Carolyn Huntoon

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Dr. Carolyn Huntoon, JSC Director

Carolyn Leach Huntoon (born August 25, 1940) is an American scientist and former NASA official. She is notable for being the first woman to serve as the Director of the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center (JSC) in Houston, Texas.

Early Life and Education

Carolyn Huntoon was born in Leesville, Louisiana. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from Northwestern State University in 1962. She then went on to receive a Master of Science and a Ph.D. in physiology from Baylor College of Medicine.

Career

NASA

Huntoon began her career at NASA in 1970, where she worked as a researcher in the Biomedical Laboratories at the Johnson Space Center. Her research focused on the physiological effects of spaceflight on astronauts. She played a significant role in the development of life sciences research for the Space Shuttle program.

In 1994, Huntoon was appointed as the first female Director of the Johnson Space Center, a position she held until 1996. During her tenure, she oversaw numerous space missions and contributed to the advancement of human spaceflight.

Department of Energy

After leaving NASA, Huntoon served as the Assistant Secretary for Environmental Management at the United States Department of Energy. In this role, she was responsible for the cleanup of sites contaminated by nuclear weapons production and other energy-related activities.

Awards and Honors

Huntoon has received numerous awards for her contributions to science and space exploration, including the NASA Exceptional Service Medal and the NASA Outstanding Leadership Medal.

Personal Life

Carolyn Huntoon is married and has two children. She continues to be an advocate for women in science and engineering.

See Also

• NASA
• Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center
• Space Shuttle program
• United States Department of Energy

External Links

 This article incorporates public domain material from websites or documents of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.