Memorial scholarship deadline near

Franceus, who lived in Temperance, Michigan, used her certificate not only to fly, but as a way of convincing other women to take on the challenge and reap the unique rewards of general aviation. She, like many pilots, realized there are few endeavors as challenging, thrilling, and satisfying as operating an aircraft as pilot in command, and was determined to spread that message at every opportunity.

Franceus was a member of The Ninety-Nines, an international organization founded in 1929 by a group of 99 women pilots that has advocated for women in aviation ever since. She also attended aviation events to meet members of the aviation community and encourage more women to take to the air.

“She spent countless hours rallying women of all ages to step out of their comfort zones and take to the air. After her passing, I decided to carry on her mission and her work, and I created and dedicated this new Foundation to continue her legacy,” said Mike Franceus, her husband and flying partner.

The Franceuses had flown together ever since Mike received his private pilot certificate in 1979. They acquired a 1962 Beechcraft Debonair in 2011. After deciding there was more to life than flying as a passenger, Debbie began the process of becoming a pilot at the age of 61. A 2022 diagnosis with an aggressive form of breast cancer cut short her flying time. She died 10 months later.

Following her death, Mike started the Debbie Franceus Memorial Aviation Foundation to provide scholarships for women training for their certificates or working toward advanced ratings.

“We are now in our third year (second full year) and we are proud of what we've accomplished in such a short time. Last year, we gave 11 scholarships to women across the U.S. and this year we hope to do much more,” Mike said. “This year, I have engaged an outside consulting team to help take us to the next level and I am excited to see our growth over the next several years, providing resources to women pursuing their dreams to fly.”

In July, the Debbie Franceus Memorial Aviation Foundation will award 16 scholarships in amounts ranging from $1,000 to $3,000. The application deadline is June 15. More information about the foundation and scholarships is available on the organization’s website.