Click here or the image above to watch the event recording.
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), along with Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-W.Va.) today joined National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Administrator Jim Bridenstine and NASA Astronaut Loral O’Hara in hosting a virtual conversation with female students from elementary schools in the Mercer County School District.
The virtual event highlighted the importance of encouraging more girls in STEM fields, as well as NASA’s Artemis program, which is the first of several steps to land the first woman and next man on the Moon by 2024. Additionally, students from 14 Mercer County elementary schools had the chance to ask questions about STEM and what it’s like to be an astronaut. Senator Capito has strongly advocated for more female involvement in STEM fields—whether it’s through her Girls Rise Up program or other legislative efforts.
“Inspiring the next generation of West Virginians—especially our young women—is very important to me. Today’s virtual event with NASA and Congresswoman Miller gave young girls in Mercer County the chance to learn more about the importance of STEM and how young girls like them can help achieve new goals in this field. Within the past few days, NASA collected a sample from an asteroid and discovered water molecules on the Moon. These are the kinds of discoveries that can inspire the next generation of astronauts and engineers. Whether it’s a career in STEM or becoming the first woman on Mars—or helping us put her there—I can’t wait to see all of the wonderful things these Mercer County students will accomplish in the years to come,” Senator Capito said.
“It was an honor to join with Senator Capito to inspire young girls in Southern West Virginia to learn about America’s space program and explore futures in STEM careers,” said Congresswoman Miller. “As a mother and grandmother, I know first-hand how important it is to give girls the tools and courage they need to follow their dreams. Thank you to NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine for his partnership in continuing West Virginia’s space legacy, from Katherine Johnson to Homer Hickam, and now to our future generations as we work to put a man and woman on the Moon by 2024. I’d also like extend a special thank you Astronaut O’Hara for participating today and serving as an example of what all girls can do if we stick to our goals.”
“Inspiring the next generation of explorers – the Artemis Generation – through STEM education ensures America will continue to lead in space exploration and discovery. As NASA continues to further progress with the Artemis program, we envision having students from West Virginia join us in our journey. From supplier support for our Orion and Space Launch System programs to the Katherine Johnson IV&V Facility, which contributes to the safety and success of NASA’s highest-profile missions, to award winning student robotics teams, West Virginia already is playing a role in America’s Moon to Mars exploration plans. Senator Capito and Representative Miller have strengthened STEM education opportunities for students in the state, especially young women, and NASA is grateful for their leadership,” NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine said.
Click here to learn more about Senator Capito’s Girls Rise Up program.
Click here to learn more about NASA’s Artemis program.
# # #