Zak Quappé scholarship fuels another pilot’s dream
New pilot Samuel Whitney (third from left), flight trainer Jeff McGlashan (third from right), Marcus Cumber of Island Air (right) and members of Zak Quappé’s family (L-R) Barrie Quappé, Karie Bergstrom, Teri Quappé, Chuck Quappé and Sheree Ebanks
(CNS): The recipient of the 2014 Zak Quappé Flight Scholarship, Samuel Hale Whitney, has just earned his private pilot’s licence. Without the scholarship, Whitney, 19, would not have been able to afford the training and achieve his dream of flying. His eventual goal is to become a commercial pilot.
From South Sound, the new pilot received his training through the Cayman Flying Club’s Jeff McGlashan, with the final training and check rides taking place at Wayman Aviation in Opa-Locka, Florida.
The St. Ignatius High School graduate spoke of his recent achievement: “I am very proud and honoured to have earned this achievement. It took a lot of time, energy and dedication and was a huge learning experience for myself.”
Zak Quappé, who lost his life tragically in May 2013 at age 21, was a pilot and qualified flight instructor. His parents, family members and a few close friends established the scholarship in his memory.
The scholarship committee, which is currently reviewing new applications, hopes to contribute to the dreams of other young Caymanian adults in their pursuit of flight training. To accomplish this goal, funding for the scholarship relies on financial support from the Cayman Islands community. Many local businesses, such as Island Air and Trees4Life Cayman, have given their time and resources in helping to get the scholarship started.
To support the Zak Quappé Flight Scholarship or for more information, email Sheree Ebanks
Category: Education, Scholarships
