Big Changes Ahead at SMD

Editor’s 11 Sep 2006 update: I just got a call from NASA PAO relaying a message from Colleen Hartman to the effect that she is “not leaving NASA”. Given the broad range and location of people who have been circulating the news (from within SMD among other places) that she is leaving (please note my phrasing below i.e. “multiple sources report”) beginning the middle of last week, I might suggest that a means other than NASA Watch be used to let SMD employees know what is going on within the Division – before things make their way onto NASA Watch.

Editor’s 11 Sep 2006 note: Multiple sources report that Colleen Hartman, Mary Cleave’s Deputy will be leaving NASA – most likely to return to NOAA where she used to work. As such, the search will be on for new top management for SMD.

Editor’s 5 Sep 2006 note: SMD AA Mary Cleave told her staff in an SMD-wide email today that she will be leaving NASA next Spring. Her (short) note said:

“Dear colleagues in SMD

I just wanted to let you know that I am planning on retiring this Spring. We want to ensure that there is adequate time to find a replacement and have a good hand over period. It has been an honor and privilege to work in the federal service with you, mary”