March 10, 2006

Katherine K. Martin
Media Relations Office
(216)433-2406
katherine.martin@grc.nasa.gov

MEDIA ADVISORY: 06-015

"MERCURY 13" LADIES HIGHLIGHT WOMEN'S HISTORY EVENT

In celebration of Women's History Month, the Women's Advisory Group at 
NASA's Glenn Research Center will feature three of the 13 American 
women, nicknamed the "Mercury 13," who were tested in 1961 to see if 
women could meet the same physical and mental tests that the Mercury 
7 men met to become the first U.S. astronauts.

On Tuesday, March 14, beginning at 9:30 a.m., Gene Nora Stumbough 
Jessen will be the guest speaker in Glenn's Visitor Center 
Auditorium. Two other members of the Mercury 13, B Steadman and 
Myrtle Cagle, will also be present to help relate their experiences. 

The unveiling of an exhibit honoring the Mercury 13 and NASA's female 
astronauts will be featured during the program. 

In addition, as part of the event, winners of Glenn's Federal Women's 
Program Award will be announced. These awards are administered as a 
joint effort between Glenn's Federal Women's Program and the Women's 
Advisory Group. Nominees are judged for leadership roles, goal 
setting, self-motivation and membership in organizations.

Media interested in attending this commemorative program for Glenn 
employees or interviewing a guest speaker should contact Katherine 
Martin at 216-433-2406 or the Media Relations Office at 216-433-2901 
in order to be cleared through security.

	
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