There has been a lot of discussion about President Obama’s cabinet selections. So far, a lot of them have been interesting. The world has been playing “fantasy white house” with the cabinet picks, putting together their own dream team of all-stars. I can only imagine what’s it’s like to have to choose the best of the best from various disciplines and convince them to work for a government salary.

Everyone has had their opportunity to throw names out for various positions, but one that we haven’t heard a lot of talk about is the job of head of NASA. A pretty important position, considering the comparisons being made between Obama and Kennedy. It wouldn’t surprise me if, once we’ve gotten our problems solved on the ground, we look to the stars again to inspire generations to do more. No secret that I believe that anything that inspires people to do more is priority 1.

Well, I’m throwing my hat into the “White House Dream Team” selection ring. I would choose Dr. Mae C. Jemison to head up NASA. Because she was the first Black woman in space? Sure. Because she’s the only real astronaut to do an episode of Star Trek? Okay. But for me, anyone who understands physics, medicine, and can come with a quote like this:

“We talk about taking proper care of people, but we don’t do it,” she said. “We lack the commitment. Martin Luther King was about doing things. He didn’t just have a dream, he got things done.
“My message is about seeing possibilities and having the courage to work toward them.”

…is someone I’d want handling a budget for space travel, research, and possible military integration.

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