Orianna Russell (above), a student at Point Loma High School, will complete an intensive eight-week U.S. Navy Summer Flight Academy aviation program at Delaware State University, achieving her FAA private pilot’s license upon completion of the training.

The program takes place from June 12-Aug. 3. Russell is one of 28 high-ability 11th and 12th graders throughout the United States selected for the elite program, which was established in 2021 by the commander, of Naval Air Forces to increase diversity in naval aviation. The Navy partners with select universities throughout the country to provide flight training to participating students.

The cost of the program is approximately $28,000 per student but is offered at zero cost to the student and with no obligations. Upon completion of the program, each student earns a private pilot certification/license and five college credits.

“The goal of the scholarship program is to expose exceptional minority students to a career path that currently lacks diversity,” says LT Olivia Barrau, E-2C Hawkeye Naval Flight Officer, CNAF operations officer for diversity, equity, and inclusion, and CNAF Flight Academy program manager. “Orianna Russell has what it takes to be a leader in the field of aviation, and the Navy is honored to play a part in her personal and professional journeys.”

Russell participates in NJROTC, is a competitive swimmer, and studies Quantum computing. During the eight-week Summer Flight Academy, she will receive a minimum of 32 hours of classroom aviation academics and more than 40 hours of flight training in either a Vulcanair V.10 single-engine aircraft or Piper Warrior (PA-28). As part of the certification process, Russell will be required to complete 17 hours of solo flights.