Recognizing the people and passion behind our mission.
Space Center Houston recently came together to honor the incredible achievements of our crew during the Expanding Horizons All-Crew Awards Celebration. The evening was filled with pride, connection, and inspiration as we recognized those who bring our mission and values to life every day.
These awards are more than recognition; they reflect the heart of who we are: Space Enthusiasts, People-Driven, and Champions of Curiosity. Each honoree was selected because their actions advance our mission to reveal how science and humanity power space exploration, while strengthening our crew culture.
2025 Award Winners
Culture in Action Award
Celebrating the crew who bring our values to life
This award honors crew who help create a positive and connected workplace, encouraging others and sparking belonging. Their daily actions and energy reflect our mission and make Space Center Houston a stronger community.
Winners: Haley Muff, Tracina Land, Jared Williams
Champion of Curiosity Award
Recognizing crew who are constantly learning and growing
This award celebrates crew who embrace every opportunity to learn and apply that knowledge to strengthen performance and innovation. Their curiosity builds personal growth while uplifting their teams and advancing our shared goals.
Winners: Carter Renfro, Rochelle Pettaway, Andrew Vargas
People-Driven Award
Recognizing leaders who lift others up
This recognition honors leaders who place crew first, guiding with empathy and creating a culture of respect and trust. Through their actions, they elevate others and embody the people-driven values at the heart of Space Center Houston.
Winners: Alice Ho, Allison Focht, Jorge Portales, Demetres Boyd-Thompson
Rising Star Award
Recognizing the crew who step up and stand out
This award highlights newer crew members who are already making an impact with initiative, energy, and care. Their fresh perspective and dedication point to a strong future for themselves and our organization.
Winners: Aubrey Garmon, Joey Segura, Martha Hernandez
Space Enthusiast Award
Recognizing crew who ignite curiosity through passion and knowledge
This recognition honors the crew whose love for space exploration is authentic and contagious. By sharing their knowledge and excitement, they inspire guests and colleagues alike, deepening our connection to the mission.
Winners: Christopher Carlson, Irwin Stewart, Courtney Scherer
Group Achievement Award
Celebrating meaningful teamwork
Some of our greatest successes happen when teams join forces. This award recognizes groups whose collaboration and shared purpose led to achievements that made a clear, positive impact for Space Center Houston.
Winners: Guest Services Team, Training for Tomorrow Team, Events Team
Sunshine Award
Recognizing a crew member who shines bright
This award honors the crew who bring steady positivity, care, and reliability to others’ experiences. Their actions may be quiet, but their impact is deeply felt throughout our crew community.
Winners: Tracey Martinez, Eric Redeker, Jessica Carlson, Josh Steadman, Susann Glenn, David Cooley
While You Were Sleeping Award
Honoring the crew who keep Space Center Houston moving while the rest of us rest
This recognition celebrates the overnight custodial and security crew whose dedication ensures our facilities are safe, clean, and mission-ready each day. Their behind-the-scenes work reflects pride, consistency, and care.
Winners: Timothy Edwards (Security), Robert Riddle (Custodial)
Distinguished Service Award
Recognizing legacy and commitment
The highest honor at Space Center Houston, this award recognizes crew with 20 or more years of service who have made lasting contributions to our mission and culture. Their commitment and legacy will inspire generations to come.
Winners: Crystal Garza, Brenda Boykins, Angela Case
As we reflect on the celebration, we also look ahead with pride. Each nominee and winner reminds us that together, we are expanding horizons and focused on our shared purpose: bringing people and space closer every day.
