NASA GSFC Internal Memo: Message from the Deputy Director (Christopher J. Scolese)

Date: Thu, 22 Sep 2005 15:33:03 -0400
To: gsfc_all@listserv.gsfc.nasa.gov
From: NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center gsfcpao@pop100.gsfc.nasa.gov
Subject: MESSAGE FROM THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR
Sender: owner-gsfc_all@listserv.gsfc.nasa.gov
Reply-To: NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center gsfcpao@pop100.gsfc.nasa.gov

Dear Goddard Colleagues,

As you are well aware, NASA is at the threshold of an exciting new era of exploration and discovery. Beginning with the President’s unveiling of the Vision for Space Exploration in January 2004 and reinforced this week with the release of NASA’s Exploration Systems Architecture Study (ESAS), the Agency is poised to begin implementing a bold journey to the Moon, Mars, and Beyond.

To that end, I have been asked by NASA Administrator Michael Griffin to take a leadership role in the implementation of the Vision. It will be announced today that I am returning to Headquarters to assume the role of NASA Chief Engineer. I am honored to be selected for such a prestigious position and look forward to the challenges and excitement associated with beginning the next chapter in the United States’ long and illustrious space exploration program.

As with many life and career situations, there are compromises that must be made, and one of those is that I must leave the outstanding team at the Goddard Space Flight Center. I have spent a great deal of my professional career here, and I have a deep admiration and respect for the remarkable people who have made Goddard so successful, and who have brought to life some truly extraordinary science missions and engineering achievements. It is an exceptional record of accomplishment and I will always appreciate my years at Goddard, especially having the privilege to work with an amazing group of people.

This team has consistently and capably demonstrated outstanding technical expertise, shown an unwavering commitment to excellence, and expressed a sincere enthusiasm for Goddard Space Flight Center and its mission. I believe those values will keep this Center at the forefront of NASA’s future endeavors.

Goddard Space Flight Center has been and will continue to be a very special place to me. I look forward to continuing my relationship with each of you and with Goddard in my new role as NASA Chief Engineer.

With very best wishes,

Christopher J. Scolese
Deputy Director
Goddard Space Flight Center