The ARCS Retreat to our nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., was an incredible, inspiring, and enjoyable trip! Each attendee gained new insights and knowledge into current security initiatives, scientific and medical research, and museums of historical prominence.
We had the privilege to hear nationally renowned speakers, obtain access to private institutions and “behind the scenes” tours thanks in great part to several members. It most definitely takes a village to plan our Retreats! Janis and I would like to thank Mary O’Connor for her many recommendations and hosting us at The Metropolitan Club, Marie Carr for her presentation on the history and renovation of The Willard and connections at The Hillwood Estate, Molly Eskew for recommending Dr. Swee Lay Thein as a speaker, Joe and Lisa Bankoff for making our private tour of the African American Museum possible, Angelle Hamilton and her brother Congressman Garrett for providing tickets to the museum, and Liz Lauer for making our afternoon at the Nuclear Threat Initiative possible.
We stayed at the elegant Willard Intercontinental Hotel, regarded as the most historic hotel in our nation. The cocktail receptions and dinners at the Willard and the exclusive Metropolitan Club were delightful. Our perfect ending was a private-chartered dinner cruise on the Potomac River.
We will be sending out a brief survey and some contact information to the attendees in the next few days.
Forming friendships and opportunities for camaraderie with other Atlanta ARCS members and spouses is one of the greatest gifts of the Retreat! We hope you will all join the group in 2026 when Molly Eskew and Debby Kelly will lead another wonderful Retreat in Chicago!
If any of you have suggestions or connections in Chicago, I’m sure Molly and Debby would appreciate it!
To see more pictures of the Retreat to Washington, D.C. please visit the Event Highlights page on our website at: https://atlanta.arcsfoundation.org/event-highlights
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| Lisa and Joe Bankoff arranged for us to have a before-hours in-depth private tour of the National Museum of African American History and Culture. |
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| Us in the Bus! |
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The beautiful historical Willard lobby |
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| Marjorie Merriweather Post Washington house living room |
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| Nuclear Threat Initiative |
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| Children’s National Health Institute |
