History and Mission of the Iowa Space Grant Consortium (ISGC)

The ISGC is part of the NASA National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program, authorized by Congress in 1987.   Consortia are now established in all 50 States plus the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.   The ISGC was formed in 1990 by the three Regents' universities (Iowa State University, the University of Iowa, and the University of Northern Iowa) and now includes Drake University, as well as affiliates from government, industry and nonprofit organizations.

The mission of the ISGC is to coordinate and improve Iowa's future in aerospace science and technology and to stimulate aerospace research, education and outreach activities throughout the state.   These goals are carried out through partnerships with the Consortium's affiliates. The ISGC's work is organized into the program categories of precollege, higher education, fellowships, research and general public.   Each category is briefly described below, and specific information on current funding initiatives for each can be accessed from our Web site.   The home page has a link for each category and we have also provided a link below.

• Precollege:   Precollege educational activities supported by the Consortium focus mainly on educator professional development and curriculum development or other student events.

• Higher education:   The Consortium contributes to the support of a "base" program at each of its academic affiliates.   Each base program represents an area in which the particular university already excels, but would benefit from additional support.

• Fellowships:   Competitive scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students are available to support the base programs.   In addition, a NASA scholarship is awarded to an outstanding senior at the State Science & Technology Fair of Iowa (SSTFI).

• Research:   Although no formal research programs currently exist beyond that performed as part of the base programs, the ISGC assists researchers in building ties to NASA Centers and aerospace contractors.

• General Public:   The Consortium supports aviation, scientific and nonformal educational programs that enhance public awareness in technology and scientific literacy.

  The complete ISGC Program Year 18 Plan (2006-2007) may be downloaded for review PY18 Plan (PDF version).

  General questions may be addressed to the Consortium Office.   University specific questions should be addressed to our Executive Committee members, as appropriate (see Contact the ISGC).

  Updated: 15 June 2007