Dr. Christine Darden and Mr. Roger Hathaway met with ECSU students and faculty on Friday November 17, 2006 at 2:00pm in Room 229 in Dixon Hall. Mr. Hathaway directs the Office of Education at NASA Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia. He is a 1972 graduate of Elizabeth City State University. Mr. Hathaway's presentation focused on providing faculty and students with information on NASA research in biology, chemistry, environmental science, mathematics, computer science, aviation and technology opportunities.

As NASA pursues its strategy to explore and understand the planet earth and beyond; and inspire succeeding generations to become fellow researchers and explores, education remains a critical ingredient in the formula for policies and initiatives that support the Agency's mission. As the Director for Education, Mr. Hathaway believes that Education must be fully integrated into the Agency's vision for the future; and delivered through a collaborative partnership that includes the Agency, Congress, federal, state and local entities and academia at all levels. Consistent with this paradigm, this incumbent serves as the lead education officer for the NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC); interfaces with Langley and HQ's Mission Directorates, program offices, and other agency education director's; responds to internal and external customers that include legislative, Congressional, state, and local officials; provides leadership and policy guidance for all educational initiatives; provides leadership and guidance for the establishment of the new Communications and Education Office that requires affiliations and cooperation with the Office of Public Affairs.

Dr. Darden is the first appointee to the ECSU Aviation Science Board of Directors. Dr. Darden is the director of Strategic Communications and Education at NASA's Langley Research Center. She is a native of Monroe, NC. She holds a B.S. in Mathematics, M.S. in Applied Mathematics and a Doctorate of Science in Mechanical Engineering. She spent most of her career at NASA as a practicing engineer and technical lead in supersonic aerodynamics and sonic boom research. With NASA since 1966, Dr. Darden is a recognized leader in the reduction of shock waves from spacecraft wings and nose cones.

Cynthia Warrick, PhD, RPh, Dean, School of Mathematics, Science & Technology welcomed the group to our campus and expressed her vision for the future development of the Aviation Science Program.