Photo credit: American Airlines
FORT WORTH, Texas — American Airlines is proud to announce its donation of a $150,000 grant to Florida Memorial University (FMU) in support of the school's Wayman Aviation Academy, which provides access to careers in aviation for underrepresented students and develops top aviation talent. The contribution furthers American’s mission to create awareness and access to opportunities in aviation.
“We are thrilled to partner with Florida Memorial University and support the Wayman Aviation Academy,” said Christina Flores, Managing Director of Global Talent Acquisition at American. “Through this grant and our continued engagement, we are committed to ensuring the next generation of aviation professionals reflects our customers and the communities we serve.”
This partnership aligns with key goals for American and FMU, including:
- Supporting the Wayman Aviation Academy: The $150,000 grant will help fund new initiatives, equipment and training opportunities, ensuring students receive cutting-edge education and resources.
- Increased access to top talent: FMU will offer American increased engagement with its aviation program and affiliate university programs, creating a direct channel for top talent in aviation.
- Building brand preference: American aims to establish itself as a preferred employer among FMU students and alums by offering career development opportunities and access to industry professionals.
- Future career opportunities: The partnership will provide American a pipeline for interns and early-career professionals, focusing on pilots and management roles.
“Florida Memorial University is committed to preparing our aviation students with the training needed to compete in all aspects within the aviation industry,” said Interim FMU President William McCormick. “We are invigorated by the generosity of American Airlines and their commitment to FMU, which will assist our university in amplifying our students' essential skills in addition to creating career opportunities and access to industry professionals.”
The partnership builds on American’s existing engagement with FMU students. The American campus team and Miami International Airport (MIA) Flight Chief office have developed strong relationships with FMU, providing mentorship, campus visits and base tours to enhance student experiences.
About American Airlines Group
As a leading global airline, American Airlines offers thousands of flights per day to more than 350 destinations in more than 60 countries. The airline is a founding member of the oneworld® alliance, whose members serve more than 900 destinations around the globe. Shares of American Airlines Group Inc. trade on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol AAL. Learn more about what’s happening at American by visiting news.aa.com and connect with American @AmericanAir and at Facebook.com/AmericanAirlines. To Care for People on Life’s Journey®.
About Florida Memorial University
Founded in 1879, Florida Memorial University is the only Historically Black College and University in South Florida. FMU is a private, coeducational, culturally diverse institution that offers 26 undergraduate programs, four graduate programs, and several professional programs. FMU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). FMU programs are accredited by the Aviation Accreditation Board International, the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs, the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, the Florida Department of Education, and the Council on Social Work Education. FMU has a competitive Inter-Collegiate Athletics program, more than 40 clubs and organizations, and its ROAR Marching Band is ranked number one in Division II among HBCUs. Please visit www.fmuniv.edu to learn more about the university.
