Space Development Agency, University of North Dakota Announce Educational Partnership Agreement

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, leadership at the University of North Dakota (UND) and the Space Development Agency (SDA) officially signed an Educational Partnership Agreement (EPA), showcasing the pivotal role the university and Grand Forks play in space development and the security of the nation.

During a recent visit to Grand Forks with U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), SDA Director Dr. Derek Tournear announced the then-pending partnership agreement. Cramer, Chair of the Senate Armed Services (SASC) Airland Subcommittee, has championed this partnership to provide educational and workforce development opportunities at UND.

"This collaboration between the University of North Dakota and the Space Development Agency is a testament to the transformational capabilities Grand Forks has to offer," said Cramer. "The long-term partnership will make a huge difference, not just for the university but for the security of the world. This is another opportunity for UND to demonstrate its leadership in bolstering our nation's space capabilities, and I look forward to working with them to see Grand Forks grow and thrive."

"The Space Development Agency looks forward to a deeper partnership with the University of North Dakota through the newly-signed Educational Partnership Agreement," said SDA Director Tournear. "The agreement encourages the free flow of ideas and facilitates exchange of personnel between SDA and UND, which will benefit both organizations. The future of national security in, from, and to space is strengthened by partnerships like this one."

Through this agreement, SDA will provide educational opportunities to students at UND, enhancing science, mathematics, and engineering courses. The collaboration permits SDA to loan defense laboratory equipment and surplus computers and equipment to UND and allows SDA personnel to teach or assist in the development of science courses.

Further, it will provide sabbatical opportunities for faculty and internship opportunities for students, include faculty and students in SDA projects, enable students to receive credit for participation in these projects, and authorize SDA staff to provide academic and career advice and assistance to students.

In April, SDA Director Derek Tournear and General Michael Guetlein, Vice Chief of Space Operations for the U.S. Space Force, joined Cramer in visiting UND and touring the John D. Odegard School Of Aerospace Sciences and the National Security Corridor at the College of Engineering & Mines. The group also visited Grand Forks Air Force Base and Cavalier Space Force Station. During the visit, the group viewed on-going U.S. Space Force activities throughout the state and view North Dakota's defense capabilities.