Space Foundation Honors The Petit Family Foundation for Advancing STEM Education throughout Connecticut

Written by: Space Foundation Editorial Team

Athena Education Award recognizes years of sustained investment in space-focused education programs that have benefitted 10,000 in the state

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Oct. 1, 2026 — Space Foundation presented its Athena Education Award to The Petit Family Foundation on Wednesday, Sept. 30, recognizing the organization’s longstanding investment in educational programs that expand access to STEM learning for Connecticut students.

The award was presented during a VIP reception at the Connecticut Science Center in Hartford, Connecticut. The ceremony brought together The Petit Family Foundation board members and volunteers, local school district officials, nonprofit partners, and community leaders. Former NASA astronaut Winston Scott joined the celebration for a presentation and meet-and-greet.

“We are incredibly proud of our partnership with The Petit Family Foundation and the work we’ve done together to bring hands-on STEM experiences to students across Connecticut,” said Space Foundation Board Member Hoyt Davidson, who presented the award. “Their commitment to expanding access to STEM education is making a real difference for students and educators. We’re pleased to recognize their dedication and the important role they’re playing in preparing the next generation of the STEM workforce with the Athena Education Award.”

Established in 2021, the Athena Education Award recognizes a steadfast partner whose leadership, commitment, and support advance Space Foundation’s global education mission. Space Foundation’s partnership with The Petit Family Foundation began in 2018. Its investments have been used to launch multiple Space in the Community programs, which deliver space-focused STEM education through hands-on activities, educator professional development, and astronaut engagements. To date, more than 10,000 students, educators, and family members in Connecticut have reaped the benefits.

Dr. William A. Petit Jr., president of The Petit Family Foundation, said, “Receiving Space Foundation’s Athena Education Award is a tremendous honor, and we are deeply proud of what this partnership has achieved for students across Connecticut. Expanding access to STEM resources, hands-on learning, and career exploration is central to our mission. We are grateful to Space Foundation for helping us bring these transformative opportunities to thousands of students, educators, and families.”

Founded in 2007, The Petit Family Foundation honors the memories of Jennifer Hawke-Petit, Hayley Elizabeth Petit and Michaela Rose Petit by continuing the kindness, idealism and activism that defined their lives. The Foundation’s funds support the following: education of young people, especially women in the sciences; efforts to improve the lives of those affected by chronic illnesses; and programs that protect and help those affected by violence. To date, more than $10 million has been raised to address these causes.

About Space Foundation 

Space Foundation, a nonpartisan nonprofit, brings together every corner of the global space ecosystem. Through year-round programs and events, including its flagship Space Symposium, the organization convenes leaders from government, industry, finance, and education to exchange ideas, build partnerships, and advance the future of space. As a trusted, neutral expert, Space Foundation turns connections into impact. It reinvests proceeds from its events into STEM education, workforce development, and its Discovery Center. Together, these programs help build the talent and leadership that will power the space economy for generations to come.

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Media Contacts:

Mayo Blumberg
Communications Specialist
Space Foundation
[email protected]

Melissa Price
Senior Director
Griffins Communications Group
[email protected]

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