Charlie Blackwell-Thompson and Vanessa Wyche are helping shepherd Artemis from vision to reality, each operating at the highest levels of responsibility within the agency.
At Kennedy Space Center, Blackwell-Thompson leads launch operations. Every countdown, system check and go/no-go decision runs through a tightly coordinated process under her watch. It’s a role defined by timing, trust and the ability to perform under extraordinary pressure, where years of preparation culminate in a matter of minutes.
In Houston, Wyche directs Johnson Space Center, where the human side of space exploration comes into focus. Work that ranges from astronaut training to mission control ensures that Artemis missions launch successfully and take sustainable steps toward a lasting presence beyond Earth.
As Artemis pushes the boundaries of exploration, it also highlights the pathways that lead there. In this case, those paths began at Clemson and now extend all the way to the Moon—proof that the next giant leap can start in familiar places. This is a very proud moment for all Tigers.
This month, we also inducted two new members into the Thomas Green Clemson Academy of Engineers and Scientists, the highest honor we bestow, and celebrated three Outstanding Young Alumni whose early careers already reflect remarkable impact. We also highlight faculty and students who are receiving top national honors, along with transformative initiatives that will help shape the leaders, innovators and entrepreneurs of the future.
Thank you for your continued support of the college, and go Tigers!
Anand K. Gramopadhye, Dean
