NASA Veteran Dr. Hum Mandell Reflects on a Life of Impact

Dr. Humboldt “Hum” Mandell, a distinguished alumnus of The University of Texas at Austin, has dedicated his life to aerospace engineering and philanthropy. At 90 years old, he reflects on a remarkable career that includes significant contributions to NASA during pivotal moments in space exploration, including the historic Apollo 11 mission. His journey underscores the importance of timing, talent, and a deep-rooted connection to the university that shaped his path.

A Journey Through Time and Space

Arriving at UT in 1953 to study aeronautical engineering, a field that would evolve into aerospace, Hum Mandell was soon to encounter a defining moment. He recalls meeting Virginia “Ginny” Lee Hurley, a fine arts student, through mutual friends. Their initial blind date did not go well; Hum’s driving left much to be desired. Yet, a year later, they crossed paths again, leading to a 45-year marriage and the raising of three daughters.

“To honor her memory,” he states, “I established the Ginny Mandell Memorial Scholarship.” This scholarship not only pays tribute to Ginny but also reflects the couple’s shared commitment to UT. Hum also founded two additional scholarships: the Mandell Family President’s Associates Endowment and the Humboldt C. and Evangeline S. Mandell Scholarship, honoring his parents.

After Ginny’s passing, Hum found love again with Sally Cowper, a fellow UT alumna. Their marriage enabled them to travel extensively, enriching both their lives. Hum describes her as his “traveling wife,” and their shared experiences brought joy and adventure.

Pioneering at NASA

In 1957, after earning his degree, Hum Mandell joined the U.S. Air Force before moving to McDonnell Douglas and later to NASA. He became known for calculating missile stress loads, a skill that proved invaluable as he transitioned into a long and influential career at NASA.

During the Apollo 11 mission in 1969, Hum was in the control room, witnessing history as astronauts walked on the moon. “Everybody was watching when Buzz Aldrin was about to do his first EVA,” he recalls, illustrating the gravity of that moment.

After serving as deputy manager of the Mars mission in 1975, Hum eventually became the program manager. “If enough people retire ahead of you, you eventually get the job you want,” he remarks with a laugh, acknowledging the fortunate timing of his career. His tenure at NASA was marked by advocating for state support to ensure continued investment in the space program.

Upon retiring after four decades, Hum was honored with a commissioned painting by Pat Rawlings, depicting him on Mars, a fitting tribute to his remarkable career.

Giving Back to the Next Generation

Returning to UT, Hum Mandell volunteered for twenty years, teaching aerospace engineering at the Center for Space Research. Noticing a lack of representation among Forty Acres Scholars from aerospace engineering, he took action. He supported the Stamps Forty Acres Scholarship, a prestigious full-ride merit award.

This scholarship is jointly funded by the Stamps Scholars Program and matching donors like Hum, aimed at expanding opportunities for exceptional students. One of those students is Jackson Bellard, a standout aerospace engineering major. “He was chosen from a pool of strong candidates,” Hum notes, highlighting the talent of recipients.

Jackson, currently pursuing a master’s degree at UT, describes Hum as a “wonderful guide, both personally and professionally.” Their bond exemplifies how philanthropy can create lasting, positive change in students’ lives. Moved by their son’s scholarship, Jackson’s parents have also partnered with the Stamps Scholars Program to award another scholarship to an aerospace engineering student this year.

As he reflects on his life, Hum says with humor, “My current hobby is staying alive,” while expressing a desire to continue his active involvement at UT. His legacy, characterized by a commitment to education and the pursuit of knowledge, remains profound.

At a time when his contributions to both his country and the cosmos are celebrated, Dr. Mandell’s story illustrates how crucial timing and connection can shape both individual lives and the broader community. “It was just the right time for all of it,” he concludes, encapsulating a life well-lived.