National publication touts SE aviation program
Press Release Date: 07-15-2010
DURANT, Okla. – Over the years, the aviation program at Southeastern Oklahoma State University has earned a national reputation for excellence. "Plane & Pilot," a national trade magazine based in Los Angeles, has acknowledged that fact with a feature article in its August issue.
"For students dreaming of a career in aviation, Southeastern Oklahoma State University offers an excellent program at a great value,'' writes Marc Lee.
The article quotes Dr. David Conway, director of the Southeastern aviation program, as follows: "What we offer is a good, solid program that's a fantastic value. We're a small school with an exceptional faculty that includes eight Ph.D.s and retired airline captains."
The article continues, stating, "Conway's pride is justified by the school's alumni list, which includes international airline captains and a former COO of Continental Airlines. Since 1967, SOSU's aviation programs have been graduating pilots, mechanics and business aviation managers from a quiet corner in Durant, Okla."
After seeing the article, Conway said such publicity is a great asset to both the University and the aviation program.
"SE's Aviation program is one of those unique programs that brings students to Durant from across the country as well as internationally," he noted. "Articles such as the one in Plane and Pilot help us spread the word about Southeastern. Our aviation program has changed dramatically over the last decade, as we have added aviation management and a graduate degree in aerospace administration and logistics. Both of these programs are extremely popular at our two satellite locations (Tinker Air Force Base and Oklahoma City Community College)."
Of approximately 200 flight schools in the country, Southeastern is one of about 25 to hold accreditation from the AABI (Aviation Accreditation Board International.) The flight program is also certified by the Federal Aviation Administration.
The award-winning Southeastern student flight team competes in national events on an annual basis, and students are also involved in an international aviation fraternity and a Women in Aviation International chapter.
Members of the aviation faculty/staff are active in numerous professional organizations, with Conway serving on the Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission as appointed by Gov. Brad Henry.