Walt Powell Endowed Memorial Scholarship

Walt Powell was an extraordinary individual who left an indelible mark on the lives of everyone he touched in his short 33 years of life. Born in Tyler, Texas, the only child of Walter Connally and Bolivia Powell, he approached life with an intensity that was inspiring and infectious. Walt had a way of making you want to learn, explore, and experience new things alongside him. His passion was contagious, and those who were lucky enough to be around him couldn't help but be drawn into his orbit.

His childhood pursuits included youth choir, acting in civic theater productions, and was a skilled magician and ventriloquist. In 1991 he attended Space Camp at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, winning the coveted and prestigious Right Stuff award. He also attended Space Academy in 1993. His talents included being a fearless black diamond skier, an avid fly fisherman, a skilled marksman, and a lifelong animal lover that showed dogs in Conformation and Junior Showmanship.

He discovered a passion for craft beer and brought to life the only first-run cinema microbrewery in the world, Flix Brewhouse, helping to make it hugely successful. He was a founder and administrator for Rate Beer, an internet community of lovers and critics of fine beer.

Walt’s sense of humor was legendary. Whether he was regaling you with stories of his latest adventure or simply sharing a laugh, Walt had a way of making you feel valued. A force of nature, a whirlwind of curiosity, creativity, and passion, he is greatly missed.

Today the U.S. Space & Rocket Center is proud to have trainees learning in the Walt Powell Collaboration Zone in the Space Camp Operations Center.