The Ashton Johnson Memorial CloudDancer Scholarship has announced its first annual Black-tie Fundraising Gala to be held at the CR Smith Museum on October 15, 2022, at 6 pm. There will be VIP sponsor tables as well as tables for individual donors. The evening will consist of a cocktail hour with hors d’oeuvres, and a silent auction followed by appetizers and dinner, dessert, and a presentation. The night will end with a live auction and door prizes for attendees.
Founded in November 2021, the Ashton Johnson Memorial CloudDancer Scholarship is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established in honor of Ashton Johnson and his dream of becoming a pilot.
The CloudDancer scholarship’s mission is to provide flight training scholarships to military veterans interested in a post-military aviation career by bridging the gap in the GI Bill benefits. The GI Bill offers benefits that begin at the instrument rating, and this scholarship will provide funds for obtaining a private pilot certificate. Veterans have unique skill sets that make them ideal candidates for an aviation career. The scholarship was created in honor of Ashton Johnson (Army SPC) who passed away at 28 years old in October 2021.
Ashton’s father, Joseph Johnson, (ATP, DPE, CFI, II, MEI) said, “Hopefully, this foundation can help to bridge the gap for veterans between the GI Bill and the private pilot certificate.” Captain Brian Schiff, NAFI Board Member, added “I sincerely hope that this endeavor shall help many veterans and ensure the memory of a fantastic person who was called to be with God way too soon.”
For information on the Gala, contact the event coordinator Alexandra Stevens at (847) 468-4111. Tickets can be purchased here.
To learn more about Ashton and the CloudDancer Scholarship, visit www.CloudDancerScholarship.org. Scholarship applications will be accepted until June 1, 2022.
