Regarding Workforce Development:
“Challenging our kids in math and science is extremely important to the long-term development of the Phoenix workforce. This program will teach critical thinking skills that will prepare these kids to succeed as they continue their education and embark on any variety of careers.”

Jack Swonson
USAA Senior Vice President of Phoenix Operations

"The Phoenix Suns have a long history of involvement in youth and educational projects throughout the Valley. The Challenger Center mission is right on target when it comes to inspiring our young people to reach for the stars in math and science. The many interesting programs at the Challenger have inspired my wife and I to become novice stargazers. You are never too old to learn."

Tom Ambrose
Senior Vice President, Phoenix Suns

“Having both the Challenger Space Center and the McCall Museum as Smithsonian affiliates is an enormous advantage to the West Valley. This gives us an opportunity to market and highlight space as only the Smithsonian can.”

Diane McCarthy
Former President of WESTMARC
Current President of ASU Alumni Association

Regarding Students’ and Teachers’ Experiences:
“I would like to thank Intel for providing the funds so that my students could participate in the Challenger program. All the students participated in the Challenger curriculum and mission, including second language learners and special education students. Challenger was without a doubt the best science experience for the students.”

Victoria Day
8th grade Science Teacher, Willis Junior High School, Chandler

“My preschool class attended a field trip to your Center. I would like to thank you for such a great experience. My students had a wonderful time and “Ms. Barb” had a great presentation that was geared for the younger student. Your facility is one of the few that offers educational opportunities for the very young. Thank you for your foresight!”

Jean Schubert
Santa Fe Elementary School, Peoria

I want to thank you for the wonderful field trip my Kindergarteners experienced on Tuesday, February 10th. We had a great time. Your staff geared all of the activities to the level of my students and they were thrilled to be able to bring home their helmets, pictures and the Veggie Tale characters. Thank you all very much for the wonderful experience that none of us will ever forget. You provide an unforgettable and fantastic experience for children and adults. I will highly recommend this field trip to all of my colleagues.

Harriet Sandberg
Kindergarten Teacher, Andalucia Primary School
2004 Teacher of the Year Finalist

“I just wanted to take a minute and say how pleased I was with how the mission went. Thanks to the crew at Mission Control, and to the Challenger for an educational experience closely related to our state standards and district curriculum.”

Mike Holder
Science Department
Ironwood High School

"The whole Rendezous with a Comet mission experience was very challenging and extremely exciting for my class. I often do simulations in class and try to incorporate active learning where ever I can. They were very engaged in the mission and I did not hear a single "I’m bored!” The team members at Challenger Center were great!"

Ms. Dykstra
Chandler Christian School