Page 4 - January 2026 Insider

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INSIDER January 2026

Page 4
USD Check Presentation

(December 11, 2025)… Continued from Page 3

work toward the PhD, Sandy also
serves as a Clinical Nurse Specialist
at the UC San Diego Health Cancer
Services. She expressed her personal
appreciation of the ARCS
Scholarship.

It is clear that the School of Nursing
has strong support from the
President and USD clearly
appreciates what we do for their
students.

Caroline Etland, Jane Georges, Cathie Atkins,
Sandy Jellen, Leslie Bruce, James Harris

Scholar Picnic

(November 16, 2025)

Despite a surprise run of rain showers,
the much-loved Scholar Picnic at
Catie Madani’s beautiful home, with
its sweeping views of the Pacific
Ocean and Mission Bay, went off
without a hitch. Guests enjoyed an
array of delicious food and drink,
including made-to-order tacos from
the taco truck and an assortment of
irresistible desserts. Scholars mingled
with ARCS Members and one another,
creating a lively and welcoming
atmosphere. Leigh Pierce—who has led and participated in numerous San Diego-based
biotech ventures—gave a candid and engaging talk about her career path, encouraging
Scholars to keep an eye out for new opportunities and emphasizing San Diego’s role as one

of the nation’s leading biotech hubs. Overall, it was a warm, upbeat gathering that
fostered new connections between Members and Scholars.

Continued on Page 5