At NASA, diversity and inclusion drive workplace creativity, innovation and mission success. For Pride Month, we’re celebrating the stories of our LGBTQ and allies community.
What is your role at NASA?
I am the Lead for Export Control for the International Space Station and Gateway Programs.
How long have you worked here?
30 years
What is your background and why did you chose to work at NASA?
My educational background is in sociology and public policy and I have a master’s in Public Affairs from the University of Texas at Austin. I was raised by two parents who also worked at NASA and I find the work rewarding and even sometimes thrilling!
Are you involved in an Employee Resource Group at your center?
Yes, I’m the Past Chair of the JSC Out and Allied Employee Resource Group.
What are some of the events or initiatives that are carried out throughout the year?
Our primary events are held during Pride month – we usually participate heavily in the Houston Pride Parade and Festival – which is attended by over 500,000 people. This year we have focused on virtual events, of course. We also hold events during Ally week in September to highlight the wonderful relationship we enjoy between LGBTQ employees and allies. This year we are adding participation in the world wide #21DaysAllyChallenge.
How have you been influenced by your participation in the Employee Resource Group?
My brother Chris died from AIDS in 2015. I was already active in the ERG and their support during that difficult time was a blessing. I feel close to him every time I’m able to show my support for the ERG and my LGBTQ co-workers. One of the memories I cherish was when a manager reached out to me while I was the ERG Chair, looking for advice in helping his transgender son. I was able to put him in touch with another manager with an out transgender son. Another highlight for me was when my supervisor and others told me that they found a Ted Talk video I shared during Ally Week in 2019 to be very powerful. I have enjoyed the education and outreach opportunities that I am able to do through the ERG.
What has been your favorite project or memory from your time here?
My favorite memory was going to Kazakhstan 10 years ago to see a friend of mine launch to the ISS. She is going again this year on the SpaceX vehicle and I can’t wait to see her fly again!
Why is working in a diverse environment critical to our mission?
The safety of our crew is the most critical thing we work on. Diverse opinions, experiences and knowledge help to make sure we do the best we can to protect people and hardware.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I’ve got two teenage boys so life usually revolves around them and their activities like soccer and orchestra. Lately though, we have been doing more stuff around the house of course! One will be starting college soon and I’ve enjoyed getting to spend some extra time with him – the silver lining of the quarantine.
If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be?
My family has been fortunate to travel the world together – we’ve been to Europe, New Zealand and Japan as well as several places in the States. Personally, I’ve been to 49 out of the 50 states and I’d really like to be able to now show my sons more of the U.S.
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