The Crossfield Award Began in 1986

The National Aviation Hall of Fame has announced that Caroline Little, a Space Foundation Teacher Liaison, Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum Fellow, NASA Wearable Equipment to Avert Radiation Mentor, and long time educator is the 2021 recipient of NAHF’s A. Scott Crossfield Educator of the Year. 

The Crossfield award began in 1986 by NAHF Enshrinee Scott Crossfield as a juried annual competition to recognize exemplary use of aerospace in their classroom. Crossfield’s career touched on aerospace testing, research, and pressurized suit design that later led to the space program’s work.

Little has created her own curriculum for two decades, developing science and space lessons that have led to increasing student involvement in professional development programs. 

In her nomination for the award, Mark Westlake, another award-winning educator, said “Caroline Little is a wonderful addition to the list of A. Scott Crossfield Aerospace Teacher of the Year awards for the role she has had developing young women and men into explorers who see themselves as agents of change. Her passion for science and engineering education can be seen in the projects and contests she makes available for her students.

Watching her sophomore students test their simulated satellite insertion device (SLED) as her team of teachers participated in NASA's Microgravity University for Educators is just as exciting as listening to a group a group of her top juniors make their final presentations to NASA Langley Engineers on their work to develop protective wear for astronauts during long duration Space travel.”

Little has made fans at many schools and institutions as she’s accumulated a number of awards throughout her career. Other honors received include a finalist spot in the Edward C. Roy Jr. Award for Excellence in K-8 Earth Science Teaching, a National Geographic and Lindblad Expeditions Grosvenor Teaching Fellow and a recipient of an Air Force Association Educator Grant. 

Phil Roberts, NAHF Awards Chair, said they are proud of their newest addition. “Ms. Little’s nomination was unanimously selected for the 2021 Crossfield Award. After reviewing her extraordinary biography, previous Crossfield winners are excited and truly impressed. The addition of Caroline truly elevates an already prestigious group.”

FMI: www.nationalaviation.org