#United States #Pearl Harbor #Future Leaders #Pearl Harbor Museum #Aviation Scholarships

Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum Awards Scholarships to Inspire Future Aviation Leaders

On July 2, 2025, the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum proudly announced the recipients of its coveted scholarships, aimed at nurturing the future of aviation. Supported by established endowed funds from generous donors, these awards are designed to educate and inspire the next generation of aviation leaders across the nation.

This year, the Museum awarded a total of 14 aviation scholarships to exceptionally talented individuals from around the United States. John Hiltz, the Museum's CEO, expressed his pride in the recipients, stating, "Our awardees are rising stars whose passion and potential represent a bright future for the aviation industry."

A Comprehensive Selection Process

The selection process was incredibly competitive, with 741 applications submitted from 33 states. Col Brandon Casey, USAF (Ret), who chaired the Scholarship Selection Task Force, mentioned, “Each awardee displayed remarkable achievements, a steadfast commitment, and a profound dedication to aviation.” The chosen recipients exhibit not only talent but also a steadfast resolve to pursue their dreams in the aviation sector.

Thanks to the dedication of donors, these scholarships celebrate the achievements of young aviators and empower them to soar into new heights. This year’s awards were further highlighted by a generous $100,000 matching gift challenge announced by Rick and Teresa Price, aimed at enhancing the Museum's educational programs.

The Impact of Philanthropy

The Prices’ contribution will significantly impact the Museum’s For Love of Country Scholarship Fund, which was founded with $1 million to support educational initiatives and scholarships for aspiring aviators. The Fund, created as part of a deal during the sale of their Hawaii-based business, symbolizes their commitment to making a positive change in the lives of future aviation professionals. Hiltz conveyed immense gratitude, stating, “The establishment of scholarship endowments will ensure that the impact continues, changing many more lives going forward.”

The 2025 Scholarship Awardees

The recipients of the scholarships embody the spirit of aviation perseverance:

For Love of Country Scholarship

• - Malina Mossman - $10,000 - Maui, Hawaii
• - Connor Runkle - $8,500 - Daytona Beach, Florida
• - Harley Lenart - $8,500 - Chapel Hill, Tennessee
• - Alanah Pluchos - $6,500 - Port Orange, Florida
• - Patsuqua Xiong - $6,500 - Morganton, North Carolina
• - Sienna Rose - $5,500 - Pagosa Springs, Colorado
• - Heather Smith - $5,500 - Honolulu, Hawaii
• - Anthony Joseph Panganiban - $5,500 - Mililani, Hawaii
• - Makayla Galler - $5,500 - Northglenn, Colorado

Colonel Robert P. Moore Scholarship

• - Aracely Bianca Vasquez - $4,000 - Honolulu, Hawaii
• - Iyanu Bajomo - $2,000 - Prescott, Arizona

Brig Gen Robert B. and Judith Maguire Scholarship

• - Tyler Moote - $2,000 - Kailua, Hawaii

Frank Der Yuen Aviation Scholarship

• - Michelle Joann - $5,000 - Kailua, Hawaii

Admiral Ronald J. Hays Scholarship

• - Caitlin Thomas - $2,000 - Mililani, Hawaii

A Vision Beyond the Present

The Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum’s commitment goes beyond awarding scholarships. It is a hub of education, history, and innovation nestled on Historic Ford Island, a significant World War II site. Visitors are greeted with stories of heroism and innovation, alongside educational programs designed to connect the youth of today with the wonders of aviation and its historical significance.

The vision is clear: through hands-on experiences, STEM activities, and inspirational events, the Museum strives to foster a connection between past and future generations.

In closing, the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum thanks all donors for their generosity and commitment to nurturing future aviation leaders. The scholarship program continues to inspire countless individuals, empowering them to take flight on their dreams and contribute positively to the aviation industry. To learn more about the Museum's scholarship program and this year’s recipients, please visit Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum's Scholarship Page.