Local EAA Presents Aviation Scholarship

November 11, Garrett Cinch Liggett of Eminence has received a unique full-scholarship opportunity for flight training, thanks to EAA Chapter #1218, Willow Springs and the Ray Aviation Scholarship program administered by the Experimental Aircraft Association in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.

The Ray Aviation Scholars program provides up to $10,000 scholarships to young people who are seeking to learn to fly. The Ray Foundation has provided $1.2 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 Ray, an EAA lifetime member who was dedicated to aviation and youth education. The initiative is designed to help meet the tremendous future demand for pilots and associated aviation careers.

Cinch will be training with John Taylor, Mammoth Springs, Arkansas and flying out of the Willow Springs Municipal Airport. 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.

EAA chapters play a critical role in the success of the Ray Aviation Scholarship program.  Chapters interested in participating are prequalified by EAA through an application process. If selected, they mentor and support the scholarship recipient throughout their flight training journey. Once selected as a Ray Aviation Scholarship Fund participant, candidates also commit to volunteer service with the local EAA chapter. Cinch and family have been active members of Chapter #1218 for over two years.  

EAA Chapter #1218 is one of 900 local chapters of the Experimental Aircraft Association, the world’s largest organization for recreational flying. Cinch is the 4th $10,000 scholarship recipient awarded by EAA Chapter #1218. Meeting at the chapter hangar, located at 810 Bryan Street in willow Springs, on the second Saturday of the month (times may vary). More information on EAA Chapter #1218 please visit https://chapters.eaa.org/eaa1218, find them on Facebook, or call 417-233-1218.