The National Aviation Hall of Fame Postpones the 2020 Enshrinement Dinner and Ceremony
| COVID-19, social distancing requirements and travel concerns for our national audience necessitates the postponement of the Enshrinement of the Class of 2020. |
DAYTON, Ohio – May 12, 2020– With due regard to the safety and health of our Enshrinees, participants, attendees, staff and the city of Dayton, the Board of Trustees of the National Aviation Hall of Fame (NAHF) has made the difficult decision to postpone the induction of the Class of 2020. “The on-going concern regarding the coronavirus pandemic, the unknowns regarding travel and unease in seeking sponsorship when many of our supporters have been hard hit economically are among the reasons that make it impossible for the NAHF to hold our Enshrinement event at a level that adequately honors our Class of 2020” according to President and CEO Amy Spowart. “We appreciate the understanding and support of the Class of 2020, participants, sponsors, NAHF members and the City of Dayton in this decision.” First and foremost, the Board of Trustees of the NAHF would like to express concern for all who have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. “Our deepest sympathies are especially with those with loved ones who have passed. To those who are sick, we extend our heartfelt wishes for a full recovery,” says Board Chairman Michael Quiello. “Additionally, we are truly inspired by the selfless healthcare workers and first responders around the world who are on the front lines working tirelessly to care for people in need.” Options to reschedule the 2020 Enshrinement, which will be held in Dayton, OH, are being explored, including the potential of selecting a date in 2021. Board of Nominations Chairman Fred Gregory shares, “to ensure that NAHF honors the Class of 2020 in the way Enshrinees, attendees, members and sponsors have become accustomed, the Board of Trustees have also decided to defer selection of a Class for 2021.” Vice-Chairman David Brixey says, “If we could share a message with the NAHF’s Class of 2020, it would be that we are truly inspired by your achievements and will not disappoint you.” The NAHF staff, with full support of the Board of Trustees, continue to be focused on their mission to honor our nation’s aviation heroes, share their stories and educate the public. **Planning and execution of our Dayton-based state-of-art Heritage Hall and Education Center continues. **In partnership with PBS ThinkTV the NAHF will be launching a new STEAM-based, multi-media education program in 2020. This will include on-line learning as well as classroom curriculum that will be shared free through Crayons to Classrooms. **In the coming days, the NAHF will announce a new reciprocal membership program with the National Aeronautic Association and will be co-hosting series of webinars featuring Enshrinees and aviation leaders discussing topics related to our mission and the days ahead for aviation. |
