Astronaut Scholarship Foundation Names Morgan State University Student as 2024 Astronaut Scholar

Tyler Austin Awarded up to $15,000 in Financial Support and Other Professional Development Opportunities

Morgan State University student Tyler Austin, a senior Computer Science major from the School of Computer, Mathematical and Natural Sciences (SCMNS), was named to the 2024 class of Astronaut Scholars by the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation (ASF). Austin is Morgan’s fourth ASF scholarship award winner over the last five years and was recently honored along with more than 70 Astronaut Scholars throughout the U.S. at ASF’s Innovators Symposium & Gala held in August.

“This entire experience has been unreal. I first learned about the ASF scholarship from a flyer promoting the opportunity and since I’ve always had a passion for technology and an interest in astronauts, I thought I’d apply,” said Tyler Austin. “When I received the email notifying me that I actually was awarded the scholarship, I was in disbelief. It’s really an honor to receive the ASF scholarship and I’m thankful for the encouragement and support of Mr. Gerald Whitaker in applying for the financial support that will help offset my college costs.”

ASF’s Astronaut Scholarship is offered to junior and senior-year college students pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). The process begins with a nomination from a university faculty member. Upon selection, each student receives a scholarship of up to $15,000 and is officially named an Astronaut Scholar. Other benefits include: networking and mentoring opportunities with astronauts, alumni and industry leaders; participation in the Michael Collins Family Professional Development Program; and a paid trip to attend ASF’s Innovators Symposium & Gala, featuring the Neil Armstrong™ Award of Excellence. This latter event also includes a technical conference where Astronaut Scholars present their research. 

According to Austin, the four-day symposium’s highlights included opportunities to engage with “dynamic” peers and several “real-life” astronauts who shared valuable insights. During the welcome reception, he met former astronaut Bernard A. Harris, Jr., M.D., who served as the session’s keynote speaker.

Added Austin, “I’m looking forward to pursuing a career in aerospace and the computer sciences. Joining the network of ASF scholars and alumni, as well as the community of scientists, technologists, and astronautical and aeronautical engineers, will hopefully provide me with the support to advance in my own professional path. It was inspiring to see the amazing work of the other ASF scholars and being among so many great minds from NASA who pioneer advances from space travel to tech we use every day.”

Austin, a native of Frederick Maryland, who transferred to Morgan after receiving an associate’s degree from Frederick Community College, was selected from a highly competitive pool of applicants for exhibiting initiative, creativity and excellence within his elected academic course of study. He joins Sarai Rankin (2022), Mikayla Harris (2021) and Micaela Fleetwood (2020) as Morgan’s coterie of ASF scholarship recipients.

“We are immensely proud of Tyler Austin’s achievement and recognition which is a reflection of the exceptional caliber of our students and the nurturing environment that our faculty fosters within the School of Computer, Mathematical and Natural Sciences—and throughout Morgan,” said Gerald Whitaker, director of the Defense and Space Programs at Morgan and the University’s ASF liaison. “Tyler’s drive, creativity, and dedication to his academic pursuits are an example for others. We are excited to see him soar as he embraces the opportunities and networks provided through the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation.”

ASF awarded its first seven scholarships in 1986 to honor the Mercury 7 Astronauts — Scott Carpenter, Gordon Cooper, John Glenn, Virgil “Gus” Grissom, Walter Schirra, Alan Shepard, and Deke Slayton. The founders began donating proceeds from their speaking engagements to fundraise and support future scholarships. The inaugural seven students were awarded $1,000 scholarships each. The incredible efforts of these legends have shaped ASF’s mission to support and reward exceptional college students pursuing degrees in STEM. Forty years later, more than $9 million has been awarded to more than 800 college students. 

“For 40 years, ASF has been at the forefront of nurturing the next generation of STEM leaders and fueling their passion for exploration and innovation,” said Caroline Schumacher, ASF president and CEO. “Each year, it’s thrilling to see the exceptional talent and dedication each new scholar brings to the ASF community. We welcome the 2024 class and look forward to supporting them in their quest to make their unique mark on our society.”

Congratulations to Tyler Austin for this stellar academic achievement and for committing to Morgan’s core value of excellence!