Nicole Russ, Astronaut Scholarship Foundation’s Director of Scholarship Program, is no stranger to the space industry. Daughter of James E. Rice, KSC’s Support Operations Director up until his passing, Nicole grew up on the space coast and maintains a passion for space and STEM education. She began her ASF journey as a volunteer, officially joining the team in 2008. She has since become an expert in planning and executing the organization’s events, and currently coordinates all things Astronaut Scholars. In her spare time, Nicole volunteers for the Sea Turtle Preservation Society as well as the American Legion.