PHOTOS: Castro professor reaches for the stars

José Hernández shares his inspiring journey from migrant farmworker to NASA astronaut with the MSU Denver community.

October 11, 2024

Astronaut José Hernández, wearing a blue NASA flight suit, speaks at a podium during a presentation at Metropolitan State University of Denver. A large screen behind him displays a scientific diagram, possibly an artist's rendition of an X-ray laser."

Astronaut José Hernández speaks to a full room of students, staff and high schoolers on Oct. 8 at Tivoli Turnhalle. Photo by Alyson McClaran

An overhead view of a large audience seated in rows during a Castro event at Metropolitan State University of Denver. Attendees are focused on the event, while some are using their phones. Several individuals stand along the back wall of the room.

Students, staff and high schoolers gather at the Tivoli Turnhalle on Oct. 8 for the Castro Distinguished Visiting Professorship keynote discussion. Photo by Alyson McClaran

A group of women stands and claps during a Castro event at Metropolitan State University of Denver. The attendees are smiling, showing their appreciation, with others in the background also standing and clapping."

Attendees stand and applaud astronaut José Hernández after his speech at MSU Denver. Photo by Alyson McClaran

"Adriana Nieto, Ph.D., stands at a podium during an event at Metropolitan State University of Denver, with a backdrop displaying the message 'Changemakers Wanted' alongside MSU Denver and Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) logos. The Denver skyline is also featured in the background."

Adriana Nieto, P.h.D, chair and professor of Chacana/o Studies, speaks to a full room of students, staff and high schoolers on Oct. 8 at the Tivoli Turnhalle. Photo by Alyson McClaran

A woman takes a selfie with a child and Astronaut José Hernández, who is wearing a blue NASA flight suit. The group is smiling, and other attendees are visible in the background during a Castro event at Metropolitan State University of Denver

Astronaut José Hernández takes a selfie with attendees at the Castro Distinguished Visiting Professorship event on Oct. 8 at the Tivoli Turnhalle. Photo by Alyson McClaran

Read the story and watch the event recording.

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