NASA Iowa Space Grant Consortium Names Nelson as Assistant Director for Education and Outreach

AMES, Iowa – The NASA Iowa Space Grant Consortium announced today that Sara Nelson will join the leadership team as assistant director for education and outreach.

Nelson is currently the state STEM specialist for Iowa State University Extension and Outreach and teaches science and literacy education courses in the School of Education.  

“Dr. Nelson is a passionate supporter of STEM education,” said Jay Staker, ISGC associate director. “We are thrilled to have her work with the education community to provide professional development related to the NASA mission and utilize NASA educational products.”

As ISGC assistant director for education and outreach, Nelson will provide leadership for the ISGC programs that target the precollege audience and the efforts of the education and outreach affiliates. These affiliates include science centers, museums, and other groups that serve the NASA mission.

Nelson and her team will also develop educational materials and experiences. Products already developed under Nelson’s leadership include Checkout STEM, STEM-Lit to Go!, Iowa 4-H and ISGC STEAM Academy activities and events, and several 4-H day camps.

Nelson received her Ph.D. in literacy education and M.Ed. in science education from Iowa State University. She has a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Luther College.

In addition to her work at Iowa State University, Nelson sits on the State Science Leadership Team with the Iowa Department of Education, the North Central STEM Advisory Board for the Governor’s STEM Council, and the Science and Children Advisory Board of the National Science Teaching Association.  

For more information on the NASA Iowa Space Grant Consortium, please visit: https://www.iaspacegrant.org/.

[PHOTO] Sara Nelson