Home » Home » Brevard County Student Ava Hernandez Awarded Prestigious 2025 Ray Aviation Scholarship
By  //  April 15, 2025
BREVARD COUNTY • VALKARIA, FLORIDA — The National Experimental Aircraft Association selected Brevard County’s Ava Hernandez as a recipient of the prestigious 2025 Ray Aviation Scholarship, an honor that will support her journey to earning a private pilot’s license.
Ava was presented with the $12,000 scholarship on April 8 during the monthly meeting of the local EAA chapter, named after Tuskegee Airman General Daniel “Chappie” James, Jr. The meeting occurred at Valkaria Airport, where the chapter regularly gathers to inspire and support young aviators.
The local EAA chapter nominated Ava in recognition of her dedication to aviation, volunteer work at chapter events, commitment to flight training, and outstanding academic performance.
The General Chappie James Chapter plays a vital role in Valkaria Airport’s aviation community. The “Young Eagles” program introduces youth ages 8-17 to flying.
Additionally, the chapter hosts monthly pancake breakfasts to support its initiatives. Valkaria Airport Manager Adam Hied and Airport Operations Manager Liesl King-Tetrault, both active chapter members, were instrumental in Ava’s Ray Aviation Scholarship application.
Ava first became involved in aviation through The 99th Squadron, Incorporated, a Brevard-based nonprofit dedicated to exposing youth—particularly those from minority and underserved communities—to the diverse opportunities in the aviation industry.
Established in 2020, the 99th Squadron provides a comprehensive introduction to aviation through a five-week program covering aerodynamics, air traffic control, meteorology, and navigation. The program extends beyond the classroom with hands-on experiences, including flights, air shows, aerospace facility visits, flight simulations, and drone operations.
This scholarship marks an exciting milestone in Ava’s aviation journey, furthering her aspirations and reinforcing the vital role organizations like the EAA and the 99th Squadron play in shaping the next generation of pilots.
For more information on the programs or offerings, visit the Valkaria Airport website, the General Chappie James EAA Chapter website, or The 99th Squadron website.
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