Inspire, Winter 2006

from CNN aboutsurgery being performed in space.The purpose ofthis is to inspire kids to learn more about math and science." Hasselbring's interest in space began when she was about five years old and her parents took her to Kennedy Space Center. "They even bought me a little Space Shuttle which I still have,"she said."That made me think about becoming an astronaut— what an incredible career that would be.I kind of put that aside.I didn't think I could ever achieve it because I'm not a brainy person.I just work hard." She became a three-sport standout at Milan, helping the Big Reds win the 1988 state cross country title while still a sophomore.She played volleyball and ran cross country and track at Cedarville College and later received her master's degree from Eastern Michigan University. Hasselbring,who is single,began teaching math at Milan in 1995 and coaches cross country and track. Her classroom in the new high school is across the hall from Steve Porter,her high school running coach and mentor. "I really think cross country in high school made a major impact on my life,"she says now. "Steve (Porter) always emphasized goal-setting and I use what he taught me a few years ago when I set professional goals now.The discipline ofthat sport has also trained me to be focused." After nearly eight years ofrunning every day, she considers it an addiction,but a healthy one. "Everything you need to be a successful citizen, you can learn in sports,"she says."You learn about hard work,serving others,leadership and teamwork." Hasselbring next maylearn to fly jets and could find herself working full-time for NASA someday as a space educator. "As I take advantage of opportunities, more and more seem to open up,"she said."I feel really blessed by God that He has given me supportive parents,supportive teachers like Mr.Porter and a supportive community." She said shefelt like a real astronaut when she walked to the launch pad with her crew, all ofthem wearing space suits with the Americanflag. Inspire 19