Tuskegee, AL ::: December 5, 2025 -The Tuskegee Organization for Rocketry Operations and Dynamics (TORODyne), the nation’s only nonprofit HBCU rocketry team, proudly announces the successful fundraising of $107,880 [Dec 5] surpassing its $100,000 goal to support its ambitious mission: building a rocket capable of reaching the Kármán line (100 km) at Tripoli’s BALLS launch event in Nevada in 2026.
Continuing Tuskegee’s Legacy of Breaking Barriers
Tuskegee has long been a symbol of innovation and resilience, from the legendary Tuskegee Airmen to today’s student-led pioneers. Revived after a decade of dormancy, TORODyne is entirely student-led and student-funded, demonstrating that under-represented students can compete on the biggest stage in amateur rocketry.
Unlike many university teams with large sponsorships and budgets, TORODyne relies on grassroots support. Donations will directly fund critical expenses including:
• Travel related costs for test flights and Argonia Cup Competition (Argonia, KS — March 2026)
• Transportation and lodging for 20 members to Reno, NV
• Registration and hazmat shipping costs
• Equipment, infrastructure, and contingency parts
• Outreach programs to inspire future aerospace innovators
“We are overwhelmed with gratitude for the incredible support we’ve received,” said the President of TORODyne, Camelia Ingram . “Every donation, every word of encouragement, and every share of our story has fueled not just our rocket, but our mission. Thanks to you, we are proving that students from an HBCU can stand shoulder to shoulder with the best in amateur rocketry. This is more than a launch, it’s a new era of opportunity for Tuskegee students and for the broader aerospace community. On behalf of our entire team, thank you for believing in us.”
Why This Matters
• TORODyne is the only nonprofit HBCU rocketry team in the nation.
• Students gain real-world engineering experience that transforms careers.
• The project ensures Tuskegee continues its legacy of excellence, innovation, and breaking barriers in aerospace.
About TORODyne
The Tuskegee Organization for Rocketry Operations and Dynamics (TORODyne) is a student-led nonprofit dedicated to advancing aerospace innovation and opportunity. Revived after more than 10 years of dormancy, TORODyne is committed to building rockets, helping its members achieve Tripoli certifications, and inspiring the next generation of engineers and scientists.
For more information or to support TORODyne’s mission, visit our website: www.ToroDyne.org.
