ShareSpace Foundation

ShareSpace Foundation. Established in 1994, the organization is a private philanthropic entity dedicated to inspiring students and the public through science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education with a particular emphasis on space exploration. Co-founded by astronaut and Senator John Glenn and philanthropist Loretta H. Glucksman, it has created and distributed innovative educational tools and experiences nationwide. Its work is characterized by partnerships with major scientific institutions and a focus on hands-on, experiential learning.

History

The foundation was conceived in the early 1990s, drawing inspiration from John Glenn's historic flights aboard Friendship 7 and the Space Shuttle Discovery. Its formal establishment in 1994 coincided with a period of renewed public interest in space following missions like the Hubble Space Telescope servicing. Initial efforts were closely aligned with the educational outreach goals of NASA and institutions like the National Air and Space Museum. A significant early milestone was the development and national distribution of the "Big Space Book," an interactive educational kit, which reached thousands of classrooms. Over the decades, its programming has evolved from physical materials to include major digital and experiential initiatives, often launched in conjunction with anniversaries of pivotal events such as the Apollo 11 moon landing.

Mission and programs

The core mission is to foster excitement and literacy in STEM education by creating direct connections to the wonder of spaceflight and astronomical discovery. Its flagship initiative is the Giant Mars and Moon Maps program, which provides massive, scalable floor maps to schools and science centers to teach planetary geography and exploration concepts. Another key program is the development of interactive, space-themed digital learning modules distributed through partnerships with organizations like the Astronomical Society of the Pacific. The foundation also sponsors student design challenges and educator workshops, often held at venues such as the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex or during events like the annual meeting of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics. These programs are designed to complement formal curricula and inspire pursuit of careers at agencies like NASA or companies such as SpaceX.

Key people

The organization was co-founded by John Glenn, whose legacy as a United States Marine Corps aviator, Project Mercury astronaut, and U.S. Senator from Ohio provided foundational vision and credibility. Philanthropist Loretta H. Glucksman, known for her support of Irish-American cultural exchange and education, served as co-founder and long-time chair, guiding its strategic direction. The board of directors and advisors have historically included notable figures from the aerospace community, such as former NASA Administrator Sean O'Keefe and astronauts affiliated with various Space Shuttle program missions. Day-to-day leadership has been provided by executive directors with backgrounds in nonprofit management and science education policy.

Partnerships and impact

Strategic collaborations are central to its model, extending the reach of its programs nationally. Major partners have included federal entities like NASA Education and the National Science Foundation, as well as renowned museums like the Smithsonian Institution and the California Science Center. Corporate partnerships with aerospace firms such as Northrop Grumman and Boeing have provided critical funding and expertise. The impact is measured through the distribution of hundreds of thousands of educational units to all fifty states, with evaluations often conducted in partnership with schools of education at universities like Stanford University. Its work has been recognized with awards from groups including the Space Foundation and has been featured in media outlets like The Washington Post.

Financial information

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, it is funded through a combination of private donations, corporate grants, and foundation support. Major contributions have historically come from family foundations associated with its founders and from aerospace industry partners. Financial disclosures and Form 990 filings with the Internal Revenue Service show that the majority of expenditures are directed toward program development and distribution, with a smaller proportion allocated to administrative and fundraising costs. The foundation does not receive direct federal appropriations but has secured competitive grants from agencies like the Department of Education for specific educational projects. Its financial operations are overseen by a treasurer and audited annually by an independent accounting firm.

Category:Educational foundations in the United States Category:Space advocacy organizations in the United States Category:Organizations established in 1994 Category:Washington, D.C.