Space Foundation Announces Recipient of Admiral James O. Ellis Jr. New Generation National Security Scholarship

Written by: Space Foundation Editorial Team

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — March 19, 2024 — Space Foundation, a nonprofit organization founded in 1983, offering information, education and collaboration for the global space ecosystem, today announced that CPT Bianca Castillo, U.S. Army, has been selected as the recipient of the Admiral James O. Ellis Jr. New Generation National Security Scholarship.

This award provides the recipient full participation in events at Space Foundation’s Space Symposium, being held April 8-11 in Colorado Springs, including the New Generation program and a seat at the Space Classified session. The scholarship was established to encourage the participation of new generation professionals at Space Symposium, acknowledge an exceptional young professional and provide that individual an opportunity to advance their professional growth and development.

“In recognizing the remarkable achievements of CPT Bianca Castillo, Space Foundation reaffirms its commitment to fostering the next generation of leaders,” said Steve Eisenhart, Space Foundation senior vice president of strategic & international affairs. “Through the Admiral James O. Ellis Jr. New Generation National Security Scholarship, we honor excellence and dedication in advancing global space capabilities and cooperation. CPT Castillo’s unwavering commitment to enhancing international collaboration underscores the pivotal role of young professionals in shaping the future of space security.”

Since her arrival in summer 2023, CPT Castillo has been a force multiplier for United States Space Command (USSPACECOM), negotiating satellite communications (SATCOM) international agreements, strengthening alliances, and enhancing interoperability. Castillo has taken on the pivotal role of lead coordinator between USSPACECOM, the Office of the Department of Defense Chief Information Officer, and the NATO Communications Information Agency, working tirelessly to bridge a critical gap in NATO SATCOM capabilities.

Additionally, she has engaged directly with the Spanish Ministry of Defense and the Spanish National Allied Radio Frequency Agency, spearheading a comprehensive study to assess the feasibility of US SATCOM support. Her proactive approach and strategic collaboration highlight her commitment to enhancing international cooperation and strengthening global SATCOM capabilities. CPT Castillo intends to pursue an interservice transfer to the United States Space Force (USSF) in the coming months.

About Admiral James O. Ellis, Jr., USN (Ret.)

Ellis, a retired four-star admiral and former Commander of United States Strategic Command, is the former chairperson of the National Space Council Users’ Advisory Group and is an Annenberg Distinguished Fellow at the Hoover Institution at Stanford University. Previously, he was president and chief executive officer at the Institute of Nuclear Power Operations. Ellis was elected to Space Foundation’s board of directors in January 2010 and served as chairperson from January 2016 through November 2017.

About Space Symposium

Created by Space Foundation as the premier assembly of the global space community, Space Symposium brings more than 10,000 space professionals, business leaders, and decision-makers together to inform, engage and connect.

Since 1985, attendees experience a dynamic business atmosphere where partnerships are formed while the latest in space technology is showcased by 230+ innovators and 260+ presenters in our expansive Colorado Springs exhibit centers. Space Symposium attendees gather from 40+ countries, representing all sectors of the space community: space agencies, commercial businesses, military organizations, government agencies, R&D facilities, educational institutions, and entrepreneurs.

Furthering its global reach, Space Symposium provides unparalleled access to its virtual attendees, via livestream and on-demand programming of speakers, panels and events. To learn more about Space Symposium, visit www.spacesymposium.org.

About Space Foundation 

Space Foundation is a nonprofit organization founded in 1983, offering information, education and collaboration for the global space ecosystem. Driven by partnerships, Space Foundation unites the entire spectrum of stakeholders — business, government, education and local communities — through support from corporate members, sponsors, fundraising and grants. Visit Space Foundation at www.SpaceFoundation.org, and follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.

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Tags: Space Foundation, Space Symposium, Admiral James O. Ellis Jr., New Generation National Security Scholarship, space industry event, new generation space leaders, mentoring, networking, professional development, scholarship, space ecosystem, space innovation, space exploration, space security

Media Contacts:

Rich Cooper
Vice President, Strategic Communications & Outreach
Space Foundation
(202) 596-0714
[email protected]

Dottie O’Rourke
TECHMarket Communications
(650) 344-1260
[email protected]

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