8 Chapter 8: Mae Jemison’s Life After NASA

Mae Jemison’s journey did not end with her historic mission to space; it was the beginning of a new chapter filled with inspiring endeavors, awards, and important causes.

Post-NASA Timeline

1993 – Left NASA

Mae Jemison made the tough decision to leave NASA. She was not done making a difference. She just chose a new way to do it. She knew there were more things she could achieve.

1993 – 1998 – Encouraging the Youth

After leaving NASA, Jemison dedicated herself to visiting high schools and colleges. She traveled all around the country, speaking to students about her journey into space and the importance of dreaming big. She believed in the power of education to change lives and wanted to inspire the next generation of scientists and explorers.

Awards and Honors

Mae Jemison received various awards for her outstanding contributions:

**1993**: She was awarded the prestigious  McGill Medal for Outstanding Civic Service from Columbia University, recognizing her commitment to improving society through education and science.

**1993**: Mae Jemison was named Gamma Sigma Gamma Woman of the Year in honor of her pioneering achievements and dedication to education.

**2001**: She was inducted into the Johnson Publishing Company’s Hall of Fame, acknowledging her as a role model and trailblazer.

**2004**: Jemison joined the ranks of space legends in the International Space Hall of Fame, a testament to her historic space journey.

Important Topics and Advocacy

Mae Jemison was passionate about several important topics that she talked about post-NASA career:

**Diversity and Inclusion in STEM**: She strongly believed that people of all backgrounds, regardless of their race or gender, should have opportunities in science and technology. She advocated for breaking down barriers and encouraging diversity in STEM fields.

**Education and Lifelong Learning**: Jemison stressed the importance of education. She encouraged people of all ages to keep learning and expanding their knowledge.

**Sustainable Technologies and Environmental Stewardship**: Mae Jemison was deeply concerned about environmental issues. She believed that science and technology could help address the problems facing our planet.

**Human Space Exploration**: As a former astronaut, she continued to emphasize the importance of space exploration. She believed in the human potential to reach for the stars and inspired young minds to consider careers in space-related fields.

Personal Life

Mae Jemison’s personal life was as inspiring as her professional life. She came from a family that valued education, and she excelled in school. She earned a degree in chemical engineering. Then she received her medical degree from Cornell University and trained as a medical doctor.

Jemison had a passion for dance and a lifelong love for the arts. In fact, she even took a poster from the Alvin Ailey Dance Company with her on her space journey. She was a true Renaissance woman.  She combined her love for science, education, and the arts to create a unique and remarkable life.

After NASA, Mae Jemison worked tirelessly to inspire the next generation. She advocated for important causes, and continued to talk about the importance of a good education. She considered herself as a “womanist”. She visited her old high school to motivate young women to follow their dreams. She encouraged them to be involved in STEM programs like the space program. In 1993, she was was inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame in Seneca, New York and appeared as a guest on the TV series Star Trek: The New Generation. Her incredible life was full of achievements and a dedication to helping others.