The Galactic Medallion Team

Meet the professionals and guest speakers behind Galactic Medallion

Elizabeth A. Schneider

CEO and Tour Director of Galactic Medallion

Elizabeth Schneider Galactic Medallion Visionary Leads the Way in Luxury Space Tourism

Elizabeth A. Schneider, the visionary behind Galactic Medallion, combines her expertise in travel and passion for space exploration to create unforgettable luxury space tours. Her career, which started as a French teacher, transformed into an impressive journey, spanning over 40 years as a multilingual tour guide. After graduating from Rollins College, she made Central Florida her home, dedicating her life to sharing the wonders of space and the Kennedy Space Center with travelers from all walks of life.

Galactic Medallion Offers Unique Space Adventures

Under Elizabeth Schneider's leadership, Galactic Medallion focuses on providing high-end tours to NASA, Kennedy Space Center, and Florida's Space Coast. Whether catering to families, corporate delegates, student groups, or luxury vacationers, Schneider ensures every detail is handled with precision and VIP-level service. Her commitment to offering exceptional experiences stems from her lifelong curiosity about space and a deep-seated love for learning.

Elizabeth Schneider Galactic Medallion Visionary Inspires Through Enthusiasm

Elizabeth Schneider's infectious passion for space exploration transforms each tour into an extraordinary journey. Her genuine enthusiasm captivates participants, leaving them with lasting memories and new knowledge. “When you see someone who loves what they do, you can't help but get excited with them,” said one satisfied traveler. Her love for space and dedication to crafting one-of-a-kind adventures make her a standout in the travel industry.

Elizabeth Schneider Galactic Medallion Visionary: A Lifelong Educator

Although Elizabeth Schneider began her career in education, her transition into the travel sector allowed her to broaden her impact. Schneider's approach to travel, particularly with Galactic Medallion, continues to reflect her educational roots. She views every tour as a chance to teach, sharing fascinating insights about space exploration. This unique blend of tourism and education is a hallmark of her work, earning her praise from both clients and colleagues alike.

Creating Unforgettable Space Coast Experiences

Every element of a Galactic Medallion tour is meticulously planned, thanks to Elizabeth Schneider’s leadership. Her attention to detail ensures that guests enjoy a seamless, luxurious experience, while her passion for space brings an unforgettable, authentic touch to every trip. Each itinerary is curated to give participants the opportunity to immerse themselves in the wonders of space, a key element of her visionary approach.

Elizabeth Schneider Galactic Medallion Visionary’s Lasting Legacy

Elizabeth Schneider’s legacy in the travel industry, particularly through Galactic Medallion, is one of passion, excellence, and innovation. Her ability to blend luxury with education has redefined space tourism on Florida's Space Coast. Schneider’s visionary work continues to inspire others, and as she says, “There’s always something new to discover when you look up at the stars.” By offering unique and highly personalized space-themed tours, Schneider ensures that every guest leaves with a newfound appreciation for the cosmos.

Brenda A. Miles

Vice President of Sales & Marketing

Brenda Miles Galactic Medallion Sales Leader Elevates the Industry

Brenda A. Miles, an accomplished marketing and sales professional, currently serves as the Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Galactic Medallion. She brings extensive expertise in driving revenue growth and strategic business development to her role. Her background in the aviation and travel industries uniquely qualifies her to lead Galactic Medallion's sales and marketing efforts.

Brenda Miles Galactic Medallion Visionary in the Aviation and Travel Industries

Brenda's career is marked by significant achievements in several high-profile positions. Previously, she served as Director of Worldwide Sales & Marketing for SIMCOM Aviation Training, where she expanded the company’s reach and established its presence in the highly competitive aviation market. Her leadership at FlightSafety International further solidified her standing as a leader within the industry.

Strategic Approach and Market Expertise Define Brenda Miles Galactic Medallion Visionary Leadership

With a focus on impactful marketing strategies and strong client relationships, Brenda Miles is known for her strategic thinking. She excels at understanding complex market dynamics and generating new business opportunities. Her innovative approaches have helped her consistently reach and exceed business goals.

Brenda Miles Galactic Medallion Leader Advocates for Women in Aviation

Beyond her professional role, Brenda remains committed to advancing women in aviation. She is an active member of Women in Corporate Aviation, a notable industry organization. Her work helps create opportunities for women in the field, and she continues to mentor and support others in the industry.

The Future Vision of Brenda Miles at Galactic Medallion

Brenda A. Miles is not only known for her leadership in aviation and travel but also for her forward-thinking approach to industry trends. Her tenure at Galactic Medallion reflects her ability to stay ahead of the curve, ensuring the company thrives in an ever-evolving marketplace. Her deep passion for aviation, along with her dedication to professional development, positions her as an invaluable leader.

Ken W. Pond

Creative Director

Ken W. Pond Versatile Creative Professional with Over 25 Years of Experience

Ken W. Pond is a versatile creative professional with over 25 years of experience in photography, cinematography, motion graphics, print, and web design. Based in Florida, Ken has established himself as a creative director, musician, and cinematographer with a diverse portfolio that spans multiple disciplines. His work extends across various creative industries, showing a rare talent for merging artistic vision with technical expertise. Ken’s unique approach to creative projects has earned him praise from peers and clients alike.

Ken W. Pond’s Journey in Cinematography and Advertising

Ken's career has taken him through a range of environments, including recording studios, advertising agencies, and film sets. His education in jazz under the tutelage of renowned trumpeter Dave Burns set the foundation for his artistic creativity. Burns, a legendary jazz musician, is credited with influencing some of the greatest jazz performers of the 20th century. Ken's musical training directly informs his approach to visual storytelling, where rhythm, tone, and pacing play crucial roles in his cinematography.

Mentored by advertising mastermind Richard Trask, creator of the iconic Adidas ad campaign, Ken has worked on high-profile projects that emphasize his ability to blend artistry with commercial success. According to industry reports, Trask’s Adidas campaign was groundbreaking in the world of sports advertising, and Ken was fortunate to learn from someone with such innovative expertise in the creative marketing field.

Ken W. Pond Versatile Skills in Digital Media and Creative Direction

Ken has led numerous projects that highlight his skills in digital media, branding, ad art, and creative direction. His work on several award-winning projects is recognized for its strong visual narrative and the ability to connect with audiences on a personal level. Ken’s cinematography, for instance, has been featured in productions that span from independent films to major commercial projects, reinforcing his position as a key figure in the creative field.

Ken's expertise also extends into the world of web design, where he has developed websites for notable clients across a variety of industries. His role as a digital media expert has also made him a sought-after consultant for businesses looking to enhance their online presence and brand identity.

Ken W. Pond Versatile Actor and Inductee of the International Thespian Society

In addition to his work behind the camera, Ken is also a talented screen and stage actor. He is an inductee of the International Thespian Society, which honors individuals who have demonstrated a high level of achievement in the performing arts. His involvement with the Society showcases his passion for both the technical and performance aspects of storytelling. Ken’s notable performances have earned him recognition from prestigious organizations, such as the Pike Image Award and the Learring Orchestral Society. These accolades speak to his versatility as an artist and his ability to excel across different mediums.

As a proud member of the National Space Society, Ken also brings his love for space exploration into his work, often blending science fiction and futuristic elements into his visual projects. His involvement in space-related content has further solidified his place as a dynamic figure in the world of creative production.

Ken W. Pond’s Active Engagement in the Creative Community

Ken remains actively engaged in the creative community, sharing his work on platforms like Instagram and YouTube, where he showcases his photography, cinematography reels, motion graphics, and music projects. Ken’s ability to seamlessly integrate music with visual content makes his social media channels a favorite among fans of both media. As a content creator with a diverse following, Ken continues to inspire emerging artists in various fields by demonstrating that creativity knows no boundaries.

Ken's influence has also extended to teaching and mentoring young filmmakers and photographers. He has collaborated with local art schools in Florida, offering workshops on digital media production and creative direction. His contribution to the education of the next generation of artists has left a lasting impact, further expanding his legacy as a versatile creative professional.

Galactic Medallion's Featured Guest Speakers

Mike Leinbach

NASA's Final Shuttle Launch Director

Mike Leinbach's name is synonymous with the spirit of space exploration at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Starting as a structural engineer in 1984, Leinbach's expertise and leadership quickly propelled him to the top, culminating in his role as the final Shuttle Launch Director from 2000 to 2011.

During his tenure, Leinbach oversaw 37 Shuttle missions, becoming the decisive voice that gave the final “Go” for launch. His career was marked by both triumph and tragedy; he led the debris recovery and reconstruction efforts after the Columbia disaster in 2003, significantly contributing to the safety of future space missions. He also initiated the Columbia Preservation Team to foster innovation in spacecraft safety.

Leinbach’s contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including the Presidential Rank Award and NASA’s Exceptional Service Medal. After retiring from NASA in 2011, he became an independent consultant and co-authored “Bringing Columbia Home,” chronicling the recovery efforts after the Columbia tragedy.

Leinbach’s journey from engineer to launch director is a testament to his dedication and leadership in human spaceflight. Even today, he remains a guiding force in space exploration, sharing his knowledge and inspiring the next generation to reach for the stars.

Dr. Kirby Runyon

Planetary Geologist and Space Exploration Advocate

Dr. Kirby Runyon Planetary Geologist with a Passion for Space Exploration

Dr. Kirby Runyon is a planetary geologist and research scientist with a deep passion for space exploration. Currently, he is affiliated with the Planetary Science Institute. He specializes in the study of rocky landforms on celestial bodies like Mars, the Moon, and asteroids. His work includes geologic mapping and conducting experiments under simulated space conditions. Parabolic flight is one method he uses to recreate zero-gravity environments.

Dr. Kirby Runyon Planetary Geologist Focused on Geologic Mapping

Dr. Runyon holds a PhD in planetary geology from Johns Hopkins University. He completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the Applied Physics Laboratory. His research has contributed significantly to the understanding of planetary surfaces, particularly in the realm of geomorphology. Dr. Runyon's involvement in NASA's New Horizons mission, which explored Pluto and the Kuiper Belt, led to the co-discovery of Pluto's icy mountains.

Dr. Kirby Runyon Planetary Geologist Advocates for Accessible Space Science

An advocate for accessible space science, Dr. Runyon regularly shares his expertise with the public. He actively participates in public forums, including zero-gravity flight experiences and space tours. His ability to communicate complex science has made him a regular feature on platforms like Planetary Radio, where he shares insights on space exploration.

Dr. Kirby Runyon Integrates Science and Spirituality

Dr. Runyon is also committed to community involvement, especially at the Church of the Resurrection in Lutherville, Maryland. He seeks to bridge science and spirituality, believing that both domains can inspire curiosity and wonder about the cosmos. His unique perspective makes him not only a scientist but a mentor and guide for those interested in space.

Dr. Kirby Runyon Planetary Geologist Continues to Lead in Space Research

With a rich background in planetary geology, geologic mapping, and parabolic flight experimentation, Dr. Kirby Runyon continues to push the boundaries of space exploration. His work inspires future generations of space enthusiasts. As a mentor, he connects personal experiences with real-world space exploration, driving a new wave of curiosity and discovery.

Jean Wright

The Last "Sew Sister" of NASA's Space Shuttle Program

Jean Wright, known as the last "Sew Sister," is a retired NASA Aerospace Composite Technician and an integral part of the team that crafted the thermal protection blankets for the space shuttles. Her unique expertise in sewing and fabric work led her to join the elite group of seamstresses who shielded astronauts from the intense heat and radiation encountered during their missions. Jean's journey to NASA began with her childhood passion for both space and sewing, which ultimately converged to make her a vital part of one of the most daring eras in human spaceflight history.

Wright was the final seamstress hired during the Space Shuttle Program. She played a key role in constructing specialized quilts—two inches thick—that covered the space shuttles, providing essential protection for astronauts against extreme temperatures and radiation during reentry into the Earth’s atmosphere. Today, she shares her experiences and knowledge as a docent at the Kennedy Space Center, where she brings the history and technology of the Space Shuttle Program to life for visitors.

Beyond her work with NASA, Jean is also an accomplished quilt artist and the owner of Sew Sisters Space Creations, where she continues to explore her creative passions. She actively participates in educational outreach, giving talks and presentations to inspire future generations about the intersection of art, science, and space exploration. Her story is captured in the book, "Sew Sister: The Untold Story of Jean Wright and NASA's Seamstresses," which chronicles her journey from mastering a domestic art to becoming a part of NASA's elite sisterhood.

Jean's contributions to space exploration are celebrated not just in her technical work, but also in her role as a storyteller and educator, sharing her unique perspective on what it was like to be one of the women who literally sewed together some of NASA's greatest achievements.