President’s Message
First of all I hope all of you and your families are well. This is a tough time for all of us, but especially for those with loved ones who are sick. Let’s help watch out for each other.
NAA is continuing to function. A new website is on the way, along with an improved database. Records are being processed, bills are being paid. We are continuing to work on new initiatives on sustainability and STEM that are really exciting and can continue apace in the age of social distancing. The sustainability work has truly engaged our Contest and Records Board and we have been working with the National Aviation Hall of Fame and the National Air & Space Museum on some interesting STEM ideas.
Although travel has been suspended for now, it was a real pleasure earlier in the year to take part in major events held by the Aero Clubs of Southern California and Wichita, as well as a lunch meeting of the Aero Club of Washington, D.C. I was able to attend a wonderful reception held by the DC Branch of the Royal Aeronautic Society; and was especially honored to present the 2020 Cliff Henderson Trophy to Peggy Chabrian, Founder of Women in Aviation International at the WAI annual conference earlier this month. It was also great at that time to get to know the new WAI CEO, Allison McKay a bit better. A trip to Seattle in January was a chance to visit new member magniX and to meet with new member Aviation Partners.
We have had to postpone the meeting of the Selection Committee for this year’s Collier Trophy and will work to reschedule it in accordance with CDC guidelines when the time comes.
These are challenging times. But this organization has sustained itself through an awful lot in our 115 year history; a history I take very seriously. If we all do our part now, we can come through it that much sooner. And then NAA will, as we have always done, attack the future with a new sense of purpose and energy.
