The National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) Center for Aviation Research & Education has announced this year’s recipients of the 2025 Henry Ogrodzinski Scholarship. They are:
- Christian Vargo (Liberty University)
- Mackenzie Koenig (Western Michigan University)
- Christopher (CJ) O’Neill (University of Colorado Boulder)
Established by the NASAO Center in 2014, the scholarship is awarded in memory of Henry Ogrodzinski, who led NASAO as its President and CEO from 1996 to 2013. Henry O, as he was referred to by the industry, dedicated his life to higher education and academic achievement. The Henry O. Scholarship Program recognizes three college upperclassmen who are pursuing a career in the aviation or aerospace industry. Due to a rise in scholarship applications, this year the NASAO Center increased the award amount from $1,000 to $2,500.
“After careful consideration, we are thrilled to have selected these three individuals for the Henry O Scholarship,” said Hetty Carlson, Chair of the NASAO Aviation Education Committee and Colorado Division of Aeronautics Education Grants and Outreach Specialist. “We are amazed with the achievements these students have already made and will continue to make in the industry. Congratulations to the recipients!”
“NASAO is excited to once again advance the future of aviation by awarding scholarships to these three outstanding students,” said Greg Pecoraro, NASAO President and CEO. “Through the support and encouragement we can offer these students, we advance both our industry and honor the legacy of our long-time president, Henry O.”
For more information on the scholarship and application process, please visit NASAO’s website.
