SciAccess, Inc. accepts the NASA Space Tech Catalyst Prize at the award ceremony in Greenbelt, Maryland. From left to right: Jenn Gustetic, Director of Early Stage Innovations and Partnerships at NASA; Anna Voelker, Executive Director of SciAccess, Inc.; Caitlin O’Brien, Assistant Director of SciAccess, Inc.; Denna Lambert, Inclusive Innovation Lead at NASA’s Early Stage Innovations & Partnerships. Image Credit: NASA.

GREENBELT, MD, May 8, 2024 – On April 17th, NASA recognized SciAccess, Inc. as one of the inaugural winners of the prestigious NASA Space Tech Catalyst Prize at an award ceremony at the Goddard Space Flight Center. SciAccess, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing disability inclusion and equity in STEM, has been recognized by NASA for the organization’s outstanding contributions to breaking down barriers to space science.

The NASA Space Tech Catalyst prize recognizes individuals and organizations that demonstrate outstanding collaboration practices with diverse researchers, technologists, and entrepreneurs. Each selected champion received $25,000 in recognition of their contributions to NASA’s ongoing efforts to develop a representative space technology landscape. Following their selection, award winners will be invited to join the inaugural Space Tech Catalyst Cohort for networking and collaboration, facilitating continued engagement with NASA and the exchange of best practices for expanding space technology within diverse communities.

“SciAccess has demonstrated keen understanding and appreciation for the unique barriers experienced by individuals with disabilities who have interest in STEM fields,” said Denna Lambert, Inclusive Innovation Lead with the NASA Space Technology Mission Directorate. “[SciAccess] has position[ed] itself as a leader in promoting and advancing the work of accessible space exploration for individuals with disabilities.”

As part of its mission to foster equity in STEM, SciAccess spearheads various international programs, including the annual SciAccess Conference and AstroAccess. The SciAccess 2024 Conference will take place virtually this week on May 10 & 11, 2024, bringing together experts and community members to discuss and advance accessibility in STEM fields. Meanwhile, AstroAccess is a pioneering program dedicated to ensuring that disabled individuals have equal opportunities and access to space exploration initiatives.

“We are so excited to connect with NASA and its community partners to build the future of accessibility in space,” said Anna Voelker, Executive Director of SciAccess. “This award will further empower us to continue our mission of breaking down barriers and creating a more equitable and accessible future for all, on Earth and beyond.”

For more information about SciAccess and its initiatives, visit sciaccess.org.

For media inquiries or interview requests, please contact press@astroaccess.org.

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