Kevin Schmadel Email Address

Vice President, Corporate Affairs and Communications

The Universities Space Research Association, established in 1969 by the National Academy of Sciences, is a private, nonprofit consortium of 102 universities offering advanced degrees in space- and aeronautics-related disciplines. USRA's mission is to conduct leading-edge research, develop innovative technologies, promote education and policy across the breadth of space science, and operate premier science and technology facilities by involving universities, private industry and government.

Management of corporate governance; oversight of external communications; conduct of congressional advocacy; and new business development. Responsible for communications with members of Congress and their staffs, including formulation of public policy positions and the conduct of advocacy efforts, to provide a voice in Washington on issues important to the university space research community. A recent effort was the reform of U.S. export control laws and regulations to reduce their adverse impact on university space-related research and workforce development. Engaged in the planning and business development of new research and educational activities, bringing together government, universities, and industry in successful collaborations. Over the last three decades, contributed to the expansion of USRA with new operations at NASA Field Centers and other Federal laboratories in the areas of Earth science, space physics, astronomy, microgravity research, information science, space life sciences, space nuclear research, and student programs. Worked on the protection and sale of intellectual property arising from research activities, and served as Manager (CEO) of a for-profit company, wholly-owned by USRA, investing in commercial start-up ventures.