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Dr. Steve Swanson, former NASA Astronaut and ����ý alumnus, joined the College of Engineering and Computer Science to make direct contact with Astronaut Anne McClain, currently working and living on the International Space Station.��

After a competitive proposal review and selection process, ����ý’s College of Engineering and Computer Science was chosen by to host this once-in-a-lifetime Earth-to-Space call from the Boca Raton campus location.

At 1:25 p.m. on Tuesday, February 19th, students from the College of Engineering and Computer Science, as well as local high schools in the South Florida community, had the opportunity to ask Astronaut McClain questions such as “What skills or experiences made you stand out among your peers when applying to be an astronaut?” and “Describe the experience and your actual trip to space. What do you feel emotionally and physically while in the rocket ship?”

Over 350 guests, comprised of middle, high school, and college students, as well as community and industry members, received a special surprise when Governor Ron DeSantis helped commemorate this special day by joining via Skype to do a welcome message to the audience, prior to the . Additionally, Dr. Steve Swanson, Retired NASA Astronaut and College alumnus, facilitated a fascinating presentation about his time in space.

Hosting such a monumental event has truly provided an extraordinary experience. "Our hope is that this unique experience will leave a long-lasting impression and ignite true interest in . We also hope that the students will see themselves as the next generation to revolutionize and transform the technological landscape of the world," said Stella Batalama, Ph.D., dean of ����ý’s College of Engineering and Computer Science.��

�� Expedition 58 & the ISS �� �� About the Expedition 58 Mission �� NASA’s Tour of the International Space Station �� �� ISS Research & Development �� The Sound (& Visions) of Silence ��