TO THE PEOPLE OF KANSAS, GREETINGS:
WHEREAS, Kansans have always used science and technology, whether it be iron plow, barbed wire or airplane, as catalyst for growth and development in our state; and
WHEREAS, we are now at the dawn of the 21st century with all its accumulated and potential advances in technology, space exploration and associated disciplines; and
WHEREAS, it is in the interest of its citizens that Kansas remain up-to-date, contemporary and future-striving in scientific education, research, development and commercialization in order to provide increased knowledge, a vibrant economy, improved quality of life and global competitiveness; and
WHEREAS, the state of Kansas demonstrates its commitment to science and technology through its quality educators, research universities, legislative initiatives and commercialization programs; and
WHEREAS, Kansas is fertile with hungry young minds, dedicated educators and professionals who impart, inspire and mentor scientific knowledge and innovation, renowned researchers who plumb mysteries from those of the smallest atom to the awe-inspiring constellations of space; and
WHEREAS, Kansas scientific legacy counts two native sons as Nobel prizewinner and three as astronauts as well as numerous engineering scientists who have helped train the astronauts, and it stature includes being one of the top states in the number of graduate-level scientists and engineers educated; and
WHEREAS, Kansans have always set sights high, even in selecting our state motto “Ad Astra Per Aspera” or “To the Stars Through Difficulties“,
NOW THEREFORE, I, KATHLEEN SEBELIUS, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF KANSAS, do hereby proclaim April 25, 2003, as
AD ASTRA KANSAS DAY
And encourage all citizens, businesses and government leaders to look literally to the stars and celebrate, encourage, recognize and promote scientific achievement within our state so that Kansas may reach its potential to harvest the bounty of science, technology and space for the good of the state, country and people everywhere. |
Photo credit: Office of the Governor
Standing behind Governor Kathleen Sebelius for the signing of a governor's proclamation naming April 25, 2003 as Ad Astra Kansas Day were (l to r): Jane Fortin, Kansas Commission on Aerospace Education (KCAE); George Howard, Heart of America Chapter National Space Society (NSS), Jeanette Steinert, Ad Astra Kansas News; Brenda Culbertson, Washburn University; Mary Jane Chambers, Wichita; Randall Chambers, Wichita Chapter NSS; and Paul Fortin, KCAE.
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