Following internet voting by supporters, nine aviators have been selected to lead the Society of Aviation and Flight Educators

Doug Stewart, Chairman

Mark Adams,Vice Chairman

Larry Bothe, Treasurer

Pat Knight, Secretary

Directors:

Rusty Sachs

Arlynn McMahon

John Dorcey

Donna Wilt

Tom Benenson

The experience of the individual board members is impressive, with all but one holding a Master Instructor designation. Four members of the Board are Designated Pilot Examiners and two are past national flight instructors of the year. The Board includes several members who have owned or managed flight schools and FBOs, one college professor, two PhDs, several former FAA and state transportation department employees and a check airman for a major air carrier. All are experienced instructors. The group also includes one member whose sole support comes from full time flight instruction.

“This Board is truly equipped to lead our organization as we create the premier aviation education organization in the country”, explained Chairman Doug Stewart. “We are bringing greater respect and recognition to aviation educators, while providing the resources and support needed to improve the quality of training in general aviation” Stewart continued.

SAFE is the only organization representing the nation’s aviation educators in which members freely and fully elect its Board of Directors. Board members will serve staggered terms from one to three years. The first formal meeting of the elected Board took place on Thursday, April 16, 2009.

Prospective members can join SAFE by paying with credit card directly on the organization’s website. For those who prefer to mail a check, membership forms are available for download. SAFE will also be signing up new members at Booth #E56 near the FAA Pavilion during the Sun-n-Fun fly-in.