This month, one of Faulkner University’s adjunct professors, Mark McDaniel, was appointed to the Human Exploration and Operations Committee of the NASA Advisory Council. The announcement was made by NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine.
McDaniel teaches at Faulkner ‘s campus in Huntsville, Alabama. His wife, Henri McDaniel serves on the Faulkner Board of Trustees.
Congressman Mo Brooks recommended McDaniel to NASA Administrator Bridenstine, a personal friend and former House colleague of Congressman Brooks, to be a part of NASA’s highest civilian advisory board, citing Mark McDaniel’s past record of exemplary service on the NASA Advisory Council.
“Mark McDaniel’s experience and qualifications make him an excellent choice to advise NASA on its future missions,” Brooks said. “I congratulate Mark McDaniel on his appointment and have confidence Mark will be a productive and constructive member of the committee.”
McDaniel said he was honored that Brooks recommended him for the position.
“I look forward to serving NASA in this important position. I have been friends with Mo for many years, and I have always admired him for his integrity and courage, and especially for what he does for NASA and national defense.” McDaniel said.
Previously, NASA Administrator Daniel Goldin appointed McDaniel to the NASA Advisory Council in October 2000 and NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe reappointed McDaniel to the Council in November 2002 and November 2004. During McDaniel’s tenure on the NAC, President George W. Bush announced the Moon, Mars, and Beyond Initiative which set the Nation on a more aggressive pace for Space Exploration.
On January 26, 2007, McDaniel received the NASA Public Service Medal for his “Leadership and Council to America’s Space Agency, his advocacy of Human Space Flight and Exploration and dedication to the Aerospace Community at large.”