Education and Public Outreach Staff

Barb Gruber is the Assistant Director for Education and Public Outreach at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO). She leads efforts to connect broad audiences with the excitement and discovery of astronomy. She earned her Ph.D. in Education from George Mason University and has dedicated her career to expanding access to high-quality astronomy education and engagement opportunities. Drawing on her expertise in education, outreach, and workforce development, Dr. Gruber works to create meaningful learning experiences that inspire curiosity, foster scientific literacy, and broaden participation in astronomy and the STEM fields. She is passionate about ensuring that people from all backgrounds have opportunities to explore, engage with, and contribute to our understanding of the universe.

is the Senior News and Public Information Manager and Public Information Officer. She leads the Public Information staff in Education and Public Outreach in sharing stories and multimedia about NRAO's science and people. She also manages requests for media productions and shoots at NRAO telescopes and facilities.

Jeff Hellerman is an Art Director, Designer, and Photographer at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory, specializing in visual storytelling, brand development, marketing, and translating the science of radio astronomy into compelling visual narratives. He leads creative direction that connects audiences with discovery – blending design, storytelling, and original photography to create engaging experiences to capture both the grandeur of the cosmos and the complex engineering required to build radio astronomy telescopes and arrays. His work ensures a consistent and compelling visual identity for NRAO, bringing clarity, energy, emotion, and authenticity to how the invisible universe is made visible.

Based in San Diego, California, Melissa collaborates with scientists and outreach teams to develop visual stories that promote and support radio astronomy. Beyond her work with the NRAO, she is also a visual artist who creates abstract pieces inspired by scientific concepts and imagery. Her creative and professional interests often intersect, driven by a lifelong fascination with science fiction and the connections between art, technology, and discovery.

serves as the Public Information & Multimedia Officer at the U.S. National Science Foundation Green Bank Observatory in green Bank, WV. He is a astronomical illustrator - and occasional writer - for NSF Green Bank Observatory and NRAO science releases.

Brianne Angell is the Social Media Specialist for the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) and Green Bank Observatory (GBO). She leads content creation and strategy across NRAO and GBO social media platforms, helping connect global audiences to groundbreaking radio astronomy. Brianne earned her Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations from The University of Akron (Akron, Ohio). With prior experience in higher education and non-profit organizations, she brings a versatile approach to digital storytelling and community management. She is passionate about making complex science accessible and engaging to the layperson.

Meet Bill Saxton, the Senior Animator and Illustrator at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) who specializes in making the invisible universe look cool. Since 2003, Bill has used his unique background—a BFA with a minor in Chemistry—to translate complex astronomical data into "stop-and-stare" visuals for the public. Before turning his talents toward the cosmos at the iconic Green Bank Observatory and NRAO’s Charlottesville headquarters, he built an eclectic portfolio working with clients ranging from Pfizer to country legends like Loretta Lynn and Wynonna Judd. Today, he sits at the intersection of art and science, creating the eye-catching imagery that brings the wonders of deep space to life for audiences everywhere.

is the Senior Public Information Officer in New Mexico for the Very Large Array (VLA), Very Long Baseline Array (VLBA), and Next Generation Very Large Array (ngVLA) project. Corrina's role in communications and government affairs works to ensure the accessibility of groundbreaking scientific discoveries to diverse communities. With extensive experience in political campaigns, policy analysis, and communications, Corrina combines her passion for science communication with active community engagement through storytelling at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory.

Matt has been a long winding journey to his current home as the Web Developer for the NRAO public website. He started his education in English and during is Graduate English program he began working as a graphic designer and eventually a web developer. He enjoys game development, playing pickleball, ultimate frisbee and going outdoors with the family.