Support Keanan Woodard's Astronomy Dream

Hi, my name is Keanan Woodard. I am a 17-year-old honor student at Christian Life Academy and a dually enrolled honor student at Wake Tech Community College in Raleigh, NC. I have been given a rare opportunity as one of only 25 individuals chosen nationwide to participate in this year’s University of Arizona, Advanced Astronomy Camp in Tucson, Arizona in June of 2025. This is personally an amazing opportunity for me to advance my dream in astronomy and astrophysics. It is a deep honor for one to be accepted into this program, but now I have the obstacle to raise $2900.00 to pay for the camp’s tuition and fees along with airfare from Raleigh, NC. to Tucson, AZ. in order to attend. I would really appreciate you taking a few minutes to read more about my story, my ambitions and financial need to attend the Advanced Astronomy Camp.

Since I was 13, I have had a deep love and passion for the Science of Astronomy. Over the past few years, I have been able to purchase several telescopes, books and resources and become a member of

the Raleigh Astronomy Club to help me understand and experience the various wonders of the cosmos. I have also had the opportunity of sharing these wonders with many others through public presentations that I have organized and also hosting scheduled stargazing events for others to learn. I believe the heavens declare the Glory of God and that the vast universe God has created to be our home is one of the most fascinating works of His hands. I believe God and science are not at odds, but rather intertwined companions inviting full discovery. Because of this belief and my growing love for astronomy, I am hoping to attend this Advanced Astronomy Camp and to pursue a PhD in Astrophysics.

The University of Arizona, Advanced Astronomy Camp is an 8-day camp stationed on top of Mt. Lemmon in Tucson, Arizona. Students will reside in the astronomers' dormitories at the Mt. Lemmon Observatory (Elevation) 9157 ft. located approximately 45 miles north of The University of Arizona in the Coronado National Forest in the Catalina mountains.

The Advanced Astronomy Camp promotes an authentic understanding of science, research, and engineering. Through hands-on, interactive adventures at astronomical observatories, the camp has proven to inspire, prepare, and retain the next generation of leaders through access to embedded professional mentors and camp alumni. Students, like myself, will gain real experience with data, quantitative reasoning and collaborations, cultivating a passion and understanding of STEM careers. On the last day of camp, students are invited to attend an official graduation ceremony.

Expenses to Attend the Camp Include:

 Astronomy Camp Fees: $2000.00

 Airfare: (Raleigh to Tucson) $800.00

 Travel & Food Expenses: $100.00

 Grand Total Amount: $2900.00

Camp Tuition Fees: Due March 1st

Airfare: Due March 15th

Travel & Food: Due: April 15th

Thank you for taking a few minutes to hear about this amazing opportunity that I have. I would deeply appreciate it if you would consider helping support me reach towards my dream by donating to my Go-Fund-Me.

Please feel free to share my Go-Fund-Me experience with anyone you feel might like to be apart of my journey and help me follow my dreams in Astronomy.