Dr. Paul Burns Memorial Scholarship in Aviation

The intent of this scholarship is to provide support to students majoring in Professional Aviation Flight Technology at Indiana State University, and to honor the memory and legacy of Dr. Paul Burns, beloved faculty member and decorated Army pilot who taught at ISU from 1979 until he retired in 1993 as chair of the Aerospace Department (now Aviation Technology Department).

Recipient must demonstrate financial need; must be majoring in PAFT; must be enrolled full-time; must have obtained their private pilot certificate; for returning students, must have minimum GPA of 3.0 in AVT courses and minimum overall GPA of 2.5; no minimum GPA is required for incoming students.

From the family and friends of Dr. Paul Burns:

“Dr. Paul Burns prided himself in many areas of his life, but his main qualities were self-improvement, honesty, and helping others. He joined the United States Army after graduating high school. He worked hard to become a Warrant Officer and to be selected to fly the UH-1. While flying he attended night school and earned his Bachelors of Science degree and earned a Commission becoming a Second Lieutenant in the US Army. During this time, he also earned his fixed wing qualification. He was a 20-year veteran of the United States Army and served two tours in Vietnam as an Army pilot. He was awarded the Bronze Star and three Air Combat Operations medals. At the time of his retirement in 1969, he was a Lieutenant Colonel. He came to Indiana State University in 1979. He served in both staff and faculty positions and retired in 1993 as Chairman, Aerospace Department. During his tenure in the Aerospace Department, he earned his civilian flying ratings up to Certified Flight Instructor. His true passion was servitude for the staff and students. He was a servant leader and always did the right thing, despite what others thought.”