Welcome
Rose D.F. is an Astronomer, STEM mentor, and Activist from the Dominican Republic.
She earned a Bachelor of Science in Planetary Science, and after becoming a Brooke Owens Fellow in Aerospace, she was offered several internships by NASA. She chose to postpone her PhD to focus on hands-on work at the agency. After her internships she became a full-time NASA contractor, and motivated by her passion for space exploration and a desire to supplement her work at the time, she later decided to pursue a Master of Science in Engineering while training for her transition into federal work within the agency.
Journey
Having endured extreme poverty, abuse, and homelessness, Ms. Ferreira became an advocate for these causes. She used her earlier social media presence to raise awareness, share resources, and coordinate aid. She utilized her personal funds to sponsor disadvantaged students and individuals facing financial challenges by providing microgrants and supplemental resources.
During the COVID-19 pandemic and the shortage of Personal Protective Equipment, she worked with educators and volunteers nationwide to produce safely regulated PPE components for distribution across the United States. She later used this 3D printing technology to design and print toys, which she helps to distribute yearly through “Toys for Tots” drives.
She has been a STEM mentor for years, engaging in outreach in both English and Spanish, and volunteering as a science mentor and Education Consultant with NYC science educators. During her time in New York she participated in science workshops that provide free extracurricular opportunities for high school students from underserved schools, as well as those who want to pursue higher education in science.