EAA Chapter 864 had two outstanding applicants for the EAA Ray Scholarship this year.

Kyra Gallagher of O’Fallon, Illinois has received a unique full-scholarship opportunity for flight training, thanks to EAA Chapter 864 and the Ray Aviation Scholarship program administered by the Experimental Aircraft Association in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. 

Kyra Gallagher will be training at Murray Air, based in Greenville, Illinois. The scholarship is designed to support a flight student through both written and practical segments of flight training that are part of successful FAA pilot certification.

Adam Elik of Godfrey, Illinois will be the recipient of a Chapter 864 scholarship to help cover part of the costs for his flight training. This scholarship will be funded by the chapter and from donations to the newly created scholarship fund.  If you are interested in contributing to the Chapter 864 Scholarship fund, please contact Randy McKee at the meeting or at jrmcke701@gmail.com.

The Ray Aviation scholarship program provides scholarships up to $11,000 to young people who want to learn to fly. The Ray Foundation has provided $1.8 million to fund the scholarship program, which seeks to improve the flight training success rate from the current industry standards of 20 percent to 80 percent for program participants. Local EAA chapters are responsible for identifying youth for the Ray Aviation scholarship program and mentoring them through flight training. The Ray Foundation is furthering the legacy of James C. Ray, an EAA lifetime member who was dedicated to aviation and youth education.

EAA Chapter 864 will play a critical role in the success of these scholarships. Chapter members will mentor and support the scholarship recipients throughout their flight training journey. Once selected as a Ray Aviation scholarship participant or Chapter 864 scholarship recipient, candidates also commit to volunteer service with the chapter.