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List of Candidates (scroll down for Candidate Statements)

At-Large Director Candidates

Regional Director Candidates

Candidates for At-Large Director

Stevan Akerley

This candidate was nominated by the Nominations Committee of the Board of Directors.

Stevan Akerley has been an NSS member since before 1993, and a Space Ambassador since 2004. One of 5 finalists receiving recognition and awards at the ISDC 2016 NSS Space Ambassadors Phase 1 presentations competition. The competition at the ISDC 2016 completed the first phase of the NSS Space Ambassadors Program. Following the completion of the Phase 1 program, the NSS Executive Committee approved the second phase of the NSS Space Ambassadors program. Steve has served as the NSS Space Ambassadors Program Director since 2017, with 6 other Space Ambassadors serving as Sub-Committee Members who help to direct, improve, and govern the program.

In 2022-24, Steve was the Region 8 Board of Directors representative. During that period, and after, he developed some NSS custom merchandise to help market the NSS, and provide recognition, and awards for ISDC participants and contest winners. Examples of this are Embroidered NSS Logo on polo shirts, and space themed art with NSS Logo printed on ‘T’ shirts. But more of this is required, and as a member of the Board of Directors, I will try to help expand recognition, participation, membership, and help to establish custom merchandize sales at the ISDC’s. I intend to continue as the NSS Space Ambassadors Program Director, and work to expand this important ‘Public Education Outreach’ activity of the NSS.

Of particular interest is the education outreach to the younger members of our population. I have recently been successful at reaching a small group of high school students (in the USA), who were interested in Rockets, Space Exploration and related Science topics. The students responded enthusiastically to my fast paced high graphics presentation, with separate text backup, and asked me to return for a second presentation to answer their specific questions. I will be reporting on this activity at the ISDC 2026, and hope to expand this effort through the NSS Space Ambassadors Program. Some Space Ambassadors in other countries are very successful at making presentations to their students, participating in contests, and travelling to the US for ISDC’s. We need to do better in the USA.

So, I am asking for your support/vote to be one of the Director-At-Large members for this year’s elections. I am pleased to add the endorsement of Dale Skran, NSS COO/SVP.

Ginger Chen

This candidate was nominated by the Nominations Committee of the Board of Directors.

Presenting at the ISDC 2025 “Rising Star” session sparked my interest in NSS; volunteering as a judge for the “Live in a Healthy Space” contest ignited my passion and reinforced my commitment to identifying and nurturing future space talents.

With my background in education, marketing, and IT, I was thrilled to receive the call for NSS Director candidates. It made me realize that my blend of entrepreneurial agility and academic rigor can be an asset to the Board.

As the founder of Pentaginger LLC, I worked with students, parents, host families, and private schools, acting as a liaison between diverse stakeholders. I can transfer my communication, sponsorship negotiation, and management skills, especially to NSS’s sponsor relations, award coordination, and event planning.

As Operations Manager & Business Development Specialist at EigenPhi, Inc & Antalpha Technologies, LLC, I conducted in-depth Maximal Extractable Value (MEV) industry analysis, identifying key trends; analyzed large-scale blockchain transaction datasets, partnering with product and data science teams; established strong business partnerships with Bitmain clients and internal stakeholders, aligning data insights with operational execution. Meantime, I also served as a Social Media Operations Manager, processing data, crafting brand messaging, and collaborating across departments to optimize outreach. This experience fits in with NSS needs in creating social content.

Teaching & Learning:

• PhD (expected 2026), Education Technology, Florida Institute of Technology. (Doctoral dissertation: “Astronauts’ Cognitive Maps: Evolving Identity through Chronospatial Frontiers”)
• MS (2020), Information System and Operations Management, University of Florida.
• MA (2016), Comparative and International Education, Lehigh University. (Teaching Assistant, led four beginner & intermediate Chinese language classes; designed structured lesson plans to improve student proficiency and engagement)
• New Oriental Education and Technology Group, Inc (2011-2014). Senior Lecturer and Product Manager: recognized as top-rated instructor, with highest student evaluation scores, reflecting excellence in communication and instructional leadership; directed strategic development planning for teacher teams, fostering collaboration to standardize organizational behavior.
• BA (2010), English-Chinese Mandarin Simultaneous Interpretation for Industry, Inner Mongolia University of Technology.

If elected, I intend to bridge the gap between “established space” and the “next generation” with my proprietary GOLDEN Framework for human-AI collaboration. I would like to champion space education and competitions and to diversify our outreach, especially to actively recruit competitors from North and South America, Europe, East Asia, and Africa.

Sharing your belief in the root cause and obligation of going into space, I appreciate your consideration and trust that our paths will converge soon.

Amanda Fetch

This candidate was nominated by the Nominations Committee of the Board of Directors.

I am an award-winning researcher in Space Situational Awareness with a PhD in Technology and Machine Learning, focused on orbital sustainability, a pillar of NSS’s vision. My career spans 25 years building and scaling data science and AI teams across government and commercial sectors, translating advanced technical capability into strategic impact.

As space development accelerates globally, I seek to contribute my technical and leadership experience to advance NSS’s mission, spreading its vision to technical, political and general audiences.

I am a Co-Chair of the AI/ML Working Group at the United States Geospatial Intelligence Foundation (USGIF), convening leaders across government, academia, and industry to address operational challenges in space systems and emerging technologies. I serve on the Board of Directors for TMMi America (Test Maturity Model Integration) and have advised companies and government organizations on AI and machine learning strategy.

My doctoral research, conducted under NASA-affiliated mentorship, advances machine learning clustering and anomaly detection to improve debris and object characterization. This work was recognized with USGIF’s Doctoral Award for Excellence in Geospatial Intelligence Research and first-place honors at GEOINT’s 2025 worldwide Symposium.

Graduating with distinction from Harvard’s Business Analytics Program, offered jointly by Harvard Business School and the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, I served as an elected cohort representative and Board Member of Dataminds, a student-led leadership and technology club.

I have presented AI in space and responsible space development at GreyCon’s Conference and through the International Space University, where I educated space executives on integrating artificial intelligence into space infrastructure and sustainability. GEOINT’s 2026 Symposium scheduled me as a speaker.

Through educational platforms, I publish analysis on space sustainability, AI-enabled space systems, and orbital debris, demonstrating how to interpret publicly available space data. I have spoken in classrooms from elementary to executive programs, fostering awareness of responsible space development.

I have supported the development of thousands of C-suite and senior leaders through MIT and Emeritus Executive Education programs, integrating an AI strategy lens informed by space systems and sustainability. Through the Virtual Student Federal Service program, currently supporting USCENTCOM and previously the U.S. Department of State, I mentor emerging leaders in intelligence, reinforcing responsible innovation through a space domain lens.

I bring a fresh perspective shaped by decades of leadership in AI, space sustainability, and education, and stand ready to apply that experience in service to NSS and its members.

Melissa Georges

This candidate was nominated by the Nominations Committee of the Board of Directors.

I am running for At-Large Director on the National Space Society Board of Directors.

Humanity’s relationship with the sky predates civilization. As an archeoastronomy expert and astrophysics presenter, I work at the intersection of observational science, cultural history, and long-term human futures—examining how ancient societies used celestial mechanics, stellar cycles, and planetary motion for navigation, timekeeping, and survival. I use that lens to help modern audiences understand why becoming a spacefaring civilization is not a departure from human history, but its continuation—rooted in observation, evidence, long-term stewardship, and the willingness to confront reality rather than look away from it.

I have been an active and engaged member of the National Space Society and have attended the International Space Development Conference for the past four years. Through live, in-person presentations delivered in private and public venues globally, I have reached thousands of people. These talks integrate core astrophysical principles—orbital dynamics, planetary environments, stellar lifecycles, and habitability—while grounding them in the long arc of human exploration and settlement.

In parallel, I am currently producing an archeoastronomy and astrophysics documentary series planned for international release. My presentations explore themes central to NSS’s mission, including space settlement, sustainability beyond Earth, and the societal structures required for long-duration human presence in space. These engagements often serve as a first exposure to space settlement as a serious, achievable goal.

Professionally, I bring governance-relevant experience through medical school training, founding and managing two successful startups, and extensive work in donor relations. These roles demand disciplined decision-making, ethical stewardship, systems thinking, and the ability to balance innovation with long-term responsibility—skills directly applicable to Board service.

If elected, my first-year focus will be launching a seasonal, recurring NSS-branded public talk series designed to be scientifically rigorous, publicly accessible, and scalable for chapters. The objective is to convert curiosity into informed engagement, membership growth, and durable public support for NSS programs.

Space settlement is both a technical challenge and a human one. NSS succeeds when it couples sound science with meaning, continuity, trust—and the discipline to act on what the science tells us. I will bring momentum, clarity, and follow-through to the Board and help ensure NSS remains an inspiring home for those committed to humanity’s future beyond Earth.

Thomas Griffy

This candidate was nominated by the Nominations Committee of the Board of Directors.

I am honored to seek election to the National Space Society Board of Directors. As a dedicated public servant with extensive leadership in space education, training, and operations within the federal government, I am committed to advancing the NSS vision of people living and working in thriving communities beyond Earth, while leveraging space resources for humanity’s benefit.

Currently serving as Deputy Director in Space Delta 13, U.S. Space Force Space Training and Readiness Command, I provide executive oversight for all officer and enlisted education programs, ensuring mission success. I foster career-long learning and technical competence for Guardians and lead educational partnerships with academia. This includes managing the Space Technology, Acquisitions, and Research Course at MIT Lincoln Laboratory to drive innovation and intellectual property awareness, and standing up the USSF Captains Leadership Course in collaboration with Texas A&M. I manage a $35M budget across geographically dispersed operations in four states, emphasizing strategic planning, resource optimization, and compliance.

Previously with the U.S. Space Force, I had the privilege of serving as the first permanent Director of Staff for the Deputy Chief of Space Operations for Cyber and Data. There, I led the stand up the new S6. Leading a dedicated team of 60 professionals, we focused on building stronger collaboration across the Space Staff and other agencies. By fostering better interagency coordination, we were able to make meaningful improvements: hiring timelines shortened, key decisions moved faster, and routine administrative tasks became more efficient.

My career spans military service in the U.S. Air Force, senior roles at ATF, Navy, and DCSA, and advanced education: a Ph.D. in Leadership Studies, M.A. in Military History, and certifications including the Space Executive Course (National Security Space Institute) and Leading Data and AI-Enabled Organizations (Johns Hopkins University).  Additionally, I serve as an adjunct faculty member in the Honors College at James Madison University.

Though my professional path has focused on national security and space readiness rather than direct NSS involvement to date, I bring proven skills in organizational leadership, strategic partnerships, budget stewardship, process improvement, and talent development—essential for a healthy, growing NSS. I am eager to support chapters, outreach, policy advocacy, and collaboration with industry and academia to accelerate space settlement and inspire the next generation.

I ask for your vote to contribute to NSS’s mission with dedication and fresh perspectives. Together, we can help build a spacefaring future.

Nelson R. Guim

This candidate was nominated by the Nominations Committee of the Board of Directors.

I am honored to be considered to be a member of the Board of Directors of the National Space Society as I am very aware of its great work and achievements, and becoming a NSS member some years ago was certainly a motivation to promote outer space exploration involvement of my country Ecuador, a mission in which I have been very active together with other citizens that share the vision of this initiative.

I spearheaded the civil society undertaking that successfully advocated for the Ecuadorian Government to sign the Artemis Accords with the U.S. Government /NASA, which occurred the 21st of June 2023 at the Embassy of Ecuador in Washington D.C.

After achieving this goal, our space group focused on creating a national civil society organization as an umbrella for those interested in learning and participating in the growing opportunities the Space Industry offers and to promote space related activities, and the Ecuador Space Society (ESS) was formed, a legal non-profit organization that is uniting the space stakeholders in the country, acting as an advisory body to the public sector and developing relations with institutions, companies and professionals worldwide that have space as part of their mission and work.

The flagship project ESS champions together with Leviathan Space Industries, of which I am a Board Member, is the design, construction, and operation of a Spaceport in Ecuador, for which purpose we are advocating the adequate legal and regulatory frameworks. We are also involved in education, business, industry, agriculture, and networking for the use of space-generated technology for productive endeavors and the general progress of the country.

ESS was the co-organizer of the first Executive Space Program of Thunderbird School of Global Management in Latin America (Guayaquil, October 2025), in which I was a speaker and a participant.

Sharon Hagle

This candidate was nominated by the Nominations Committee of the Board of Directors.

Sharon Hagle is the founder of SpaceKids Global, and a two-time commercial astronaut dedicated to making space accessible to everyone. Since establishing her nonprofit in 2015, she has established herself as a strong believer and tireless advocate for STEAM education, focusing on inspiring young minds and developing the future aerospace workforce. Sharon is committed to the ideal that space is for everyone. As she says in her presentations, space is changing—allowing people like you and me to find our place in space.

Spaceflight & Industry Impact

Sharon made history alongside her husband, Marc, as the first married couple to travel to space together twice via Blue Origin. Beyond her personal flight experience, she has conducted microgravity experiments and cultivated a deep network of partnerships across the space ecosystem, including:

• Launch & Orbital Corporate Relationships: Blue Origin, SpaceX, Axiom Space, and Virgin Galactic.
• Research & Innovation:
  • Supported sending 21 youth experiments the ISS in partnership with the ISS National Lab, Girl Scouts and ProxOps
  • Participated in microgravity experiments on NS-28
  • Creating and implementing innovative immersive programs that support early onset workforce development for the space ecosystem.

Education & Outreach

• Through the SpaceKids mission, Sharon’s message of inspiration and encouragement has reached over 1M youth in the U.S. and 13 countries across the globe through a variety of presentations and specially curated immersive program experiences.
• Education collaborations focused on uplifting girls to include Making Space for Girls with Girl Scouts, upcoming Horizon Chasers program with Cosmic Girls, & post cards to space with Club for the Future.
• Creation of the Women in Blue program to build an alliance of women who have traveled to space who are invested in taking action to educate, uplift, and inspire girls to explore STEAM+ education and career pathways.

Leadership & Recognition

A collaborative leader, Sharon’s contributions to the sector have been recognized with several prestigious honors, including:

• Space Visionary Award
• SpacePower Leadership in Education Award
• Recognized at the U.N. on the 10th anniversary of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science

Vision for the National Space Society

Driven by a proven track record of igniting curiosity in the next generation, Sharon is committed to advancing the mission of the National Space Society. She brings a unique blend of operational spaceflight experience and a passion for public engagement, ensuring that the dream of space exploration remains a vibrant, inclusive, and attainable reality for all.

Kirby Ikin

This candidate was nominated by the Nominations Committee of the Board of Directors.

In my forty-one years as a member of NSS and its forerunners I have played an active role in all levels of the Society’s activities. At the same time, I have developed a significant professional involvement in the space industry firstly running a major space insurance business, providing risk management services to start-up space companies, serving as the Commercial Director for a planned commercial launch service, running an international space consultancy, and as one of the Founders of Deep Space Industries. This professional role has allowed me to enhance my effectiveness for NSS.

At the Society level I have filled an assortment of roles. Initially I started as President of the Sydney chapter, serving six years in this role. During this time I instigated the formation of the National Space Society of Australia, serving as its founding President from 1990 to 1996. As NSS’s presence grew in Australia I fulfilled the roles of Australian Chapter Coordinator and later, International Chapters Coordinator. At the international level I served as Chairman of the Board of Directors and on the Executive Committee for 26 years. I currently serve on the Bylaws Committee, Diversity Committee, and Space Settlement Summit Committee.

I firmly believe that NSS needs to take a very professional and organized approach to the attainment of its objectives. In my opinion NSS needs strong management, clear strategic planning, and a focusing of its efforts through pursuit of the NSS Roadmap and Strategic Plan, to make the best possible use of our limited financial and human resources. I believe I have a strong working knowledge of NSS at an operational level, whilst also having the business acumen and industry profile to take NSS forward.

The twelve previous Australian Space Development Conferences that I chaired and organized have materially raised awareness about international space cooperation and key commercial space issues. I also instigated the formation of the Australian Space Industry Chamber of Commerce (now known as the Space Industry Association of Australia) which celebrated its 33rd anniversary and hosted the International Astronautical Congress in 2025. Serving as its founding Chairman for sixteen years I have used its unique forum to address barriers to space development from the professional perspective.

I believe that my extensive experience within the space industry, at both a Society and professional level, makes me an ideal candidate for a position on the NSS Board of Directors.

Fredrick A. Jenet

This candidate was nominated by the Nominations Committee of the Board of Directors.

I serve on the NSS Executive Committee as Vice President for Innovation and Entrepreneurship and oversee the NSS’s Board of Scientific Advisors, which I helped establish in coordination with our CEO and COO.

I also serve as Vice-Chair of the NSS International Committee (IC), where I have devoted the majority of my service to the Society. In this role, and with the full support of the Committee Chair, I have been entrusted with broad responsibility to develop and expand the IC’s activities and outputs. I personally represent NSS at meetings of the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) and provide detailed written reports to NSS members on the Committee’s activities and outcomes.

As a member of both the IC and the Policy Committee (PC), I have worked to align their messaging so that NSS is seen internationally as a coherent, credible, and consistent thought leader in space. Together with an outstanding IC team, we developed and delivered more than twenty NSS statements, Conference Room Papers, and presentations formally presented at COPUOS. I also led the creation of the NSS Library on International Space Policy, where most of these materials are collected. In parallel, I led the development of two NSS policy papers through the PC. I was recently the lead author of an op-ed in SpaceNews reflecting NSS perspectives on astronomy and commercial space.

Through my engagement at the United Nations, I helped build a strong working relationship between NSS and the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), including bringing the Director of UNOOSA to serve as a keynote speaker at NSS’s International Space Development Conference 2026.

For the past three years, I have created and chaired the “Space for All” track at NSS’s International Space Development Conference, which will evolve into the Space Policy track at the next ISDC. I also plan to serve as co-lead of the Rotating Space Settlement Design (RSSD) Project, supporting its development as a rigorous technical initiative.

Beyond policy work, I have supported educational initiatives through Expanding Frontiers and helped start a new NSS chapter with students and young professionals.

If elected, I will continue to focus on strengthening NSS’s international engagement, policy coherence, and technical credibility, while expanding meaningful opportunities for member participation.

Endorsed by Dale Skran.

Thank you for your consideration.

Marian McCleskey

This candidate was nominated by the Nominations Committee of the Board of Directors.

As a candidate for the National Space Society Board of Directors, I am a dedicated professional, civil engineer, and mother of two accomplished young adults. With over a decade of experience as an educator in Klein ISD, I have actively mentored young professionals and remain committed to lifelong learning and educational innovation. My professional affiliations include ASCE, ACTFL, HAFTL, TFLA, AATSP, NLSC, and ASCD. These professional organizations have helped me stay informed about current and best practices in engineering and linguistics. I was honored as Klein Forest High School Teacher of the Year for 2023-2024.

I strive to promote eudaimonia—a flourishing society that prioritizes human well-being through ethically aligned technological advancement—while fostering stewardship of our home planet as we build a spacefaring civilization. As an engaged supporter of the Space Foundation, the SETI Institute, and the Texas Space Coalition, I demonstrate my commitment to space education and advocacy for technology advancement. My invitations to TARSEC and other events by Texas A&M University and the Texas Space Coalition reflect my ongoing commitment to inspiring public interest and civic responsibility in space endeavors. With over a decade of experience in education, leadership, and technology, I am passionate about fostering innovation, learning, and civic responsibility aligned with the principles of the United States Constitution.

My professional background includes extensive training in Artificial Intelligence and STEM integration, as well as training through the National Language Service Corps (US Air Force). These experiences have strengthened my ability to contribute to mission readiness, ethical leadership, and cross-cultural competence in federal education and technology programs.

My deep passion for the NSS mission is to inspire trust and a shared purpose, fostering collective commitment. I bring a multi-solutions-oriented approach rooted in integrity, collaboration, and lifelong learning. I seek to contribute meaningfully to expanding civilization beyond Earth and building a hopeful future for humanity.

As Board Director, I am fully committed to supporting NSS by offering my expertise, guidance, and wisdom as requested. I will fulfill duties and responsibilities assigned to board members. I aim to advance NSS’s mission and collaborate with fellow Board members and visionary leaders as we shape our future together. Ad Astra!

Brian Miske

This candidate was nominated by the Nominations Committee of the Board of Directors.

Greetings, my name is Brian Miske, and I am honored to submit my candidacy for the National Space Society Board of Directors. NSS has long stood for a powerful idea—that humanity’s future is strengthened by expanding our presence in space and ensuring that exploration, settlement, and commercialization benefit all people. That belief has guided my career and my advocacy for the space community.

In my role as U.S. Space Lead for KPMG and as a member of the firm’s global Industrial Markets and Defense leadership team, I work daily at the intersection of commercial innovation, national priorities, and long‑term space strategy. I advise governments, space companies, investors, and infrastructure operators across the full space economy—from launch systems and spaceports to satellite constellations, space data, and human exploration. This experience has given me deep exposure to governance, financial oversight, ecosystem building, and cross‑sector collaboration—core responsibilities of effective board leadership.

I hold a Master’s degree in Global Management and Space Leadership from Thunderbird, complemented by advanced certifications in AI, machine learning, and corporate strategy from MIT and the University of Chicago. This multidisciplinary background allows me to translate technical innovation into policy‑relevant, economically viable, and socially responsible outcomes—an approach that closely aligns with NSS’s mission.

Beyond my professional work, I am an active advocate for space. I serve on the board of the Association of Commercial Space Professionals, publish regularly through my Edge of Everywhere newsletter, and speak globally on dual‑use technology, space infrastructure, and the emerging astroeconomy. I am also writing a book, Astronomics, which explores how space policy and investment decisions today will shape economic and social outcomes by 2040.

If elected to the NSS Board, I would focus on three priorities:

• Expanding NSS awareness through compelling digital storytelling and thought leadership
• Growing and energizing membership, especially among emerging professionals and adjacent industries
• Strengthening partnerships with academia, industry, and international space institutions

NSS plays a vital role in inspiring the public, shaping policy dialogue, and sustaining a long‑term vision for humanity in space. I would be honored to help amplify that voice—so that space remains not only a frontier for exploration, but a shared pathway to human progress.

Thank you for your consideration.

Doug Plata

This candidate was nominated by petition and by the Nominations Committee of the Board of Directors.

I am excited to run for a seat on the Board of Directors of the National Space Society, and I respectfully ask for your vote.

BACKGROUND
I am a physician practicing in Urgent Care and Occupational Medicine in Redlands, California. My academic background includes degrees in biophysics, public health, and management. This combination has given me experience working across technical, medical, organizational, and policy-oriented environments—skills that I believe are directly relevant to NSS governance and strategic growth.

SPACE ADVOCACY EXPERIENCE
I have been deeply involved with the National Space Society for many years. My NSS experience includes presenting ten times at the ISDC, including participation on two panels; serving on the NSS Roadmap Committee; working on the ISDC Planning Committee; and developing and managing a unique and successful ISDC track. I have also presented twice on the NSS Space Forum, including participation in a debate, and have given talks to local NSS chapters, including North Texas and the Tucson L5 Space Society. Over time, I have had the opportunity to work with and learn from much of the current NSS leadership.

In 2023, I developed a full-scale mock-up of an inflatable lunar base that was displayed at ISDC and used by students as part of an educational, hands-on activity.

Beyond NSS, I founded a 200-member Space Development Network focused on advocate-level projects, have lobbied for space development at roughly two dozen congressional offices, and have served as a representative to the Alliance for Space Development. I am knowledgeable across a broad range of space-related topics and have just completed a 300-page book on space development, which I am making available for free.

WHAT I WILL BRING TO THE BOARD
I am personally committed to achieving the earliest possible permanent human settlement beyond Earth, a goal that aligns closely with the mission of NSS. I believe NSS is a necessary organization with strong leadership, and my goal is to support and build upon what has already been achieved.

At the same time, I believe there are opportunities for growth—particularly in expanding membership by better engaging the large, space-interested public evident across modern media platforms. I also want to place greater emphasis on member involvement in practical projects, especially as rapidly decreasing launch costs move long-held space advocacy goals closer to reality.

I would be honored to serve NSS and its members as a Director.

Dale Skran

This candidate was nominated by the Nominations Committee of the Board of Directors.

Dale Skran currently serves in the following NSS leadership roles:  Chief Operating Officer and Senior Vice President, Co-Chair of the Bylaws Committee, NSS Board of Directors, Chair of the Strategic Planning Committee, Policy Committee, Space Settlement Advocacy Committee, and Diversity Committee.

Dale previously served in the following NSS leadership roles:  Chief Executive Officer, Executive Vice President, Chair of the Policy Committee, NSS Regional Director, Information Systems Director, ISDC Policy Track Chair, and NSS Representative on the Alliance for Space Development Board of Directors.

Recent achievements as COO include hiring Macey Schiff as Social Media Manager and Director of Development. Dale was the primary author of the recent NSS position paper “Maintaining U.S. Leadership in LEO Research and Commercialization after the ISS.”  Dale is the co-editor of the NSS space settlement workshop book “A Dream Renewed: O’Neill’s Vision in the 21st Century” available in hardback in 2026.

In 2016 Dale received the NSS Space Activist of the Year Award. Dale writes space-related articles published in Ad Astra, Space Review, and Space News. Most recently he co-authored a Space News op-ed, “It is time to take astronomy off Earth.” Currently Dale is the lead for the new BSTA Rotating Space Settlement Design Project with Dr. Jenet.

Dale has a lifelong interest in space exploration and was a member in the L5 Society and National Space Institute (NSI) before they merged to form NSS, including a stint as President of the North Jersey L5 and as a NSS Regional Board member. He is proud that while a young student in Saginaw, Michigan, Dale had the opportunity to shake the hand of Werner Von Braun, the founder of the NSI.

Dale worked 17 years at Bell Laboratories and held executive positions at Sonus Networks and Ascend Communications. Dale is a globally recognized expert on Voice Over IP technologies (VoIP) and multi-media communications, having served as an ITU-T Rapporteur (manager/leader) in these areas for ten years. His corporate and ITU-T leadership roles have given him extensive experience in international and inter-corporate negotiations. Dale co-founded CMWARE, a mobile media applications company where he held positions of CEO, COO, and VP of Engineering. Dale has a master’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Michigan, and a bachelor’s degree in EE from Michigan State University. Dale holds a 3rd degree black belt in Taekwondo.

Endorsements: Too busy working for NSS to collect endorsements.

Madhu Thangavelu

This candidate was nominated by the Nominations Committee of the Board of Directors.

Madhu Thangavelu is on faculty at the University of Southern California (USC) and the International Space University(ISU) where he instructs graduate students and professionals in formulating alternative creative visions for the future of human spaceflight, with the overarching goal of peaceful global collaboration to preserve and enhance peace & sustainability for all life on Earth. He is the author of over 100 papers on lunar development architectures, and coauthor of the classic book on lunar settlement. He is on the board of directors of the NSS, active in the AIAA, IAF, TPS and the MVA. He is a reviewer of articles and manuscripts for professional and trade journals in Space Engineering, Mission Design & Space Systems Architecture. Madhu maintains that NSS is singular in steadfast support of human spaceflight and activities since its inception, and he is a long-time dedicated supporter, offering progressive ideas, creative visions and advice to the NSS leadership.

Endorsed by:

Henk Rogers, NSS Board of Governors
Chantelle Baier, NSS Director
Gary Barnard, NSS Director
Dallas Bienhoff, NSS Member
David Dressler, former Conferences Committee Chair, ISDC
Aggie Kobrin, NSS Member and Ad Astra Editorial Board
Pascal Lee, VP NSS
John Mankins, NSS Director
Stan Rosen, NSS Board of Strategic Advisors
David Schrunk, NSS Member, President Science of Laws Institute, Coauthor The Moon: Future
Pete Swan, NSS Member

Quote from A. Kobrin: “I highly recommend Madhu Thangavelu for a role as an at large regional director on the board of the NSS. He is very dedicated to the NSS, does a lot of work on behalf of the organization, is a great link to India and an excellent addition to all that the NSS does. He is very involved in the annual conference ISDC and offers his advice in many areas. We need many more like Madhu on our board, involved, energetic and enthusiastic. I highly recommend him for the 2026 elections.”

Quote from D. Dressler: “Madhu has boundless energy, vision, and inspiration for getting humanity established on the Moon. Madhu’s connections with space influencers are vast, and they show up for NSS because of him.”

Aimei Helen Yang

This candidate was nominated by the Nominations Committee of the Board of Directors.

In the AI era, space leadership will not be defined by generating the most data, but by sustaining public attention, trust, and meaning across cultures. Over the coming years, I believe NSS’s next competitive advantage lies in evolving from a citizen space movement into a global, AI-enabled system for space civilization storytelling and public mobilization—one that helps people not only understand space, but feel why it matters. I care deeply about this work because space settlement is not an abstract ambition but a generational responsibility requiring long-term public commitment.

My work has focused on an increasingly critical capability: translating complex, future-facing systems into human-scale meaning that sustains long-term public engagement. As space activity accelerates and becomes more international and commercial, this capability is essential to building durable social support for a spacefaring civilization.

For over 28 years, I have led strategic communications for global organizations including Walmart and WPP, working across the United States and Asia. My career has centered on helping large, abstract systems—economic, technological and organizational—earn public understanding, trust, and legitimacy across borders. These challenges closely mirror those now facing space development.

Alongside my professional work, I am an award-winning author and sci-fi writer whose projects explore how people emotionally and culturally experience emerging technologies. I hold formal training in the new space economy through MIT and have been involved in space-related initiatives connected to memorial spaceflight services and space experience projects. My work is guided by one principle: space must be experienced at a human scale if it is to become sustainable.

In recent years, I have prepared human imagination for futures that do not yet exist by building and testing early forms of “imagination infrastructure” for the space age—translating space concepts into sensory and experiential formats while piloting space experience economy initiatives to better understand how people engage with the idea of living beyond Earth.

In the AI era, attention is the scarcest resource. NSS has a unique opportunity to extend the impact of its programmatic leadership into continuous global engagement and generational continuity. If elected, I would strengthen NSS’s human-centered communication architecture, contribute to international and Asia-facing engagement with academic and professional communities, and help ensure NSS remains visible, relevant, and trusted in a crowded attention landscape.

My commitment is long-term and mission-driven: to support NSS as a trusted steward of humanity’s future beyond Earth.

Lynne F. Zielinski

This candidate was nominated by the Nominations Committee of the Board of Directors.

Having devoted more than a decade serving the vision of NSS through education, I hope to continue as a Director focusing on increased public awareness of Society activities and educational programs, engaging youth, and in spreading the NSS’ message into educational circles worldwide.

I currently serve as Vice President of Education Emerita and Director for NSS student contests, overseeing Live in a Healthy Space, Roadmap to Space Art and others. I have also served as a member of the Executive Committee, Awards, Breakthrough Science/Technologies, International, Membership, and Publications committees. I reactivated and chaired the Projects and Public Affairs Committees. Since 2009, I’ve built and managed ISDC student and teacher programming: awarded competition winners, provided workshops and poster session opportunities, and brought hundreds of students and teachers worldwide to ISDCs annually.

This past term, I’ve been pivotal by bringing space education to over 6,000 teachers and students worldwide. I’ve created new student competitions, helped manage a student website, and engaged teachers in two NSS-sponsored online learning networks: SpacEdge Academy and SpacEdge Centers for Educational Excellence.

As a professional high school physics, astronomy, and space science teacher of 32 years with a master’s in physics, I have been engaging students in NASA programs, overseeing more than 90 national and NASA Center winners, and mentored students into STEM careers.

I successfully brought the NSS vision to youth, creating a nationally recognized student program that sent experiments into space, flying over 300 student experiments on six Space Shuttle missions, nine suborbital NASA rockets, high altitude balloons, and other NASA flight opportunities. I have also collaborated on NASA experiments with schools worldwide.

My creative and passionate commitment to space science education is demonstrated through authorship of experiment results in NSS & NASA publications, and contributions to experiment design resource guides, textbooks, and educational websites and activities for national STEM programs. Outside of teaching, I trained astronauts at NASA Johnson Space Center’s Space Station Training Division. For Cal-Berkeley’s Space Science Laboratory’s Auroral Rocket Research team, I helped launch a rocket and created interactive space science education web-based curricula.

I have been nationally recognized for outstanding teaching, leadership, student achievements, and my enthusiastic outreach. Some prestigious awards include NSS Activist of the Year, Presidential Award for Excellence, National Space Educator, Pete Conrad Spirit of Innovation, NASA Student Involvement Hall of Fame, Christa McAuliffe, John F. Kennedy Award for Courage, and NASA’s Teacher in Space state semifinalist.

Candidates for Regional Director

Region 1: Arlene Busby

This candidate was nominated by petition.

Introduction

I am deeply honored to be considered for the Board of Directors position for Region 1. My passion for space advocacy has been a central part of my life. My journey began with Loscon, a well-known annual sf/fantasy, and science convention, where I have contributed and run programming for more than 30 years. I have a genuine appreciation for engaging panels and presentations that explore space topics. This ongoing involvement led me to OASIS, the local National Space Society (NSS) chapter in Los Angeles, California. Over the years, I served as Vice President and, in 2024, became President of OASIS. In these leadership roles, I actively promoted Ad Astra, NSS postcards, and ISDC materials, enthusiastically sharing information with everyone passing by our table, always with a smile and a flyer in hand.

ISDC Involvement

My connection with the International Space Development Conference (ISDC) began during my tenure as Vice President of OASIS. In 2018, when ISDC was held in Los Angeles, I organized a programming track representing the Aerospace Legacy Foundation (ALF), where I serve as President. ALF is dedicated to preserving artifacts and documents, using them as educational tools to explore the history, current advancements, and future possibilities of the space program. As of 2024, I became a member of the ISDC awards committee and serve on the ISDC Planning Committee.

Additional Space Advocacy Efforts

My commitment to space advocacy extends beyond these roles. I oversee space programming for the Columbia Memorial Space Center in Downey, California, which takes place on the last Friday of the month. Additionally, I created a fundraising event for ALF called OuteRimCom, with sponsorship from OASIS. This one-day event features three to four panels/presentations covering various space and science topics held at the Columbia Memorial Space Center. My guiding philosophy is to never miss an opportunity to educate others about space.

Vision for the Board of Directors

As a candidate for the NSS Board of Directors, my primary goal is to serve as an advocate dedicated to expanding NSS’s visibility and impact within the public sphere. Through active engagement, outreach, and educational initiatives, I am committed to helping NSS connect with a broader audience and inspiring more individuals to join and support our mission. By leveraging my experience in space advocacy and public programming, I aim to strengthen NSS’s presence and ensure our message resonates with diverse communities.

Region 2: Edward J. Kulis

This candidate was nominated by petition.

I’m an engineer and longtime space advocate. I’ve been a member of the National Space Society for over 25 years. I’ve served as Secretary, Web Administrator and contributor for the Sacramento L5 Society for more than 15 years.

I’ve had a lifelong interest in space settlement and I was fortunate to witness the first steps of humans off this Earth during the Mercury, Gemini and Apollo programs. I remember rushing to school early where the AV Squad would bring in a black and white TV and attempt to clear the snowy reception by angling the rabbit eared VHF antenna. We’d dread those unplanned countdown holds where a tech glitch would sometimes scrub the mission.

Eventually though, I saw the Christmas readings from Borman, Lovell, and Anders as they circled the Moon on Christmas Eve, 1968. And then I watched, live, Neil Armstrong take that one small step onto the lunar surface during the evening twilight of July 20, 1969.

My current focus with the Sacramento L5 Society is creating examples of engineering builds for STEM Students using Arduino Electronics Kits.  Building hardware and writing code with Arduino helps young minds learn how to think logically while they experiment safely,

Students will gain experience in turning ideas into working devices that light, sound, collect, and present data. The build process develops their ability to connect creative ideas with real world cause-and-effect. Fostering tech enthusiasm in young people will naturally lead them to careers that fuel our efforts to establish permanent off-world presences.

I would bring a builder’s mindset to NSS governance and communication as someone who designs systems, tests assumptions, improving structures that remove barriers and inspire people to contribute their best work.

Specifically, I’ll help NSS to:

• Expand communication for space settlement as a resilient, modern organization.
• Support chapters and volunteers with better tools, documentation, and knowledge-sharing practices.
• Encourage chapter communication by referencing each other’s activities on their websites.
• Foster communication among engineers, educators, policymakers, and the public by translating complex ideas into accessible, motivating narratives.

I believe the NSS is most effective when diligence implements its vision. My goal on the Board is to turn enthusiasm into durable progress and to promote NSS as a trusted, forward-thinking organization in an era when space is rapidly becoming a greater part of everyday human affairs.

Region 3: Stephanie Hanover

This candidate was nominated by petition.

I am honored to run for the Region 3 Board of the National Space Society. As an educator, mentor, and lifelong advocate for space exploration, I have dedicated my career to inspiring the next generation of explorers, engineers, and informed citizens who will shape humanity’s future beyond Earth and the protection of our planet.

For over fifteen years, I have taught middle and high school Earth and Space Science, Astronomy, Engineering, and Geoscience. My classroom extends far beyond textbooks. I actively engage students in authentic aerospace experiences including CubeSAT development, high-altitude balloon launches, microgravity flight experiments, rocketry competitions, and collaborations with NASA and university research programs. Through these opportunities, students do not simply learn about space — they participate in it.

I have served as a NASA SEES mentor, Space Foundation Teacher Liaison, and Solar System Ambassador. I contribute to aerospace curriculum development and work with interns on future space mission ideas. My work focuses on translating the excitement and significance of space exploration into meaningful educational pathways that empower students to see themselves as contributors to humanity’s spacefaring future.

My passion for space advocacy is rooted in a deep belief that exploration drives innovation, strengthens national leadership, and unites humanity around a shared vision. Organizations like the National Space Society play a critical role in advancing policies, partnerships, and public engagement that move us forward. I am committed to helping NSS expand its outreach, strengthen connections between educators and space professionals, and cultivate broader public support for sustained exploration of the Moon, Mars, and beyond.

If elected to the Region 3 Board, I will bring energy, strategic thinking, collaborative leadership, and a strong educational network to advance the goals of NSS. I am eager to serve, to listen to our membership, and to work alongside fellow advocates to ensure that space exploration remains a priority for our nation and our world.

Together, we can inspire, educate, and build the future in space.

Region 4: Sherry Bell

This candidate was nominated by petition.

I am formally announcing my petition candidacy for the National Space Society Board of Directors, representing Region 4. My prior service on the Board provides immediate insight into the role’s demands, ensuring I can contribute effectively from the outset.

With a B.S. in Psychology and an M.S./Ph.D., coupled with over two decades dedicated to space advocacy and the Space Settlement Movement, my focus has consistently been on the human elements of space exploration and habitation. My professional journey includes serving as a Senior Leadership Advisor for the Aerospace Technology Working Group and currently on the Board of Directors at Kepler Space University. Since 2009, I’ve been an ardent supporter of the NSS.

My distinct contribution lies in fostering critical dialogue on the human experience in space, exemplified by hosting the “Living in Space” track at ISDC and editing “Living in Space: Cultural and Social Dynamics, Opportunities, and Challenges in Permanent Space Habitats.” These efforts reflect my deep commitment to the societal aspects of extraterrestrial living.

I firmly believe human space settlement is vital for our future – enabling growth, resource security, knowledge expansion, and ultimately, ensuring humanity’s long-term prosperity. A future embracing space is undeniably superior to one confined to Earth.

If elected, my commitment is to vigorously advance NSS’s enduring mission: “To promote social, economic, technological, and political change in order to expand civilization beyond Earth, to settle space and to use the resulting resources to build a hopeful and prosperous future for humanity.” My unique blend of experience, vision, and passion will be an invaluable asset. I am eager to collaborate with fellow directors to achieve our shared cosmic aspirations.

Thank you for your consideration,

Dr. Sherry Bell

Region 5: Jack Kennedy

This candidate was nominated by the Nominations Committee of the Board of Directors.

I seek election to the National Space Society Board to help guide the Society through the transition from exploration to sustained cislunar commerce, with particular focus on the responsible development of lunar resources. My central contribution to NSS would be disciplined board governance combined with practical experience in resource development, space law, and public-private space enterprise.

My involvement in the space movement spans decades. I was a member of the L-5 Society, later active in ISDC, the Space Access Society, and an advocate of the Space Frontier Foundation. I am acknowledged for leadership in creating Virginia’s body of state space law advancing public-private governance frameworks that enabled commercial launch activity. These experiences inform my view that lunar mining and cislunar industry must evolve within clear legal, economic, and institutional structures to be sustainable.

Professionally, I am a licensed attorney, former state legislator, and longtime public administrator with extensive experience serving on public and private boards, overseeing fiduciary responsibilities, regulatory compliance, and the stewardship of assets. I previously served as an officer and director of the Virginia Commercial Space Flight Authority, overseeing management of the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport at NASA Wallops for a decade.

Today, I serve as a certified docent at the US Space Force Museum at Cape Canaveral, working closely with US Space Force Public Affairs as a Media Escort for launch-related activities and as a Newcomer Guardian Orientation Coordinator at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. These roles keep me directly engaged with current launch operations and the rapidly evolving commercial launch ecosystem.

My academic background includes a Master of Science in Space Law & Policy, university-level teaching in space science and selenology, and service as a NASA DEVELOP Principal Investigator applying satellite remote sensing. As a fourth-generation mineral resource developer, I bring a grounded understanding of extraction industries, infrastructure, and capital formation—experience directly applicable to organizing the business of lunar resource utilization.

Having witnessed launch milestones from Apollo 14 through the Space Shuttle era to Atlas, Delta IV, Antares, Starship, Vulcan, and New Glenn, and having visited Star City and multiple NASA centers, I appreciate the implications of growing mass to orbit.

If elected, I will work to ensure fiduciary leadership within NSS while positioning the Society as a credible convener and thought leader in lunar mining and cislunar commerce—advancing these efforts from aspiration to durable reality.

Region 5: Christian Yeara

This candidate was nominated by the Nominations Committee of the Board of Directors.

I am Christian Yeara (MBA, M.S. in Space Operations), and it is an honor to be considered for the NSS Region 5 Director seat. You may be thinking: “Who is Christian, and has he been involved long enough to serve effectively?”

My work has centered on connecting with people, building operational processes aligned with strategy, and delivering results under constraints.

Region 5 spans ten states and has extraordinary potential through its universities and its committed, passionate members. My goal is to support growth by making it easier for members and chapters to participate, lead, and recruit. The heart of the region is its people. My focus is on building the connective tissue that helps members find their place quickly, helps chapters sustain momentum, and helps students and early-career members stay involved long enough to become leaders.

First-year priorities:

• Connect and deliver: a 45-day listening sprint, monthly roundtables and office hours, a shared calendar, and quarterly progress updates, so members can see what I heard, what I changed, and the results we achieved.
• Share what works: a Region 5 forum every two months where chapters trade what is working, borrow proven formats, and spread a simple “what worked” playbook without adding bureaucracy.
• Mentorship cohorts: six-month mentorship cohorts that pair students and early career members with experienced professionals around clear goals and a light structure, so mentorship leads to retention and real contribution.
• University outreach pipeline: create a campus-to-chapter on-ramp that converts student interest into NSS memberships and nearby chapter volunteers through virtual-first touchpoints, clear next steps, and low-travel engagement.
• State of Civil Space brief: a one-page quarterly “State of Civil Space” brief that translates major civil space developments into clear, nonpartisan takeaways and practical opportunities for Region 5 chapters and members, with a compiled annual edition for broader dissemination.

Success is a more connected, more active, and growing Region 5 that delivers clear value to its members.

Thank you for considering my candidacy. I ask for your vote and the opportunity to serve Region 5.

Endorsement:

Dr. Sean Crouse: “Based on my experience with Christian at ERAU, I am confident he will represent Region 5 on the NSS Board with competence, integrity, and consistency.”

Region 6: Larry Bartoszek

This candidate was nominated by petition.

I have been interested in space since I was a small child watching the Apollo 11 Moon landing on TV live. In high school, I submitted a science fair project that was a design for a rocket engine powered by laser-induced fusion. I won the NASA award for that project in 1975.

If I am elected Director for Region 6, I will continue to advocate for space development and strengthen the ties between the NSS and the International Space Elevator Consortium.

I have been a member of the National Space Society for many years. I became a Director on the Board of the International Space Elevator Consortium (ISEC) in April, 2021. In July of 2024, I was elected Vice President of ISEC. I am also a Space Ambassador for the NSS.

I won the NSS Excellence Award at ISDC 2025 for my public speaking advocating the development of space and the construction of a space elevator.  I have presented at two NSS Space Forums.

I volunteered to be an NSS speed mentor at ISDC 2024 and 2025. I will be co-chairing the Space Elevator Track at ISDC 2026.

I started working on the Space Elevator as a hobby in 2004 developing conceptual designs for climbers as outlined in “The Space Elevator” by Edwards and Westling. I have given presentations at several Space Elevator Conferences, including Washington, DC, 2004, the Space Elevator Conference in Seattle in 2013, and the ISEC Annual Conference in Chicago in 2023, 2024, and virtually in 2025. I have created original designs for the climbers for the Space Elevator which have been published in two annual ISEC study reports. I lead the group that will be publishing a study report on powering the space elevator in 2026.

I have a dual degree in Mechanical Engineering and Physics from the University of Illinois and am an Illinois Licensed Professional Engineer. I am also a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the American Welding Society, ASM International, and the Chicago Society for Space Studies.

I own Bartoszek Engineering, a consulting firm which specializes in mechanical designs for the nuclear and high energy physics research community world-wide. Bartoszek Engineering has worked for many national laboratories, universities and governments on experiments all over the world. I have built machines up to three stories tall and 120 tons, as well as table top devices.

Region 7: Nancy Wolfson

This candidate was nominated by petition.

I am honored to seek election to the Region 7 Board of Directors, bringing a unique blend of academic and entrepreneurial expertise in science, business, and policy to bridge the National Space Society’s legacy with the sustainable opportunities of the New Space era.

Previous Service to the Society and Pro-Space Organizations:

• National Space Society (NSS): Currently serving as Coordinator of the Planetary Defense Program for the International Space Development Conference (ISDC). I directed the execution of the 2024 and 2025 Planetary Defense tracks, special sessions, and booths, collaborating with experts from NASA, ESA, the University of Central Florida, and other prominent planetary defense experts from global space agencies.
• International Astronautical Federation (IAF): Elected Chairwoman in 2021 and re-elected in 2024 for the Space Entrepreneurship and Investment Committee (2021–Present), I lead a diverse team of 45 global members from the space industry, including government representatives. I recently coordinated a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the U.S. Department of Commerce regarding Public-Private Partnership protocols for the Artemis agenda.
• IAF Vice-Chair: Served as Vice-Chair of the Committee on Planetary Defense and NEOs (2018–2021). I founded the first IAF Planetary Defense and Near-Earth Objects Symposium (Symposium E10).
• Near-Earth Objects Detection: Program Director for the ASG-Greenbelt Observatory, managing asteroid hunting campaigns and training teams in astrometry.
• United Nations, IWAN & COSPAR: Invited expert for the UNOOSA Symposium, the International Asteroid Warning Network (IAWN) and Co-Coordinator for the 5th COSPAR Symposium.

Vision for the Society: If elected to the Board of Directors, I intend to:

1. Strengthen Regional Support: Actively coordinate with the Region 7 chapters aiming to increase their access to international space networks.
2. Enhance Planetary Defense Initiatives: Utilize my background to elevate the NSS’s role in global planetary defense advocacy and education.
3. Foster Partnerships: Develop strategic collaborations between the NSS and emerging space entrepreneurs to ensure the Society remains a leader in the global space economy.
4. Promote Inclusion: Ensure that our membership traditions are honored while creating pathways for the next generation of space professionals.

I possess proven experience in leading large-scale international projects and a commitment to teamwork. I welcome the opportunity to contribute my expertise, time to support the growth and impact of the National Space Society. I respectfully ask for your vote to represent Region 7.

Region 8: Richard Howard

This candidate was nominated by the Nominations Committee of the Board of Directors.

My name is Richard Howard and I am a candidate for the 2026 National Space Society Region 8 Board of Director position. Being a lifetime member of the NSS, I believe in the society’s vision of humanity living and working in space. If elected to the position of NSS Region 8 Director, I will use my skills, education, and experience as a dedicated advocate of space settlement to help make the NSS vision a reality. Currently, I am the Chair of the NSS Space Settlement Advocacy Committee (SSAC). The SSAC organized the very successful Space Settlement Track of the 2026 ISDC and is responsible for the maintenance of the NSS Space Settlement Nexus, which is the premier source of information on Space Settlement. The SSAC is also responsible for the maintenance of the NSS Space Settlement Journal. In the area of space policy, I am a member of the NSS Political Action Network (PAN) and am a dedicated volunteer for the NSS in the Alliance for Space Development (ASD). My ASD activities include taking part in the annual Fall Fury events and the combined virtual Fall Fury/March Storm event. Previously, I served as Chair of the Value Enhancement Subcommittee (VES) of the NSS Membership Committee. The VES was instrumental in the creation of the NSS Space Forums.

My educational background is extensive with many years serving in student organization leadership positions dedicated to the exploration, development, and settlement of space. I have a Master of Science degree in Space Studies with a concentration in Aerospace Science from American Public University System (APUS) and am currently enrolled at APUS in the Master of Public Policy degree program with a concentration in Space Policy. I am a member of the APUS Students for the Exploration and Development of Space (SEDS) and served for 3 years as Chapter President in addition to serving one year as Vice-Chair of the APUS-AIAA.

This candidate is endorsed by Dale Skran. Dale is Senior Vice-President and Chief Operating Officer of the National Space Society.

Region 8: Cynthia Shihemi

This candidate was nominated by the Nominations Committee of the Board of Directors.

Space is the present and the future. Space isn’t the final frontier; it’s the beginning of our greatest adventure into the unknown. It’s a passion that connects us all. To truly shape the future of space exploration, we need to build a vibrant community through meaningful partnerships, creative fundraising, and by inviting young people from all walks of life to join in the conversation about space governance. The National Space Society (NSS) has done incredible work so far, and I’d love to help take it even further as a member of the Board of Directors representing Region 8.

I believe that partnerships and fundraising are the lifeblood of any movement. They not only boost our resources but also raise awareness and encourage participation. In my experience, forging partnerships is about more than just skills; it requires passion and a genuine belief in what we’re trying to achieve. This enthusiasm is contagious—it can inspire others and create a strong network of space lovers, fundraising champions, and advocates for our mission.

I’ve been deeply inspired by what NSS has accomplished, especially during my time on the International Committee. The visibility we’ve gained has been fantastic, evident in the endorsements we’ve received recently. To keep this momentum going, we need to grow the NSS community sustainably, making sure our mission resonates across the globe.

I dream of a future where NSS doesn’t just thrive in the United States but has a meaningful impact worldwide. By bringing together passionate individuals and harnessing our collective strengths, we can elevate NSS’s mission and ensure it lasts for generations.

I’m excited about the possibility of being part of this journey with you all. Together, we can create a dynamic space community that inspires and engages future generations. I would be honored to have your support for my candidacy on the Board of Directors, as we work together toward a brighter future in space. Together let’s launch into the unknown!