Highlighted by an awards banquet and scholarship presentation at the Davison Athletic Complex on Saturday night, the Louisiana Tech Department of Professional Aviation AVFEST 2023 was a day of sharing success stories and inspiration.
The annual celebration always provides the perfect opportunity for Tech’s far-flung aviation family to reconnect, renew relationships and introduce current students to the AVFEST experience.
Alumni, donors and friends, along with behind-the-scenes support from the Louisiana Tech University Foundation and Director of Development Rosilyn Gillum (Class of 09), the Professional Aviation Department was able to award more than $51,000 in scholarships to Tech Aviation students for the upcoming academic year.
Professional Aviation Department Chair Monty Montgomery said, “The collaboration with businesses that recognize the potential of tech aviation and our students has been a huge plus for us. “These partnerships make a huge difference in helping to expose our students to all aspects of the aviation industry. And our students, well, they’re the best. We’re truly blessed to have these wonderful people on our side and for our students.”
The all-day affair began with a “State of the Industry” breakfast, followed by faculty and staff meeting alumni, followed by a “Burger Burn” cookout sponsored by United Aviators, an industry advisory board meeting, and finally the grand finale – the AVFEST Awards Banquet.
Tech graduate and recently retired Delta Air Lines pilot Captain Steven Curtis “Steve Weber” was the evening’s guest speaker. Weber was with Delta for 37 years and retired with the ranks of captain, Boeing 767-400 and line check pilot.
The Tech Aviation Family and the College of Liberal Arts concluded the evening by celebrating the achievements of their aviation students and awarding scholarships. All proceeds from the banquet will be used for scholarships for future aviation students.