Willow Reed is a Senior Communications Specialist at LASP and the Communications Lead for NASA’s MAVEN (Mars Atmospheric and Volatile Evolution) mission. With a background in solar physics and theatre, Willow has a unique ability of explaining scientific jargon in a way that is captivating to the public. Willow’s passion for scientific communication stems from wanting more people to feel welcomed in science, eliminating the gatekeeping that complex jargon can bring. Everyone deserves to explore the cosmos in their own way. In addition, Willow is the Principal Investigator for the Boulder Solar Alliance Research Experience for Undergraduates (BSA REU) program, in which LASP is the lead institute. Funded by the National Science Foundation, the BSA REU provides opportunities for undergraduate students to participate in authentic solar and space physics research.