October 2, 2024 – Washington, D.C. – The University of the District of Columbia (UDC) proudly welcomed Dr. Anne Hultgren, Executive Director of the Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation, to its Van Ness campus for a milestone occasion. This visit celebrated UDC’s recent acceptance into the prestigious Beckman Scholars Program—a first in the university’s history. As a newly awarded institution in this highly selective program, UDC joins a distinguished group of universities nationwide dedicated to advancing undergraduate research in the sciences.

Dr. Hultgren toured UDC’s cutting-edge chemistry and biology labs, where she saw firsthand the university’s investment in scientific research and innovation. She also met with UDC’s inaugural cohort of Beckman Scholars and their mentors, gaining insight into the impact of the Beckman Foundation’s support for nurturing future scientists through hands-on research and mentorship.

“Becoming part of the Beckman Scholars Program is an incredible achievement for UDC, and we’re thrilled to showcase the work of our first Beckman Scholars,” said Xueqing Song, Ph.D., UDC’s Beckman Scholars Program Coordinator. “Dr. Hultgren’s visit allowed us to celebrate this significant honor and to demonstrate the strength of our students’ research efforts in chemistry, biology, and materials science.”

This momentous occasion highlights UDC’s growing recognition in the research community and its commitment to providing exceptional research opportunities for its students. Dr. Hultgren’s visit reinforced the significance of UDC’s role in the Beckman Scholars Program and its dedication to shaping the next generation of leaders in STEM.