Astronaut Sally Ride to host science festival at Irvine
Date: 2005-10-24
Contact: Jim Cohen
Phone: (949) 824-7913
Email: jecohen@uci.edu
EVENT:
Hosted by America's first woman astronaut, the Sally Ride Science Festival is aimed at encouraging girls in grades five through eight to
explore the world of science -- from astrobiology to zoology; environmental engineering to rocket science. The event will feature a keynote speech by Ride, as well as Discovery Workshops led by women professionals ranging from veterinarians to rocket scientists, and a festive Street Fair with booths, exhibits, food, music and a drawing for
prizes. There is also a workshop for parents and teachers on ways to support girls' interests in science and math.

DATE & TIME:
Nov. 13, 2005; 11 a.m.-4:15 p.m.

LOCATION:
UCI Bren Events Center
Campus map: www.uci.edu/campusmap

INFORMATION:
Advance registration is required and is $18. The registration fee includes the featured talk, workshops, lunch and the Street Fair. Teachers, parents and students can register and learn more about the festival by visiting www.sallyridefestivals.com/05uci1113 or by calling (800) 561-5161.

BACKGROUND:
Best known as the first American woman to travel in space, Sally Ride is also a professor of physics at UC San Diego (currently on leave). In
addition to teaching and research, Ride has long been involved in educational outreach. She initiated NASA's EarthKAM project, which has enabled thousands of middle school students to take photographs of Earth from a camera aboard the International Space Station. She also has written five science books for children, and has spoken at over 200 events for girls, young women and teachers. She has received many honors and awards, including induction into the National Women's Hall of Fame.

Sally Ride Science(tm) was founded by Ride in 2001. The company's mission is to empower girls to explore the world of science and to increase the number of girls who are technically literate and have the foundation needed to pursue careers in science, math or engineering.