Former NASA astronaut Leroy Chiao kicked off a new Innovation Series this fall sponsored by Maui Economic Development Board (The Maui News, Sept. 16).
It was an honor and privilege to have presented the event with the backing of many organizations including the Space Foundation. MEDB's work supporting educational institutions, K-12 teachers and students to improve science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) proficiency in Maui County and throughout the state aligns closely with the mission of the Space Foundation.
We were delighted to see hundreds of Maui youth engage with Chiao as he spoke of his space missions and inspired our young people to pursue their dreams.
Chiao, who now serves as Space Foundation's special adviser - human spaceflight, also assisted in the Space Foundation's panel presentation at our 13th annual Advance Maui Optical and Space Surveillance Technologies (AMOS) Conference in Wailea. The Space Foundation support at AMOS included a reception for young space professionals and co-sponsorship of a space situational awareness policy forum.
As we celebrate our 30th anniversary this year, MEDB is grateful to partners like the Space Foundation and the Air Force Research Laboratory, who enhance our STEM programs and make it possible for us to inspire innovation among our residents.
Jeanne Skog
MEDB president and CEO
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