By Mike Baldwin, EAA Chapter 443
EAA Chapter 443 of Lancaster, Ohio, proudly recognizes Elizabeth White, the chapter’s 2024 Ray Aviation Scholarship recipient, for her exceptional progress, professionalism, and dedication to aviation. At just 19 years old, Elizabeth has rapidly advanced from her first Young Eagles flight to becoming one of the chapter’s most accomplished scholarship graduates.
Elizabeth, EAA 1473706, has earned her private pilot certificate, instrument rating, commercial certificate, CFI, and tailwheel endorsement, and is currently pursuing her CFII and multi‑engine ratings. She is also enrolled in Purdue Global’s Bachelor of Professional Flight program, with an anticipated graduation in December 2027, and is exploring opportunities with the Ohio Air National Guard.
Her aviation journey accelerated quickly: a discovery flight in April 2024, her first Young Eagles flight in June 2024, and the Ray Scholarship award in August 2024. Elizabeth soloed after only nine hours and passed her private pilot checkride in December 2024, just five months after beginning training. She completed her instrument rating in October 2025 with support from an additional $5,000 EAA scholarship, followed by her commercial certificate in February 2026.
Elizabeth also demonstrated exceptional skill and judgment during a December 2025 IMC cross‑country flight. While returning to Ohio at night, she experienced an alternator failure that led to the loss of her transponder, autopilot, and radio communication. Using limited panel instrumentation and her iPad for navigation, she executed the RNAV 10 approach into KLHQ, breaking out at 1,600 feet and landing safely. Columbus Approach had declared an emergency and cleared the airspace for her arrival. The FAA later contacted her to commend her professionalism and safe handling of the electrical failure.
“Elizabeth is the poster child for what the Ray Scholarship can achieve,” said representatives of EAA Chapter 443. “Her discipline, maturity, and rapid advancement set a new standard for our chapter.”
Elizabeth is the third pilot produced by EAA Chapter 443 through the support of the Ray Aviation Scholarship, and her achievements highlight the program’s profound impact on young aviators.
For more information, visit www.eaa443.org or email us at info@eaa443.org.