2012 D.C. Trip Report June 5-7, 2012 Washington, D.C.
General Trip Information 21st Annual Trip 78 Travelers Representation from 24 States AL, AZ, CA, CO, CT, FL, GA, IL, IN, LA, MD, MI, MN, MS, MO, NJ, NC, OH, PA, TN, TX, VA, WA and WI 355 meetings with Congressional offices members from 48 states Senate – 72 offices House – 283 offices
Student / Educator Participation 25 University Students / Educators Message: Space Exploration promotes STEM Education and Technical Careers Special recognition at the Congressional Reception
Key Messages We endorse America’s Leadership in Space Exploration Utilize the International Space Station as a National Laboratory through at least 2020 Develop the Space Launch System to support human space exploration Develop the Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle for deep space missions Support commercial space systems for cargo and crew to the International Space Station to reduce U.S. dependence on Russia
Congressional Response Overall there was continued bi-partisan support for human space exploration Major drivers: STEM Education America’s Leadership in Space High Technology– Economy National Security This is going to be a difficult budget year and funding for all programs will be closely scrutinized Positive attitude toward commercial space as part of America’s future
Travelers Briefing 24 teams formed with focus on specific State visits based on their student’s home or school Keynote Speaker Leland Melvin, former astronaut and current NASA Associate Administrator for Education Hill update presented by Jeff Bingham, Professional Staff of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee
Congressional Reception 6 Congressional Speakers: Senator Cornyn (TX) Representatives Olson (TX-22) G. Green (TX-29) Jackson Lee (TX-18) Posey (FL-15) and Palazzo (MS-4)
Special Thanks Trip Sponsor / Organizer BAHEP’s Aerospace Advisory Committee University Student Sponsors BAHEP’s Aerospace Advisory Committee Barrios Technology Jacobs Florida Institute of Technology Greater Cleveland Partnership All of our travelers who took time to make the trip this year
Special Thanks Reception Sponsors
Thank You and Save the Date Next Year’s Trip is Scheduled for May , 2013