Each year, ARCS chapters select one member to be recognized for providing the highest quality of long-time service to her chapter. The distinctive ARCS Light Award recognizes recipients for continuous service that has made a positive impact on ARCS Foundation and its mission of advancing science in America. These unsung heroes of ARCS Foundation are honored at the ARCS Foundation All Members Conference.
An active member since 2009, Kathy Simpson is held in the highest regard by all who have had the pleasure of working with her. Throughout her tenure with ARCS Foundation, Kathy has demonstrated exceptional leadership and an unwavering commitment to advancing the organization’s mission to support outstanding scholars. She has served with distinction in numerous leadership roles, including Spring Celebration Co-Chair, University Relations Co–Vice President, Development Co–Vice President and National Liaison. She currently continues her service at the national level as a member of the University Relations Committee for ARCS Foundation National.
Kathy has also been an outstanding and dedicated fundraiser, having chaired multiple fundraising events and served on a variety of task force committees, most recently as Chair of the Fundraising Task Force Committee. Kathy and husband Brooks are generous supporters of the Simpson Leadership Award and have funded several individual fellowships at Washington State University. They graciously steward the scholars of the Dorothy Lewis Simpson ARCS Endowment established at the University of Washington by the Simpson family.
Professionally Kathy retired from a career in medical device sales and marketing management including Vice President of Lifecor which developed the first wearable defibrillator. Much of her career was involved in the international management of medical device manufacturers. She had directed Ardis and Pulmonary Rehab programs, both inpatient and outpatient prior to joining Physio Contrl in clinical marketing. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Washington and a master’s degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology from East Stroudsburg University.
Wise, gracious, and quietly tenacious, Kathy brings a wealth of experience and perspective to everything she undertakes. Her clear dedication to the goals and values of ARCS Foundation, combined with her remarkable service and leadership, make Kathy Simpson a truly deserving honoree as our ARCS Light.
