Young Eagles Get New Chief

The Experimental Aviation Association announced a new chairman for the Young Eagles Program, NFL All-Pro tight end Jimmy Graham.

The group said that Graham has a deep appreciation for flight, which is usually a minimium around the EAA's water cooler. Graham has a decidedly unorthodox resume compared to most, however, making him an interesting addition to a program aimed at reaching as far and wide outside the hobby as it can.

Young Eagles is all about bringing aviation to kids outside the aero zeitgeist, and a former footballer is certainly a new approach to leading the program, even if prior heads have included famous actors, test pilots, and white collars, too.

Graham's announcement was made early on at AirVenture, but he'll more visibly take the stage on July 25th, at The Gathering, EAA's yearly fundraiser.

“Jimmy Graham has been dedicated to aviation and especially introducing others to flight over the past several years, including as Young Eagles co-chair,” said Jack Pelton, EAA CEO and Chairman of the Board. 

“We are very appreciative that Jimmy accepted our invitation to lead Young Eagles and bring his inspiring story to young people as an example of focus and achievement.”

“There is so much in aviation that can serve as inspiration and motivation for everyone, and especially young people,” said Graham. He's a fun guy to have in the Young Eagles roster, with a pretty enviable fleet of aircraft and a classic Huey helicopter.

“I’ve seen it in the faces of kids I’ve flown, as they understand perhaps for the first time that these dreams are possible for them. Young Eagles is a superb platform to bring that message to even more young people, and I’m eager to continue.”

FMI: www.eaa.org