Inspiring the next generation of explorers, outside-the-box thinkers and STEM professionals, CIRI’s first-ever Stellar Space Experience gave students an unforgettable, hands-on journey into the world of space, science and teamwork.
Held July 25-27 in Anchorage and Kenai, Alaska, the event gave 15 high-school-age Shareholders and Descendants with strong backgrounds or interests in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) a chance to dive deeper into their scientific interests, engage with like-minded peers, and meet and learn from experts in their fields, including retired NASA astronaut Don Thomas.
STEM careers are the backbone of our future economy, driving innovation and creating opportunities that didn’t exist a generation ago. “By pairing these skills with traditional Alaska Native values—respect for the land, collaboration and resilience—we can prepare young people to navigate a rapidly changing world while staying grounded in who they are,” said Darla Graham, director, CIRI stakeholder engagement.
The Stellar Space Experience kicked off at Cook Inlet Tribal Council’s (CITC) Denełchin Lab, where participants competed in team challenges, heard from astronaut Thomas and other STEM professionals, and created stickers using fab lab technology. Days two and three were spent at the Challenger Learning Center in Kenai, with students working to design a science experiment to fly to the International Space Station, competing in a “packing for Mars” challenge and learning about astronaut traditions.
CIRI was pleased to host the Stellar Space Experience with our partner organizations CITC, the Challenger Learning Center of Alaska, Higher Orbits Go For Launch! and the International Space Station National Laboratory. Thank you to everyone, including our 15 incredible and innovative Shareholder and Descendant participants, who helped make this inaugural program a success!
