Nancy Grace Roman (1925–2018) was a pioneering American astronomer and NASA's first Chief of Astronomy, earning her the nickname "Mother of Hubble" for her foundational role in planning the Hubble Space Telescope. Overcoming early discouragement—including a dean at Swarthmore who tried to steer her away from science—Roman pursued her passion, earning a Ph.D. from the University of Chicago and making significant contributions to stellar classification and motions. She joined NASA in the 1960s, where she built the agency's space astronomy program from the ground up, championing the development of space-based observatories. A lifelong advocate for women in science, Roman inspired generations of researchers through her public speaking and mentorship. In May 2020, NASA honored her enduring legacy by naming the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope after her, cementing her status as a visionary founder of the US civilian space program.