About NASA Connecticut Space Grant Consortium (CTSGC)
The NASA Connecticut Space Grant Consortium (CTSGC) is part of NASA's National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program, a federally funded initiative that supports STEM education, research, workforce development, and public engagement. Space Grant consortia operate in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, creating opportunities for students, educators, researchers, and communities to participate in NASA-related programs and activities.
Established in 1991, CTSGC was formed to encourage broader participation in NASA research, education, and workforce development opportunities throughout Connecticut. The consortium was founded by Trinity College, the University of Connecticut, and the University of New Haven, with the University of Hartford serving as the lead institution.
Our Mission
CTSGC is committed to advancing STEM education and workforce development by:
- Inspiring STEM Careers
Encouraging students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, particularly among populations that have been historically underrepresented in STEM fields. - Supporting Professional Development
Serving as a model for innovative, STEM-focused educational and professional development opportunities. - Strengthening Connecticut's STEM Workforce
Contributing to the growth of Connecticut's economy by supporting research, innovation, and the development of a highly skilled workforce. - Fostering Collaboration and Engagement
Creating an environment where students, educators, researchers, industry partners, and community organizations work together to advance the Consortium's mission.
External Advisory Board
The CTSGC External Advisory Board provides strategic guidance and expertise from higher education, industry, workforce development, and informal education communities across Connecticut.
Dr. Hisham Alnajjar
Dean, College of Engineering, Technology, and Architecture (CETA)
University of Hartford
Dr. Hisham Alnajjar serves as Dean of the College of Engineering, Technology, and Architecture at the University of Hartford. Throughout his career, he has held a variety of leadership roles, including Chair of the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, Assistant Dean, Associate Dean, Director of the Engineering Applications Center, and Director of the NASA Connecticut Space Grant Consortium.
His research interests include sensor array processing, digital signal processing, power systems, engineering education, and image processing. Dr. Alnajjar remains active in student engagement through teaching and mentoring within the College.
Contact: alnajjar@hartford.edu
Dr. Kenneth Anthony
Director of Professional Development and Research
Connecticut After School Network
Dr. Kenneth Anthony has dedicated more than 25 years to youth development and expanded learning programs. As Director of Professional Development and Research for the Connecticut After School Network, he oversees training, leadership development, program quality initiatives, research activities, and organizational partnerships.
A published author and nationally recognized speaker, Dr. Anthony's work focuses on strengthening connections between schools and out-of-school learning environments. He earned his doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Hartford.
Muhammad Arif
Program Manager, International Space Station Programs
Collins Aerospace
Muhammad Arif leads International Space Station (ISS) programs at Collins Aerospace, overseeing the development, production, and maintenance of Environmental Control and Life Support Systems used aboard the ISS. He brings more than two decades of aerospace experience, including leadership roles at Pratt & Whitney and Hamilton Sundstrand.
Mr. Arif holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Columbia University, a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering, and an MBA from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.
Dr. Amanda Goodheart Parks
Director of Education
New England Air Museum
Dr. Amanda Goodheart Parks is a museum educator and public historian with extensive experience in educational programming and public engagement. She currently serves as Director of Education at the New England Air Museum, where she develops innovative learning experiences that connect students and communities with aviation and aerospace history.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts and Sciences degree from Salve Regina University and earned both her Master's and Doctoral degrees from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
Dr. Michael A. Rooke
President
Northwestern Connecticut Community College
Dr. Michael Rooke serves as President of Northwestern Connecticut Community College and has more than a decade of leadership experience within the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities System. Prior to his current role, he served as Chief Academic Officer at Tunxis Community College and held leadership positions at Manchester Community College and the University of Hartford.
A chemist by training, Dr. Rooke has worked extensively to support engineering, manufacturing, and workforce development programs while strengthening partnerships between higher education and industry throughout Connecticut.
Jennifer Widness
President
Connecticut Conference of Independent Colleges (CCIC)
Jennifer Widness serves as President of the Connecticut Conference of Independent Colleges (CCIC), representing Connecticut's independent nonprofit colleges and universities. Since joining the organization, she has played a key role in advancing higher education policy, fostering collaboration among institutions, and strengthening partnerships that support student success.
Prior to CCIC, Ms. Widness worked with the Connecticut State Department of Education and practiced law in Connecticut. She currently serves on numerous state, regional, and national boards and committees focused on higher education, student success, and policy development.
Through the leadership and guidance of its External Advisory Board, CTSGC continues to advance opportunities in STEM education, aerospace research, workforce development, and community engagement throughout Connecticut.