Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson hosted the 13th Annual Math & Science Lecture Series at the University of Texas at Dallas’ “Eddie Bernice Johnson Math and Science Lecture Series” at Yvonne A. Ewell Townview Magnet Center in Dallas, Texas on March 7th. This lecture series was started by the University of Texas at Dallas in an effort to expose Dallas-area high school students to career opportunities, and accomplished professionals in the disciplines of math and science.
“We’re not here today just to get you out of class or entertain you for an hour,” Congresswoman Johnson told the gathered students. “We’ve come today with a particular request from each of you. We are seeking your commitment to Science and Math, because we need you. Our nation needs your talent and your brain power. We need students from your diverse backgrounds, unique life experiences and creative prowess to ensure that our nation remains globally competitive.”
High school students at Townview were able to hear and learn from two of NASA’s bright and rising coming stars. Astronaut Tyler Hague, a member of 2013 NASA astronaut class, spoke to the students about his journey to becoming an astronaut and telling the students that they could follow him and others into the space program. “Your personal journey begins where you start, and each of you can go anywhere,” said Astronaut Hague. “Dream big and don’t give up.”
The keynote address was given by Vanessa Wyche, the Assistant Director of Technical and Management Integration for Johnson Space Center. She also shared her career journey with the students. Assistant Director Wyche explained why STEM is so integral for high school students and for the pursuit of careers in the future.
“I decided that I wanted to pursue a STEM career when I went to college,” said Vanessa E. Wyche. ” I worked on the space shuttle and helped to assemble the space station. Our country needs the minds and talents of students such as you so that we can continue the exploration of space which is vital to our nation’s future growth and development.”
