Aspirnaut™ was co-founded in 2006 by Dr. Billy Hudson, a world-renowned scientist, and Dr. Julie Hudson, a pediatric anesthesiologist and national leader in healthcare. In 2009, the Aspirnaut™ Summer Research Internship Program was launched at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. A residential, hands-on experience for high school and undergraduate students, participants engage in a full-time research experience as a member of a team of scientists and in professional and personal skills development.
Aspirnaut’s™ mission is to increase STEM achievement and participation in the STEM workforce. The program provides opportunities in STEM for talented youth from rural backgrounds, empowering them to effect positive change in themselves, their families and communities for generations to come. Persistence in STEM courses of study, pursuit of advanced degrees, and entry into the STEM workforce exceeds national norms. Highly acclaimed as one of the nation’s leading STEM initiatives, Aspirnaut™ has over a decade of outstanding data and a track record of success. http://www.aspirnaut.org/
Aspirnaut™ is built around three pillars: Guided Scientific Discovery, Guided Professional Skills Development, and Guided Self-Discovery. Underpinning it all: Wellness for Life