PRESS RELEASE
The Air Zoo Aerospace & Science Center is set to host the 12th Annual Science Innovation Hall of Fame Awards on Saturday, May 17, at 6:00 PM. This prestigious event, presented by Western Michigan University, celebrates the enduring legacy of Michigan aviation pioneers and honors the rising stars of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) from southwest Michigan. Tickets are available HERE.
A highlight of the evening will be the induction of the 2025 Michigan Aviation Hall of Fame class, recognizing individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the aviation industry. This year’s inductees are:
- Lieutenant Colonel Adrian Eichhorn: A former Army engineer and JetBlue captain known for his solo world flights, including over the North Pole. He is also an award-winning author and podcaster dedicated to promoting aviation safety.
- Walter and William Good (deceased): Twin brothers from Kalamazoo who were pioneers in radio-controlled aircraft in the 1930s.
- Rick Herter: A Kalamazoo-based artist renowned for his works for the U.S. military and aerospace industries, including the iconic 26,000-square-foot Century of Flight mural at the Air Zoo.
- Captain Arthur J. Schultz Jr. (deceased): A Detroit native awarded the Navy Cross for his heroic actions during the Battle of the Coral Sea in 1942.
- Kathie Viglianti: A trailblazing Delta Airlines flight attendant with over 52 years of service and more than 6,000 flights, having served 1.5 million passengers in 74 countries.
These individuals will join the ranks of aviation history within the Michigan Aviation Hall of Fame, housed at the Air Zoo since 1987. The evening will also honor outstanding educators and high school students from southwest Michigan who are leading innovation in STEAM. These awards highlight the importance of hands-on learning and creative thinking in shaping the future.
Applications for the 2025 Science Innovation Hall of Fame Awards are open until April 25, with the following categories:
- Student Excellence Award, $1000: Recognizing high school students excelling in science with leadership and a commitment to learning beyond the classroom.
- Student Art & Science Award, $1000: Celebrating high school students who merge artistic creativity with scientific exploration.
- Educator Excellence Award, $750: Presented to educators who inspire exceptional achievement in STEAM and foster student engagement.
About the Air Zoo…