For director-at-large: Anna Cavinato

Richland Section. Eastern Oregon University, La Grande, Oregon.

Academic record: Universita’ degli Studi di Bari, PhD, 1981.

Professional positions: Eastern Oregon University, Professor Emeritus, 2024-present; Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry, 2004-24; Eastern Oregon University, Board of Trustees, 2022-24.

ACS local section and division offices: Richland Section: Councilor, 2017-present; Alternate Councilor, 2007-16; DEI&R Committee Chair, 2000-present; National Chemistry Week and Chemists Celebrate Earth Day Coordinator, 2015-present; Northwest Regional Meeting: General Co-Chair, 2018; Chair, 1999; Chair-Elect, 1998. Division of Analytical Chemistry: Immediate Past Chair, 2023-24; Chair, 2022-23; Program Chair, 2021-22; Chair-Elect, 2020-21; Secretary, 2007-20.

ACS national service: Committee on Committees, Member, 2024-26; Committee on Chemists with Disabilities, Committee on Committees Liaison, 2024; Committee on Economic and Professional Affairs, Committee on Committees Liaison, 2024; Future of Meetings Working Group, Member, 2023-present; Pacifichem 2025 Planning Committee, Member, 2023-present; Committee on Local Section Activities, Member, 2019-23; Associate, 2018; Committee on Project SEED, Chair, 2015-17; Member, 2010-17; Associate, 2009-10.

Member: Member of ACS since 1986. ACS Divisions: Analytical Chemistry; Chemical Education.

Related activities and honors: ACS Division of Analytical Chemistry Roland F. Hirsch Award for Distinguished Service in the Advancement of Analytical Chemistry, 2025; ACS E. Ann Nalley Award for Volunteer Service, 2018; ACS Fellow, 2013; Salute to Excellence Award, ACS Richland Section, 2006; ACS Student Chapter Faculty Advisor, 2001-24.

Cavinato’s statement

It is truly an honor to be a candidate for director-at-large of the American Chemical Society. ACS has significantly shaped my career and contributed to my personal growth as a leader. I grew up in Italy and, after completing my doctorate degree, came to the United States to further my education and research. Since joining ACS in 1986, I have been involved at many levels, starting as a faculty mentor for a student chapter, serving in various capacities in my local section and divisions, and participating in national committees and task forces.

I’ve been able to witness the impact ACS has on members of all career stages and on the global community united by a common interest in chemical sciences. I am passionate about ACS because, coming from a different country and spending most of my career at a small, rural institution in eastern Oregon, I know firsthand how ACS can transform lives.

Working together to support science globally

As ACS approaches its 150th anniversary, the society is uniquely positioned to advance the chemistry enterprise. By reaffirming its commitment to strengthening public trust in science through its strategic plan, ACS can provide a global platform for action. All its foundational units, domestic and international student chapters, local sections, international chapters, divisions, and committees, can work together towards supporting science. This will require efficient communication across units and building partnerships with other organizations. My experience as an academic leader and university board member in establishing collaborations, and my understanding of ACS unit operation give me a unique opportunity to help build bridges to support science globally.

Investing in younger chemists

ACS is exceptional in its efforts to involve younger chemists and give them a strong voice. No other society offers such a variety of programs to educate and increase accessibility for the next generation of scientists. This topic is particularly close to my heart, as I have spent over thirty years working at a small university, building a chemistry program that provides an inclusive environment where all students can thrive. In my work with the local section and division, I have initiated or supported programs that benefit students and younger professional chemists. I wholeheartedly believe these investments are imperative to foster a community of changemakers who can protect our planet in the coming years. As a mentor for my student chapter for over twenty years, I have organized numerous outreach activities to encourage young women and students from underrepresented groups to participate in chemistry programs. Project SEED students in my lab tell me they have been inspired to pursue careers that seemed previously unreachable. There are many areas of opportunity to continue this important work. By committing to lifelong learning, ACS can further engage with students and younger chemistry professionals, allocating resources to grow mentoring and professional development programs and increase global access to these programs. ACS is a special place for young scientists, and we need to invest now to ensure the society remains strong for many years to come.

Involving and supporting members

ACS offers an incredible variety of benefits to its members, including global access to chemical information, technical meetings, educational and career programs, and public outreach. Volunteering opportunities help develop leadership skills and provide access to a large network of individuals who share the same interest and passion for chemistry. However, only a limited number of members engage in society activities, and many are unaware of the benefits provided by ACS. Having spent many years recruiting and engaging volunteers through my work across ACS units, I am committed to fostering initiatives to improve communication about the value of becoming involved. We need to focus more efforts on industry and government members and allocate specific resources to programs that benefit industrial chemists. Many efforts are ongoing to engage international members, and we need to continue tapping into existing and emerging technologies to provide a meaningful experience for all.

I believe ACS will continue to have a strong presence in promoting and supporting the chemistry enterprise. As an action-oriented person, I stand ready to put my knowledge and experience to work for further advancement of the society. ACS’s core values align with my own passion for science and education, efforts to advocate for chemists, and foster an environment where science is safe and open for all. Please feel free to reach me via LinkedIn or email at acavinat@eou.edu. I look forward to answering questions or listening to your ideas and suggestions. Thank you in advance for your vote.