NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe announced today John Schumacher would be appointed the agency Chief of Staff. Schumacher had served as NASA’s Assistant Administrator for External Relations since June 1995. He replaces Courtney Stadd, who is returning to the private sector in July.
“John brings invaluable experience and perspective to the job. He is well versed in NASA programs, familiar with our many national and international commitments, and a proven resource manager. His ability to simultaneously direct or manage numerous initiatives will benefit all of us at NASA Headquarters,” Administrator O’Keefe said.
As Chief of Staff, Schumacher will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of NASA Headquarters. He will work with the Administrator O’Keefe and senior NASA staff to shape the strategic direction of the agency, while managing and articulating various policies and programs.
As Assistant Administrator for External Relations, he was responsible for NASA’s interaction with Executive Branch offices and agencies; international relations; administration of export/international technology transfer control; history office, advisory councils and commissions. Schumacher joined NASA in June of 1989, and served as Advisor to the Administrator until January 1991, when he became the Deputy Assistant Administrator for External Relations.
Schumacher came to NASA from the New York law firm of Rogers & Wells, where he was engaged in corporate practice. He served on active duty in the U.S. Navy, at sea aboard USS Guadalcanal, and ashore in the space and electronic warfare directorates of the Joint Staff and Navy Staff. He is currently a Captain in the U.S. Naval Reserve, serving as commanding officer of a unit supporting the Navy Staff N3/N5 Directorate.
Schumacher graduated with distinction from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1976. He earned a master’s degree from Georgetown University, a law degree from Columbia University, and a certificate with honors in international law from Columbia’s Parker School of International and Foreign Law. He is a member of the New York Bar, the American Bar Association and the U.S. Naval Institute. He also serves on the Board of Directors of Living Savior Lutheran Church, Fairfax Station, Va.
Schumacher’s awards include the Presidential Rank of Distinguished Executive and Meritorious Executive; the NASA Distinguished Service Medal; and the Legion of Merit.