2010 Transition Proposal for NASA Kentucky Space Grant Consortium

The Kentucky Space Grant Consortium (KSGC) serves the needs and emphases of NASA's National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program while serving the specific needs of the Commonwealth of Kentucky, through a program that enhances capabilities for aeronautics- and space-related research and education in Kentucky, and develops future workforce for NASA, Kentucky, and the Nation. KSGC Mission: To promote educational excellence through the advancement of expertise in aeronautics- and space-related research, education, and public education in Kentucky, involving Kentucky's citizens at all levels of the education system and beyond. Goal and Purposes: The Kentucky Space Grant Consortium was established in 1992 as a Capability Enhancement Program, but transitioned in 2005 to a Designated Space Grant Consortium with the success of programs in 2002-2004 under the separate NASA Workforce Development Initiative. KSGC’s primary goal is developing expertise and capacity for aeronautics- and space-related research and education in Kentucky. In fulfilling its mission, the KSGC program serves several constituencies -- NASA, the Nation, and Kentucky, including Kentucky's university/college faculty, students, teachers, and general public of all ages. The KSGC "mix” of program elements and emphases is tailored to the economic and educational needs of Kentucky and its constituents, and always derived from national program guidance. Objectives: The NASA and Kentucky Space Grant Consortium objectives are: to promote a strong STEM education base by preparing students and teachers; maintain a network of universities contributing to aeronautics and space; encourage collaborations among universities, aerospace industry , and government; support aerospace training, research and public outreach; and recruit and train U.S. citizens, especially women, minorities and disabled persons.