America’s first woman in space hailed as a “role model to generations of young women” and passionate advocate of science education.
08/09/13
(San Diego, CA) – The White House Office of the Press Secretary announced yesterday that President Obama has awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Sally Ride (posthumous), America’s first woman in space, and founder of Sally Ride Science, an organization dedicated to igniting student interest in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields and careers.
The White House release note about Dr. Ride: “As a role model to generations of young women, she advocated passionately for science education, stood up for racial and gender equality in the classroom, and taught students from every background that there are no limits to what they can accomplish.”
“Sally’s life provided an inspirational example to thousands of young people, as well as to the educators who work with them,” said Sheryle Bolton, CEO of Sally Ride Science. “It is gratifying for all of us at the company to see her work recognized with this Medal of Freedom award. We’re really just at the beginning of her mission — motivating all young people to attain a better understanding of science and technology and to consider a career in STEM as a realistic option for themselves.”
Dr. Ride is among sixteen recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the Nation’s highest civilian honor. The awards will be presented at the White House later this year, and other honorees include President Bill Clinton, Gloria Steinem, Ben Bradlee, Senator Daniel Inouye (posthumous), and Oprah Winfrey.
The Medal is presented to individuals who have made especially meritorious contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors.
To read the full release from the White House, click here.
About Sally Ride Science
Sally Ride Science provides college and career readiness training and tools to build students’ passion for STEM fields and careers. Founded by Dr. Sally Ride, America’s first woman in space, the company brings science to life for upper-elementary and middle school students, and offers professional development via the Sally Ride Science Academy, showing educators how to incorporate engaging career-focused approaches into their existing instruction. Additionally, Sally Ride Science administers Sally Ride EarthKAM, a unique NASA-backed educational outreach program enabling students, teachers, and the public to learn about Earth from the unique perspective of space.