Commemoration Honors McNair ‘71 on 40th Anniversary of Challenger Disaster

EAST GREENSBORO, N.C. (Jan. 28, 2026) – North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University paid tribute to alumnus, physicist and astronaut Ronald E. McNair, Ph.D., Wednesday, Jan. 28, on the 40^th anniversary of the space shuttle Challenger disaster that killed him and his six fellow crew members.

But McNair himself – his life and legacy – is what the community celebrated above all else during the university’s annual commemoration in the Deese Ballroom of the Student Center.

McNair’s widow, Cheryl McNair, offered a personal reflection on her husband’s life and enduring influence in a prerecorded message during the program, which also featured remarks from university and local officials, TRiO McNair Scholars and students.

Additional highlights included presentations by the Army and Air Force ROTC, musical selections by the North Carolina A&T Fellowship Gospel Choir, recognition of McNair Elementary School art contest winners, a live painting and a panel discussion.

Some panelists who were unable to attend because of weather-related travel disruptions. Their perspectives and contributions were acknowledged throughout the program, underscoring the broad network of scholars, alumni and professionals who continue to advance McNair’s legacy.

Chiquita L. Mays, Ph.D., a 1995 electrical engineering graduate and former TRiO McNair Scholar, said her experience at A&T shaped her academic foundation, leadership philosophy and entrepreneurial journey.

“A&T helped me find my voice,” she said. “It taught me how to articulate my ideas, defend my research and lead with confidence.”

After building a successful corporate career, Mays founded CLM Consulting to create opportunities for others, cultivate inclusive work environments and promote servant leadership. Her transition into entrepreneurship was driven by a desire to empower communities, mentor emerging professionals and design spaces where innovation and equity coexist.

Mays encouraged students to embrace leadership opportunities, pursue advanced study and advocate for themselves in professional spaces.

“Your work should speak for itself,” she said. “Be courageous, work hard and never apologize for your leadership.”

Retired Air Force Maj. Craig R. Harrison, a 1991 graduate whole, like McNair, hails from a native of Lake City, South Carolina, recounted his path from an AFROTC scholarship student to military aviator and commercial pilot. He served as a minority admissions counselor and civil engineer before becoming an honor graduate of C-130 navigator and pilot training. He later transitioned to a civilian career and now flies for FedEx. His journey demonstrated the discipline and resilience cultivated during his years at A&T.

Current fourth-year students Anansi Coleman and Croix Thomas shared reflections shaped by research, leadership and discovery, responding to questions focused on academic motivation, hands-on learning, leadership development and preparation for graduate study and STEM careers.

Thomas, a senior mechanical engineering major with a focus in aerospace engineering, serves as project manager and team captain of Astro Aggies, the university’s collegiate rocketry team. She said her early interest in building and design sparked her passion for engineering while hands-on projects at A&T strengthened her technical and leadership skills. She spoke about leading a multidisciplinary team, navigating setbacks and learning adaptability, noting how it all prepared her for professional engineering environments. She encouraged students to seek out research and project-based opportunities that challenge them beyond the classroom. She has accepted a full-time position with Honeywell as a manufacturing engineer following graduation.

Coleman, a senior physics major with a concentration in engineering physics, addressed questions centered on research engagement, mentorship and long-term academic goals. He spoke about how early exposure to research through the TRiO McNair Scholars Program shaped his academic direction and opened pathways into advanced scientific study. He discussed his work in thin film characterization, electrohydrodynamic, molecular dynamics and astronomical imaging, emphasizing how research strengthened his problem-solving abilities and critical thinking. He encouraged fellow Aggies to pursue research, leadership and scholarly inquiry, highlighting the importance of intellectual curiosity, communication and lifelong learning. He plans to pursue graduate studies in physics or engineering.

Together, the panelists underscored the enduring relevance of McNair’s legacy, one rooted in intellectual curiosity, disciplined leadership and service to humanity. Through scholarship, mentorship and innovation, the celebration showed A&T’s commitment to preparing students to lead with purpose and integrity.

The annual commemoration not only celebrated McNair, but also served as a reminder of the responsibility his legacy places on future generations of Aggies to pursue excellence, advance equity and uplift their communities.