I was very fortunate to work with a terrific group of planetary astronomers, solar researchers and astrophysicists in my capacity as a project and grants coordinator at a an independent, nonprofit planetary science directorate for 11 years.

During that time I managed production of over 100 government proposals and managed a minimum of 100 grants and contracts annually involving research in planetary science, solar physics and astronomy as well mission operations and instrumentation.

As a liaison between the research scientists and funding institutions like NASA, National Science Foundation (NSF), Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI), Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) and other private sponsors I experienced first hand how difficult and complicated the process can be to secure and maintain funding for research.

I am very excited to participate in a campaign that will create opportunities for space research in a unique, participatory way!