Ready Room Blog
6/25/2026
Introducing our
2026 Scholarship Recipients
Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum Awards 17 Scholarships to those who dream of a future in Aviation.
2026 Scholarship Winners
The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum is honored to award multiple scholarships, generously supported by our donors, dedicated to educating and inspiring the next generation of aviation leaders. We are excited to announce the recipients of our 2026 aviation scholarships. Seventeen outstanding individuals have been chosen from a highly competitive pool of candidates—each demonstrating exceptional achievements, unwavering dedication, and a profound passion for aviation.
For the Love of Country Scholarship
The For Love of Country Scholarship is part of the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum Educational Endowment, which was established in 2021 to fund the Museum’s educational efforts and to award scholarships to individuals committed to a career in aviation. The endowment was funded with $1,000,000 by the Rick & Teresa Price Family as a condition of the sale of a division of their Hawaii-based company to Oil Changers, Inc. in January 2020. The For Love of Country Scholarship awards up to $10,000 for individuals whose commitment to an aviation career is evident.
Please click HERE to make a direct donation to the For Love of Country Scholarship Fund to help fulfill this matching gift challenge.
2026 Recipients:
Rachel Huff-Wagenborg | $10,000
Kailua, Hawaii
Rachel is a nonprofit leader turned aspiring aviator who is currently pursuing her instrument rating and commercial pilot path. After years of building mission-driven organizations, she has channeled that same dedication into aviation, with the goal of becoming an airline pilot. She proudly holds her Private Pilot License and is working on her instrument rating to sharpen her skills, expand her confidence, and open doors to both professional flying and service-oriented opportunities. Rachel is especially interested in using aviation to support communities and increase access to flight for others. She is incredibly honored to be a recipient of the For Love of Country Scholarship.
Benjamin M Steel | $7,500
Bixby, Oklahoma
Benjamin has earned his Private Pilot Certificate and accumulated approximately 120 flight hours. He is currently working toward his Instrument Rating and is approximately 70% of the way through the training. Benjamin plans to earn his Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot Certificate, and Certified Flight Instructor Certificate so that he can help others achieve their aviation goals as well.
JAY SMITH | $7,500
San Diego, California
Jay’s passion for aviation began as a Naval Officer witnessing the incredibly utility that military aircraft provided service members in the form of critical casualty care, equipment transportation, and aerial observation. He obtained his Private Pilot License in 2024 and is currently focused on obtaining his Instrument Rating and Commercial Pilot Certificate in order to continue his aviation journey. Motivated by a passion for aviation and an undying love for this nation, his ultimate goal is to serve as an Aerial Firefighting Pilot in order to continue service by protecting our communities from disaster and providing support to firefighters on the ground.
Andressa Johnson | $7,500
Honolulu, Hawaii
After earning her Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Connecticut, she worked as a combustion engineer at Pratt and Whitney before relocating to Hawaii. She is currently a doctoral candidate at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and serves as a NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Doctoral Trainee, contributing directly to SpaceX and the Artemis program. As a military spouse and mother, she actively mentors’ women in STEM, focusing on professional transitions and leadership. Her career goal is to drive aerospace innovation as a NASA engineer after graduation. Outside of her academic and professional pursuits, she is an endurance athlete who has twice qualified for the Ironman 70.3 World Championship.
Laura Ivanova | $7,500
Honolulu, Hawaii
Laura dreamed of becoming a pilot for decades, but the motivation to pursue aviation came after the tragic loss of her mother. With her family’s encouragement and a new understanding of how short life truly is, she decided to jump into training with both feet. That decision marked the beginning of a major career transition, while also clarifying her sense of purpose: to follow her heart, challenge herself, and make her mother proud. She went on to earn her Private Pilot Certificate and Instrument Rating, and since interviewing for this scholarship, she has also completed her Commercial Pilot Certificate. Next, Laura plans to pursue her Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certificate, with the ultimate goal of serving as a Captain for Hawaiian Airlines.
Alex Goetsch | $ 5,000
Grand Forks, North Dakota
Alex is a University of North Dakota student studying Commercial Aviation. After earning a 4.0 GPA during his first year and completing his Instrument Rating, he is pursuing his Commercial Certificate through scholarships, work, and disciplined saving. He is passionate about using aviation to serve others through organizations focused on outreach, mentoring future aviators, and volunteering to strengthen communities, including plans to connect patients with critical medical care through Angel Flight. Beyond aviation, he is a Lions Club member, small business owner, former founding president of his high school’s Leo Club chapter, and advocate for students with learning differences. Through his experience and leadership, he seeks to inspire the next generation of aviators.
Shaniya N. Marshall | $ 5,000
Atlanta, Georgia
Visits to aviation and historical sites, including the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, strengthened Shaniya Marshall’s passion for aviation and her desire to pursue it professionally. Shaniya earned her Certified Flight Instructor certificate in 2025, marking a major milestone in her aviation journey. She currently works as a flight instructor, helping aspiring pilots while continuing to build her own experience. She is also pursuing an accelerated Multi-Engine course to expand her skills and qualifications. Dedicated to mentorship and aviation outreach, she promotes diversity and accessibility in aviation through education and scholarship advocacy. Her long-term goal is to become a Widebody International Captain, combining global travel with leadership and inspiring the next generation of aviators.
Haley Haley-Sellers | $ 5,000
Detroit, Michigan
Haley has earned her Private Pilot License and is continuing her aviation training as she pursues her Instrument Rating, the next step in advancing her skills as a professional pilot. Her long-term goal is to build a successful career in commercial aviation and ultimately serve as an airline captain for Delta Air Lines. She is deeply committed to excellence, safety, and continuous learning as she progresses through each stage of training. Looking ahead, Haley also hopes to become a future donor once she achieves her goals so she can help support and uplift aspiring aviators working toward their own dreams in aviation, just as she has been supported along the way.
Frederick Sacco | $ 5,000
Denville, New Jersey
Frederick has completed his Private Pilot Certificate as well as his Instrument Rating. He works as a dispatcher at his flight school and has gained experience as an airshow photographer, primarily with the team Airythmia, while also assisting with various ground operations. Outside of aviation, Frederick earned an Associate Degree in Engineering Science and is an Eagle Scout. His current plans are to work his way up to becoming a flight instructor and, eventually, an airline pilot. He is also excited to see where his airshow photography journey will take him.
Allison Perrine | $ 5,000
Spokane, Washington
Allison is a registered nurse who is making a career change into aviation. She has earned her Private Pilot License and expects to complete her Instrument Rating soon. Her goal is to build the flight hours required to work as an airline pilot at a regional airline. After gaining additional experience and skills in the field, Allison plans to pursue a career as an aerial firefighter, helping to suppress wildfires.
Elliott (Ellie) Cheek | $ 5,000
Eagle, Idaho
Ellie Cheek is a Junior at Utah State University pursuing a degree in Aviation Technology with a minor in Air Traffic Control. She currently holds her Private Pilot License, Instrument Rating and is working on commercial flight training with plans to become a Certified Flight Instructor. Ellie maintains a 3.9 GPA while serving as President of Utah State’s Women in Aviation International chapter, where she leads outreach programs that encourage young women to pursue aviation careers. She has represented Utah State at national Women in Aviation conferences and serves as an Aviation Leader for the university’s summer aviation camp. Upon graduation, Ellie hopes to fly general aviation in the western US.
COL. ROBERT P. MOORE SCHOLARSHIP
The Col. Robert P. Moore Scholarship was established by Board Member and aviator, Col. Robert P. Moore, to help Hawaii residents in acquiring their initial FAA aircraft pilot certificate and Hawaii-based FAA Commercial Pilots (or ATPs) getting their initial or additional FAA Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certificate in any FAA Category aircraft.
Please click HERE to make a direct donation to the Col. Robert P. Moore Scholarship Scholarship Fund to help these individuals reach new heights.
2026 Recipients:
Mickela Anderson | $4,000
Cincinnati, Ohio
Mickela is currently finishing her Private Pilot License (PPL) and plans to become a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) to mentor the next generation of pilots. Her ultimate goal is to fly as a Captain for Delta Air Lines.
Last year, she was given the opportunity to tour Boeing’s Interiors Responsibility Center South Carolina (IRCSC), Propulsion (PSC), and the Aft & Final Assembly Center in Charleston, South Carolina. Mickela has earned President’s List recognition for her high GPA and strong academic performance at her university. She also serves as her university Aviation Department’s student liaison.
A dedicated volunteer, Mickela frequently supports the OBAP ACE Academy and the Buckeye Tigers in Columbus, Ohio during the summer. She is passionate about teaching, connecting with students, and inspiring future generations through aviation!
Taesha DuBoise | $4,000
Stockbridge, Georgia
Taesha’s aviation journey began with a discovery flight in 2019. Since then, she has earned her Private Pilot Certificate, Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot Certificate, Multi-Engine Rating, Complex Endorsement, and Spin Endorsement through hard work, perseverance, and self-funded training. Along the way, she has developed a deep appreciation for aviation safety, professionalism, and lifelong learning.
Her next goal is to earn her Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certificate and help future pilots achieve their dreams. Long term, Taesha aspires to become a highly respected flight instructor and mentor, and ultimately serve as a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE), helping evaluate, guide, and inspire future generations of aviators while promoting excellence, safety, and professionalism throughout the aviation community.
BRIG GEN ROBERT B. AND JUDITH MAGUIRE SCHOLARSHIP
The Brig Gen Robert B. and Judith Maguire Scholarship was established in 2021 by Judith “Judy” Maguire to honor her late husband, Brig Gen Robert “Bob” B. Maguire, a lifelong military and civilian aviator. Aviation has had a lasting impact on the lives of both Bob and Judy and their hope is that this scholarship will help deserving students pursue their dreams of flight.
Please click HERE to make a direct donation to the Brig Gen Robert B. and Judith Maguire Scholarship Scholarship Fund to help these individuals reach new heights.
2026 Recipient:
Amanda Fox | $2,000
Punta Gorda, Florida
Amanda is maintaining a 4.0 GPA while balancing the responsibilities of being a working single mother. She is a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and serves as President of her local Women in Aviation chapter. Amanda hopes to run a small general aviation airport in the near future to help preserve aviation history and support a passion for flying.
She currently manages an A&P training program for a public school system and recognizes the value of Career and Technical Education. Amanda believes her own education will help her become a better manager and a stronger mentor for her staff and students. She is very excited about the future and deeply appreciates the investment in her success.
FRANK DER YUEN AVIATION SCHOLARSHIP
The Frank Der Yuen Aviation Scholarship honors the aviation legacy of Frank Der Yuen, an internationally respected aeronautical engineer, airline executive, and consultant. Scholarships of at least $1,000 are awarded each year to Hawaii residents who have been accepted, or are enrolled, in an aviation-related program at an accredited trade school, college, or university.
Please click HERE to make a direct donation to the Frank Der Yuen Aviation Scholarship Scholarship Fund to help these individuals reach new heights.
2026 Recipients:
Mikayla “Mele” Kuahiwinui| $5,000
Mililani, Hawaii
Mikayla earned her Private Pilot Certificate while balancing college, work, and flight training—one of the most challenging and rewarding accomplishments of her life. Since then, she has continued pursuing her aviation goals by working toward her Instrument Rating and earning aviation scholarships, including support from American Airlines. Mikayla was recently selected to serve as Secretary of the Oregon State Flying Club, where she supports fellow pilots and helps raise awareness for women and people of color in aviation. As a mechanical engineering student at Oregon State University, she hopes to become a safe, knowledgeable, and compassionate pilot who connects people and places around the world.
Ashley Asing | $ 4,000
Ewa Beach, Hawaii
Throughout her aviation journey, Ashley has balanced professional responsibilities, educational pursuits, and family obligations while maintaining high standards both in and out of the cockpit. Her flight training has strengthened her communication, critical thinking, and decision-making skills, all of which are essential for success in aviation.
Ashley aspires to become a professional pilot in Hawaii while serving the local communities that depend on aviation for transportation, connection, and essential services. Her goal is to combine her passion for aviation with a commitment to serving others by providing safe and reliable air transportation. She is dedicated to developing the skills, knowledge, and professionalism necessary to contribute positively to Hawaii’s aviation industry.
ADMIRAL RONALD J. HAYS SCHOLARSHIP
The Admiral Ronald J. Hays Scholarships was established by friends and family members to honor the life, service and achievements of Admiral Hays, a testament to how one can rise from a modest beginning and through hard work and dedication achieve great success while serving one’s nation. His military career included service as a test pilot, combat missions over North Vietnam and numerous leadership commands before his appointment in 1985 as Commander in Chief Pacific Forces (CINCPAC) known today as U.S. Indo-Pacific Command. Instrumental in the founding of this museum, the Admiral Hays Scholarship is distributed to young people who demonstrate the qualities of leadership, patriotism and service to their community.
Please click HERE to make a direct donation to the Admiral Ronald J. Hays Scholarship Scholarship Fund to help these individuals reach new heights.
2025 Recipient:
Brody Wall | $3,500
King City, Missouri
Brody is excited to continue his aviation journey this fall at Ozark Technical Community College, where he will study Aviation Flight Technology. He has passed the written exam for his Private Pilot Certificate and recently completed his checkride. His long-term goal is to build a successful career in aviation and give back to the community that has helped him grow and shaped who he is today.