-development opportunities, meaningful mentoring and networking, support for members navigating career transitions, and greater opportunities for members from varied professional and cultural backgrounds to participate and lead.
I also believe representation requires listening. I would seek out the perspectives of PROF members and bring their priorities and concerns to ACS governance, while also helping communicate ACS initiatives and opportunities back to our members. A Councilor should be a bridge between members and the Society, not simply a voice at Council meetings.
PROF has an especially important role because chemistry professionals contribute in so many different ways and at so many different stages of their careers. I would be privileged to represent that diverse professional community and bring my experience, energy, collaborative approach, and commitment to service to the Councilor/Alternate Councilor role.
ACS Bio — Manju Venugopal
ACS BIO – 2026 MANJU VENUGOPAL Georgia Local Section, Alpharetta, Georgia
- Academic Record
- St. Stephens College, India, B.S., 1984; Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Ph.D., 1992.
- Professional Positions
- Innovative Diagnostics Technologies, LLC, Senior Consultant (2016–Present); Abbott Laboratory, Project Manager – Clinical and Risk Evaluation, Global Regulatory Operations (2021–2023); Guided Therapeutics Inc., Consultant (2015–2023); Johnson & Johnson, Technical Writer – Medical Operations (2020–2021); Boston Scientific, Principal Medical Writer (2020); Philips, Clinical Affairs Consultant–Medical Writer (2019–2020); Abbott, Principal Medical Writer (2018–2019).
- Service in ACS National Offices
- Committee on Local Section Activities (LSAC), Associate Member (2023–Present); Liaison Member, ACS Senior Chemists Committee to LSAC (2024).
- Service in ACS Offices
- Member, ACS since 2010. Georgia Local Section: Chair Succession (2022–2024); Social Outreach Chair (2020–Present); Education Chair (2018–Present); Lead Organizer, SERMACS 2024 Outreach Activities. Division of Professional Relations (PROF): Subdivision Chair – International Chemists Subdivision (ICC) (2024–Present).
- Memberships
- Association for Women in Science (AWIS), since 2016; Women In Bio (WIB), since 2016; ACS Divisions: Professional Relations (PROF), Small Chemical Businesses (SCHB).
- Honors
- Chair, ACS Georgia Local Section (2022); NIH SBIR Phase I and Phase II Grant Awardee; Lead Organizer, SERMACS 2024 Social Outreach Activities; featured speaker, panelist, career mentor, and volunteer at ACS national and regional meetings and STEM outreach programs.
- Related Activities
- Advocate for professional development, career advancement, mentoring, and the recognition of women and international scientists in STEM. Organized and participated in programs to inspire and mentor students and early-career scientists through ACS, AWIS, WIB, schools, and community organizations, including the STE-Judge Pitch Competition, AWIS Career Day, STE-Career Talk at Druid Hills Middle School, Atlanta Science Festival, and other student-focused STEM and career outreach activities.
Member-at-Large
2027–2028 · 2 positions available
Keith R. Vitense
Wichita Falls–Duncan Section · Cache, OK
Candidate statement
I joined PROF at the Spring ACS Meeting at the urging of E. Ann Nalley. I remember the meeting well, as it was the meeting in which “Cold Fusion” was first presented to a scientific organization, and also about 3 weeks before my son was born without an easy way to be contacted “in case.” I have previously served PROF as a member of the Teller Committee (to count the paper ballots that were sent in…), a Member-at-Large, and as the first Ethics Subdivision Chair. I also served as Chair-Elect, Chair, and Past Chair for the Division. After my term as Chair Elect had been completed, I still remained active with the Division by attending the majority of the Business Meetings at the then-National meetings. I am pleased to have been offered an opportunity to formalize my interactions with the Executive Committee by my nomination to this position. I believe one of the strengths of the Division is the focus on moving forward, and I would like to help with that process.
ACS Bio — Keith R. Vitense
VITENSE, KEITH R. Witchita Falls-Duncan Section. Cache, Oklahoma.
- Academic Record
- Black Hills State College, B.S., 1982; Oklahoma State University, Ph.D., 1988.
- Honors
- ACS Fellow, 2024; Phi Lambda Upsilon; E. Ann Nalley Award; Henry Hill Award.
- Professional Positions
- Cameron University, Professor, 1988-2020; Halliburton, Faculty Intern, 2001.
- Service in ACS National Offices
- Committee on Constitution and Bylaws, Member, 2018- 2024, Chair 2022-2024; Committee on Economic and Professional Affairs, Member, 2005-2011, Associate, 2004; Committee Ethics, Member 2011-2017, Associate, 2006-2010; Council Policy Committee, Ex-Officio Member, 2022-2023.
- Service in ACS Offices
- Witchita Falls- Duncan Section: Councilor, 1998-2026; Alternate Councilor, 1992-1997; Chair-Elect, 1990-1991. Division of Professional Relations: Member-at-Large, 2019; Chair Succession, 2012-2014; Ethics Subdivision Chair, 2010-2011.
- Member
- ACS Member since 1982. ACS Division(s): Chemical Education; Professional Relations.
- Related Activities
- Southwest Regional Meeting Finance Committee, 2023. Oklahoma Pentasectional Meeting: Program Chair, 1991, 1997, 2017; General Chair, 1991. Comanche County (OK) Solid Waste Policy Committee, 1995.
Muhammad Abbas
Candidate materials have not yet been received. This entry will be updated when they arrive.
Samuel Brunclik
Minnesota · College of St. Benedict and St. John’s University, St. Joseph, MN
Candidate statement
I am excited to be a candidate for Member-at-Large of the Division of Professional Relations. Throughout my involvement in ACS, I have seen that one of the greatest strengths of the Society is the communities it creates for its members. However, these communities are only successful when members know about the opportunities available to them and feel that there is a reason to participate. I believe PROF has an important opportunity to continue strengthening how we engage with our members and connect them with the programming, resources, and communities the Division has to offer.
As Chair of the ACS Pride subdivision, one of my priorities has been increasing member engagement through accessible and relevant programming. I have helped organize successful social and professional events, increase participation in Pride programming, and use our subdivision network to encourage participation in broader PROF events. This experience has shown me that successful member engagement is not simply about offering more programming; it requires understanding what members are looking for, communicating opportunities effectively, and creating an environment that encourages them to return.
As Member-at-Large, I would bring this experience and perspective to the PROF Executive Committee, particularly in discussions of member engagement, event participation, and recruitment. I also look forward to supporting the practical work of the Division by working with subdivision chairs to help encourage intersectional programming and events. PROF already has strong and vibrant communities, and I hope to help connect more ACS members with the opportunities that are already here while contributing to conversations about how we can continue to improve.
ACS Bio — Samuel Brunclik
Brunclik, Samuel. Minnesota. College of St. Benedict and St. John’s University, St. Joseph MN
- Academic Record
- B.A. St. Olaf College, 2019; Ph.D. University of Kansas, 2024; Postdoctoral Fellow University of Kansas, 2025.
- Honors
- NIH Postdoctoral Institutional Research and Academic Development Award Fellowship, 2025; ACS Graduate Student and Postdoctoral Scholars Recognition Program, Charles and Beatrice Kulier Scholarship Recipient, 2024; University of Kansas Pride Award, 2024; George Corbin Bailey Memorial Scholarship Recipient, 2019-2023; ACS Division of Inorganic Chemistry Undergraduate Award in Inorganic Chemistry, 2019; Timothy J. Cashin Student Senator of the Year Award, 2018.
- Professional Positions
- ACS Committee on the Advancement of LGBTQ+ Chemists Chair, 2026-current; ACS Inclusion and Belonging Roundtable Representative, 2025-current; ACS Pride Chair, 2025-current; Assistant Professor of Chemistry, 2025-current; KU Department of Chemistry Committee for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Graduate Student Representative 2023-2024; Graduate Research Assistant, 2021-2024; Graduate Teaching Assistant, 2019-2022; St. Olaf Society of Chemistry Students Co-President 2018-2019; Interim Student Government Vice President and Senate Chair, 2018; St. Olaf Society of Chemistry Students Executive Committee 2017-2018; Student Government Executive Committee, 2016-2019.
- Member
- ACS member since 2016. Great Plains Catalysis Society member since 2023. Out to Innovate member since 2024. American Association for the Advancement of Science member since 2025. ACS Divisions: Inorganic Chemistry (Bioinorganic, Coordination Chemistry, Organometallic), Professional Relations (Younger Chemists, ACS Pride). ACS Committee: Committee on the Advancement of LGBTQ+ Chemists (chair) 2026-current. Out in STEM member since 2026.
- Related Activities
- PROF IPG: Ethics for transformation: Ethics and Standards in the global chemical enterprise participant, University of Kansas Commitment to Research Excellence by Advancing Transformative Opportunities for Representation in STEM LGBTQ+ Symposium founding member, Midwest Retreat for Diversity in Chemistry, University of Kansas Center for Sexuality and Gender Diversity QT Connections Program participant, St. Olaf Student Senate bylaws committee member and chair, St. Olaf Science Alliance member, University of Kansas Chemistry Graduate Student Organization member.
Chemists with Disabilities
Subdivision Chair-Elect, 2027–2028Alison Mody
Harvard University
Candidate statement
I am interested in serving as the ACS Committee on Chemists with Disabilities (CWD) PROF liaison because I believe strongly in fostering a professional environment where chemists of all abilities can thrive. The mission of PROF , to engage, develop, and advocate for all chemistry professionals, aligns closely with CWD’s commitment to accessibility, inclusion, and equity. By bridging these two dynamic committees, I aim to support initiatives that advance professional development opportunities for chemists with disabilities, promote workplace accessibility, and encourage inclusive leadership in the chemical sciences. This collaboration offers a unique platform to create joint programming, share resources, increase awareness for chemists with disabilities, and elevate the voices of chemists with disabilities within the broader professional community, ensuring their needs and contributions are valued and supported.
ACS Bio — Alison Mody
- Academic Record
- Harvard University (NSF GRFP and AAUW Fellow): PhD in Chemistry, Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology (CCB), Expected Fall 2025; Villanova University: B.S. in Biochemistry, Minor in Mathematics, Summa Cum Laude Aug 2016-May 2020
- Honors
- Gordon Research Conference, Bioorganic Chemistry Outstanding Poster Award (2025); ACS WCC Merck Research Award (2025); AAUW Dissertation Fellowship (2025); ACS NSCRC Most Promising Female Scientist Award (2025); National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship (GRFP) (2022-2025); ACS Women Chemists Committee (WCC) Merck Research Award (2025); Christensen Travel Prize for Outstanding Research Achievement (2025); Christensen Travel Prize for Outstanding Research Achievement (2023); Phi Beta Kappa (2020); Pi Mu Epsilon (2020); American Institute of Chemists (AIC) Student Award (2020); Barry Goldwater Scholarship Award (2019); HHMI EXROP Capstone Scholar (2019); HHMI EXROP Scholar (2018)
- Service in ACS National Offices
- Member of the ACS Committee on Chemists with Disabilities (CWD), Jan 2024-present
- Member
- ACS Member
Brian Bartholomew
Colorado State University–Pueblo
Candidate statement
I seek your endorsement for my candidacy as Chair-Elect of the Chemists with Disabilities. If elected, my goal is to promote collaboration with all divisions of PROF and the broader ACS organization, using the resources of DPR to improve its support for chemistry professionals at every stage of their careers, regardless of their disabilities. Here is a brief outline of the objectives for my term:
- Collaborating with the current leadership of the ACS Conference is essential to enhance the experience of all ACS members with disabilities. Proactively ensuring ADA compliance is vital for inclusivity and accessibility. The ADA requires community associations with public accommodations to include accessibility features without waiting for a request from a disabled person.
- Strengthen the Chemists with Disabilities division by promoting proactive ADA compliance rather than reactive measures. For example, instead of waiting for attendees to request charging stations for their wheelchairs, we must proactively ensure that ACS has a few charging stations available. We must also provide a team of sign language interpreters with an ASL room to rest between services.
- We must pressure regional, national, and international meeting divisions to approach ADA compliance proactively. Emphasizing the importance of proactive ADA compliance is vital to avoid negative consequences, such as a reduced number of attendees with disabilities. Our aim should not simply be to meet the basic ADA requirements but to establish a symposium where everyone can fully participate and enjoy the conference, surpassing ADA requirements.
- It is imperative to develop strategic approaches leveraging technology, such as CART, to facilitate the participation of all ACS members in division activities. It is a proactive measure to consistently ensure the availability of the captioning system for both virtual and in-person panels. This prevents delays and exclusionary practices and contributes to an overall enriched experience for all participants.
Thank you for marking your ballot.
If you wish to contact me following my election to provide feedback on improvements or concerns, please email me at b.p.bartholomew@csupueblo.edu with "CWD" in the subject line. I am dedicated to improving ACS' inclusivity and accessibility.
ACS Bio — Brian Bartholomew
BARTHOLOMEW, BRIAN.
- Academic Record
- Colorado State University-Pueblo, M.S. in Chemistry, UNDERTAKING; Metropolitan State University-Denver, B.S. in Chemistry ACS Certification., 2023; Community College of Aurora, A.S. in Science, 2019.
- Honors
- ACS Spring 2024 SCIMIX, ACS Fall 2023 SCIMIX Fall 2023, US National Science Foundation Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) 2023, US National Science Foundation Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) 2022
- Professional Positions
- Kelly Education, Substitute Teacher, 2024; Metropolitan State University-Denver, Undergraduate Student Researcher, 2022-2024; Metropolitan State University-Denver, Organic Chemistry Learning Assistant, 2020-2024; Metropolitan State University-Denver, Organic Chemistry Laboratory Assistant, 2021-2023; North Dakota State University, Summer Intern Researcher, 2023; James Madison University, Summer Intern Researcher, 2022; Metropolitan State University-Denver, Physics Laboratory Assistant, 2019-2020
- Service In ACS Offices
- President and Founder of Tri-Institutional Chemistry Club (TICC) 2021-2023. Division of Professional Relations: Chemists with Disabilities Chair, 2026
- Memberships
- Member ACS since 2021
- Other Memberships
- Alexander Graham Bell (AGBell), ACS Professional Relations (PROF)
Ethics
Subdivision Chair-Elect, 2027–2028
Theresa DeAngelo
Maryland Section · Maryland State Police Forensic Sciences Division, Pikesville, MD
Candidate statement
Theresa DeAngelo is the Quality Assurance and Safety Manager for the Maryland State Police Forensic Sciences Division. Since 2015, Theresa has been overseeing the Quality Assurance program for more than 100 employees within the State's three laboratories and 13 Crime Scene Offices located throughout Maryland. She also runs the safety program for the entire laboratory system. Theresa's previous positions within the field of forensic science include the Coordinator for the Maryland State Forensic Laboratories Oversight Program and several years of service working for crime laboratories for the Baltimore City Police Department, the Baltimore County Police Department and the New York City Police Department. Her crime lab experience includes crime scene, controlled dangerous substances (seized drugs), case management and quality assurance/quality management. Theresa holds a Bachelor's of Science Degree in Biology from University of Maryland, Baltimore County and a Master's of Science Degree in Forensic Science from Towson University. She is an active member of AFQAM and has been a Technical Assessor for ANAB since 2020. Theresa is also a member of the American Association of Crime Laboratory Directors (ASCLD), the Mid-Atlantic Association for Forensic Scientists (MAAFS), the American Academy of Forensic Scientists (AAFS) General Section and the National Association of Forensic Science Boards (NAFSB). Theresa is currently Chair of the Ethics Subdivision for the Professional Division of the American Chemical Society (ACS-PROF).
ACS Bio — Theresa DeAngelo
DEANGELO, THERESA. Maryland Section. Maryland State Police Forensic Sciences Division, Baltimore, Pikesville, MD.
- Academic Record
- University of Maryland, Baltimore County, B.S. Biology, B.A. Dance, 2002; Towson University, M.S. Forensic Science, 2016; American Board of Criminalistics, D-ABC (Certified Diplomate (General)), 2019.
- Professional Positions
- Quality Assurance Safety Manager, Maryland State Police Forensic Sciences Division, 2015 – present; Coordinator, Forensic Laboratories Program, Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene OHCQ, 2011 – 2015.
- Service in ACS Office
- Member ACS since 2020. Division of Professional Relations: Ethics Subdivision Chair, 2023 – 2024.
- Memberships
- Association for Forensic Quality Assurance Managers since 2018. American Academy of Forensic Scientists since 2015. Mid Atlantic Association for Forensic Scientists since 2015. ACS Division(s): Professional Relations.
- Related Activities
- Maryland Drug Chemistry Workgroup, 2013 – present; Maryland Forensic Laboratories Advisory Committee Staff Advisor, 2011 – 2015.
International Chemists
Subdivision Chair-Elect, 2027–2028
Kelly M. Elkins
Maryland Section · Professor, Towson University, Towson, MD
Candidate statement
It has been an honor to serve the Division of Professional Relations for the past 9 years as Secretary, Chair of the Ethics Subdivision, and Member-at-Large. I seek to continue to serve the Division as the International Chemists Subdivision Chair. I have been the point of contact for the Division for the ACS Trust in Science Grant Initiative and have coauthored the guidelines, C&EN article, web content, reviewed the proposals, and made funding recommendations. I have organized a dozen symposia over the past five years around ethics and professionalism including most recently "Ethics for Transformation" for PROF for the ACS Spring 2024 meeting and "Pitfalls Lawyers Can Get Into" with PROF and CHAL for the ACS Fall 2024 meeting. In addition, toward meeting our strategic plan objectives, I coauthored and conducted the poll of our membership at a Sci-Mix session. Thank you in advance for your vote.
ACS Bio — Kelly M. Elkins
ELKINS, KELLY M. Maryland Section. Professor, Towson University, Towson, Maryland.
- Academic Record
- Keene State College, B.A. in Chemistry, B.S. in Biology, French minor, Secondary Education coursework (Magna cum laude) 1997; Study abroad, French, Université de Rennes, St. Malo, France, 1996; Clark University, M.A. in Chemistry, 2001; Fulbright Scholar, German Course for Advanced Students, Regensburg, Universität Heidelberg and European Media Lab, Heidelberg, Germany, 2001-2002; Clark University, Ph.D. in Chemistry, 2003; Cancer Research Institute Postdoctoral Fellow, MIT, 2003-2004.
- Honors
- University & Professional Service Award, Fisher College of Science and Mathematics, Towson University, 2021; Inaugural Awardee of the Forensic Sciences Foundation International Association of Forensic Sciences Travel Scholarship, South Korea, 2014; Graduate Student Participant to Lindau Meeting of Nobel Laureates, Lindau, Germany, 2002.
- Professional Positions (Last 10 years)
- Professor, Towson University, 2022-present, Associate Professor, 2018-2021, Assistant Professor, 2012-2018.
- Service in ACS National Offices
- Exams Institute Diagnostic of Undergraduate Chemical Knowledge Exam Committee, 2015-2018; Committee on Ethics, Associate Member, 2016, Member, 2017-2021, Consultant, 2022; Committee on Professional Training, Program Reviewer (invited), 2021; Division of Professional Relations, Secretary, 2018-2022, Chair, Ethics Subdivision, 2020, Member-at-Large, 2023-2024; Committee on Nominations and Elections (elected), 2023-present.
- Service in ACS Offices
- Member since 2000. Awarded Fellow in 2023. Maryland Section: Councilor, 2020-present, Chair, 2023, Vice Chair, 2022, Alternate Councilor, 2014-2019; Rocky Mountain Section: Alternate Councilor, 2010-2012.
- Member
- American Academy of Forensic Sciences, Fellow 2018-present, Member, 2013-2017, Associate Member, 2011-2012, Trainee Affiliate, 2008-2010; Council of Forensic Science Education, President, 2012, Member, 2008-present; Association for Women in Science, 2012-2014; Council on Undergraduate Research, 2012-2013, 2020-present; International Humic Substances Society, 2002; Kappa Delta Pi; Pi Delta Phi; Beta Beta Beta. ACS Divisions: Professional Relations.
- Related Activities
- Military Spouse, 2004-2011; Official, Mountain Hi Swim League, 2009-2012; ACS Project SEED Mentor, 2008-2009; Host Family, Youth For Understanding, 2011-2012; Official, Prince Mont Swim League, 2013-2024; Editor, ACS Symposium Series Book, 2021; Executive Committee, HHMI Inclusive Excellence Grant awarded to Towson University, 2021-2023; Tri-Editor-In-Chief, Journal of Forensic Science Education, 2018-present. Awarded grants from NSF (2024), NIST (2023), NIH (2018), Maryland TEDCO (2015), FSF (2009, 2014, 2020), ACS PRF Summer Research Fellowship (2008), Fulbright Scholar-Germany (2001-2002).
ACS Pride
Subdivision Chair-Elect, 2027–2028
Connor Holiski
Postdoctoral Researcher, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
Candidate statement
I am excited to run for ACS PROF Pride Chair-Elect because I believe our community is strongest when we create spaces where LGBTQ+ chemists, allies, and the broader chemistry community can come together, celebrate our differences, and find common ground through our shared passion for science.
I am currently helping organize Pride in the Bayou, an ACS NUCL symposium that brings LGBTQ+ scientists and allies together to celebrate both the science we do and the people behind it. I have seen firsthand how powerful these spaces can be: they create opportunities for connection and mentorship while making LGBTQ+ scientists visible as role models and sources of inspiration for the next generation.
As Chair, I would build on this grassroots model by expanding LGBTQ+ programming across ACS divisions and creating opportunities for cross-divisional collaboration. I envision division-specific Pride events and symposia growing into joint programs that connect LGBTQ+ scientists and allies across disciplines. I also hope to strengthen connections across career stages and among academia, industry, and national laboratories, bringing together perspectives and communities that do not always have opportunities to interact.
At a time when LGBTQ+ visibility and inclusion face new challenges, I believe it is more important than ever to celebrate our community and the incredible science we contribute. I want to help create a PROF community where people feel seen, supported, connected, and inspired, and where everyone can come together to celebrate great chemistry.
ACS Bio — Connor Holiski
- Academic Record
- University of Utah, PhD in Nuclear Engineering (2024); University of Denver, BS in Chemistry (2020).
- Honors
- Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Research SLAM! Finalist (2025); DOE Office of Science Graduate Student Research Fellowship (2023); U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission Fellowship (2023–2024); Horizon-broadening Isotope Production Pipeline Opportunities (HIPPO) Fellowship (2022); and Outstanding Student in Analytical Chemistry, University of Denver (2022).
- Professional Positions
- Postdoctoral Researcher, Nuclear and Chemical Sciences Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (2024–present); DOE Office of Science Graduate Student Research Fellow, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (2023–2024); and Graduate Research Assistant, University of Utah (2020–2024).
- Service in ACS National Offices
- Member, ACS Division of Nuclear Chemistry and Technology (2017–present).
- Service in ACS Local Sections and Other Units
- President, American Chemical Society Student Chapter, University of Denver (2018–2020).
- Memberships
- Member, American Chemical Society (2017–present); American Nuclear Society (2021–present); and Society of Radiopharmaceutical Sciences (2023–present).
- Related Activities
- Member, Glenn T. Seaborg Institute (2025–present); member, Seaborg Partnerships for Actinide Research Collaboration (SPARC), and organizer of its fall 2026 meeting at LLNL (2025–present); ad hoc reviewer for Journal of Radioanalytical and Nuclear Chemistry and Radiochimica Acta; mentor to undergraduate and visiting researchers; and presenter at national and international scientific conferences.
Minority Affairs
Subdivision Chair-Elect, 2027–2028
Pravien Rajaram
Research Chemist, Robert Bosch LLC
Candidate statement
As a chemist who immigrated to the United States from Sri Lanka in 2016 in pursuit of world-class education and opportunity, I am passionate about advancing diversity, inclusion, and professional growth within the chemical sciences community. Having earned my B.S., M.S., and most recently my Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry at American institutions, I have firsthand experience of both the challenges and immense potential facing minority scientists in the U.S.
Throughout my academic and professional journey, I have been immersed in interdisciplinary research, team leadership, and mentorship, collaborating with and guiding students from varying backgrounds. Mentorship and outreach are central to my professional values. As a graduate mentor, I have trained and inspired undergraduates and early-career scientists, helping several pursue their own graduate studies. I am eager to bring this spirit of mentorship and advocacy to the ACS Minority Affairs Subdivision.
My multicultural perspective gives me unique insight into the barriers faced by underrepresented chemists—ranging from navigating cultural expectations to gaining access to leadership and research opportunities. I am committed to helping ACS increase participation and leadership of people of color at every level, while also building culturally relevant programming, outreach, and professional development.
ACS Bio — Pravien Rajaram
RAJARAM, PRAVIEN.
- Academic Record
- University of California, Merced, Ph.D., 2025; California State University, Fresno, M.S., 2020; California State University, Fresno, B.S., 2018.
- Honors
- Deans Dissertation Fellow at UC Merced 2025. Grad Slam 3rd place winner UC Merced 2024.
- Professional Positions (for past ten years)
- Research Chemist at Robert Bosch LLC, 2025-Present; Chemistry Intern at Robert Bosch LLC, 2024.
- Member (current)
- Member ACS since 2017. ACS Divisions: Professional Relations.
Women Chemists
Subdivision Chair-Elect, 2027–2028
Emma H. Kelley
Chicago Section · Launch Consultant, Beghou, Chicago, IL
ACS Bio — Emma H. Kelley
Kelley, Emma H. Division of Professional Relations (Chicago Section). Beghou, Launch Consultant, Chicago, IL.
- Academic Record
- Loyola University Chicago, PhD, Chemistry, 2025; Saint Mary’s College, B.S., (ACS Certified), 2016.
- Honors
- ACS Future Pharma Innovator, 2025; Dumbach Award, awarded to the best graduate student each year, Loyola University Chicago, 2025; Outstanding Graduate, Professional, or Adult Student Leader Award at Loyola University Chicago, 2024; Arthur J. Schmitt Fellow for A.Y. 2024 – 2025.
- Professional Positions (for past ten years)
- Launch Consultant, Beghou, 2026 – present; Research Scientist I, Baxter International, 2025 – 2026.
- Service in ACS National Offices
- Women Chemists Committee (WCC), Member 2026 – present, Associate, 2025, Intern, 2023-2024; WCC Liaison to Graduate Students and Postdoctoral Scholars Advisory Board, 2023-2026.
- Service in ACS Offices
- Division of Medicinal Chemistry: Younger Medicinal Chemistry Chemists Committee member, 2024 – present, chair succession, 2025 – 2027; Division of Professional Relations: Secretary, 2025 – 2026.
- Member (current)
- Member of ACS since 2019. Member of Iota Sigma Pi since 2023. ACS Division(s): Professional Relations; Medicinal Chemistry.
- Related Activities
- Program Chair, WCC 2026 – present, Technical symposia at the national level, Organizer, 2024, 2025, 2026, WCC award lead, 2025 – 2026, MEDI strategic planning goal lead, 2026
Younger Chemists
Subdivision Chair-Elect, 2027–2028
Olga Khaybullina
Ph.D. Candidate, University of Alabama at Birmingham
Candidate statement
I am running for Chair-Elect because I want younger chemists to see ACS not only as a professional society, but as a community where they can find support, opportunities, and meaningful ways to become involved. As an international graduate student, I have been fortunate to receive tremendous support and opportunities since coming to the United States, and I would like to pay that support forward-especially to graduate students and postdoctoral researchers navigating an exciting but often challenging stage of their careers.
Leadership and teamwork have been important throughout my life, from many years as a professional athlete and earlier student leadership roles to serving today as the elected founding president of UAB Chemistry's Graduate Student Advisory Board. These experiences have taught me the importance of listening, collaboration, responsibility, and creating opportunities for others to contribute.
As Chair-Elect, I would work to strengthen professional development and mentoring opportunities, build stronger connections between younger chemists and the broader ACS community, and create clearer pathways for graduate students and postdocs to become involved, contribute their ideas, and grow into future ACS leaders.
ACS Bio — Olga Khaybullina
- Academic Record
- Ph.D. Candidate in Chemistry, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 2021-present; advanced to candidacy, 2025. B.S. in Chemistry, South Ural State University, 2020. Academic Mobility Program, Zhejiang Ocean University, China, 2018-2019.
- Honors
- C. Ellen Gonter Environmental Chemistry Award, ACS Division of Environmental Chemistry, 2026; U.S. Department of Energy ACS Spring Travel Bursary, 2026; U.S. Department of Energy Pacifichem Travel Bursary, 2025; ACS Division of Environmental Chemistry Certificate of Merit for Outstanding Oral Presentation, 2025.
- Professional Positions
- Graduate Research Assistant, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 2024-present; Graduate Teaching Assistant, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 2021-2024.
- Service in ACS National Offices
- Session Presider, NUCL Young Investigators Symposium, ACS Spring 2026; Certificate of Merit Judge, ACS Division of Environmental Chemistry, ACS Spring 2026.
- Service in ACS Other
- Outreach Volunteer, ACS Alabama Local Section, Kentuck Festival of the Arts, 2025.
- Member
- American Chemical Society, member since 2021; World Molecular Imaging Society, member since 2026.
- Related Activities
- Elected Founding President, UAB Chemistry Graduate Student Advisory Board, 2026-present; reviewer for ACS Nano and Small Science; REU Graduate Mentor; undergraduate research poster judge; SSERC Session Chair. Published author in radiochemistry, polymer science, and environmental nanoplastic research.
