May 28, 2008
Virtual Shana
NASA Deputy Administrator Shana Dale's Blog: California Outreach Effort
"I am excited about the future and I enjoy talking about what we are doing and where we are going with the Nation's space program. What resonates with the general public the most is the combination of the inspiration from our space exploration missions with the examples of how NASA-derived technologies are critical for life here on Earth.
After my keynote in San Jose, several individuals said my speech was "powerful" and that is such a compliment because now they "get" it and are re-energized in their interest in America's space program. As my staff says, the speeches I give are getting better. I am an introvert by nature and I have stepped way out of my comfort zone, but I feel it is extremely important to discuss the importance of NASA to the general public."
Posted by kcowing at May 28, 2008 1:01 AM
So now NASA's only reason for being is Spinoffs?
I think it's awesome Shana's staff like her speeches. Her million dollar forums sure are working! LOOK at the upswell of support from America -- no one mentions gas prices without first saying "NASA's vision sure is great" -- it's amazing. Her bravery in daring to speak publicly -- outside of her comfort zone -- is a testament to the type leadership Mike Griffin chooses to really rocket us into the future.
Posted by: Tom Gunn at May 28, 2008 10:50 AMI was there as well, and I was impressed with her ability to preach to the hand picked choir. Since everyone there was NASA funded in one way or another, I did not quite see the point of telling us how cool NASA is. I was also impressed with all the questions that she answered, (none) and the fact that she stayed around to talk shop for approximately 15 seconds. (why didn't she just send a video?)
The animations were great, and the lighting and AV was second to none. Of course there were no technical discussions.
The discussions about the lack of interest in STEM (Science Technology, Engineering and Math) education were not very interesting.
The Second Life stuff was kind of goofy, which perked things up a little. All in all a typical Bush administration press conference, with very little substantive discussion or information provided.
I can hardly wait for Jan 2009.
Steve Harrington
Posted by: Steve Harrington at May 29, 2008 12:38 AMShana Dale is making a valiant effort, but the cards are stacked against her. The looming political shift and inability of VSE to gain traction with the American public makes all of this promotional activity moot.
