Grant Regional Career Center recently awarded several scholarships to students in their Aviation Academy to continue their flight training through AirMarion.

Students were honored during a recent ceremony for their professionalism, focus, initiative, and aptitude. The scholarships, which were funded by donations to the Aviation Academy, ranged from $2,000 to $6,000. GRCC’s Aviation Academy is committed to removing barriers for the next generation of aviation professionals. The community collaboration that makes this financial assistance possible helps do just that. 

Shown from left are Grant Regional Career Center Director Nate McNeely, Isaac Capshaw, Carson Hess, William Powell, Peyton Dollar, Bodie Howell, Whitney Gall, and standing behind, Aviation Academy instructor Mark Johnson, along with Karson Morrical, and Sally Briner from the Boren Foundation.

Scholarship recipients were selected through an evaluation process conducted by the Aviation Academy’s Advisory Team, made up of community members and professionals in the field. The scoring criteria focused on the students' dedication to their training, ability to overcome challenges, and commitment to pursuing a career in aviation. 

McNeely and Aviation Academy instructor Mark Johnson presented the awards to the following GRCC students:

• Whitney Gall, Eastbrook High School senior, $6,000 
• Karson Morrical, Mississinewa High School junior, $5,000
• Isaac Capshaw, Elwood High School junior, $4,000
• Peyton Dollar, Madison-Grant High School junior, $3,500
• Carson Hess, Oak Hill High School junior, $3,500
• Bodie Howell, Eastbrook High School junior, $3,500
• William Powell, Oak Hill High School junior, $2,000

“These scholarships represent more than financial support; they are a testament to the hard work, passion, and determination of our students,” Grant Regional Career Center Director Nate McNeely said. “We are incredibly proud of their effort and are confident they will soar to new heights in their aviation journeys.”

Johnson emphasized the importance of recognizing and nurturing talent within the program. 

“Our goal is to encourage and equip students with the tools they need to excel, and these scholarships are a vital part of that mission,” he said. “It’s rewarding to see their potential recognized and dreams validated in such a meaningful way.”

About GRCC and the Aviation Academy

Grant Regional Career Center is a career and technical school serving students and adults in Grant County, Indiana. GRCC offers a wide range of career and technical education programs, preparing students and adults for successful careers in a variety of fields. 

The Aviation Academy at Grant Regional Career Center provides students with hands-on training and industry knowledge to prepare them for careers in aviation. Supported by the expertise of seasoned professionals, the program empowers students to develop the technical skills and mindset needed to succeed in life after high school. The Aviation Academy is a partnership between GRCC / Marion Community Schools, the City of Marion, Marion Municipal Airport, and Indiana Wesleyan University. This two-year program is unique in our region, and has been recognized with an Indiana Department of Education Partnership Award. Click here to learn more.

About AirMarion Inc.

AirMarion Inc. is a family-owned and operated FBO (fixed base operator) providing a wide variety of services to the general aviation community, including flight training, aircraft rental and maintenance, and more. Learn more at www.airmarion.com.