Astronaut Anousheh Ansari To Be There For Opening Ceremony
The innovation and achievement available through aviation and
the sciences are available to everyone, but young women often
underestimate the opportunities available to them. The Experimental
Aircraft Association, which hosts the world-renowned EAA AirVenture
Oshkosh fly-in each year, believes these areas hold great potential
for any young person with the knowledge and motivation to
succeed.
That's why EAA is continuing its "Women Soar" event on July
22-23, coinciding with the start of EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, The
World's Greatest Aviation Celebration, on July 23-29. The 55th
annual EAA fly-in convention is the perfect place to showcase the
possibilities available to girls in aviation and science, as these
young people decide their future paths.
"We're encouraging attendance by girls at an age where they are
thinking about what they want to do with their lives and
introducing to women in careers that many girls may never have
considered," said Elissa Lines, EAA's Vice President of
Development. "They may be attracted to aviation, the sciences or
engineering, but never considered it as a lifelong pursuit. Women
Soar will plant those seeds that may allow these girls to explore
their own potential."
The two-day program includes breakout sessions devoted to
particular aviation and science pursuits, as well as presentations
from female mentors representing aviation and industry. In
addition, everyone attending will have the opportunity to explore
the dynamic world of flight at EAA AirVenture as part of the
organized activities.
As part of the opening welcome program on Sunday, July 22,
astronaut Anousheh Ansari will participate as a special guest. In
September 2006, Ansari became the first female private space
explorer and the first astronaut of Iranian descent, when she flew
on the Soyuz TMA-9 mission and spent eight days on the
International Space Station. Ansari and her family also sponsored
the $10 million Ansari X Prize, which recognized the pursuit of the
first successful civilian space mission.
EAA's Women Soar 2007 encourages all women to participate, but
particularly young women entering grades eight through 12, their
parents and all teachers. Registration for students wanting to
participate in this one-of-a-kind event is just $10. Local Girl
Scouts groups are also coordinating overnight camping during the
event for those interested.
In addition, there will be an essay contest in conjunction with
this year's event, as well as a scholarship in the name of the late
Ethel Finley, a World War II-era Women Airforce Service Pilot
(WASP) and EAA supporter, which will support attendance at the EAA
Air Academy or enrollment in the organization's online Aeroscholars
program.
As details are finalized, complete information and registration
forms will be available on EAA's website. Keep checking back for
updates.
Bolen Gives Congress a Rare Thumbs-Up
See All