May 23
Enzian Theater Maitland, FL
TicketsApril Jenn Choi
Aerospace Engineer, NASA's Kennedy Space Center; Fire Performer; Guinness World Record Holder
Sally— The Evolving Landscape for Women in Science and Aerospace Engineering
Program Description
Join us for an inspiring and thought-provoking event featuring aerospace engineer and 23-time world record holder April Jennifer Choi.
As an LGBTQ+ woman and visible figure in STEM, April brings a powerful perspective on navigating both professional excellence and public scrutiny. In this talk, she will provide insight into her work in aerospace engineering, her experiences in STEM, and personal journey alongside a broader discussion on the evolving landscape for women in science and aero engineering.
Film Synopsis
Sally Ride's groundbreaking journey as the first American woman in space concealed a deeply personal story. Her life partner, Tam O'Shaughnessy, unveils their covert 27-year romance and its accompanying sacrifices.
Cristina Costantini’s rich portrait of astronaut Sally Ride brings a fullness to her life that goes beyond the headlines of her trailblazing voyage past Earth’s atmosphere. SALLY skillfully weaves together the dual threads of Ride’s story: the private romance she shared with her partner and the professional trajectory of her time in the space program that saw her contend with overt sexism and homophobia, prompting her secrecy. Rare archival footage brings the viewer behind the scenes to witness NASA training and missions, while press appearances reflect the media frenzy Ride was subjected to both before and after her historic first flight. O’Shaughnessy takes a fitting central role in recounting her beloved Ride’s story and the legacy she left behind that inspires countless women and girls to dream for the stars. — Sundance Film Festival
Photo credit: National Geographic
About the Speaker
By day, April Jennifer Choi works on the cutting edge of aerospace engineering at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, but outside of the lab, she is a record-breaking fire performer and whip artist whose 23 Guinness World Records stand as a testament to the power of persistence through extreme challenges. As an LGBTQ+ woman and public figure in STEM, April has navigated the complexities of global visibility and the resilience required to face public scrutiny.