Dear Museum Supporter:
We are pleased to announce that the 20th Annual Air & Space Gala will be held on Thursday, November 2, 2023.
The Gala serves to provide much-needed support for the expansion of the museum’s historical preservation efforts and many education programs. These programs include our STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) programs at the middle and high school levels and our STEM partnerships with elementary schools throughout the area. The Gala serves as an opportunity to honor the historical events and the accomplishments of leaders in the aerospace community.
Spirit of Discovery Award
This year we are celebrating women in aviation. We will be honoring Col. Eileen M. Collins with the Spirit of Discovery Award. Collins retired from the Air Force in Jan 2005 and from NASA in May 2006 after a 28-year distinguished career. A former military instructor and test pilot, Collins was the first female pilot and first female commander of a space shuttle.
Harriet Quimby Award - Honoring Leaders in Aviation
Following the award ceremony, an engaging panel discussion awaits, featuring esteemed women leaders in the aerospace industry. The panel will be moderated by Linda Armyn, President and CEO at Bethpage Federal Credit Union. Joining her are Col. Collins, Anne Shybunko-Moore, CEO and Owner of GSE Dynamics, Inc., Sharon B. DeVivo, EdD., President & CEO of Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology, Teresa Ferraro, President of East/West Industries, Shelley LaRose-Arken, Commissioner of Aviation at Long Island McArthur Airport, and Teresa Rizzuto, General Manager of JFK International Airport. Their collective expertise and insights promise to shed light on the cutting-edge developments and challenges shaping the aerospace landscape. This panel is sure to inspire and empower the next generation of aspiring women leaders in the field.
Through your support, you can play a major role in helping the Cradle to continue to be a major educational center for STEM here on Long Island and help us to inspire the next generation of engineers, scientists, pilots, and astronauts.
Please join our efforts by becoming a dinner sponsor, placing an ad in our tribute journal, or by donating an auction item.
For additional information, please contact:
Carol Nelson
Director of Development
Phone: 516-572-4026
Email: cnelson@cradleofaviation.org
