Dillard University Rocket Team

By Tomekia Simeon

I would like to thank everyone for their support and encouragement with the DU Rocket Team over the last three years. This past weekend, we all completed and will receive our L1 certification from the National Rocketry Association (NAR). The launch was held in Winnsboro, Louisiana, with the Tripoli Rocket Association.

Several of the students, including myself, failed the first day, but we burned the midnight oil and came back to re-launch successfully.

I'm still waiting to hear back from NAR, if our number holds the record for most certifications earned (five) from a HBCU.

Main rocket for ULSI Liftoff Division: Zachary Bastian, DeMarco Smith, Alana Bell, Tomekia Simeon and Tate Robertson

The students had to repair issues with the main rocket, and we will be traveling to Alabama this

Friday for a relaunch. It is a requirement that they send documentation to NASA's Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) before the April launch held in Huntsville, Alabama.

Students that participated in this project increased their knowledge in space science rocketry and technology. More importantly, they learned valuable skills, such as teamwork, communication, critical thinking, leadership, perseverance, and grit. This also enhances DU's research portfolio and marketability to NASA, NOAA, and other private-sector space companies. Support for this project was made possible through the LaSPACE Grant Consortium.

L1 certification with National Association of Rocketry (NAR), hosted by the Louisiana Tripoli Rocketry Association held in Winnsboro, LA. From left to right: Zachary Bastian, Alana Bell, Tomekia Simeon, Tate Robertson, DeMarco Smith