Leland Melvin is a former NASA astronaut, engineer, and NFL wide receiver whose extraordinary journey—from the football field to space—powers an unforgettable speaking experience.
After an injury ended his professional football career and a near-deafness diagnosis threatened his future at NASA, Melvin defied the odds to fly two Space Shuttle missions aboard Atlantis, helping build the International Space Station and logging more than 565 hours in space. He later led NASA’s education initiatives and helped shape the nation’s STEM strategy, all while becoming a bestselling author and global advocate for curiosity and resilience.
Join retired NASA astronaut and Space Center Houston Chief Science Officer Megan McArthur as she moderates an evening with Leland Melvin. Through a conversation rooted in grit, reinvention, and teamwork, Melvin shares lessons from his remarkable journey, inspiring audiences to embrace setbacks, unlock potential, and pursue bold new frontiers.
$59.00
Thursday, September 10, 2026
Reception Doors Open: 5:30 p.m.
Thought Leader Series Program Begins: 6:15 p.m.