Catalyst John C. Ryan
Connecting Classrooms to the Cosmos
Illustration by Jenna Park
John Ryan’s love of astronomy began at eight years old, when he came across a colorful book about planets and other celestial objects in a mobile library.
Decades later, his appreciation for astronomy drew him to the pioneering research of the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO). He served on both SAO’s advisory board and the Smithsonian National Board for nearly 10 years.
With a $2 million gift, he has became the founding donor to launch Smithsonian STARS—Scientists Taking Astronomy to Rural Schools—which will distribute telescopes and lesson plans and provide teacher training and support to 30,000 rural and Tribal schools across the United States.
This new program aims to expand access to hands-on learning opportunities in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) that inspire young students and foster their curiosity—just as that astronomy book sparked Ryan’s own lifelong interest in space.
What follows is an edited conversation with John Ryan about his philanthropy.
What drives your philanthropy?
I’ve always been interested in education for younger people, and astronomy has always been interesting to me. Learning from astronomers feels like a gift to me, so it feels good to be able to return that gift to others.
You are the founding donor of the STARS program. What inspired you to make this gift?
I heard [Director of the Center for Astrophysics] Lisa Kewley speak, and that changed everything. She told me about a program she did in Australia where they gave telescopes and educational materials to rural schools. I asked if she was going to do that in the United States. I thought, this is my chance. I learned more about what it would cost, and how many schools could benefit from this program.
Like what happened for me when I encountered that astronomy book, the program will spark young people’s curiosity about STEM subjects.
What are your hopes for this gift and the future of the STARS program?
To realize it and make it happen within the next five years for the 9.8 million students who attend rural schools. To inspire others who are interested in supporting educational projects.
The STARS program has given me an opportunity to give to something broader than anything I’ve ever done, in a way that’s meaningful to me—and to the kids, parents and teachers.
Tell me about an experience at the Smithsonian that has stayed with you.
I went to the groundbreaking of the Giant Magellan Telescope (GMT) in Chile. I saw how telescope mirrors are made. They’re typically 25 feet in diameter. All the trips with the Smithsonian have been exciting.
Through my involvement with the Smithsonian, I’ve had the opportunity to view objects and learn about them. Seeing the GMT in Chile—that was an experience I would not have had were it not for the Smithsonian. Having access to these incredible tours and knowledge is truly a gift.
Published Summer 2025 in IMPACT Vol. 11. No 2
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