Leading Edge Aviation (LEA) of Bend, Oregon, has revealed the names of the winners of the four flight training scholarships.
In May 2015, LEA announced the opportunity for students entering the Central Oregon Community College Aviation degree program to receive either a $10,000 scholarship for students studying towards their helicopter ratings, or a $5,000 scholarship for students studying towards their airplane ratings.
After receiving a number of applications from well-deserving students, the LEA Scholarship Committee selected the top applicants to receive the 2015 scholarships:
Helicopter Students
Samantha Challburg: Samantha has dreamed of pursuing a career in aviation since a young age. Samantha has demonstrated outstanding leadership skills as a cheerleading coach, and displayed her commitment to aviation as an active member of various flight clubs, including the COCC Aviation club.
Samantha’s ultimate goal is to work in the Emergency Medical Service field.
Andrew Lasick: After getting a degree in business administration, while pursuing an additional degree in criminal justice, Andrew’s interest in the aviation industry emanated from working with local county and municipal law enforcement agencies on ride along missions.
Andrew displays exceptional work ethic as he balances two jobs, working on his flight ratings and maintaining above average grades as he studies towards his aviation degree.
Andrew’s ultimate goal is to fly in the law enforcement field.
Micayla Browne: Micayla has wanted to become a helicopter pilot for as long as she can remember. After overcoming various financial setbacks, Micayla has demonstrated dedication and motivation in attaining her private pilot helicopter license by the age of 19 while pursuing a degree in aviation.
Her ultimate goal is to work as a search and rescue/EMS pilot.
Airplane Student
Jacob Richerson: Jacob has displayed commitment and determination through working multiple jobs at a time while pursuing a degree at Central Oregon Community College, in order to attain his dream of becoming an airplane pilot.
Jacob’s application came with rave recommendations from previous mentors, who had seen him display remarkable leadership skills throughout his high school football career.
As his parents, we are so excited that Jacob has put in the hard work and is in hot pursuit of his dream to fly. In addition, we are incredibly grateful to his mentors who have helped him along the way, and to those who provided great support during the scholarship application process. Lastly, thank you to Leading Edge Aviation for your generosity and commitment to helping young people make their dreams a reality.
Congrats to all the winners! LEA, thank you for supporting future pilots, like my sister Samantha, who have been dreaming of this all their lives. Couldn’t be a more proud sister.