"Jim Sweitzer has been a precious collaborator to define the project of the Parco Astronomico "Infini.To," which is next to the Astronomical Observatory of Torino. We have worked together for several years to develop the ideas for a scientific center dedicated to astronomy with multimedia displays, interactive exhibits and a Digistar 3 planetarium, which is having a great success after the inauguration that took place on September 2007. What I admire in Jim is his dedication to always develop new ideas on the basis of a sound scientific knowledge and his enthusiastic approach to difficult challenges. Our project would have never been possible without the guidance and expertise of Jim, who also trained our scientific staff."
Attilio Ferrari, Professor of Astronomy at the University of Torino, founder of the Parco Astronomico Infini.To
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"I have never before seen the combination of talents found in Dr. James
Sweitzer. He is no less fluent with the community of professional
educators as he is with the community of professional scientists.
Although, in retrospect, one should not be surprised. His PhD in
astrophysics and his follow-on career bringing the universe down to
earth in museum and classroom settings grants him unique perspectives
on the intersection of science and education.
Beyond these talents, Jim wields remarkable management skills. With a
keen sense of budgets and schedules, and a sensitivity to the
often-competing needs of project participants, I know of no better
person to sit at the center of a project that must come in on schedule
and on budget, while preserving its scientific and pedagogical
integrity. The $230 Million reconstruction of New York City's Hayden
Planetarium, in tandem with the successful installation of the
Astronomy and Earth Science exhibits, as part of the Rose Center for
Earth and Space, lives as one of many jewels in Jim's management crown."
Neil deGrasse Tyson
Astrophysicist
& Director, Hayden Planetarium
American Museum of Natural History
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"Jim Sweitzer has the rare ability to navigate clients through complex arrays of facts and uncertainties with his clear thinking, precise writing and thoughtful customer support."
Gregg Maryniak Director, James S. McDonnell Planetarium Saint Louis Science Center
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"I've had the great pleasure of working with Jim Sweitzer over the years and would welcome the chance to do so again. He has a vast knowledge of astronomy, a passion for communicating the wonders that science reveals and natural creative talents. I imagine that his excellent work has diverted many a young person to a career pathway in science. I look forward with enthusiasm to his future efforts."
Ann Druyan
Founder and CEO Cosmos Studios
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"Jim, I can’t begin to thank you for all of your hard work and many contributions to our NASA Explorer Institutes Planning and Evaluation Conference. You and Liz really helped make the meeting a big success. I very much enjoyed teaming up with the two of you and appreciated your commitment to this project before and during the meeting. It was a big job of great importance to us!"
Debbie Gallaway
Manager, NASA Explorer Institutes
Office of the Chief Education Officer
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“When we were planning our new Space University series (a twelve-book exploration of space travel, astronomy, and astrophysics for children in grades 4-6), we needed someone who could help us divide the “course of study” into twelve viable book topics. This was no small task! Fortunately, we found Jim—he helped us develop a great outline and vision for the series. He stayed with us throughout the project, reviewing layouts and providing insightful feedback based on his expertise in astrophysics and his experience as a science educator. Always mindful of our fast-paced production schedule, Jim never failed to turn around his comments quickly. He also helped us get in touch with top-notch scientists when we needed interviews or consults. With Jim’s guidance, we were able to create a series that we’re all thrilled with!”
Andrea Menotti
Senior Editor Scholastic, Inc.
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