Kay Ferrari
From AstronomyOutreach network
Kay Ferrai is a member of the Informal Education Group in the Education and Public Outreach Office and was appointed Coordinator of the Solar System Ambassadors Program in 2003.
In addition, Kay was appointed STS-118 Informal Education Implementation Team Lead in 2006. These programs are Strengthening the Astrobiology Community, a partnership between the University of Wisconsin, Madison and JPL, and Polar Literacy, sponsored by NASA’s Science Mission Directorate in support of the International Polar Year.
Outreach
Ferrari spent nine of her over thirty years at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in the Public Services Office of Public Affairs where she coordinated the activities of JPL’s Speakers Bureau and conducted tours of the main facility. In addition, she helped organize and staff special events, outside exhibits, adopt-a-school programs, guest operations, press room activities and regional academic bowl competitions. Kay received an associate degree in Dramatic Arts from the Pasadena Playhouse College of Theatre Arts in 1966.
Awards and Recognition
Kay received the JPL Award for Excellence in 2001 for her efforts to revitalize that then-ailing Solar System Ambassadors program. In 2006, she was awarded the NASA Exceptional Service Medal for her efforts growing the nationwide network of Solar System Ambassadors. Also, in 2006, she was a recipient of one of the AstronomyOutreach Awards (the "Astro Oscar") as an individual for her outstanding contributions to public education and outreach in astronomy and space science.
Kay Ferrari was featured in the publication, Who's Who of American Women in 2006 and 2007.