WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — Two West Liberty University seniors have been selected to serve as NASA West Virginia Space Grant Consortium Student Ambassadors for the 2026–27 academic year.

Gwyneth Horzempa, a senior Data Science major, and Elizabeth Ivanac, a senior Mathematics Education major, will represent West Liberty while promoting STEM education, NASA-related opportunities, and West Virginia Space Grant Consortium programs to students and communities.

“Gwen and Elizabeth are two of West Liberty’s brightest stars,” said Dr. Raymond Holsapple, Chair of the Department of Physical Sciences and Mathematics. “I was thrilled when they told me that they were going to apply to be NASA Ambassadors, and I had no doubt they’d be selected. Both are brilliant, hard-working, and devoted to science and education.”

As NASA WVSGC Student Ambassadors, Horzempa and Ivanac will participate in STEM events, interact with K-12 and higher education students, and help promote NASA-sponsored programs, internships, research opportunities, and student research competitions.

Ambassadors also develop outreach activities on their campuses, promote opportunities through social media, and work with WVSGC leadership throughout the academic year. They are expected to conduct or attend at least three outreach events during the year and will have the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C., for the NASA Space Grant Directors meeting.

Horzempa and Ivanac have already begun putting their roles into action at West Liberty by establishing a new STEM club that has attracted approximately 30 members.

“In the short time they have been Ambassadors, they have already started a brand-new STEM club and recruited around 30 members,” Holsapple said. “They have a solid plan in place for all the things they want to accomplish this year as NASA Ambassadors. I am thoroughly impressed by their achievements and expect great things from both of them.”

The NASA West Virginia Space Grant Consortium Ambassador Program provides one-year awards to students dedicated to increasing STEM awareness and engagement. Student Ambassadors serve as a connection between WVSGC and their communities while increasing awareness of NASA and WVSGC opportunities available to students.

West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students’ aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. To apply or learn more about West Liberty University, visit westliberty.edu. 

Media Contact:
Rhone Thrash
West Liberty University
rhone.thrash@westliberty.edu