Ray Scholar Update – Flying Salukis

SIU Carbondale’s Flying Salukis recently took their 10th consecutive National Intercollegiate Flying Association Region VIII competition championship. This year, the team included three young men who entered aviation through the EAA and the Ray Scholarship program. Ben Morris (5th from right, back row), who completed his Ray Scholar through EAA chapter 277, is the team’s co-captain and earned the Region VIII Top Pilot award. The late Joseph Ermel (far left, bottom row), who tragically passed away in a motorcycle accident shortly after the competition, completed his Ray Scholarship through EAA Chapter 15. Matt Shaw (far left, middle row) completed his Ray Scholar with EAA Chapter 770. This is evidence that the EAA and the Ray Scholarship program is encouraging young people to choose careers in Aviation. Congratulations to Ben, Joe, Matt, and the Flying Salukis.