There’s much to celebrate about NASA astronaut and NC State graduate Christina Hammock Koch’s record-breaking experiences on the Artemis II mission in April. She became the first woman to leave low Earth orbit, and the first woman to travel to and around the moon. So when NASA called and asked if we’d be willing to serve as the anchor site for her upcoming visit to North Carolina, we obviously said, “Howl, yes.”
We’re perhaps most excited to celebrate the moments when Koch and her crew brought all of us together — as humans, as Americans, as North Carolinians and as a Wolfpack — as we followed along with their journey. Like she said during their space flight, “Ultimately, we will always choose Earth. We will always choose each other.” That’s a sentiment that we know our Wolfpack can get behind.
In that spirit, we’re filling her two days on campus, Aug. 24-25, with as many opportunities as we can to come together, celebrate her achievements and learn from her. Several of them will be livestreamed so our whole Pack can tune in, no matter where you are. Because once you’re a member of the Wolfpack, you never truly leave NC State’s orbit.
Welcome Home Celebration
Monday, Aug. 24, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
The Oval, Centennial Campus
The Wolfpack and special guests will gather on the Oval to welcome Koch home to campus. We’ll celebrate Koch’s record-breaking trip around the moon and all the ways it inspired the people of North Carolina — and past, present and future members of the Pack.
This is the kickoff event for her visit, and there are several surprises in store, so be sure to register to attend in person or tune into the livestream.
Open to our campus community and the public. Registration will open on Aug. 5.
The Launchpad Effect: How Public Higher Education Propels Us Toward a Brighter Future
Tuesday, Aug. 25, 10-11:30 a.m.
Doors open at 9:30 a.m.
Stewart Theatre, Talley Student Union
“Most kids probably dream of becoming an astronaut. I was just the one that never grew out of it.”
— Christina Hammock Koch
When public higher education opens doors for curious students — like Koch — they can go farther than humanity has ever gone.
Koch and Chancellor Kevin Howell will be joined by leading NC State faculty and students for a conversation that will explore what it takes to achieve a big dream, solve a grand challenge or answer a question that has never been asked before — and how NC State, as a land-grant institution, empowers us to Think and Do for the betterment of North Carolina and our world.
This in-person event is invitation only. A livestream will be available.
Astronaut Strategies for College Students
A student-led conversation about wellness, grit and self-trust with Christina Koch
Tuesday, Aug. 25, 3-4 p.m.
Stewart Theatre, Talley Student Union
Astronauts learn psychological strategies that help them stay grounded in space — strategies you can use to survive exam season, build resilience and transform stress into success. Hear firsthand how Koch navigated ambition, doubt and risks throughout college and in pursuit of her dream career.
The in-person event is open to current NC State students. Registration will open on Aug. 5. A livestream will be available.