Information from the Hispanic Federation is on display in the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building Mission Briefing Room at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, during a Hispanic Heritage Month presentation on Oct. 10, 2019. Yanidsi Velez-Bonet, senior director of Florida Programs and Policy for the Hispanic Federation is this year’s guest speaker. The event, hosted by the center’s Hispanic Heritage Outreach and Leadership Alliance (HOLA) employee resource group, focused on the theme “Hispanic Americans: A History of Serving our Nation.” HOLA’s initiatives include education and recruitment, professional networking and development, and community outreach and media support.

Information from the Hispanic Federation is on display in the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building Mission Briefing Room at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, during a Hispanic Heritage Month presentation on Oct. 10, 2019. Yanidsi Velez-Bonet, senior director of Florida Programs and Policy for the Hispanic Federation is this year’s guest speaker. The event was hosted by the center’s Hispanic Heritage Outreach and Leadership Alliance (HOLA) employee resource group. This year’s theme is “Hispanic Americans: A History of Serving our Nation.” HOLA’s initiatives include education and recruitment, professional networking and development, and community outreach and media support.

Yanidsi Velez-Bonet, senior director of Florida Programs and Policy for the Hispanic Federation, speaks to workers at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Oct. 10, 2019. The event was hosted by the center’s Hispanic Heritage Outreach and Leadership Alliance (HOLA) employee resource group for Hispanic Heritage Month. This year’s theme is “Hispanic Americans: A History of Serving our Nation.” HOLA’s initiatives include education and recruitment, professional networking and development, and community outreach and media support.

Yanidsi Velez-Bonet, senior director of Florida Programs and Policy for the Hispanic Federation, speaks to workers at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Oct. 10, 2019. The event was hosted by the center’s Hispanic Heritage Outreach and Leadership Alliance (HOLA) employee resource group for Hispanic Heritage Month. This year’s theme is “Hispanic Americans: A History of Serving our Nation.” HOLA’s initiatives include education and recruitment, professional networking and development, and community outreach and media support.

Yanidsi Velez-Bonet, senior director of Florida Programs and Policy for the Hispanic Federation, speaks to workers at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Oct. 10, 2019. The event was hosted by the center’s Hispanic Heritage Outreach and Leadership Alliance (HOLA) employee resource group for Hispanic Heritage Month. This year’s theme is “Hispanic Americans: A History of Serving our Nation.” HOLA’s initiatives include education and recruitment, professional networking and development, and community outreach and media support.

Yanidsi Velez-Bonet, senior director of Florida Programs and Policy for the Hispanic Federation, speaks to workers at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Oct. 10, 2019 and takes questions from workers after her presentation. The event was hosted by the center’s Hispanic Heritage Outreach and Leadership Alliance (HOLA) employee resource group for Hispanic Heritage Month. This year’s theme is “Hispanic Americans: A History of Serving our Nation.” HOLA’s initiatives include education and recruitment, professional networking and development, and community outreach and media support.

Kennedy Space Center workers mingle before a Hispanic Heritage Month presentation in the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building Mission Briefing Room on Oct. 10, 2019. Yanidsi Velez-Bonet, senior director of Florida Programs and Policy for the Hispanic Federation was this year’s guest speaker. The event was hosted by the center’s Hispanic Heritage Outreach and Leadership Alliance (HOLA) employee resource group. This year’s theme is “Hispanic Americans: A History of Serving our Nation.” HOLA’s initiatives include education and recruitment, professional networking and development, and community outreach and media support.

NASA Engineer Edsel Sanchez welcomes Kennedy Space Center workers to a Hispanic Heritage Month presentation in the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building Mission Briefing Room on Oct. 10, 2019. Yanidsi Velez-Bonet, senior director of Florida Programs and Policy for the Hispanic Federation was this year’s guest speaker. The event was hosted by the center’s Hispanic Heritage Outreach and Leadership Alliance (HOLA) employee resource group. This year’s theme is “Hispanic Americans: A History of Serving our Nation.” HOLA’s initiatives include education and recruitment, professional networking and development, and community outreach and media support.

NASA Kennedy Space Center workers enjoy Hispanic food at KARS Park II during an event to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month on Oct. 17, 2019. The event was hosted by the center’s Hispanic Outreach and Leadership Alliance (HOLA) employee resource group for Hispanic Heritage Month. This year’s theme is “Hispanic Americans: A History of Serving our Nation.” HOLA’s initiatives include education and recruitment, professional networking and development, and community outreach and media support.

NASA Kennedy Space Center workers enjoy Hispanic food at KARS Park II during an event to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month on Oct. 17, 2019. The event was hosted by the center’s Hispanic Outreach and Leadership Alliance (HOLA) employee resource group for Hispanic Heritage Month. This year’s theme is “Hispanic Americans: A History of Serving our Nation.” HOLA’s initiatives include education and recruitment, professional networking and development, and community outreach and media support.

NASA Kennedy Space Center workers gather at KARS Park II to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month on Oct. 17, 2019. The event was hosted by the center’s Hispanic Outreach and Leadership Alliance (HOLA) employee resource group for Hispanic Heritage Month. This year’s theme is “Hispanic Americans: A History of Serving our Nation.” HOLA’s initiatives include education and recruitment, professional networking and development, and community outreach and media support.

NASA Kennedy Space Center workers gather at KARS Park II to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month on Oct. 17, 2019. The event was hosted by the center’s Hispanic Outreach and Leadership Alliance (HOLA) employee resource group for Hispanic Heritage Month. This year’s theme is “Hispanic Americans: A History of Serving our Nation.” HOLA’s initiatives include education and recruitment, professional networking and development, and community outreach and media support.

A NASA Kennedy Space Center workers enjoys a treat during a gathering at KARS Park II to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month on Oct. 17, 2019. The event was hosted by the center’s Hispanic Outreach and Leadership Alliance (HOLA) employee resource group for Hispanic Heritage Month. This year’s theme is “Hispanic Americans: A History of Serving our Nation.” HOLA’s initiatives include education and recruitment, professional networking and development, and community outreach and media support.

ZENIA GARCIA SPEAKS ON HISPANIC HERITAGE HISTORY

MIKE TINKER SPEAKS ABOUT "LICENSE TO INNOVATE" AT HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH EVENT

ASTRONAUT DR. JOHN "DANNY" OLIVAS ADDRESSES ATTENDEES AT HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH EVENT

ASTRONAUT DR. JOHN "DANNY" OLIVAS ADDRESSES ATTENDEES AT HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH EVENT

ASTRONAUT DR. JOHN "DANNY" OLIVAS ADDRESSES ATTENDEES AT HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH EVENT

ASTRONAUT DR. JOHN "DANNY" OLIVAS ADDRESSES ATTENDEES AT HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH EVENT

Trina Espinoza, Science Communicator, Hispanic Heritage Foundation, moderates a panel at a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Debus Center at the KSC Visitor Complex, employees help themselves to a variety of Hispanic foods during the Center’s annual Hispanic American Heritage luncheon. The theme was “Hispanic Americans Making a Difference” and featured guest speaker Charles A. Gambaro, NASA KSC engineering lead and Combat Engineering Group commander, who recently returned from Operation Iraqi Freedom. Hosted by the Hispanic Employment Program Working Group, the luncheon also provided live cultural entertainment. The annual event helps employees reflect on the extensive contributions Hispanics have made to KSC, NASA and the nation.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Guest speaker Charles A. Gambaro, NASA KSC engineering lead and Combat Engineering Group commander, speaks to an appreciative audience during KSC’s annual Hispanic American Heritage luncheon. The theme was “Hispanic Americans Making a Difference.” Gambaro recently returned from Operation Iraqi Freedom. Hosted by the Hispanic Employment Program Working Group, the luncheon also provided live cultural entertainment. The annual event helps employees reflect on the extensive contributions Hispanics have made to KSC, NASA and the nation.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Astronaut Fernando Caldeiro (left) and Joseph Tellado (right) present a memento of appreciation to Tom Neimeyer (with InDyne Corp.) at KSC’s annual Hispanic American Heritage luncheon. The theme was “Hispanic Americans Making a Difference.” Tellado was co-chair of the event hosted by the Hispanic Employment Program Working Group. InDyne was one of the sponsors of the luncheon. The annual event helps employees reflect on the extensive contributions Hispanics have made to KSC, NASA and the nation.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Felix A. Soto Toro (left) and Joseph Tellado (right) get into the spirit of KSC’s annual Hispanic American Heritage luncheon. The theme was “Hispanic Americans Making a Difference.” Soto Toro and Tellado are co-chairs of the event hosted by the Hispanic Employment Program Working Group. The annual event helps employees reflect on the extensive contributions Hispanics have made to KSC, NASA and the nation. The guest speaker was Charles A. Gambaro, NASA KSC engineering lead and Combat Engineering Group commander, who recently returned from Operation Iraqi Freedom.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Astronaut Fernando Caldeiro (left) and Joseph Tellado (right) present a memento of appreciation to Charles A. Gambaro (center), NASA KSC engineering lead and Combat Engineering Group commander, who recently returned from Operation Iraqi Freedom. Gambaro was the guest speaker at KSC’s annual Hispanic American Heritage luncheon. The theme was “Hispanic Americans Making a Difference.” Caldeiro was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Tellado was co-chair of the event hosted by the Hispanic Employment Program Working Group. The annual event helps employees reflect on the extensive contributions Hispanics have made to KSC, NASA and the nation.

NASA Astronaut Frank Rubio answers a question at a staff engagement event that took place during a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Jose Hernandez, retired NASA Astronaut, provides remarks at a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

NASA Astronaut Frank Rubio answers a question at a staff engagement event that took place during a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Diana Trujillo, NASA Human Spaceflight Director, speaks on a panel at a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Frank Rubio, NASA Astronaut provides closing remarks at a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Frank Rubio, NASA Astronaut, speaks at a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

NASA Astronaut Frank Rubio speaks at a staff engagement event that took place during a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

NASA Astronaut Frank Rubio speaks at a staff engagement event that took place during a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

NASA Astronaut Frank Rubio speaks at a staff engagement event that took place during a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Jose Hernandez, retired NASA Astronaut, provides remarks at a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

NASA Astronaut Marcos Berrios speaks at a staff engagement event that took place during a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Ray Lugo, director of the Florida Space Institute in Orlando and former director of NASA's Glenn Research Center, talks with Jody Singer, director of NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, Oct. 18 following his keynote address at Marshall's annual Hispanic Heritage Month celebration.

NASA Astronaut Marcos Berrios speaks at a staff engagement event that took place during a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Jose Hernandez, retired NASA Astronaut, provides remarks at a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Ron Lopez, President, Astroscale, US, speaks on a panel at a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Jose Hernandez, retired NASA Astronaut, provides remarks at a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Frank Rubio, NASA Astronaut, speaks at a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

NASA Astronaut Frank Rubio answers a question at a staff engagement event that took place during a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Major Sandra Ahinga, Chief of Operations Law, U.S. Space Command, speaks on a panel at a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Karina Perez, Director for Unmanned and Emerging Aviation Technologies, Aerospace Industries Association, speaks on a panel at a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At KSC’s annual Hispanic American Heritage luncheon, contractor sponsors were presented certificates of appreciation. Accepting were (from left) Dick Lyons, with ASRC Aerospace Corp.; Tom Niemeyer, with InDyne Corp.; Kevin Hoshstrasser (with Boeing); Vera Pettis, with Lockheed Martin; and Bill Sample, with SGS. Next to them are astronaut Fernando Caldeiro, Felix A. Soto Toro and Joseph Tellado. Soto Toro and Tellado were co-chairs of the event hosted by the Hispanic Employment Program Working Group. The annual event helps employees reflect on the extensive contributions Hispanics have made to KSC, NASA and the nation.

From left to right, moderator Trina Espinoza, Science Communicator, Hispanic Heritage Foundation, Ingrid Padilla, Professor in Environmental and Water Resources Engineering, University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez (UPRM), Frank Avila, Deputy Director, Source Operations, National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA), and Diana Trujillo, NASA Human Spaceflight Director, speak on a panel at a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Diana Trujillo, NASA Human Spaceflight Director, right, speaks on a panel with, from left to right, moderator Trina Espinoza, Science Communicator, Hispanic Heritage Foundation, Ingrid Padilla, Professor in Environmental and Water Resources Engineering, University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez (UPRM), and Frank Avila, Deputy Director, Source Operations, National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA), at a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Diana Trujillo, NASA Human Spaceflight Director, right, speaks on a panel with, from left to right, moderator Trina Espinoza, Science Communicator, Hispanic Heritage Foundation, Ingrid Padilla, Professor in Environmental and Water Resources Engineering, University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez (UPRM), and Frank Avila, Deputy Director, Source Operations, National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA), at a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Diana Trujillo, NASA Human Spaceflight Director, speaks on a panel with, from left to right, moderator Trina Espinoza, Science Communicator, Hispanic Heritage Foundation, Ingrid Padilla, Professor in Environmental and Water Resources Engineering, University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez (UPRM), and Frank Avila, Deputy Director, Source Operations, National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA), at a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Marcos Berrios, NASA Astronaut, speaks at a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

NASA Astronauts Frank Rubio, left, and Marcos Berrios, speak at a staff engagement event that took place during a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Chirag Parikh, Deputy Assistant to the President and Executive Secretary of the National Space Council speaks at a staff engagement event that took place during a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Frank Avila, Deputy Director, Source Operations, National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) speaks on a panel at a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Ingrid Padilla, Professor in Environmental and Water Resources Engineering, University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez (UPRM) speaks on a panel at a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Chirag Parikh, Deputy Assistant to the President and Executive Secretary of the National Space Council, speaks at a staff engagement event that took place during a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Chirag Parikh, Deputy Assistant to the President and Executive Secretary of the National Space Council, introduces NASA Astronauts Frank Rubio, center, and Marcos Berrios, at a staff engagement event that took place during a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Chirag Parikh, Deputy Assistant to the President and Executive Secretary of the National Space Council, hands a letter from U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris to NASA astronaut Frank Rubio after reading it at the conclusion of a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Chirag Parikh, Deputy Assistant to the President and Executive Secretary of the National Space Council, reads a letter from U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris to NASA astronaut Frank Rubio at the conclusion of a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Wilmar Galvez Alfonso, Aerospace Engineering Student, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University moderates a discussion with NASA astronauts Frank Rubio and Marcos Berrios at a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Chirag Parikh, Deputy Assistant to the President and Executive Secretary of the National Space Council, shakes hands with NASA astronaut Frank Rubio after reading a letter from U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris at the conclusion of a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Chirag Parikh, Deputy Assistant to the President and Executive Secretary of the National Space Council, top left, and NASA Astronauts Frank Rubio, center, and Marcos Berrios, speak at a staff engagement event that took place during a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Carrington Jones-Jackson, Intern, Vice Presidential Correspondence, asks a question at at a staff engagement event that took place during a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Chirag Parikh, Deputy Assistant to the President and Executive Secretary of the National Space Council, left, and NASA Astronauts Frank Rubio, center, and Marcos Berrios, speak at a staff engagement event that took place during a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Chirag Parikh, Deputy Assistant to the President and Executive Secretary of the National Space Council, left, and NASA Astronauts Frank Rubio, center, and Marcos Berrios, speak at a staff engagement event that took place during a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Wilmar Galvez Alfonso, Aerospace Engineering Student, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University moderates a discussion with NASA astronauts Frank Rubio and Marcos Berrios at a White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

NASA astronauts Frank Rubio, center left, and Marcos Berrios, center right, pose for a photo on the Navy Steps of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building with attendees, panelists, and speakers of the White House Hispanic Heritage month event titled “Soaring Together: Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Leaders” at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Portrait of Nelson Morales, chief of NASA Glenn’s Structural Mechanics Branch, was chosen as a 2023 Luminary. This award recognizes Hispanic innovators who are engineering the future while lighting the way for the next generation of STEM leaders. Luminaries are chosen for their achievements leading, collaborating, and initiating key programs and research in their respective fields.

DR. PEDRO “PETE” RODRIGUEZ SPEAKS TO A FULL HOUSE AT HISPANIC MONTH LUNCH & LEARN EVENT ON “PAVING THE WAY TO MARS”, 10/30/19.

U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan speaks during an event at the National Press Club in Washington, Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2010. NASA is working with Univision Communications Inc. to develop a partnership in support of the Spanish-language media outlet's initiative to improve high school graduation rates, prepare Hispanic students for college, and encourage them to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM, disciplines. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan speaks at an event at the National Press Club in Washington, Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2010. NASA is working with Univision Communications Inc. to develop a partnership in support of the Spanish-language media outlet's initiative to improve high school graduation rates, prepare Hispanic students for college, and encourage them to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM, disciplines. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

NASA Administrator Charles Bolden, right, poses with U.S. Rep. Lincoln Diaz-Balart, R-Fla., prior to the start of an event at the National Press Club in Washington, Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2010. NASA is working with Univision Communications Inc. to develop a partnership in support of the Spanish-language media outlet's initiative to improve high school graduation rates, prepare Hispanic students for college, and encourage them to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM, disciplines. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

Melinda French Gates, of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation speaks at an event at the National Press Club in Washington, Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2010. NASA is working with Univision Communications Inc. to develop a partnership in support of the Spanish-language media outlet's initiative to improve high school graduation rates, prepare Hispanic students for college, and encourage them to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM, disciplines. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

Univision news anchor Jorge Ramos speaks at an event at the National Press Club in Washington, Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2010. NASA is working with Univision Communications Inc. to develop a partnership in support of the Spanish-language media outlet's initiative to improve high school graduation rates, prepare Hispanic students for college, and encourage them to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM, disciplines. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

Univision Communications President and Chief Executive Officer Joe Uva speaks at an event at the National Press Club in Washington, Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2010. NASA is working with Univision Communications Inc. to develop a partnership in support of the Spanish-language media outlet's initiative to improve high school graduation rates, prepare Hispanic students for college, and encourage them to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM, disciplines. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

U.S. Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis speaks at an event at the National Press Club in Washington, Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2010. NASA is working with Univision Communications Inc. to develop a partnership in support of the Spanish-language media outlet's initiative to improve high school graduation rates, prepare Hispanic students for college, and encourage them to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM, disciplines. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

Melinda French Gates, of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, speaks during an event at the National Press Club in Washington, Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2010. NASA is working with Univision Communications Inc. to develop a partnership in support of the Spanish-language media outlet's initiative to improve high school graduation rates, prepare Hispanic students for college, and encourage them to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM, disciplines. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

Univision Networks president Cesar Conde speaks at the National Press Club in Washington, Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2010. NASA is working with Univision Communications Inc. to develop a partnership in support of the Spanish-language media outlet's initiative to improve high school graduation rates, prepare Hispanic students for college, and encourage them to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM, disciplines. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

NASA Administrator Charles Bolden, left, speaks with Melinda French Gates, of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, right, prior to the start of an event at the National Press Club in Washington, Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2010. NASA is working with Univision Communications Inc. to develop a partnership in support of the Spanish-language media outlet's initiative to improve high school graduation rates, prepare Hispanic students for college, and encourage them to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM, disciplines. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

Rosie Rios, the 43rd Treasurer of the United States explores how understanding our history will provide a clearer roadmap for understanding where the country's future is heading. Presented by the Ames Women's Influence Network (WIN) and the Hispanic Advisory Committee for Employees (HACE) in the Syvertson Auditorium (N-201) at Ames Research Center.

Rosie Rios, the 43rd Treasurer of the United States explores how understanding our history will provide a clearer roadmap for understanding where the country's future is heading. Presented by the Ames Women's Influence Network (WIN) and the Hispanic Advisory Committee for Employees (HACE) in the Syvertson Auditorium (N-201) at Ames Research Center.

Rosie Rios, the 43rd Treasurer of the United States explores how understanding our history will provide a clearer roadmap for understanding where the country's future is heading. Presented by the Ames Women's Influence Network (WIN) and the Hispanic Advisory Committee for Employees (HACE) in the Syvertson Auditorium (N-201) at Ames Research Center.

Rosie Rios, the 43rd Treasurer of the United States explores how understanding our history will provide a clearer roadmap for understanding where the country's future is heading. Presented by the Ames Women's Influence Network (WIN) and the Hispanic Advisory Committee for Employees (HACE) in the Syvertson Auditorium (N-201) at Ames Research Center.

Rosie Rios, the 43rd Treasurer of the United States explores how understanding our history will provide a clearer roadmap for understanding where the country's future is heading. Presented by the Ames Women's Influence Network (WIN) and the Hispanic Advisory Committee for Employees (HACE) in the Syvertson Auditorium (N-201) at Ames Research Center.

NASA Flight Director Diana Trujillo gives remarks during an event where NASA and the Hispanic Heritage Foundation signed a Space Act Agreement to collaborate and expand STEM opportunities for Latino K-12 and university students and reduce barriers to agency activities and opportunities, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024, at the NASA Headquarters Mary W. Jackson Building in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

Rosie Rios, the 43rd Treasurer of the United States explores how understanding our history will provide a clearer roadmap for understanding where the country's future is heading. Presented by the Ames Women's Influence Network (WIN) and the Hispanic Advisory Committee for Employees (HACE) in the Syvertson Auditorium (N-201) at Ames Research Center. Annette Randall, Chair, WIN, Rosie Rios, Ivory Young, HACE Rep.

NASA Flight Director Diana Trujillo gives remarks during an event where NASA and the Hispanic Heritage Foundation signed a Space Act Agreement to collaborate and expand STEM opportunities for Latino K-12 and university students and reduce barriers to agency activities and opportunities, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024, at the NASA Headquarters Mary W. Jackson Building in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

Jack Boyd (Left) with Rosie Rios, the 43rd Treasurer of the United States explores how understanding our history will provide a clearer roadmap for understanding where the country's future is heading. Presented by the Ames Women's Influence Network (WIN) and the Hispanic Advisory Committee for Employees (HACE) in the Syvertson Auditorium (N-201) at Ames Research Center. Jack Boyd with Rosie Rios

Ames Center Director, Eugene Tu (Left) with Rosie Rios, the 43rd Treasurer of the United States explores how understanding our history will provide a clearer roadmap for understanding where the country's future is heading. Presented by the Ames Women's Influence Network (WIN) and the Hispanic Advisory Committee for Employees (HACE) in the Syvertson Auditorium (N-201) at Ames Research Center. Eugene Tu, Ames Director with Rosie Rios

NASA Flight Director Diana Trujillo gives remarks during an event where NASA and the Hispanic Heritage Foundation signed a Space Act Agreement to collaborate and expand STEM opportunities for Latino K-12 and university students and reduce barriers to agency activities and opportunities, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024, at the NASA Headquarters Mary W. Jackson Building in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

NASA Flight Director Diana Trujillo gives remarks during an event where NASA and the Hispanic Heritage Foundation signed a Space Act Agreement to collaborate and expand STEM opportunities for Latino K-12 and university students and reduce barriers to agency activities and opportunities, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024, at the NASA Headquarters Mary W. Jackson Building in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

NASA Public Engagement Advisor Sol Ortega moderates an event where NASA and the Hispanic Heritage Foundation signed a Space Act Agreement to collaborate and expand STEM opportunities for Latino K-12 and university students and reduce barriers to agency activities and opportunities, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024, at the NASA Headquarters Mary W. Jackson Building in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy gives remarks during an event where NASA and the Hispanic Heritage Foundation signed a Space Act Agreement to collaborate and expand STEM opportunities for Latino K-12 and university students and reduce barriers to agency activities and opportunities, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024, at the NASA Headquarters Mary W. Jackson Building in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

NASA Spanish Communications Lead María-José Viñas Garcia gives remarks during an event where NASA and the Hispanic Heritage Foundation signed a Space Act Agreement to collaborate and expand STEM opportunities for Latino K-12 and university students and reduce barriers to agency activities and opportunities, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024, at the NASA Headquarters Mary W. Jackson Building in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

NASA Spanish Communications Lead María-José Viñas Garcia gives remarks during an event where NASA and the Hispanic Heritage Foundation signed a Space Act Agreement to collaborate and expand STEM opportunities for Latino K-12 and university students and reduce barriers to agency activities and opportunities, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024, at the NASA Headquarters Mary W. Jackson Building in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

NASA Spanish Communications Lead María-José Viñas Garcia gives remarks during an event where NASA and the Hispanic Heritage Foundation signed a Space Act Agreement to collaborate and expand STEM opportunities for Latino K-12 and university students and reduce barriers to agency activities and opportunities, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024, at the NASA Headquarters Mary W. Jackson Building in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

President and CEO of the Hispanic Heritage Foundation Jose Antonio Tijerino gives remarks during an event where NASA and the HHF signed a Space Act Agreement to collaborate and expand STEM opportunities for Latino K-12 and university students and reduce barriers to agency activities and opportunities, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024, at the NASA Headquarters Mary W. Jackson Building in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

President and CEO of the Hispanic Heritage Foundation Jose Antonio Tijerino, left, and NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy, react after signing a Space Act Agreement between the HHF and NASA to collaborate and expand STEM opportunities for Latino K-12 and university students and reduce barriers to agency activities and opportunities, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024, at the NASA Headquarters Mary W. Jackson Building in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

President and CEO of the Hispanic Heritage Foundation Jose Antonio Tijerino, left, and NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy, sign a Space Act Agreement between the HHF and NASA to collaborate and expand STEM opportunities for Latino K-12 and university students and reduce barriers to agency activities and opportunities, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024, at the NASA Headquarters Mary W. Jackson Building in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

NASA Minority University Research and Education Project, Program Manager, Keya Briscoe, gives remarks during an event where NASA and the Hispanic Heritage Foundation signed a Space Act Agreement to collaborate and expand STEM opportunities for Latino K-12 and university students and reduce barriers to agency activities and opportunities, Monday, Sept. 30, 2024, at the NASA Headquarters Mary W. Jackson Building in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)