2025 NDSGC Affiliates Meeting Recap: Innovation, Inspiration, & Impact

April 21, 2025

The North Dakota Space Grant Consortium was proud to host our annual Affiliates Meeting this March in Bismarck, North Dakota, celebrating a year of remarkable achievements and collaboration across the state.

Welcoming the Day in Bismarck

This year’s meeting was held at North Dakota’s Gateway to Science, a fitting venue for a day packed with engaging events and meaningful conversations. The morning began with a welcome breakfast and opening remarks from our Director, Dr. Caitlin Milera, who shared exciting updates on the Space Grant program and NASA initiatives.

Student Spotlights: NASA Interns & Fellowship Recipients

We kicked off the event with a Q&A panel featuring several of our recent NASA interns, who shared their experiences and advice for future applicants. This was followed by presentations from our student and faculty fellowship recipients, highlighting the incredible research and projects supported by NDSGC this year.

Assistant Director, Laurie Salander, moderates a panel of former NASA interns sharing their experiences and insights.

Show & Tell: Research Poster Session

One highlight of the day was our interactive poster session, where awardees had the opportunity to display and discuss their research in a collaborative, show-and-tell format. It was an excellent moment for students to be recognized for their hard work while educating and inspiring fellow attendees.

Affiliates showcase their research and engage in meaningful feedback during the interactive poster session.

A Special Message from Senator Hoeven

A memorable part of the day was a guest appearance from Senator, John Hoeven, who spoke about the importance of STEM education and workforce development in North Dakota. His words of encouragement were a powerful reminder of the impact our work has on both a state and national level.

Senator John Hoeven delivers an inspiring address on the vital role of STEM in shaping the future.

Career Readiness with Job Service North Dakota

After a networking lunch, John from Job Service North Dakota led a dynamic session on resume building and interview preparation. His insights and practical advice were a hit with attendees, offering valuable tools to enhance professionalism and career readiness.

A presentation from Job Service helps affiliates enhance their professional readiness.

STEM in Action: Panels and Presentations

The afternoon concluded with engaging panels featuring recipients of our mini-grants and current STEM Ambassadors. These sessions spotlighted the incredible outreach and education efforts happening across the state, and the dedication of those working to make STEM accessible and inspiring for all.

Attendees reflect on their work after completing a hands-on STEM challenge.

Looking Ahead

It was truly an inspiring day of connection, celebration, and growth. We are incredibly proud of all our awardees and partners, and we look forward to continuing to support and expand opportunities for students, educators, and professionals in the year ahead.

We hope to see both familiar and new faces at next year’s meeting!