Students, their families, and supporters gathered on a chilly Saturday morning as Friends of Albert Whitted Airport hosted its annual Scholarship Day.
Walt Driggers welcomed a hangar full of people. He was joined by two young pilots, Caleb Kravitz and Mikayla Tehan, both of whom began their flying journeys years ago and now instruct at St. Pete Air. Their presence reflected a full-circle moment for the program, showing what continued involvement in the airport community can look like over time.
Caleb, a former professional swimmer, spoke about discovering aviation and committing fully to the path. He first received a Friends of Albert Whitted scholarship three years ago and credited that support with helping him continue his training. Many of the recipients, including several current students from the University of South Florida and St. Petersburg College, could relate to the balance he described between school, flight training, work, and life. His advice to his peers was heartfelt: “If you focus on helping others and building connections, you’ll never be flying alone.” The message reflected the broader purpose of the day, recognizing that every person in attendance was there because of someone else and that the community plays a key role in supporting the next generation of aviators.
Caleb Kravitz and Mikayla Tehan
Returning as the keynote speaker, Captain Barrington Irving delivered a message that resonated deeply with students and the community alike. A favorite among many, Irving achieved two world records as the youngest person to fly solo around the world at age 23 and the first Black man to fly around the world solo. He encouraged scholarship recipients to think long-term about their goals while staying connected to the people and communities that support them along the way. Reflecting on the scholarship program, he shared, “What is happening right here in St. Petersburg is one of a kind.” Speaking proudly about his journey, Irving reminded recipients, “I would never let ‘no’ be a final answer.” The scholars honored that day embody that same mindset, pushing through obstacles with the full backing of a community committed to helping them achieve their aviation dreams.
Council members Deborah Figgs-Sanders and Lisset Hanewicz take a selfie with Captain Barrington Irving and Mayor Ken Welch
The focus of the day was on the deserving scholarship recipients. Their awards support a wide range of training paths, from initial flight hours to advanced certifications. This year, Friends of Albert Whitted Airport awarded $208,000 to 34 individuals. The 2026 scholarships included:
• 8 Starter Scholarships at $1,000 each
• 12 Intermediate Scholarships at $5,000 each
• 14 Advanced Scholarships at $10,000 each
Scholarship Day served as a reminder that aviation is not a solo effort. Progress is built through shared knowledge, mentorship, and support, with each generation helping the next move forward. For many recipients, they will learn to fly solo for the first time, but the rest of the way, Friends of Albert Whitted and the St. Pete community will be with them.
2026 advanced scholarship recipients
Thank you for your support.
The Friends of Albert Whitted Airport Scholarship Program began four years ago with four generous individuals awarding nineteen scholarships. Today, that generosity and outreach have grown to $633,000 awarded in 112 scholarships. This success is all thanks to our community. With much appreciation, thank you to the donors, volunteers, and partners who continue to invest in students and in the long-term strength of the airport community.
February 1, 2026
Nisuka Williams