News Center Maine reports NASA manager to give UMaine commencement address
News Center Maine reported Bridget Ziegelaar, operations manager for NASA’s International Space Station Research Integration Office and Old Town native, will give the address at both the morning and afternoon ceremonies for the University of Maine’s 217th commencement May 11 in the Alfond Sports Arena. Ziegelaar received a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from UMaine and a master’s degree in science, technology and public policy from George Washington University. She began her NASA career as a graduate student intern in the agency’s External Relations Office, and has received many honors, including the NASA Exceptional Achievement Medal, according to the report. “Bridget Ziegelaar is a role model and leader whose talents have contributed to NASA’s success for the past two decades,” said UMaine President Joan Ferrini-Mundy. “[We’re] extremely proud of her achievements, and we look forward to welcoming her back to her alma mater to share perspectives on a career that has taken her to such great heights.”