Each Astronaut Scholar has their own unique story of how becoming a recipient of the Astronaut Scholarship has impacted their education or career. To show their gratitude and share this opportunity with more students, the Astronaut Scholar Alumni created the Scholars Give Back Campaign in 2009. The first group of scholars gave modest amounts, similar to the humble beginnings of the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation. Today, Astronaut Scholar Alumni contribute annually to support the newest class of Astronaut Scholars.
In addition to monetary gifts, Astronaut Scholars give back in multiple ways such as:
Mentoring,
Volunteering at events,
Serving on committees.
"I own my career success to several great mentors. Working directly with scholars through ASF’s mentoring program enables me to give back. I remember how hard it was to navigate my early career, from choosing a thesis project in graduate school and finding the right lab for my postdoc, to looking for my first job in industry. It is fun to get to know these incredibly bright, young scientists and help them on their journey. ASF provides many great opportunities for me to pay it forward."
– 1999 Astronaut Scholar Douglas Sheridan