NORFOLK, Virginia. January 28, 2026 - The Virginia Spaceport Authority (VSA) is proud to share exciting news from the American Astronautical Society (AAS). AAS recently selected two individuals nominated by VSA to receive its prestigious 2025 awards.  

VSA Chief of Education and Intern Development Sidnee McGee has been selected to receive the 2025 AAS Patti Grace Smith Award. Established in 2016, this award recognizes individuals, 35 or younger, who demonstrate an exceptional commitment to the development of young professionals, honoring the legacy of Patti Grace Smith. Sidnee was recognized for her unwavering dedication to education within the space community and her tireless support of students and young professionals across the industry. Her influence on students, educators, and the broader aerospace community is profound, and this recognition is a testament to her leadership and the passion that she demonstrates working at VSA.  

In addition, AAS awarded General Lance Lord, U.S. Air Force (ret.), who was nominated by VSA, the 2025 Industrial Leadership Award, which honors individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the space industry through leadership in the development and acquisition of space systems.

General Lord has been a long-time mentor to VSA CEO Roosevelt Mercer Jr., Maj. Gen., USAF (ret.), providing guidance and insight that has influenced VSA’s strategic thinking. His vision and advocacy have been integral to the evolution of the industry in which we operate today. AAS recognized Gen Lord for his lifelong commitment to advancing U.S. space capabilities across both the military and aerospace industry. As a former commander of Air Force Space Command and wing commander at Vandenberg, he was an early and influential advocate for resilient launch infrastructure, assured access to space, and the importance of spaceports. His forward-looking leadership helped lay the foundation for the spaceport and launch ecosystem that supports government and commercial missions today, and his thought leadership was integral to the establishment of the U.S Space Force.

Since 1954, AAS has served as the premier professional society dedicated to advancing space activities, known for its influential conferences, publications, and role in shaping the U.S. space program. Recognition by AAS underscores the significance of these achievements.

To read the full announcement please click here: 2025 AAS Award Winners Announced | American Astronautical Society

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The Virginia Spaceport Authority (officially known as the Virginia Commercial Space Flight Authority) is a political subdivision of the Commonwealth of Virginia. VSA owns and operates the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport (MARS) located at Wallops Island, Va., USA. VSA provides assured access to space by operating, maintaining, and growing a premier spaceport, stimulating aerospace-related economic development in the Commonwealth, and promoting educational opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).

Media Contact:

Lillian Palmbach

Chief of External Relations

757- 837-3304

lillian.palmbach@vaspace.org

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