Women’s History Month: Spotlighting a Space Studies Student

By Dr. Kristin Drexler
Faculty Member, School of STEM

with Christy BoneFont
Graduate Student, School of STEM

To celebrate Women’s History Month in March, I’d like to highlight a remarkable student, Christy BoneFont. Currently, she’s seeking a master’s in space studies with a concentration in earth and planetary sciences.

In addition to her master’s program, Christy serves the University community in two ways:

• She is the new President of the University’s chapter of Society for the Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS-APUS).
• Christy is also the Vice-President of our student chapter of the Association of Women in Science (AWIS).

The Background of Women’s History Month

Women’s History Month is celebrated annually in March. According to co-founder and former Executive Director of National Women’s History Alliance (NWHA) Molly Murphy MacGregor, “Women’s history is an essential and indispensable part of the national narrative….By understanding the achievements, struggles, and contributions of women throughout history, we gain a fuller, more accurate, and more inclusive understanding of our collective past.”

This year, the theme for Women’s History Month is as “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations.”

Celebrating Christy BoneFont for Women’s History Month

Christy is educating and inspiring a future generation of women scientists through her climate and space science research and leadership.  In January, Christy participated as a NASA Eclipse pathways ambassador, one of nine students by NASA Aurorasaurus and Astronomical Society of the Pacific. From January 4-11, she attended at a heliophysics Winter Field School at the University at Fairbanks.

Also in January, Christy participated as a flight director for an APUS Analog Research Mission (AARG) at Space Analog for the Moon and Mars (SAM) at Biosphere 2 in southern Arizona.

Also, Christy is excited about her recent invitation to be a NASA Solar System Ambassador. 

A Lunch and Learn Presentation with Christy on March 4

The University’s Office of Student and Alumni Affairs holds regular “Lunch and Learn” webinars. Christy will be the lead speaker on March 4 at noon (EST). Her presentation is “Empowering Women in STEM: My Story of Perseverance, Resilience through my Indigenous Roots, and Pursuing a Dream Career in Space Studies.”

Sign up for the Zoom presentation

In the presentation, Christy will share her journey. She notes, “As a woman in STEM, I will highlight the challenges and triumphs I’ve faced while navigating the path to a fulfilling career in space studies.

“Rooted in my Indigenous background, my story reflects the strength and resilience that come from my culture, instilling a sense of purpose as I pursued my dreams. I will discuss the importance of representation in the STEM fields and how my unique perspective has shaped my approach to problem-solving, imposters syndrome, innovation, and collaboration.”

An Interview with Christy BoneFont on Her Inspirations for Women in Science

As a faculty advisor for SACNAS and AWIS, I have had the opportunity to get to know Christy personally, academically and professionally. Recently, I interviewed her about her future plans, the women in science who inspired her and why they were an inspiration.

Kristi: Hi, Christy. Tell us about yourself! What is your area of study? What are your future goals and aspirations?

Christy: Hello! I am currently pursuing my master’s degree. I expect to graduate by the beginning of 2026, and my future goals are to deepen my understanding of heliophysics and work for a private aerospace company or NASA. I am particularly interested in researching auroras on other planets and exoplanets. 

Kristi: As a faculty member in space studies and earth science, that is AWESOME! I wish the best for you in the program. Second question: Who has been your biggest influence or inspiration in science – particularly WOMEN in science or STEM? Is there a woman whose accomplishments have been particularly impactful to you in your STEM path? 

Christy: Growing up, I was inspired by many trailblazers in STEM, but one woman who has had a profound impact on my path is Sally Ride. Not only was she an incredible astronaut, but her legacy extends far beyond her accomplishments in space.

Sally Ride paved the way for women in STEM and showed that with hard work and determination, anything is possible. My mother also played a significant role in my journey, encouraging me to pursue my dreams and never give up on my goals. Her unwavering support and guidance have been invaluable to me. 

Kristi: Why are you passionate about STEM and space studies?

Christy: I am passionate about STEM because I am driven by a desire to explore the unknown and uncover the mysteries of space and science. Since childhood, I have been fascinated by the stars and the moon, and I aspire to be an astronaut one day. I believe that science has the power to improve our understanding of the world and the universe, and I am committed to contributing to this body of knowledge. 

Kristi: You’re the new President of SACNAS. Congratulations! What made you want to be an officer and advisor for SACNAS?

Christy: As President of SACNAS and Vice President of AWIS, I am dedicated to promoting women’s rights in science and advocating for greater representation and inclusion in STEM fields. I believe that everyone deserves equal opportunities, regardless of their background or identity. 

Kristi: Very cool! How do you want to influence younger people in STEM – personally, academically or professionally? 

Christy: My goal is to inspire and educate younger generations in STEM by encouraging them to participate in outreach events, programs, and activities that foster their interest and participation in these fields. I want to empower them with the knowledge and skills they need to achieve their goals and pursue their dreams. 

Kristi: Me, too! That’s awesome. Is there anything else you’re working on?

Christy: Yes! As a NASA Eclipse Pathways Ambassador, I have had the opportunity to participate in a heliophysics winter field school and other initiatives that have deepened my understanding of STEM fields. I have also been a safety intern for the Virginia Spaceport Authority and a flight director for an analog mission at Biosphere 2 habitat in Arizona.

 Additionally, I am working on the NASA Lunar Autonomy Challenge and have been part of the NASA L’SPACE Mission Concept Academy. I’ve also been a project manager for NASA’s Proposal Writing and Evaluation Experience and was selected as aNASA Climate Change Research Initiative Educator Ambassador. These experiences have not only broadened my knowledge but also taught me valuable leadership skills. 

Also, I wanted to thank the Grants committee for supporting our efforts at the University. I am grateful for the opportunities I have had to grow and develop as a student and STEM professional. 

Getting Involved in Student Organizations at the University

If you’re interested in space or other STEM fields, please consider joining AWIS or Women in STEM (wSTEM). Membership is open to University students, faculty, alumni, and staff.

Also, consider joining the University’s chapter of SACNAS, which received the University’s Outstanding New Organization award in 2024. SACNAS promotes diversity in STEM in the contexts of social connections and sense of belonging, academic development, and professional development.

About the Authors

Dr. Kristin Drexler is a full-time faculty member in the Space Studies and Earth Sciences Department. She teaches geography, environmental science, conservation of natural resources, earth and planetary sciences, and sustainability for the School of STEM. Dr. Drexler holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communication from New Mexico State University and a master’s degree in Latin American studies with an emphasis in natural resources management from Ohio University. She earned her Ph.D. in educational leadership at New Mexico State University with research in socioecological systems, sustainable agroecology, and community education. 

Dr. Drexler earned the Undergraduate Excellence in Teaching Award for the School of STEM (2020) and the Dr. Wallace E. Boston Leadership Award (2021). Dr. Drexler has conducted numerous community surveys in Belize and Guatemala regarding sustainable agriculture and COVID-19 impacts and is a co-investigator for the multi-year research study, “A Case Study Comparison of Pandemic Experience of Indigenous Groups in the Americas.” 

In the late 1990s, Drexler served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Belize; she co-founded Full Basket Belize, a 501(c)(3) and has served on its Board of Directors since 2005. Dr. Drexler produced the award-winning short film Yochi; she also founded “Science Talks with Dr. Drexler and Friends” to assist teachers during the pandemic. Dr. Drexler also co-directs the Gila Film School and has produced seven documentary films sponsored by the U.S. Forest Service to celebrate the centennial of the Gila Wilderness in 2024. She also serves as a faculty advisor for the University’s wSTEM, AWIS and SACNAS chapters.

Christy BoneFont is a dedicated non-traditional student at American Public University, pursuing a master’s degree in earth and planetary science. She has an associate degree in space studies and a bachelor’s degree in space studies with a concentration in aerospace science from American Public University. Christy’s ethnic background consists of her Cherokee, Seneca, and Mohawk heritage, which has created in her a deep respect for nature, community, and the interconnectedness of all living things. Additionally, her Spanish Chicano heritage is a blend of diverse cultural influences that have shaped her perspectives and aspirations.