UNC Alumna And Astronaut Trainee Zena Cardman Revels In The Poetry Of Outer Space

Posted Nov 11, 2019
Zena Cardman knew she might not have another opportunity to pursue poetry. She was about to dive into graduate research on microbiology in extreme environments when she put that plan on ice, and opted to write a poetry collection for her undergraduate thesis at the University of North Carolina. Cardman was naturally attracted to space exploration. (WUNC)

Related: Campus Connections

From an indigo hue to Carolina Blue: the history behind UNC's school colors
Many students, fans and alums have proudly proclaimed that UNC is home to "the better blue." Carolina Blue became a widely used noun in the...
Sat Mar 21, 2026

Entrepreneur, UNC alum gives back, a bagel at a time
Alex Brandwein left UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School in May 2020 with two big accomplishments: an MBA and a lease for a bagel shop a few...
Tue Mar 17, 2026

20 years after seeds were distributed to children, Davie Poplar's legacy still grows
At nearly 400 years old, the Davie Poplar has stood on UNC-Chapel Hill’s campus for as long as the University has existed. But its legacy...
Mon Mar 16, 2026

UNC creative writing associate professor’s book earns national honor
One UNC faculty member’s newest book is earning accolades. “The New Economy,” written by Gabrielle Calvocoressi, has been named a finalist for the National Book...
Sat Mar 14, 2026