One Story Can Change a Future

When Dr. Kenneth Harris came to a Challenger Learning Center as a child, he couldn’t have known where that experience would lead. Today, he helps protect satellites as a Senior Project Engineer for The Aerospace Corporation, contributed to the historic James Webb Space Telescope, and serves on Challenger Center’s Board of Directors. But during a recent visit to Challenger Learning Center of Maine in Bangor, he wasn’t there to talk about his resume.

He was there to listen.

As part of Challenger Center’s 40th anniversary celebration, Kenneth spent two days connecting with the Bangor community—first with supporters, educators, and STEM professionals, then with hundreds of students at Bangor High School.

“The best part about going into communities for outreach is meeting the students where they are,” Kenneth said. “It’s not so much about what I’ve done in my career, but really what do you see as a hurdle in your dreams within STEAM and ultimately how can I help you navigate that.”

More Than a Presentation

First, he spoke at an evening community event at Challenger Learning Center of Maine. The presentation drew board members, donors, parents, local STEM leaders, and almost the entire physics department from the University of Maine. What was planned as a brief question-and-answer session stretched to nearly 40 minutes as attendees eagerly asked about everything from historic space missions to the future of exploration—and, of course, aliens.

One of the evening’s most memorable moments came when Kenneth shared a childhood photo of himself attending a Challenger Learning Center.

“There were all these ‘awws’ from the audience,” recalled Kirsten Hibbard, Executive Director of Challenger Learning Center of Maine. “People saw the connection between Kenny as a child and the students they know today.”

The next morning, that connection became even more tangible.

Meeting Students Where They Are

Interest among Bangor High School students in hearing from Dr. Harris was so overwhelming that organizers moved from a lecture hall to a larger auditorium—and ultimately held three separate sessions to accommodate demand.

Each audience was different, and Harris adapted naturally, discussing everything from the James Webb Space Telescope to career paths, internships, and the reality that success rarely follows a straight line. He openly shared setbacks, including failing a college course and having to ask to retake it.

“For younger students, it’s showing that your journey will take twists and turns,” Kirsten said. “Those relatable stories give kids confidence that their path doesn’t have to be straight.”

The Conversations That Matter Most

Perhaps the most meaningful conversations happened between sessions.

Kenneth intentionally left extra time after each presentation, anticipating that some students would be more comfortable asking questions one-on-one. He was right.

“There was a line between every session,” Kirsten said. “Students would surround him. Some were just happy to stand next to him. Others wanted to ask one more question before running off to class.”

One student asked how to balance a love of STEM with cheerleading. Another group debated whether Interstellar or Project Hail Mary was the better science fiction story before launching into questions about Star Wars and Star Trek. For Kenneth, those conversations are the point.

“My mantra when I speak is ‘Impact just one,’” he said. “I never seek the title of role model—but I do hope to leave an impact that outlives me.”

Kirsten believes that’s exactly what happened in Bangor.

“As our journey evolves, so does our need for role models,” she said. “Sometimes it’s people you know and trust, but sometimes an outside voice can help shake you out of your comfort zone and challenge you to think bigger.”

She also saw something her own team could learn from. “Leaving that extra time for the quieter students who don’t want to ask questions in front of the group—that was such a powerful reminder that curiosity looks different for everyone.”

The Power of One Story

For Kenneth, mentorship is built on the example of those who came before him. He often reflects on a quote his undergraduate scholarship cohort adopted from Sir Isaac Newton: “If I have seen further than others, it is only because I was standing on the shoulders of giants.”

“Role models are an important part of your journey because through them you know the goal is achievable,” he said. “I hope my words during the event and actions throughout my career resonate with someone.”

That hope is at the heart of Challenger Center’s alumni community. Every alumnus carries a story of curiosity, perseverance, and possibility. By sharing those stories—whether speaking at an event, mentoring students, volunteering, or simply staying connected—today’s thinkers can help students imagine futures they may never have considered.

You never know whose life your story might change.

Ready to make an impact? If you are a Challenger Center alumnus, we’d love to help your story reach the next generation. Reach out to info@challenger.org with “Alumni” in the subject line. Because sometimes, all it takes is one story to launch a lifetime of possibility.