NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe announced today John
Schumacher would be appointed the agency Chief of Staff.
Schumacher had served as NASA’s Assistant Administrator for
External Relations since June 1995. He replaces Courtney
Stadd, who is returning to the private sector in July.

“John brings invaluable experience and perspective to the
job. He is well versed in NASA programs, familiar with our
many national and international commitments, and a proven
resource manager. His ability to simultaneously direct or
manage numerous initiatives will benefit all of us at NASA
Headquarters,” Administrator O’Keefe said.

As Chief of Staff, Schumacher will be responsible for the
day-to-day operations of NASA Headquarters. He will work
with the Administrator O’Keefe and senior NASA staff to
shape the strategic direction of the agency, while managing
and articulating various policies and programs.

As Assistant Administrator for External Relations, he was
responsible for NASA’s interaction with Executive Branch
offices and agencies; international relations;
administration of export/international technology transfer
control; history office, advisory councils and commissions.
Schumacher joined NASA in June of 1989, and served as
Advisor to the Administrator until January 1991, when he
became the Deputy Assistant Administrator for External
Relations.

Schumacher came to NASA from the New York law firm of Rogers
& Wells, where he was engaged in corporate practice. He
served on active duty in the U.S. Navy, at sea aboard USS
Guadalcanal, and ashore in the space and electronic warfare
directorates of the Joint Staff and Navy Staff. He is
currently a Captain in the U.S. Naval Reserve, serving as
commanding officer of a unit supporting the Navy Staff N3/N5
Directorate.

Schumacher graduated with distinction from the U.S. Naval
Academy in 1976. He earned a master’s degree from Georgetown
University, a law degree from Columbia University, and a
certificate with honors in international law from Columbia’s
Parker School of International and Foreign Law. He is a
member of the New York Bar, the American Bar Association and
the U.S. Naval Institute. He also serves on the Board of
Directors of Living Savior Lutheran Church, Fairfax Station,
Va.

Schumacher’s awards include the Presidential Rank of
Distinguished Executive and Meritorious Executive; the NASA
Distinguished Service Medal; and the Legion of Merit.