Brilliance runs in the family!
NASA’s Johnson Space Center recently celebrated the remarkable legacy of Dorothy Vaughan and the incredible women of the Apollo with a building renaming and ribbon-cutting ceremony in Houston. Among the women honored was Vivian Ayers Allen, the mother of renowned actresses Debbie Allen and Phylicia Rashad, who attended the event to celebrate their mother’s achievements.
On July 19, NASA renamed Building 12 to the “Dorothy Vaughan Center” to honor those who enabled humanity’s first Moon landing. Vivian Ayers Allen, a prominent editor and poet at NASA since 1963, was celebrated for her significant contributions to space exploration. NASA praised her as “a distinguished woman of Apollo, whose remarkable contributions significantly advanced our understanding of space exploration.”
Debbie Allen, sister Phylicia Rashad, and their family celebrated Vivian Ayers Allen’s recognition as a Hidden Figure of Apollo 11. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Debbie Allen expressed her gratitude, saying, “Our hearts are overflowing with pride and gratitude ❤️ A special thank you to NASA and the director of the Johnson Space Center, Vanessa E. Wyche, for having us!”
Cover photo: Debbie Allen & Phylicia Rashad Celebrate Mother Vivian Ayers Allen As One of NASA’s Hidden Figures / Photo Credit: Walter McBride/Getty Images