[SatNews] A distinguished physician and astronaut joins the Company's board of directors...

COM DEV International Ltd. (TSX:CDV) has appointed Dr. Roberta Bondar to its Board of Directors. Dr. Bondar has expertise as both a research scientist in neurology and as an astronaut, flying onboard the Space Shuttle Discovery in 1992. "We are very pleased to welcome Roberta to our board," said Terry Reidel, Chairman of the Board of Directors. "Her experience in the space industry and in high level research will add valuable perspective and strategic insight as we pursue our long-term growth strategy."

Roberta Bondar's successful career as a researcher in the field of neurology led to her selection in 1983 as one of the original six astronauts for the Canadian space program. After many years of intense training, she participated as a payload specialist with the first International Microgravity Laboratory Mission in January, 1992, becoming the first Canadian woman to go into space. She spent eight days in space, conducting numerous experiments and photographing the earth's surface. Post flight she headed an international space medicine team working for many years with NASA. Dr. Bondar holds a B.Sc. from the University of Guelph, a M.Sc. from the University of Western Ontario, a Ph.D. in neurobiology from the University of Toronto, and a medical degree from McMaster University. A Board Certified Neurologist, she has received numerous honours during her career, including Officer of the Order of Canada, the Order of Ontario, the NASA Space Medal, twenty-four honorary degrees, and induction into the Canadian Medical Hall of Fame.