Kerrville, TX – The Hill Country Chapter of the National Weather Association, in partnership with Schreiner University, welcomes Dr. Chris McKay, live via TEAMS Live Event, on Monday, Mar 30th at 7:00 p.m. for an Online Presentation and Q&A. In an effort to continue to provide quality programming to our students, staff, faculty and community, this online event is free and open to the public.

A Senior Scientist at the Planetary Systems Branch of NASA’s Ames Research Center for Space Science and Astrobiology, McKay is an astro-geophysicist researching the evolution of the solar system and the origins of life. McKay has published research on planetary atmospheres, particularly Titan and Mars, and on the origin and evolution of life. He is a co-investigator on the Huygens Probe, the Mars Phoenix Lander, and the Mars Science Laboratory. He’s served as a member of the Board of Directors of the Planetary Science Society, the Mars Society and the Microbes Mind Forum.  He is a world-renowned speaker on the topic of planetary space colonization and terraforming.

McKay will be Schreiner University’s 2020 Harry Crate Distinguished Lecturer. The Harry Crate Lecture Series is named in memory of Harry Wm Crate, an alumni and salutatorian of Schreiner Institute 1937 and a Schreiner University Math and Engineering Professor of 40 years.  Harry Crate was known for his love of discussing science and technology with students and faculty.

Moderator of the event is Dr. Kim Arvidsson, Assistant Professor of Physics and Astronomy at Schreiner University. Students grades 6th-16th are encouraged to attend. To join the live presentation, go to www.schreiner.edu, click “NEWS,” click “EVENT CALENDAR,” you will find the Featured Online Event – Harry Crate Lecture and click on the join button. For any questions contact Tanya Jimenez, STEM Academic Services Coordinator STEMZONE, at tljimenez@schreiner.edu or 830-792-7311.