July 1, 2015: Fort Worth, TX: The Flying Musicians Association has selected the very first FMA Solo Program Scholarship winner. The selection process was very difficult due to the high quality of so many high-quality nominees.
Five finalists, from Florida, Texas (2), Georgia, and Illinois were selected from nominations received from band directors across the country. “We are extremely impressed by the level of academic and musical accomplishment, and the enthusiasm of all the candidates, and the support of their band directors, but though we would like to assist all five of the very accomplished finalists, we had only one scholarship.” – John Zapp, co-founder and President of the Flying Musicians Association said.
FMA has identified the student population with the highest propensity and academic skill set to succeed at becoming a pilot, and has created a program designed to increase the pilot population. FMA will nurture and assist youth to grow through music and aviation.
The winner of the 2015 FMA Solo Program Scholarship is Drew Medina of Vero Beach, Florida, who will be entering his senior year as a member of the Vero Beach High School Jazz, Symphonic, and Marching Bands under the direction of James M. Sammons. Drew has been elected to Band Captain for his senior year and according to his band director “Drew is a top Academic performer” as well. Having played saxophone at the highest level Drew was asked to perform with the Space Coast Symphony Orchestra Wind Ensemble. His future plans include the United States Air Force.
A HUGE thank you to sponsors of this year’s scholarship. The scholarship is fully funded by Sky-Tec, the makers of the FLYWEIGHT Starter. Learn to Fly Courses were donated by Sporty’s Pilot Shop. A Flight Bag PLC Pro and either an iPad Folio or Sport Case and mount were provided by MYGOFLIGHT. Promotion and advertising were provided by Aviators Hot Line and Trade-A-Plane.
About FMA Solo Program: The FMA Solo Program is a scholarship that will assist the recipient(s) on their journey towards becoming an aviator. “We have found that, perhaps more than any other teachers, band directors get to know their students’ dreams. With these scholarships, they can help select students achieve them.” – Tim Kern. To learn how you can support this program please email us at Education@FlyingMusicians.org.
About the Flying Musicians Association, Inc: The Flying Musicians Association (FMA) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization of pilots who are musicians, spanning the globe, proficiency levels and genres. The goal is to share our passions in order to inspire, educate, encourage and assist others by creating enthusiasm and promoting personal growth in aviation and music. “Pilot Musicians sharing their passion while encouraging and educating youth (& adults) in the science and art of aeronautics and music.” More: www.FlyingMusicians.org
