Nikki Kukwa Aeronautics Memorial Camp
The Nikki Kukwa Memorial Aeronautics Camp was established to celebrate the life of Nikki Kukwa. An exemplary 91Ï㽶ÊÓƵ aeronautics student, Nikki was instrumental in establishing the Women in Aeronautics Club, 91Ï㽶ÊÓƵ Women In Aviation Student Chapter, the Flying Black Squirrels, and served as an inspiration to those who knew her. She passed away on Oct. 23, 2006, after receiving a leukemia diagnosis during her junior year at 91Ï㽶ÊÓƵ. This camp honors her positive influence in aeronautics, and we hope it inspires the next generation of aviators.
In this camp, 20 female high school students will receive a free, three-day camp experience funded through the Nikki Kukwa Memorial Aviation Fund and The College of Aeronautics and Engineering. Students will explore careers in aviation while staying in dorms on 91Ï㽶ÊÓƵ University’s Kent Campus. The camp includes a tour of a regional airport, experience at KSU’s Air Traffic Control Lab and a flight out of the KSU Airport.
University personnel provide information regarding academic programs, financial aid and campus life.
When: July 8th-10, 2026
Application will open on Friday, February 27th
Application Deadline: Friday, May 1st
Watch WKYC Channel 3's feature "Growing STEM" about the 2024 Nikki Kukwa Aeronautics Memorial Camp held July 10-12: