Fashion Benefits ARCS, Women Science Scholars

Science has contributed to our culture in myriad ways. But who would consider linking science to fashion? A group of Tampa Bay women.

On March 18, 2011, the women who comprise Achievement Rewards for College Scientists (ARCS) Tampa Bay will hold its second annual Fun and Fashion - Down to a Science show at the Renaissance International Plaza Hotel in Tampa. Proceeds from the event will go toward funding scholarships for students enrolled in the cancer biology PhD program at Moffitt Cancer Center, and in the College of Arts and Sciences and the College of Marine Sciences at the University of South Florida.

Denise Walthers, president of the DW Group and executive vice president of Kara Vita, is chairing the event, which will feature pieces from the 2011 Spring Collection from Kit's Well Heeled & Well Dressed. The show will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Linda Seefeldt, president of ARCS Tampa Bay, says the group's fundraising activity is vital to Tampa Bay's future as a global competitor.

"Currently 90 percent of the world's engineers live outside of the U.S.," says Seefeldt. "If we are to advance we need to encourage our best and brightest scholars to achieve more. (St. Petersburg) Mayor Bill Foster has said that having an educated workforce is critical to drawing more companies to our area."

Seefeldt says all funds raised go to ARCS scholars.

"The funds are unrestricted and go to the best and brightest U.S. citizens studying in specially selected PhD programs.We currently give $15,000 Scholar Awards over three years. Contributors may do a named Scholar Award or give to a foundation award."

The show is sponsored by The DW Group Inc., Dermazone Solutions, Inc., Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., St Petersburg Downtown Partnership, Geyen Group South Inc. and WEDU.

Writer: Missy Kavanaugh
Source: Linda Seefeldt, Achievement Rewards for College Scientists