July 16--The professional flight management program at Auburn University now has the university's support, according to Provost Timothy Boosinger.
Bill Hardgrave, dean of the Raymond J. Harbert College of Business, announced plans to eliminate the professional flight management degree program in May. Hardgrave said it was the college's intention to put more emphasis on its other aviation major, aviation management. The professional flight major includes flight training and evaluations, while the aviation management major prepares students for careers in airport or airline management.
Since his announcement, Hardgrave, Boosinger and Auburn President Jay Gogue have received countless complaints from Auburn aviation alumni, students and future students, according to Jason Mohrman, pilot with United Airlines and Auburn aviation alumnus.
Mohrman said he believes the concern expressed by parents and alumni have led to the school's change of mind.
"It's kind of been building," Mohrman said. "We're just really excited to hear the university will be fully supporting both programs, not only the aviation management program but the flight program as well. This is a huge win for Auburn for sure, especially on a national spectrum."
Boosinger released a letter addressed to aviation students, parents and alumni Monday with the university's intention to support both programs.
"During the past few months, we conducted an evaluation process that examined several options," Boosinger stated in the letter. "The decision to keep both degree programs allows us to develop exciting future plans for Auburn aviation. We appreciate your enthusiastic support of these programs and we count on your continued support in the future."
Boosinger listed short-term and long-term objectives for the professional flight program, including the need for better facilities. He said qualified instructors have been hired to support the program as they address the need for more permanent faculty.
He said they will also seek authority to certify Auburn aviation graduates for an Airline Transport Pilot certificate with reduced flight experience based on their education at Auburn.
Finally, Boosinger addressed the continued need for resources and support for the programs. He said these options could include raising tuition, fees or operational costs and asking for support from alumni and industry supporters.
Allen Thames, vice chair of the Aviation Management Advisory Board, said he was pleased with the plan for the future of the programs.
"The Aviation Management Advisory Board is very, very pleased with the plan that was announced by the Provost today," Thomas said. "We would like to thank Dean Hardgrave especially. He's the one that formulated this plan, and we're especially grateful to him. We are very optimistic about what the future holds."
Copyright 2013 - Opelika-Auburn News, Ala.
