New Scholarship Initiative Launches from I Hart Flying

An upcoming event in Denver will celebrate National Aviation Day.

I Hart Flying Scholars Kristin Brooks and Allison Schlotthaur joined the I Hart Flying press conference at AirVenture. [Credit: Julie Boatman]

The I Hart Flying Foundation has launched a new scholarship initiative that seeks to give women of all ages opportunities to enter flight training. 

The three-year campaign, titled Hart Aviation Nation Delivers (HAND), has already spawned a collaborative, themed scholarship called “All Hands on Deck,” which brings together several sponsors. Four I Hart Flying scholars have been supported by the initiative in its first three months—and an upcoming event at Denver’s Rocky Mountain Metro Airport (KBJC) on National Aviation Day (August 19), will drive more participation from donors such as Immaculate Flight, Sheltair, AEG Fuels, and new partner, Ft. Lauderdale Executive Airport.

“There’s incredible meaning and impact in this newly themed scholarship launch,” said Rachelle Spector, founder of the I Hart Flying Foundation. “It takes extra hands to help lift more women and youth in STEM and aviation. Our hearts give us life, and the ability to propel, yet also to aid one another in time of need. Our Hart Nation is united and continually delivers,”

“With an unmatched approach to supporting the next generation of aviation professionals, we’re excited to launch this next opportunity around the largest airshow in the world July 24 through 30 at EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, with additional special events and outreach to follow.”

At a press conference at AirVenture, Lyndse Costabile introduced two of the past scholars, Kristin Brooks and Allison Schlotthaur⁠.

“I have been so humbled and grateful to be a part of the I Hart Flying organization as not only a scholarship recipient, but to now be involved at EAA AirVenture, and promote an event in August with FlyteCo Tower in Denver Colorado,” said Kristin Brooks, 2022 Hart Scholar and recently instrument-rated pilot. “I love this opportunity to be able to promote women in aviation and share my story in hopes to motivate others to start flying!”

Julie Boatman
Julie BoatmanContributor
Based in Maryland, Julie Boatman is an aviation educator and author. She holds an airline transport pilot certificate with Douglas DC-3 and CE510 (Citation Mustang) type ratings. She's a CFI/CFII since 1993, specializing in advanced aircraft and flight instructor development.

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