Dr. Mae C. Jemison, physician and NASA astronaut, made history in 1992 when she when she went into orbit aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour on September 12, 1992.  She became the first African-American woman to travel in space. Dr. Jemison has inspired so many girls, so you can probably imagine how 12 year-old Taylor Richardson felt when she had the opportunity to this historian. She described it as “a definite dream come true.”

Taylor Richardson is working toward making history just as her idol Dr. Jemison has. This Jacksonville native aspires to be the first African American women to travel to Mars! What an amazing goal to set at the tender age of 12. Just given her background I’m sure she’ll accomplish this goal! Richardson is a Girl Scout, honors students, a STEM and literacy advocate, triathlete, an anti-bullying activist and a Mars Generation Space Ambassador. She definitely has a lot to be proud of. But these are only a few of her accomplishments she has made history as well by becoming the youngest kid ever to be admitted to Space Camp.

One thing that truly stood out to me is when she indirectly spoke about the importance of representation.  According to Women you Need to Know, Richardson said, “Seeing her makes me feel like I can do anything as long as I put my mind to it. Having someone like Dr. Jemison who looks like me makes me feel good about myself.” When we decide to be great, we give children everywhere an excuse to be great! Continue to encourage your children to dream big! Continue support their goals, dreams, and aspirations. Kudos to Richardson’s mom for arranging this amazing experience for her daughter! Thank Dr. Jemison for your contribution to African American history!