Roger That! Conference will explore space and time, present trailblazing retired NASA astronaut

The events include an academic and public conference at GVSU, programming for K-12 students from both partner organizations and a public celebration at the GRPM .

Deana Weibel, GVSU professor of anthropology and co-organizer of Roger That!, said GVSU's involvement in Roger That! reflects its commitment to interdisciplinary STEAM education, K-12 outreach and community partnership. Supported by funding from the Michigan Space Grant Consortium and GVSU leadership, the university works alongside GRPM each year to deliver programming that emphasizes hands-on learning, design thinking and access to science education by connecting students with astronauts, engineers, scientists and scholars from a range of disciplines.

"Believe it or not, Roger That! is happening for the 10th time," Weibel said. "Our annual celebration of space exploration is about expanding horizons, especially for young people who may not yet see themselves as scientists, engineers or space explorers.

"Alongside the conference itself, our organizing team works year-round to support K-12 outreach through free STEM kits, extending the impact of Roger That! beyond the museum and university. We hope Roger That! participants leave feeling inspired and empowered to imagine themselves as part of the future of exploration."

Weibel also noted that Roger That! programming has received support through the Division of People, Equity, and Culture to facilitate the participation of Epps and to help connect Roger That! with broader Black History Month programming across the university.