High-Impact Learning, Literally: Dr. Jeremy Carr Leads CACC Students on a Journey to Space

Posted on Nov 25, 2025 at 2:54 PM

Dr. Jeremy Carr arrived at this year's Alabama Community College Association Conference with a presentation that grabbed attention right away. His session, titled "High-Impact Learning, Literally: CACC's Journey to Space," walked attendees through the kind of academic experience that rarely comes from a community college setting. Curiosity at CACC has carried students farther than anyone expected, and the college is preparing for a milestone moment in 2026, when a student-designed experiment will travel to the International Space Station as part of Mission 20 of the Student Spaceflight Experiments Program. 

The journey began with a five-week course called Proposal Writing for Microgravity Science Experiments. Dr. Carr worked alongside 52 students as they learned how to design research that could operate in microgravity. The students formed 15 teams and produced 12 strong proposals that explored topics ranging from osteoporosis to early ideas in astrofarming. Three proposals were advanced for national review, and one was chosen for launch.

Dr. Carr often points to the way students grew throughout the project. They navigated challenges, pushed through tough revisions, and gained confidence as their ideas took shape. He has said the most rewarding part is seeing students realize they belong in conversations about science and innovation. The work also gave students tangible skills that strengthen résumés, including scientific writing, advanced research methods, and experience defending proposals before industry-level reviewers. These are the kinds of experiences that set students apart in competitive fields.

President Jeff Lynn views the project as a clear example of what strong collaboration and hands-on learning can accomplish at CACC. He frequently emphasizes the college's commitment to preparing students for both academic success and the growing workforce needs across Alabama. The aerospace and defense sector continues to expand in the state, and he praised this work for providing students with experience that translates directly into opportunities.

The initiative introduced students to rigorous research practices, scientific communication, and the discipline required to justify their ideas to professionals. It challenged them, but it also showed them what happens when their ideas are taken seriously. Many walked away with a clearer sense of direction and a stronger understanding of how their interests connect to real industries and career paths.

The upcoming launch will mark more than the end of a project. It will stand as a moment when a group of community college students proved that big ideas can start in a small classroom and still reach space. Their work serves as a reminder that curiosity, when paired with the proper guidance, can lead to extraordinary outcomes.

CACC's journey to space is not only exciting. It reflects the college's commitment to high-impact practices and the belief that students can rise to any challenge placed before them.

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