Godwin gets recognition as example for children

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- Growing up in Jackson, Linda Godwin dreamed of being an astronaut at a time when NASA didn't allow women into the space program.

But after being twice rejected by the space agency, Godwin was eventually able to live her dream, recently making her fourth trip into space.

In his State of the State address on Wednesday, Gov. Bob Holden highlighted Godwin's story of ultimate success in the face of adversity as a metaphor for the challenges facing the state and its public education system.

"Linda Godwin's accomplishments are a shining example of how all children growing up in Missouri can rise to meet personal challenges if they work hard, and if we -- their parents and teachers -- provide the opportunity and support for a good education," Holden said.

"The lessons we must take from Linda Godwin are as important as they are obvious. In times of challenge, we must keep sight of our goals."

Godwin was an honored guest at the address and received a standing ovation from the General Assembly when Holden introduced her in the House chamber. Godwin was accompanied by her husband, retired Air Force Col. Steven R. Nagel, a former astronaut.

In Holden's office prior to the speech, where the governor presented her with a proclamation honoring her service to her country and state, Godwin said she was surprised to receive the governor's invitation.

"It is a first for me and an honor to be included in some small way," Godwin said.

Godwin, 51, is a 1970 Jackson High School graduate and 1974 graduate of Southeast Missouri State University. She earned a doctorate in physics from the University of Missouri in 1980 and joined NASA the same year. She became an astronaut in 1986 and currently resides in Houston, Texas, with her husband and two daughters.

In her four shuttle flights since 1991, Godwin has logged 38 days in space. In Holden's office, she discussed her most recent mission with Columbia high school students enrolled in a science and space study program.

"One of our greatest pleasures is to get to come back and talk to the people to whom our space program belongs, and in particular to talk to students," Godwin said.

Godwin's latest flight, on the shuttle Endeavor, was in December. The mission took her to the international space station and included a space walk, her second.

The mission could also be her last.

"I just had my fourth flight and may decide that was enough," Godwin said.

mpowers@semissourian.com

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