Summer flight scholarship news

More than 100 scholarships available from WAI

In 2022, WAI awarded 103 scholarships worth more than $470,000. The 2023 scholarship awards are posed to exceed that amount, with 102 scholarships valued at over $630,000 and new scholarships posted weekly. These scholarships are available for WAI members in all stages of life and are geared toward flight training, as well as supporting professional pursuits in engineering, maintenance, dispatcher training, and drone operations, and for professional development. Scholarship applications are due by October 12 and qualifying applicants must be a WAI member as of October 1.

“We know that WAI scholarships change lives as many of our recipients share their stories of being able to pursue their aviation dreams,” said WAI CEO Allison McKay. “This financial support is one of the major benefits of being a WAI member, and we appreciate the generosity of our numerous scholarship sponsors.”

Visit the WAI website for application requirements, FAQ, and more information about the scholarships offered in 2023.

NBAA scholarships for passionate aviators

The Lawrence Ginocchio Aviation Scholarship, awarded through NBAA, is accepting applications through July 30. This scholarship is for undergraduate students (sophomore or higher) who are enrolled or accepted into an aviation management program at an NBAA/University Aviation Association member school. “The Lawrence Ginocchio Aviation Scholarship was created in 2001 by NBAA Charities and the family and friends of the late Lawrence 'Larry' Ginocchio to honor his outstanding personal contribution to the business aviation community,” the scholarship page reads. The target candidates for the scholarship should model honesty, integrity, and selflessness, and maintain a passion for aviation.

There are five $4,500 scholarships available. Applicants must submit an essay, résumé, official transcript, and two signed letters of recommendation. More information can be found on the scholarship application form.

Dolphin Aviation awards six scholarships

On June 20, six graduating high school students were awarded scholarships from Dolphin Aviation in Sarasota, Florida. Owner Shannon Ciaravella continues the tradition in honor of her husband, Ron Ciaravella—who died in 2021 after awarding more than 100 scholarships to college-bound teenagers. The 2022 winners are Gabriel French, Jaxson French, Delaney Hampton, Sephena Jackson, Halden Parker, and Chloe Sebiro. The scholarships are intended to help the graduates in their first year at college and the recipients plan to attend Florida State University, University of Central Florida, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Concord University, Florida Atlantic University, and Florida A&M.

”I am honored to continue the philanthropy Ron began 20 years ago,” Shannon said. ”Today’s winners exemplify attributes that mirror Ron’s conviction that determination, tenacity and hard work are integral to achieving success. Academics are not the main factor in our selection process. We want to help hard-working students from single parent homes who need help to launch their collegiate careers. We are proud to honor today’s scholarship winners and it is our hope that they bring their talents back to our region.”