National Aeronautic Association Announces New Members of its Board of Directors
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Dec. 18, 2024 – The National Aeronautic Association (NAA), the oldest aviation organization in the United States, today announced its 2025 Board of Directors, which comprises a diverse mix of global industry leaders with deep experience in the aviation ecosystem. The new Board members will leverage their expertise to help the NAA enhance its value to members and find new ways of helping to chart the future flight path of aviation and space flight.
“It’s an honor to welcome these dynamic leaders to NAA’s board, and we look forward to their contributions as we continue to support aviation’s evolution through our recognitions,” said Sam Magill, NAA Vice-Chair and Nominating Committee Chair. The NAA annually bestows the most prestigious awards in American aerospace, including the Wright Brothers Memorial Trophy and the 113-year-old Collier Trophy.
“We’re excited to expand our board with these passionate aviation leaders who will bring diverse expertise and insight to our work,” said Amy Spowart, NAA President and CEO. “Their unique talents will enhance the strength and impact of what we do and our ability to achieve our mission as we work to ignite and recognize future innovations and support America’s elite air sports athletes.”
Beginning January 1, 2025, the NAA Board of Directors includes:
- Ivon Aheart, Legal Affairs Analyst, Office of the General Counsel, Airlines for America.
- Rob Balzano, Chief Executive Officer of Citation Jet Pilots Association and the CJP Safety and Education Foundation.
- Albert Berchtold, Executive Director, United States Parachute Association.
- Lauren Beyer, President, Cargo Airline Association.
- Jim Bourke, President, International Aerobatic Club.
- James Darcy, Founder and CEO, Darcy Strategic.
- Mark Kleinhans, Vice President, Safety, Courseware & Regulatory Affairs, FlightSafety International.
- Ben Marchionna, Chief Innovation Ecosystem Officer, State of Michigan.
- Paul McNeill, Vice President, Industry & Government Relations, Click Bond.
- Jim Remar, President and CEO, The Cosmosphere.
- David Richardson, Immediate Past President, Aero Club of Washington (2024).
- Alan Stolzer, Dean, College of Aviation, Daytona Beach Campus, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
The NAA is grateful for the Directors whose service ends in 2024: Darby Becker, President, Aero Club of Washington (2023); Pete Bunce, President and CEO, General Aviation Manufacturers Association; and Mary Miller, Vice President of Industry and Government Affairs, Signature Aviation. Their leadership has been instrumental in fulfilling the NAA’s mission and strategic goals.
“The NAA is pleased to announce the following individuals as newly appointed Emeritus Members, recognizing their exceptional contributions and long-standing dedication to our organization: Ed Bolen, President and CEO, National Business Aviation Association; George Carneal, Senior Counsel Emeritus, Hogan Lovells US LLP; Dick Koening, Director of Philanthropy, Commemorative Air Force; Pat Prentiss, Past President, International Ninety-Nines; Skip Ringo, Founder and President, The Ringo Group; and Bob Stangarone, President and CEO, Corporate Angel Network,” said Magill. “These Emeritus Members will transition to advisory roles while maintaining their valuable connection to the NAA.”
To see the full list of NAA Board of Directors, please visit our website here.
