July 15, 2009, Alexandria, VA – Challenger Center for Space Science Education congratulates Charles Bolden and Lori Garver on their confirmation by the United States Senate as NASA Administrator and Deputy Administrator.
“Bolden and Garver are exceptional role models, and extremely talented and accomplished space professionals. They are ideally qualified, both individually and as a team, to lead NASA at this critical time in the agency’s history,” said William Readdy, Chair of the Board, Challenger Center.
Bolden and Garver need to shepherd the transition from the Space Shuttle to the next generation of human space flight, as well as managing a wide range of planetary exploration, aerospace research and a growing involvement in Earth observations. They have exceptional qualifications to do this important work.
Bolden retired from the United States Marine Corps in 2003 as the Commanding General of the Third Marine Aircraft Wing after more than 34 years of service. He was selected by NASA as an astronaut in 1980, and flew four missions aboard the space shuttle – two as pilot and commander. He later served as Chief of the Safety Division at the Johnson Space Center and as Assistant Deputy Administrator of NASA headquarters.
Garver most recently served as President of Capital Space, LLC, and has served as Senior Advisor for Space at the Avascent Group, a strategy and management consulting firm. From 1998 to 2001 she served as NASA’s Associate Administrator of the Office of Policy and Plans and as NASA spokesperson. Prior to this appointment she served as a Senior Policy Analyst for the Office of Policy and Plans, and Special Assistant to the Administrator.
“Bolden and Garver have a big challenge, not just to find technical solutions, but also to embrace the visionary and inspirational role of human space exploration in our nation’s character. Our nation will need to support them as they re-invigorate NASA,” said Dan Barstow, President, Challenger Center.
Bolden and Garver have demonstrated a life-long commitment to the educational value of NASA’s mission. “Challenger Center is proud to have worked with both of them over the years, through our national network of Challenger Learning Centers,” said June Scobee Rodgers, Founding Chair of the Challenger Center.
“NASA inspires our young people to dream big dreams, and pursue them with the sense of excitement and confidence that has always led America to greatness. We look forward to working with Bolden and Garver as they take on this bold and ambitious work,” said Barstow.
Challenger Center for Space Science Education is a non-profit organization founded in 1986 by the families of the astronauts tragically lost in the Challenger 51-L mission. Using space exploration as a theme, Challenger Center takes students on simulated space missions, helping foster a long-term interest in science, math, and technology, and inspires them to pursue studies and careers in these areas. For more information, visit www.challenger.org
Rob Cork, Director of Communications
Challenger Center for Space Science Education
300 No. Lee St.
Alexandria, VA 22314
703-535-1361
rcork@challenger.org
