Do you dream of earning your pilot's license? The Cherokee County Educational Foundation (CCEF) is excited to announce that applications are now open for the 2026 Don Stevens & Bob Burns Memorial Aviator Scholarships, and the deadline is coming up fast!
About the Scholarship
Each year, CCEF awards scholarships to Cherokee County students who are working to obtain a private pilot's license. Starting in 2025, the program expanded significantly: the selection committee now awards two $10,000 flight school scholarships (one in honor of each former pilot) and four ground scholarships annually (two for each former pilot), six total awards each year.
These scholarships are named in memory of two remarkable aviators who called Cherokee County home and dedicated their lives to the skies and to their community.
Don Stevens (1943–2021) was a retired Delta Airlines Captain and the long-time Chairman of the Cherokee County Airport Authority. His passion for aviation opened doors for him early in life — transforming his path from humble beginnings into a celebrated career — and those who knew him wanted to give the next generation of Cherokee County youth the same opportunity.
Bob Burns (1941–2020) fell in love with flying at age 13 on a 10-minute birthday flight, and never looked back. He earned his private license at 17, became a flight instructor at 18, flew for Delta Airlines for 35 years, and continued instructing for 50 years total. His passion inspired his son and grandson, both of whom went on to serve as Naval Flight Officers. Bob was known for his patience, his teaching, and his unwavering encouragement of anyone who wanted to fly.
Together, their legacies live on through this scholarship, helping young Cherokee County students access an industry where training costs have never been higher and the need for pilots has never been greater.
Who Can Apply?
This scholarship is open to any current junior or senior (or upcoming junior) attending a Cherokee County high school who is actively working toward obtaining a private pilot's license.
How to Apply
- Complete the application at www.ccefga.org/aviator-scholarship-application
- Include two references as part of your completed application
- Submit before the deadline. Applications must be received by the Cherokee County School District Office of Communications by midnight on April 1, 2026
A review committee made up of representatives from CCEF, the Cherokee County School District (CCSD), and the broader community will evaluate all applications and make award recommendations. Scholarship recipients will be recognized at the May 2026 Cherokee County School Board meeting.
Don't Wait, Apply Today!
The application window is open now, but April 1st will be here before you know it. If you're a Cherokee County high school student with a love of aviation, this is your chance to take the next step toward your wings.
To learn more about the scholarship or to contribute to the Don Stevens & Bob Burns Scholarship funds, visit ccefga.org/programs/aviator-scholarship.