Support the Next Generation Through the AIAA Foundation
By Laura McGill|November 2024
I’ve felt a calling to aerospace since I was a young girl, inspired by the performances of numerous aircraft at annual airshows and by the progress of NASA in advancing human spaceflight and exploring the solar system. I knew that this is where I wanted to work, to be part of teams that were developing these incredible capabilities. What I did not know was that AIAA would be such a significant enabler to my career, now over 40 years. AIAA has given me access to important technical and programmatic breakthroughs, connected me to key leaders that shared my interests, and encouraged my participation to shape aerospace conferences, standards, and policy, as well as the recognition of esteemed colleagues. I have benefitted from these activities and so much more. In addition, I have been honored to serve as the Institute’s president from 2022 until 2024, and currently as the chair of the AIAA Foundation.
I am thankful today to give back to this industry that has meant so much to me by inspiring young people through the work of the AIAA Foundation. The Foundation provides hands-on experiences and educational opportunities for the next generation of aerospace engineers and scientists. I make financial donations to the Foundation annually to support these important programs that are adding to the impact of exceptional educators and the future of students in K-12 levels through university graduation. I know that our activities are accelerating their entry into the STEM workforce that needs their knowledge, ideas, and excitement.
The impact of the Foundation over this year is best told by the outreach, the involvement of students and educators, and the financial investment we’ve made:
• 866 university students attended the seven annual AIAA Regional Student Conferences
• 52 university students participated in the Diversity Scholars Program at 2024 AIAA SciTech Forum, 2024 AIAA AVIATION Forum, and 2024 ASCEND
• 2,995 university students participated in hands-on competitions: AIAA Design/Build/Fly and Paper Design
• 545,700 K-12 students inspired by the Exploration Generation rocketry curriculum in partnership with National Science Teaching Association and Estes Education
• 20,144 students impacted through events hosted by AIAA Student Branches, Technical Committees, and Sections
• $161,500 was awarded to high school seniors and university students in scholarships and graduate awards
• $77,500 was awarded to K-12 educators as grants and awards
I invite you to read stories about the impact of the AIAA Foundation at aiaa.org/foundation.
The AIAA Foundation serves a vital mission – motivating young minds to pursue aerospace careers and supporting them on that journey. Having met Diversity Scholars, Kahn Scholarship winners, and Trailblazing STEM Educators this year, I know our programs are making a difference. Seeing their excitement and passion for their work is very impactful and it makes me even more proud to be an AIAA member who supports them.
An Invitation to the 2024 AIAA Foundation Day of Giving
We each have a special opportunity this year to support the AIAA Foundation with a financial contribution. The Foundation will participate in the nationally recognized Day of Giving on 3 December. Our goal is to inspire the possibilities of the future. I hope each of you will join me in contributing toward our goal of raising $100,000 to shape the future of aerospace.
More now than ever, I am optimistic about AIAA’s bright future. With your generosity, the Foundation will continue supporting students and teachers, inspiring more young people to launch a career in aerospace.
