Exciting Weekend for Aviation The Department of Professional Aviation organized a weekend gathering for aviation students, staff, faculty and alumni from April 24 26, 2015. The weekend began with a jambalaya cook-off social at the Argent Pavilion. The event allowed everyone to eat some great Louisiana food, visit with friends and network with alumni. The other weekend activities included an alumni “State of the Aviation Industry” presentation, simulator rides, various alumni and committee meetings, and a formal scholarship banquet in the Student Center. The awards presented included sixteen academic scholarships, Professional Aviation and Aviation Management Student of the Year, Flight Instructor of the Year and several others. The outgoing Department Head, Gary E. Odom, was also presented with a gift from the alumni Industry Advisory Board that included a scholarship named in his honor. The Department continues to receive a tremendous amount of positive feedback from students and their families. The annual weekend tradition will continue to serve a valuable role in maintaining the family bond within this collegiate aviation group.