PUNTA GORDA, Fla., March 31, 2017—On April 13, beginning at 5:30 p.m., Western Michigan University leadership and community officials will gather at the Punta Gorda Airport to celebrate WMU’s Charlotte County Aviation Collective and the launch of its aviation flight science program in Florida this fall.
WMU’s Charlotte County Aviation Collective, was developed to guide the University’s College of Aviation expansion into Southwest Florida, and includes leadership from the WMU College of Aviation, Charlotte County Airport Authority, City of Punta Gorda, Charlotte County and the Enterprise Charlotte Economic Council.
In March, the University received Higher Learning Commission approval allowing WMU to move forward with its plans to launch aviation flight science and aviation management and operations programs, each leading to bachelor’s degrees.
The aviation flight science program will be offered on the campus of Florida SouthWestern State College and the Punta Gorda Airport through collaborative efforts with the Charlotte County Airport Authority. The aviation management and operations program will be offered online.
In addition to showing off WMU aircraft and other aircraft housed at the site, a brief program will feature speakers that include Dr. Dawn Gaymer, associate provost, WMU Extended University Programs; Captain David Powell, dean, WMU College of Aviation; Bill Truex, commissioner, Charlotte County; Paul Andrews, chair, Charlotte County Airport Authority; Rachel Keesling, mayor, City of Punta Gorda; and Andy Stultz, past president of the Charlotte Economic Council.
In tradition of aviation hospitality, there will be an exchange of “challenge coins” between WMU and community leaders to mark the beginning WMU’s partnership with the Charlotte County community.
WHEN: Thursday, April 13 from 5:30-7:30 p.m.
WHERE: Punta Gorda Airport Hangars
28000 A-I Airport Road
Punta Gorda, FL 33982
