Jody Singer, the director of NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, announced her retirement on Monday.

Singer was Marshall's first female director and took the position in 2018. Her retirement at the end of the month will cap a 38-year career with NASA. She began as an intern in 1985.

Singer took part in 110 space shuttle launches during her tenure, including the Huntsville-built Artemis I rocket.

Marshall's current deputy director, Joseph Pelfrey, will serve as the interim acting director until NASA chooses Singer's successor.

U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) praised Singer's career and her impact on space exploration in the state.

"From becoming the first female center director at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville to leading her team through the successful Artemis I mission, Jody Singer's leadership has taken space exploration to new heights," Tuberville said.

"Jody has been a driving force in putting Alabama at the forefront of launch innovation and human spaceflight advancement, continuing a legacy in Huntsville that spans the globe. Alabama is grateful for her 38 years of service and I wish her the very best in her next chapter," he added. "I know that Marshall Space Flight Center will be in good hands with Joseph Pelfrey as NASA conducts a search for a new center director, and I look forward to the center's continued contributions to our space exploration under his leadership."

State Rep. Dale Strong (R-Huntsville) also applauded Singer's career, saying it "will continue to inspire generations to come."

To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email craig.monger@1819news.com.

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