The American Astronomical Society (AAS), SETI Institute, and NASA Community College Network (NCCN) have partnered to bring leading astronomy researchers directly into community college classrooms nationwide, revitalizing the long-standing AAS Harlow Shapley Visiting Lectureship Program.

Traditionally placing scientists at universities for lectures and public talks since the 1950s, the AAS now leverages NCCN’s extensive network – 260 instructors across 44 states and 120 experts – to match astronomers with community colleges. Developed by the SETI Institute, NCCN has supported astronomy education at these vital institutions since 2020. Community colleges educate a significant portion of STEM students, including one-third who are first-generation attendees and 64% balancing part-time studies with work and family. Crucially, 40% of all US introductory astronomy students take these courses at community colleges.This is a true collaboration: host colleges organize the public talk, class presentations, faculty meetings and local publicity. The AAS selects and fully funds the visiting scientist’s travel.

The program honors astronomer Harlow Shapley (1885-1972), who determined the Sun’s position in the Milky Way’s outer disk and pioneered the concept of stellar habitable zones. This initiative ensures his legacy continues by inspiring diverse future scientists where they learn.

Fore more details, visit American Astronomical Society (AAS).