James F. Dubay Memorial Fund & Scholarship

The James F. Dubay Memorial Fund was born out of the desire to encourage those who dreamed of flight to find their wings.  Whether a technical, practical or theoretical education is being sought, the James F. Dubay Scholarship can help students fund their flight.

The Winners

Judith Blanchard wins the second scholarship

Enclosed is a photo (below left) shot on Friday, September 28 of myself and Barb Mack after my Private Pilot Checkride.  I passed.

I would like to once again thank you for that wonderful scholarship gift and let you know the money is going to continuing my education as I begin now for my IFR training.

Like I said when presented with the award, it's great to have the support from organizations such as Wings of the North.  With groups like yours keeping the history of aviation in the forefront, hopefully more people will take an active interest in flying.  I also applaud the effort you display in keeping the memory of James Dubay alive through your scholarship efforts.

Tim Lesmeister

About James Dubay

Jim Dubay was a husband and father who dedicated many hours to learning everything he could about planes and history, especially in relation to World War II. He volunteered at the Planes of Fame East Museum for a number of years and was one of the founders and an original board member of Wings of the North.  Jim was quick witted and enjoyed making people laugh. Hard working and dedicated, he encouraged his children to follow their dreams. The greatest lesson he taught was that one could survive the rat race if they were pursuing a passion. Through out his life, Jim touched the hearts of many people by making them laugh or listening to their stories, sharing his knowledge or lending a hand when work needed to be done. 

In Jim’s memory, his family and Wings of the North have established a scholarship fund to allow others the chance to learn and grow in the aviation field. This scholarship is designed to encourage the non-traditional, older adult to pursue their dreams of flight while dealing with the day-to-day obstacles of work and family.

About the Scholarship

The James F. Dubay Memorial Scholarship is a $500 scholarship for individuals wishing to pursue aviation studies, including but not limited to flight school, flight hours, aviation history, military history and aeronautical studies.

Applicants must be able to show through the essay and letters of recommendation a high moral character and the ability to create a positive impression on the lives of those around them.

Who Can Apply:

• Applicants must have a high school degree or GED
• Special consideration given to older, working adults and parents
• Applicants must be residents of Minnesota