The Ray Foundation currently provides $2.2 million annually for flight training scholarships up to $12,000 each, to young people (ages 15 through 19) who have a strong desire and motivation to learn to fly. Through its Ray Aviation Scholarship program, the Ray Foundation seeks to improve the current 20% industry flight training success rate to 80% for program participants.
The Ray Aviation Scholarship program is administered through EAA International. Local EAA chapters may participate by identifying and nominating youth for the Ray Aviation Scholarship program and mentoring them through their flight training journey. EAA Chapter 122 has volunteered to play this critical role in the success of the Ray Aviation Scholarship program.
The Ray Foundation and EAA seek to make a positive impact on youths and young adults alike who have a strong passion for aviation. The financial and moral support provided throughout flight training, and a welcoming environment for young aviators will shape lifelong participation within the EAA chapter and aviation community. A full description of the EAA Ray Aviation Scholarship Program including the benefits and obligations is available via the following link: Ray Aviation Scholarship Handbook
The deadline to apply for a 2025 Ray Aviation Scholarship through EAA Chapter 122 is May 31, 2025. Use the following link to apply for this exceptional opportunity: Chapter 122 Ray Aviation Scholarship Application
Current and former Chapter 122 Ray Scholars
2023 Ray Scholar: Elijah Naugle
2023 Ray Scholar: Peter Engle
2022 Ray Scholar: Alexia Gonzales-Soto
2022 Ray Scholar: Seth Erdley
2021 Ray Scholar: Gabe Creeger
My Ray Scholarship Experience, by Gabe Creeger (November 2022)
2021 Ray Scholar: Will Stover - Private Pilot as of January 11th, 2022
2020 Ray Scholar: Jake Myers - Private Pilot as of July 28th, 2021
2020 Ray Scholar: Conrad Brown - Private Pilot as of March 16th, 2021
2019 Ray Scholar: Nixon Cawley - Private Pilot as of December 8th, 2020
