This past Thursday, we celebrated 25 years of “igniting dreams and launching futures!” It was an unforgettable evening with our founders, friends, partners, and supporters in a chic space, the KuchiSabishii Lounge. The night was filled with conversation, laughter, and recognition of those who have made our first 25 years possible. 

After some refreshments, the program began with a warm welcome, followed by opening remarks from our founder Frank Moore, and executive director Kim Check. Frank recounted the organization's formation, highlighted past and present partners, and thanked everyone in the room for their ongoing support. Kim echoed Frank’s statements and then focused on the organization's achievements, namely the well over 6,000 students served by our programming.

We recognized 23 individuals and organizations in 12 different award categories. These awards recognized our founders, partners, supporters, and more.

Founder Legacy Award
In honor of your vision and unwavering dedication to establishing, growing, and shaping the future of the Virginia Space Flight Academy..

Awarded to: 

• Frank Moore

• Bob & Anne Marshall

Interstellar Partner Impact Award
In recognition of creating inspiring experiences that go beyond the ordinary, leaving a lasting impact on VASFA and its alumni community.

Awarded to:

• NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility

• Northrop Grumman

• NOAA

• Rocket Lab

• Virginia Spaceport Authority

Galaxy Giver Award
In appreciation of your stellar contributions to launching futures and igniting dreams.

Awarded to:

• Allen Andreatch

• Paul & Betty Bibbins

• Kate Campbell

• Anthony Lee Jones

• David Landsberger

Lunar Luminary Award
In honor of the Bahethi Family Foundation, whose generosity lights the way for young minds, guiding them toward a brilliant future.

Awarded to:

• The Bahethi Family

Nebula Nurture Award
In recognition of our enduring partnership and your supportive role in fostering the next generation of STEM leaders.

Awarded to:

• Alexis & Keith Dashield, Fruitland Community Center

Satellite Supporter Award
In honor of your integral support of VASFA’s launch and achieving orbit.

Awarded to:

• Keith Koehler

Space-Time Trailblazer Award
In acknowledgment of your pioneering spirit, blazing a trail that spans from our past, through our present, and extends far into the limitless future.

Awarded to:

• Sean Mulligan

Visionary Vanguard Award
In honor of your dedication and service to leading and shaping VASFA’s future.

Awarded to:

• Helen Sramek

STEM Pioneer Award
In recognition of your long-standing support and dedication to the advancement of VASFA’s STEM programming.

Awarded to:

• Dean Dedicatoria

Starship Ambassador Award
In recognition of your championing VASFA’s STEM education initiatives at every opportunity, near and far!

Awarded to:

• Jason Dietrich

STEM Vanguard Award
In honor of your unwavering commitment and dedication to advancing VASFA's STEM programming, leaving an indelible mark in the cosmic realm of achievement.

Awarded to:

• Geoff Bergen

The night was also a fundraiser to support scholarships for Eastern Shore Virginia and Maryland students. Scholarships for our local students ensure that more young minds have access to the transformative power of STEM education.

Our guests received a limited-edition holiday ornament of VASFA’s 25th Anniversary emblem. There are a small number of these ornaments available to you, our extended family and friends. If you would like to have one of these ornaments, make a $30 donation (covers the shipping costs) and we will mail it to you.