From Terp to the Stars: Astronaut Jeanette Epps to Address UMD Grads

COLLEGE PARK, Md. – April 08, 2026 – The University of Maryland will look to the stars for its Spring 2026 commencement address, welcoming home one of its most distinguished alumnae: retired NASA astronaut and aerospace engineer Dr. Jeanette Epps. The university announced today that Epps, who holds two degrees from its A. James Clark School of Engineering, will address graduates from the Summer 2025, Winter 2025, and Spring 2026 classes.

The ceremony, scheduled for Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at SECU Stadium, will serve as a homecoming for the trailblazer who recently spent nearly eight months orbiting the Earth.

"Dr. Jeanette Epps' life is driven by fearless determination, and there is no better role model for our graduating class as they step boldly into their futures," said UMD President Darryll J. Pines. "It is a true honor to welcome her back to Maryland, where so much of her remarkable journey began."

A Journey Forged at Maryland

Epps's selection is a testament to the university's deep legacy in engineering and its connection to the nation's space exploration efforts. While she earned her bachelor's degree in physics from Le Moyne College, her path to becoming an astronaut was solidified at Maryland. She earned both a Master of Science in 1994 and a Ph.D. in 2000 in aerospace engineering.

Her doctoral research at UMD focused on the complex field of rotorcraft technology, specifically involving materials engineering. Her work included comprehensive testing of composite swept-tip beams and groundbreaking research into the use of shape memory alloy actuators for tracking helicopter rotor blades in-flight. This specialized expertise was cultivated within an aerospace engineering program that is consistently ranked among the nation's elite. The program currently stands as a top-ten undergraduate and graduate program in the country, reinforcing its reputation as a premier institution for aerospace studies.

In 2012, long before her flight to the International Space Station (ISS), the university recognized her outstanding career by inducting her into the Department of Aerospace Engineering's Academy of Distinguished Alumni, cementing her status as an inspiration for future generations of Terp engineers.

From Earthbound Engineer to Orbiting Scientist

Epps’s career before joining the astronaut corps demonstrates a remarkable breadth of experience that will surely resonate with graduates contemplating diverse career paths. After completing her Ph.D., she worked as an engineer at the Ford Motor Co. before transitioning to a role as a technical intelligence officer with the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA).

Her lifelong dream of spaceflight became a reality in 2009 when she was selected as one of just 14 candidates in NASA's 20th astronaut class. The selection began a grueling but rewarding period of training. Epps served in Mission Control as a Capsule Communicator (CAPCOM), including as lead CAPCOM, acting as the crucial link between flight controllers and the astronauts in orbit. She also participated in intensive analog missions, such as NEEMO 18, where astronauts live and work underwater to simulate space missions, and ESA CAVES 19, a subterranean training program in which she became the first Black woman to participate, preparing her for exploring unknown environments on the Moon or Mars.

A Landmark Mission Aboard the ISS

In 2024, Epps's extensive training culminated in a long-duration mission to the International Space Station as a flight engineer for Expedition 71 and a member of the SpaceX Crew-8. The mission, which launched on March 3, 2024, concluded with a successful splashdown on October 25, 2024, after nearly eight months in orbit. During her 235 days in space, the crew traveled nearly 100 million miles and completed 3,760 orbits of Earth.

Her time aboard the orbiting laboratory was dedicated to critical scientific research. Epps was instrumental in conducting experiments aimed at benefiting humanity on Earth and enabling future deep-space exploration. Her work included stem cell research to develop organoid models for studying neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. She also contributed to studies on how plants adapt to microgravity and high radiation—essential knowledge for creating sustainable life-support systems—and conducted research on how spaceflight affects immune function and fluid shifts in the human body.

After a decorated career spanning nearly 16 years with NASA, Epps retired from the agency in 2025, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and scientific contribution.

A Tradition of Inspiring Voices

Epps's selection continues the University of Maryland's tradition of inviting influential figures, particularly accomplished alumni, to inspire its graduates. In recent years, the commencement stage has been graced by Maryland Governor Wes Moore (2024), broadcast journalist and alumna Gayle King ('76) (2023), and 'Diary of a Wimpy Kid' author and alumnus Jeff Kinney ('93) (2022). In a memorable 2025 ceremony, Kermit the Frog delivered the address in honor of his creator and UMD alumnus, Jim Henson.

Returning to the campus that helped launch her extraordinary career, Epps is poised to deliver a message of perseverance, curiosity, and the limitless potential that a solid education can unlock.

"I'm honored to return to the University of Maryland for such a milestone moment," Epps said in a statement. "My time as a Terp helped shape my path, and I look forward to celebrating this year's graduating class as they take their next steps toward making an impact in the world and, maybe, beyond."