Astronaut Mark Kelly to Headline our 12th National Conference

By Dawn Mancuso, HA CEO

Captain Kelly’s biographical information generously provided by Keppler Speakers

I am so excited about this news I just had to make it the subject of my blog this month – Captain Mark Kelly will be speaking at our hydrocephalus conference in June!

Mark Kelly is an American astronaut, retired US Navy Captain, best-selling author, prostate cancer survivor, and an experienced naval aviator who flew combat missions during the Gulf War. The winner of many awards, including the Legion of Merit, two Defense Superior Service Medals and two Distinguished Flying Crosses, Kelly was selected as an astronaut in 1996. He flew his first of four missions in 2001 aboard Space Shuttle Endeavour, the same space shuttle that he commanded on its final flight in May 2011. He has also commanded Space Shuttle Discovery and is one of only two individuals who have visited the International Space Station on four different occasions.

Already a celebrated American, Kelly became the center of international attention after the January 2011 assassination attempt on his wife, former US Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords. In their best-selling memoir, Gabby, the couple shares their story of hope and resilience with the world. The inspirational memoir has topped multiple best-seller lists, including the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Amazon. Kelly and Giffords have captivated the nation with their story, appearing in an exclusive Diane Sawyer interview, and on Nightline and The Daily Show, among others, and have appeared on the covers of People and USA Today. Named on the Esquire’s 2011 “Americans of the Year,” Kelly was also featured on the cover of and profiled in the magazine. Kelly is currently working on a children’s book titled Mousetronaut: A Partially True Story, which is expected to be released in October 2012.

Kelly’s identical twin brother, Scott, is also an astronaut who served as commander of both the Space Shuttle and the International Space Station. They share the distinction of being the only siblings who have traveled in space.

With 6,000 flight hours in more than 50 different aircraft, 375 aircraft carrier landings, 39 combat missions and more than 50 days in space, Astronaut Mark Kelly is one of our country’s most experienced pilots.

A sought-after keynote speaker, Mark Kelly is an American hero who inspires others to be their best while remaining true to their core values. He exemplifies leadership, the importance of teamwork, and courage under pressure.

We are so pleased to have such a high-caliber speaker as Captain Kelly presenting his stirring and inspirational perspectives on how to face challenges. He is scheduled to be our Keynote Speaker during lunch on Friday, June 29th, at the 12th National Conference on Hydrocephalus.

If you haven’t already made plans to attend, we hope you will do so now – Captain Kelly is someone you will not want to miss! Click here for additional information about the conference, Astronaut Mark Kelly, and how to register.

I would like to thank two very special members of our community for their help in arranging Captain Kelly’s appearance – John Lawrence and Deborah Phillips. This magnificent addition to our program would never have been possible if it were not for the two of them.

I look forward to seeing you all in Bethesda come June!