Dr. Bonnie J. Dunbar, a retired astronaut who has spent more than 50 days in space, will share her flight experiences and her vision for future space exploration at a special public presentation in Oak Harbor.

The March 24 event is sponsored by the local chapter of P.E.O. International, a nonprofit philanthropic educational organization.

“What a gift this is for the Oak Harbor community,” P.E.O member Judy Savage said. “Dr. Dunbar is hoping to inspire students to study math, science and physics.”

Savage believes Dr. Dunbar’s visit is coming at a critical time. Though the economy is still struggling, technological, engineering and other science-related fields seem to be holding steady, and she thinks it would be beneficial for students to hear about the pursuit of such careers.

Dr. Dunbar flew five shuttle missions during her 27-year career at the NASA Johnson Space Center, including the first docking mission to the Russian Space Station Mir. She became the President and CEO of the Museum of Flight in Seattle after her retirement from NASA and recently stepped down to become Executive Director of Wings Over Washington, an affiliate organization of the museum dedicated to acquiring space artifacts and to building the Aviation High School.

The general public, especially students and their parents, are invited to hear Dr. Dunbar and see her photo presentation at 7 p.m.  Thursday, March 24, in the Oak Harbor High School auditorium. Tickets, which may be purchased in advance from P.E.O. members or at the door, are $10 for adults and $7 for students, high school seniors and younger. For additional ticket information call 360-240-8092 or 675-6966.

P.E.O. International, which has five chapters on Whidbey Island alone, is an organization in the United States and Canada where women celebrate the advancement of women; educate women through scholarships, grants, awards, loans and stewardship of Cottey College; and motivate women to achieve their highest aspirations and goals.