In a heartwarming tribute to one of the most unsung heroes of modern history, NASA’s legendary mathematician, Katherine Johnson, has been posthumously awarded the Humanitarian of All Mankind (HOAM) Award. This prestigious accolade, bestowed by the Acknowledging Special Events and Projects (ASEP) organization, underscores Johnson’s indelible contributions to space exploration and aviation safety, as well as her unwavering commitment to education and humanity.

Born on August 26, 1918, Katherine Johnson’s life was a tapestry of brilliance and perseverance. From a young age, she displayed prodigious talent, reaching high school at just 10 years old and graduating summa cum laude from college at 18 with degrees in mathematics and French. Her career, however, would transcend the ordinary as she became a pivotal figure in America’s space race, breaking racial and gender barriers along the way.

Fred Outten, President and Founder of ASEP, announced the award, remarking, “Katherine Johnson was not just a mathematician; she was a visionary whose work continues to save lives and inspire generations. Her calculations ensured the success of America’s earliest manned spaceflights, and her legacy in STEM education continues to illuminate the paths of countless students.”

Johnson’s work at NASA was nothing short of groundbreaking. She was instrumental in calculating the orbital mechanics for multiple missions, including John Glenn’s historic Friendship 7 flight, where Glenn himself insisted that Johnson verify the computer’s calculations before he embarked on his journey. Her contributions were crucial to the success of the Apollo 11 mission, which saw the first human footsteps on the moon—a giant leap not just for mankind, but also for the countless women and minorities inspired by her achievements.

In her later years, Johnson never strayed from her roots as an educator. She tirelessly worked to inspire young minds, demonstrating that the sky was not the limit but just the beginning. Her story, immortalized in the book and film *Hidden Figures*, remains a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of perseverance.

Despite her many accolades, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Congressional Gold Medal, Johnson’s story remains a hidden gem in the annals of history. Outten emphasized the importance of preserving her legacy, especially in today’s climate where the erasure of Black history is a pressing concern. “Katherine Johnson’s contributions to our nation and the world must be recognized and celebrated, not just on her birthday, but every day,” he stated.

The HOAM Award will be added to Johnson’s archives at West Virginia University, where her legacy will continue to inspire future generations. As Outten noted, “Katherine Johnson’s life’s work not only charted new frontiers in space exploration but also created new possibilities for all humankind. She truly embodies the spirit of the Humanitarian of All Mankind Award.”

ASEP, founded in 1980 by Outten, has a rich history of honoring individuals and organizations that contribute to the betterment of humanity. Previous recipients include luminaries such as Nelson Mandela, Stevie Wonder, and Mother Teresa. Katherine Johnson now joins this illustrious list, a fitting recognition for a woman whose work transcended the boundaries of race, gender, and even the Earth itself.

As we celebrate Katherine Johnson’s 106th birthday, let us remember the woman who, with her mind, helped humanity reach for the stars and ensured that every step taken was grounded in safety and precision. Her legacy is not just written in the stars, but in the hearts of all who continue to be inspired by her extraordinary life.

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