#USA #Irvine #Board of Directors #Beckman Foundation #Kristen Monson

Kristen Monson Takes Charge as Chair of the Beckman Foundation

On February 18, 2026, the Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation made a significant announcement, introducing Kristen Monson as the new Chair of its Board of Directors. Known for her vast experience in leadership roles, Monson previously served as an Executive Vice President at PIMCO and is the founder of the PIMCO Institute. Her tenure with the Beckman Foundation began in 2021 when she joined the Board of Directors.

Monson's predecessor, Dr. Andrew Lyon, reflected on her exceptional qualifications as he stepped down from his role, stating, "Kristen Monson is going to take the Foundation to new heights, that is for sure. She is a remarkable individual, and I couldn't be happier to pass the gavel to her as my term as chair comes to an end." Dr. Lyon himself is notable for receiving the 2000 Beckman Young Investigator Award, serving on the Board from 2015 to 2025.

As Monson transitions into her new position, she expressed heartfelt gratitude towards Dr. Lyon, saying, "Thank you, Andrew. I appreciate your confidence and will do all I can to make sure not to disappoint. We will all miss your wisdom and contributions." Her remarks emphasize a deep respect for the support and guidance she has received from both her fellow board members and the foundation’s staff.

In addition to Monson’s election, the Beckman Foundation welcomed three new at-large board members:

• - Dan Bolar, CPA - A retired Certified Public Accountant with extensive experience providing accounting and tax advice to numerous nonprofit organizations in Orange County.
• - Kent Hill, PhD - A Professor of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics at UCLA, who also shares a past as a Beckman Young Investigator Awardee.
• - Jeffrey S. Moore, PhD - Renowned for his work as the Stanley O. Ikenberry Endowed Chair Emeritus at the University of Illinois and a former director of the Beckman Research Institute.

Founded in 1977 by Dr. Arnold O. Beckman, the Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation is dedicated to supporting innovative research in chemistry and life sciences, primarily focused on young scientists and nonprofit institutions. The foundation’s mission seeks groundbreaking advancements that can pave the way for novel scientific instruments and methodologies.

Monson’s leadership is expected to steer the foundation further in its mission to foster creativity and interdisciplinary research, showcasing confidence in her ability to navigate the responsibilities ahead. Under her guidance, the Beckman Foundation aims to bolster its network, enabling advancements that could change the landscape of scientific discovery.

As the foundation embarks on this new chapter with Monson at the helm, the excitement surrounding the potential progress and innovation is palpable within the scientific community and beyond. The Beckman Foundation's commitment to supporting emerging talents in research remains steadfast, promising a future rich in scientific achievements that can benefit society at large.