Astronaut Zena Cardman Announced as UNC Spring Commencement Speaker

“A new class of graduates includes the most incredible talent, hope and energy,” Cardman said. “I can’t wait to see their impact on the world. The chance to speak to graduates is a huge honor and humbling.”

Cardman was recently announced as the commander of NASA’s Crew-9 mission, which will launch to the International Space Station later this year. Cardman and her three crewmates will join an international crew on the ISS to conduct “a wide-ranging set of operational and research activities for the benefit of all,” according to a release from NASA. The release also said the mission will launch “no earlier than August.” It will be the first spaceflight for Cardman, who was selected as an astronaut in 2017.

Cardman earned a Bachelor of Science in biology from Carolina in 2010 and her Master of Science in marine sciences in 2014. While at UNC, Cardman’s research of microbial systems in extreme environments took her to both the Arctic and Antarctic.

“The people of Carolina are what I took away from the place, and what I’ve carried with me through my career,” she said. “Service-oriented, creative, genuine, interdisciplinary — these are words I use to describe my former classmates and current students. These are the values and attributes I strive for as an astronaut.”

“The work that set Zena up for success as a NASA astronaut started right here at Carolina,” said UNC Interim Chancellor Lee Roberts. “Her dedication to pushing the boundaries of research aligns with Carolina’s mission of discovery, innovation and the pursuit of excellence. As an exemplary Tar Heel, Zena is well-positioned to address our graduates and we all look forward to hearing about her experiences.”

UNC’s spring commencement is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 11 in Kenan Stadium in Chapel Hill. This is the first year the school’s spring commencement will not be held on a Sunday since 1971.