KELSIE GODDARD

Kelsie Goddard is an emerging voice in space diplomacy, dedicated to cultivating a thoughtful and compelling culture of space exploration. Her work sits at the heart of the human dimensions of space, focusing on how diplomacy and culture can broaden humanity’s participation in exploring the cosmos.

Most recently, Kelsie completed a government and public affairs internship with Arianespace, where she contributed to work surrounding international collaboration in the commercial space sector. She also recently completed The Fund for American Studies’ Defense & Security Studies Fellowship, where she examined emerging technologies and public policy. Across these experiences, she has developed a multidisciplinary perspective on space as a diplomatic and cultural endeavor. At the 18th ESSCA Space Policy Workshop, she presented “For All Mankind: Investigating Policy Strategies for the Democratization of Planetary Science Missions,” examining governance barriers to participation in planetary science and proposing policy frameworks for more inclusive exploration.

Kelsie is particularly interested in how thoughtful storytelling can transform space exploration from a distant technical enterprise into a shared human project. Her long-term work focuses on building a more culturally rich and publicly engaged space sector, one that recognizes the beauty of exploration alongside its scientific significance.

Education​​

  • B.A., Political Science, Minor in Middle East Studies 
    Texas Christian University (Expected December 2026)​

  • Arabic Summer Institute
    University of Texas at Austin (2025)

DANIEL WALKER

Daniel Walker is a committed advocate for expanding human ambitions in outer space, combining technical expertise with proven policy leadership. During his time serving at NASA Headquarters' Office of International and Interagency Relations (OIIR), Daniel prepared reference materials on 53 space agencies for senior leadership and drafted international agreements for lunar surface collaboration and cooperative science projects with NASA’s closest partners, strengthening global partnerships in space.

His senior thesis, "A Policy Framework for Satellite Collision Prevention and Space Sustainability Through AI Integration," addressed the urgent challenge of satellite congestion and proposed forward-thinking policy solutions. Daniel also co-led a capstone project building VR simulations for long-duration Mars missions using lunar environments.

Outside of aerospace, he spearheaded research on green energy tax credits at the American Council on Renewable Energy, presented policy briefs on strategic satellite systems, and managed a field team of 50 for a high-profile U.S. Senate campaign. Daniel’s career is defined by a commitment to global cooperation and ensuring that the opportunities of outer space are open to all nations, industries, and individuals.

Education

  • M.A., International Science and Technology Policy (Space Policy Concentration)
    The George Washington University, Space Policy Institute (Expected May 2027)

  • B.S., Interdisciplinary Studies (Aerospace Engineering & Public Administration), Cum Laude
    Auburn University (2024)

MICHAEL VILLANI

Michael is a young space policy professional focused on the intersection of international affairs, space security, technology policy, and global governance. At International Technology and Trade Associates, Inc., Michael researches U.S. policy surrounding commercial low-Earth orbit destinations, in-orbit servicing, and lunar development. Previously, as a Research Intern with the Australian Centre for Space Engineering Research at the University of New South Wales, he examined the security implications of lunar ice mining and its impact on international space governance, contributing policy briefs on space resource security.

Michael’s experience also spans political research and public engagement. He has supported policy research and constituent services in the Massachusetts House of Representatives, served as a Campaign Data Science Analyst, conducted nationwide public opinion research as a pollster, and worked as a certified tour guide at the Massachusetts State House. His international experience includes programs in Australia and Switzerland focused on global governance and international affairs.

Michael’s career is driven by an interest in shaping the policies and international frameworks that will govern commercial space development, lunar resource utilization, and humanity’s expanding presence beyond Earth.

Education

  • M.A., International Science and Technology Policy (Space Policy Concentration)
    The George Washington University, Space Policy Institute (Expected May 2027)

  • B.A., International Relations
    Boston University (2025)