West Virginia native heading to space, becoming first female astronaut from state

HUNTINGTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A West Virginia native will be the first woman from the Mountain State to head to space.

Emily Calandrelli, a Morgantown native and West Virginia University graduate is set to embark on a groundbreaking journey to space.

Calandrelli, an Emmy-nominated television host and best-selling author, will travel aboard a Blue Origin spaceship, the private space company owned by billionaire Jeff Bezos.

The historic trip is partially funded by the Wing 2 Wing Foundation, a nonprofit organization founded by Marshall University President Brad D. Smith and his wife, attorney, and philanthropist Alys Smith.

This initiative aims to help students graduate from Marshall University debt-free.

Calandrelli expressed her gratitude for the foundation’s support.

“Affordable access to education is essential for a student to reach their full potential – I was no different,” said Calandrelli.

“Because of an undergraduate scholarship that covered my tuition, I was free to focus my energy, creativity, and mental capacity on academics. If it weren’t for that scholarship and support, I wouldn’t have been able to graduate at the top of my class, and I would not be where I am today.”

Brad and Alys Smith praised Calandrelli for her dedication and perseverance.

“Throughout her life, Emily has faced challenges and overcome adversity to have a successful STEM career that ultimately led her to this dream of going to space. She embodies what is possible for all women and families in our great state when access to education is available,” they said in a statement.

The Marshall For All, Marshall Forever project, envisioned by Brad Smith, a first-generation college graduate, aims to eliminate student debt at Marshall University within ten years.

Inspired by programs at institutions like Berea College and The Ohio State University, the initiative seeks to create a future where financial barriers do not hinder academic success.