WASHINGTON, D.C. – – Challenger Center for Space Science Education (Challenger Center) today launched Friends of Challenger Center, an initiative that seeks to grow and expand the resources available for Challenger Center’s education programs. By tapping into tens of thousands of space industry employees, former employees, retirees and contractors, Challenger Center is creating an advocacy group committed to nurturing the next generation of scientists, engineers and innovators.
Friends of Challenger Center members donate their knowledge and financial resources to support Challenger Center’s network of Challenger Learning Centers and to improve the educational opportunities available to students and teachers around the globe.
“With corporations already counting on their next-generation workforce, science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education is imperative to the future of our world,” said Lance Bush, president and CEO, Challenger Center. “Friends of Challenger Center recognizes that need. The support of this group will help us to better prepare today’s young minds to power global innovation.”
Potential Friends of Challenger Center supporters need only have a current or past association with the space community and are not limited to a geographical area. Financial membership levels range from $100 to $1,000 each year. Members also serve as volunteers whose real-world experience can be used by Challenger Center to enhance the educational experiences of students and teachers. This includes volunteering as an expert, supporting online events, providing in-kind services and counseling in the development of new resources.
New participants will receive benefits including access to newsletters, recognitions, invitations to regional and national Challenger Center events and small group discussions with Challenger Center leaders. Members who join by July 15, 2015 will be noted as charter members.
To join Friends of Challenger Center or for more information, visit http://www.challenger.org/friends
About Challenger Center for Space Science Education (Challenger Center)As a leader in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education, Challenger Center and its international network of more than 40 Challenger Learning Centers use space simulations to engage students in dynamic, hands-on opportunities that strengthen knowledge in STEM subjects and inspire students to pursue careers in these important fields. Centers across the US, Canada, United Kingdom, and South Korea reach hundreds of thousands of students each year. Founded in 1986, Challenger Center was created to honor the crew of shuttle flight STS-51-L: Dick Scobee, Gregory Jarvis, Christa McAuliffe, Ronald McNair, Ellison Onizuka, Judith Resnik, and Michael J. Smith. For more information, visit http://www.challenger.org.
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MEDIA CONTACT:
Lisa Vernal
Challenger Center for Space Science Education
(202) 827-1573 or lvernal@challenger.org
