Today, FAU's College of Engineering and Computer Science had the great pleasure of hosting an Earth-to-Space Skype call with Astronaut Anne McClain, live from the International Space Station. During the 14-minute call, students from the College, FAU High, and other local middle and high schools asked questions about astronaut training, what it’s like to live on the International Space Station, and more. Click here to watch the Skype call.

Prior to the call with Astronaut McClain, we spoke with Gov. Ron DeSantis via Skype and enjoyed a lecture by FAU alumnus and retired astronaut, Dr. Steve Swanson ’86. In a span of seven years, Dr. Swanson made three trips to the International Space Station. During his last trip in 2014, he became the first astronaut to post a selfie from space to Instagram. We honor Dr. Swanson’s legacy during each commencement ceremony at FAU, when I encourage our graduates to take a selfie, while I contribute an Owl Fingers photo bomb in the background.

I am very proud that FAU's College of Engineering and Computer Science was selected by NASA to host this unique opportunity for local students to speak with astronauts living and working on the International Space Station. I hope that this event will reinforce their interest in STEM subjects and encourage them to pursue careers in these critically important fields. Special thanks to NASA and Astronaut McClain for this memorable experience.