The Office of Research and Economic Development, in partnership with the Graduate School at The University of Alabama, is excited to announce the inaugural ORED Rising Star competition for graduate students. One outstanding graduate student will be selected to represent ORED at the 37th Annual Wernher von Braun Memorial Dinner on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, in Huntsville, Alabama.
Eligibility
To be eligible, graduate students must:
- Be a U.S. citizen.
- Applicants must be enrolled in a program connected to space exploration, the aerospace industry, or the national security sector in Alabama. Eligible fields of study generally include aerospace engineering, data science, computer science, mechanical engineering, and related disciplines.
- Have completed at least one academic year in their graduate programs (master’s or doctoral).
- Be in good academic standing with a GPA of 3.8 or higher during graduate studies to date.
- Demonstrate satisfactory progress towards completion of their graduate degree.
- If you are interested but uncertain about your eligibility, please email assist@ua.edu with a brief description of your research area and how it relates to these fields for review.
- Be available to attend the Wernher von Braun Memorial Dinner on Wednesday, October 29, 2025 (from approximately 1 PM to midnight.)
About the Wernher von Braun Memorial Dinner
The Wernher von Braun Memorial Dinner is the premier event of the year, hosted by the NATIONAL SPACE CLUB HUNTSVILLE. This distinguished celebration of space exploration brings together leaders from the aerospace industry, academia, and government to honor groundbreaking achievements in space science and technology. With over 900 attendees, the event is often referred to as “The Space Prom” and serves as a major fundraiser for educational outreach initiatives, including scholarships for aspiring students in the space and aerospace fields.
Past keynote speakers have included prominent figures such as Bob Cabana (NASA), Bill Nelson (NASA Administrator), Harrison Schmitt (Former Astronaut), and many other distinguished leaders in space exploration.
For more information on the Wernher von Braun Memorial Dinner.
ORED Rising Star Competition Details
The ORED Rising Star competition aims to identify a graduate student who demonstrates exceptional promise in research, innovation, or leadership in fields related to space exploration, aerospace engineering, or national security. The selected winner will be invited to represent ORED at the Wernher von Braun Memorial Dinner, where they will have the opportunity to engage with esteemed industry leaders, academics, and professionals.
Award Details
- One seat at the ORED table during the Wernher von Braun Memorial Dinner.
- Transportation to and from Huntsville, Alabama, for the event.
- $500 cash award
Timeline and Key Dates
- Application Due Date: Before 5:00 pm Central on Monday, September 22, 2025
- Accommodations for late and/or incomplete proposals are not available.
- Application Review Period: September 23-26, 2025
- ORED Rising Star Selection Decisions Announced: September 30, 2025
Application Requirements
- Resume/CV: Highlighting academic achievements, research experience, and leadership roles.
- Statement of Interest (maximum 500 words): Explain why you believe you should be selected as the ORED Rising Star. Include your research interests, leadership experiences, and long-term goals. Specifically, describe how you plan to contribute to the space mission in Alabama or the broader aerospace or national defense community, and discuss and demonstrate your plans to remain in the state of Alabama upon graduation.
- GPA Verification: Provide evidence of your graduate GPA to date (official transcripts or faculty verification).
- Letter of Recommendation: A letter from a faculty member or mentor who can speak to your academic potential, contributions to your field, and professional aspirations.
How to Apply
Submit all application materials via email to assist@ua.edu by Monday, September 22, at 5:00 p.m.
The winner will be selected by a panel of judges from the Office of Research and Economic Development and the UA Graduate School and notified by September 30, 2025.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to represent ORED and the UA Graduate School, expand your professional network, and celebrate the future of space exploration. Apply now for a chance to attend one of the most prestigious events in Alabama’s aerospace community!
For questions or additional information, please contact assist@ua.edu