Maxwell Ty Starr

• Patti Grace Smith Fellow, Class of 2022

• Ohio State University, Mechanical Engineering, ‘24

• Host Institution: MIT Media Lab

Max Starr, a Patti Grace Smith Fellow and second-year student at Ohio State University pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, found his passion in Aerospace during an internship at MIT's Media Lab with the Biomechatronics team, where he received counseling from the Space Exploration Initiative, PI. This experience sparked the idea of pioneering "space bionics" to lead in the future.

As a PGSF delegate, Max advised the United Nations Committee on peaceful uses for outer space and moderated the 38th Space Symposium as a New Gen Moderator. He is also currently working on engineering startups, A.I. education for kids, and independent musician development. As a recording artist himself, Max proudly orchestrated the creation of the Patti Grace Smith Fellowship theme song, "PGSF (Grace Mode)!"

Most important to him, Max and his close friends are establishing a foundation in honor of their late friend, driven by his core motivator to guide and empower young minority men, especially with support untraditionally provided in society for their mental health, creativity, and pursuit of happiness.