By Jennifer Muntz, NSS Member Coordinator
On October 10th, an inspiring breakfast event took flight at the Center for Space Education at the Kennedy Space Center. Connections and networking were the payload, supporting the educational needs of children was the fuel, and the result was an impressive launch that focused on improving the experiences for disadvantaged children and schools.
The Brevard Public Schools Partnership in Education (PIE) brought together 70+ dedicated attendees, including teachers, business leaders, and community organizers, all with a common goal—to enhance students’ educational experiences. This gathering was made possible through the generous sponsorship of the Astronauts Memorial Foundation (AMF), the ISS National Laboratory, and the National Space Society (NSS).
The meeting commenced with Isabel Kennedy, deputy director of the Astronauts Memorial Foundation extending a warm welcome to all attendees. She provided an overview of the organization’s mission and current initiatives before introducing Jennifer Muntz, the NSS Membership Coordinator.
Jennifer took the stage to thank the Astronauts Memorial Foundation for the invitation to participate. She provided a snapshot of NSS and its commitment to advancing space exploration, development, and settlement, enabling us to one day live in space-based communities. NSS featured a thoughtfully designed display table, with rocket replicas, astronaut figurines, and a QR code for seamless access to NSS resources.
What followed was a heartwarming opportunity for teachers to share their school/classroom needs and requests with business owners and community organizations with the goal of meeting those needs. This is PIE’s mission and “center of gravity” —to support schools, students and families and help businesses raise visibility and grow.
This event showcased the positive impact that NSS HQ can have in the local community. There was significant interest among teachers and business professionals who engaged in conversations about teacher memberships and the International Space Settlement Design Competition. We will continue to support and participate in such initiatives that propel the mission of NSS forward.
This event was just the beginning. NSS is hosting two events in collaboration with the Astronauts Memorial Foundation at the Center for Space Education at KSC. The Space Luncheon Series will feature leaders from NASA, the space industry, and astronauts. The events begin at 12:00 noon and lunch will be provided. Registration is $25 for NSS members and $30 for non-members.
Date: Nov. 17
Speaker: Trey Carlson, Chief of Staff, NASA KSC
Register here!
Date: Dec. 14
Speaker: Chris Ferguson, Astronaut (retired)
Topic: Safety and Risks of Space Flight
Registration coming soon
For more information about the Partnership in Education or the Space Luncheon Series, send an email to [email protected].
Image credits: Julia Barney, Astronaut Memorial Foundation
