NASA picks its first student ambassadors

WASHINGTON, May 26 (UPI) -- The U.S. space agency says it has selected more than 80 high-performing interns to become student ambassadors.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration said the new program is designed to engage undergraduate and graduate students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The first group of student ambassadors includes interns from 35 states and 64 different universities.

"As NASA prepares to develop and deploy a next generation of space vehicles, the agency requires greater depth of knowledge and pursuit of innovation than ever before," said Joyce Winterton, NASA assistant administrator for education. "To ensure success in meeting future exploration goals, NASA and the nation must adapt to the changing landscape and develop new strategies to cultivate its future workforce."

NASA managers and mentors nominated the recipients from hundreds of current interns and fellows across the agency.

"Members of the 'NASA Student Ambassadors Virtual Community' will interact with NASA, share information, make professional connections, collaborate with peers, represent NASA in a variety of venues and help NASA inspire and engage future interns," the space agency said.

A list of the selected student ambassadors is available at http://intern.nasa.gov/external/home.php.