NASA is set to engage South Central US students in an inspiring educational event featuring NASA astronaut Jeanette Epps aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Scheduled for June 26, this event is not only an educational milestone but also a significant fundraising opportunity to support STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs and inspire the next generation of explorers.
This piece details the upcoming event, its importance, and how the community can support and contribute to the continued growth of educational programs through fundraising efforts.

Event Overview
On June 26, students from Louisiana, New Mexico, and Texas will have the unique opportunity to interact with NASA astronaut Jeanette Epps via a live, 20-minute Earth-to-space call.
This session will be streamed on NASA’s various platforms, including NASA TV and NASA’s official website. The interaction aims to inspire young minds by providing direct insight into the life and work aboard the ISS, fostering a greater interest in STEM fields among students.
The students involved are part of the South Central Region of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. They have been preparing for this event through an interactive learning experience focused on aviation and aerospace. This engagement is part of NASA’s broader initiative to make space exploration more accessible and exciting for young learners.
The Importance of STEM Education
STEM education is critical for developing the skills necessary for the future workforce. By engaging students in hands-on, practical experiences, they can better understand the real-world applications of their studies. Events like the upcoming ISS call not only provide inspiration but also highlight the importance of continuous learning and curiosity.
NASA has been at the forefront of promoting STEM education through various programs and initiatives. For over 23 years, astronauts have lived and worked aboard the ISS, conducting experiments and developing technologies that benefit life on Earth and pave the way for future space missions.
By sharing these experiences, NASA hopes to motivate students to pursue careers in STEM, ensuring the United States remains a leader in space exploration and innovation.

Fundraising for the Future
To sustain and expand these valuable educational programs, fundraising plays a crucial role. Community support through donations and sponsorships helps provide the necessary resources for interactive learning experiences, educational materials, and opportunities for students to engage with NASA scientists and astronauts.
How You Can Help
- Donate: Contributions to STEM education programs can have a lasting impact. Donations help fund educational events, provide resources for interactive learning, and support the development of new programs aimed at inspiring future generations.
- Sponsor: Businesses and organizations can become sponsors of STEM programs. Sponsorship not only supports educational initiatives but also demonstrates a commitment to fostering innovation and education within the community.
- Volunteer: Volunteering your time and expertise can make a significant difference. Whether it’s mentoring students, participating in educational events, or helping to organize fundraising activities, your involvement is invaluable.
- Spread the Word: Raising awareness about the importance of STEM education and the opportunities provided by NASA can encourage others to get involved. Share information about upcoming events, fundraising campaigns, and the impact of STEM education on social media and within your community.
Highlighting NASA’s Educational Initiatives
NASA’s commitment to education extends beyond the upcoming ISS call. The agency offers a wealth of resources and programs designed to engage students and educators in STEM learning. These include online lesson plans, interactive activities, and opportunities for students to participate in real-world scientific research.
NASA’s STEM Engagement Website: NASA STEM
The Impact of Your Support
Your support of STEM education initiatives can have a profound impact. By contributing to fundraising efforts, you help ensure that programs like the ISS call can continue to inspire and educate students.
These experiences can spark a lifelong interest in science and technology, leading to careers that contribute to our understanding of the universe and the advancement of human knowledge.
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Conclusion
The upcoming interaction between NASA astronaut Jeanette Epps and South Central US students is more than just a one-time event. It represents the ongoing effort to engage young minds in STEM education and inspire future explorers.
Through community support and fundraising, we can ensure that these programs continue to thrive, providing students with the knowledge and inspiration they need to reach for the stars. Your involvement, whether through donations, sponsorship, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, is crucial to the success of these initiatives.
Together, we can support the next generation of scientists, engineers, and explorers, ensuring a bright future for space exploration and innovation.