A Morgantown native and West Virginia University graduate as well as an Emmy-nominated television host and best-selling author, Calandrelli is scheduled to travel to space on a privately-owned Blue Origin spaceship owned by billionaire Jeff Bezos.
The trip is being partially funded by the Wing 2 Wing Foundation, a nonprofit created by Marshall University President Brad D. Smith and Alys Smith, attorney and philanthropist. Calandrelli said that she is grateful for the support of the Smiths’ foundation and will use her platforms to promote access to education including the Marshall For All, Marshall Forever program, which helps students graduate debt-free from Marshall University.
Affordable access to education is essential for a student to reach their full potential – I was no different,” said Calandrelli. “Because of an undergraduate scholarship that covered my tuition, I was free to focus my energy, creativity and mental capacity on academics. If it weren’t for that scholarship and support, I wouldn’t have been able to graduate at the top of my class, and I would not be where I am today.”
In a statement announcing their partnership, Brad and Alys Smith praised Calandrelli for her efforts to reach for the stars.
“Throughout her life, Emily has faced challenges and overcome adversity to have a successful STEM career that ultimately led her to this dream of going to space. She embodies what is possible for all women and families in our great state when access to education is available.”
The Marshall For All, Marshall Forever project is the brainchild of Brad Smith, a first-generation college graduate whose 10-year goal is to ensure that no student will graduate from Marshall with debt. It was modeled on programs at institutions including Berea College and The Ohio State University.
More information on the program is available here.