Kathryn D. SullivanKathryn D. Sullivan is a scientist, astronaut, and award-winning educator. She currently serves as the founding director of the Battelle Center for Mathematics & Science Education Policy in the John Glenn School of Public Affairs at he Ohio State University. During her 15 years with NASA, Sullivan flew on three space shuttle missions and earned the distinction of being the first American woman to walk in space. She served as chief scientist of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) from 1993 to 1996. She became president & CEO of COSI (Ohio’s Center of Science & Industry), one of the nation’s premiere centers for hands-on science and public outreach.

Recognizing her lifelong work in science education, the National Science Board awarded her its Public Service Medal in 2003. Soon after, she was appointed to that board by the President of the United States, and now serves as vice chairman. Sullivan is an acclaimed speaker on the national and international levels and a strong advocate for bringing the passion and creativity of real science into the heart of teaching and learning. Read More Read Less