Spring 2011 - Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Alumni

SPRING 2011LIFTThe alumni magazine ofEmbry-Riddle Aeronautical UniversityErin Gormleyturns black boxdata inside outGSIS andHomelandSecurityprogramshelp securethe nation’sfutureHoumanMotahariantakes loyaltyto thenext levelHighestCallingCol. Mark Tillmantalks about beingat the controls ofAir Force OneDave Browngives back toEmbry-RiddlePAGE 18

THE ALUMNI MAGAZINE OF EMBRY-RIDDLE AERONAUTICAL UNIVERSITYSPRING 20112LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENTHelping ensure the safety and security of our future.3 CHATTER5 BOUNDLESSUAS research flying high at Embry-RiddleResearch program aims to better understand how these systemsand vehicles will change the way we take to the air.68WINGS OF LEGACYFLIGHT PATHThinking outside the black boxfor answers to understand accidents and improve aviation safety.1410 Class Warfarestudents to protect the safety of our troubled world.14 Pilot in Command5 8318202227GIVING TO EMBRY-RIDDLEPersonal investmentProcter & Gamble’s Dave Brown takes the personal approachwith his support of Embry-Riddle.ALUMNI IN ACTIONThe point manHouman Motaharian (’97, DB) makes it his business to knowthe value of airline loyalty programs—with a bit of researchassistance from current Embry-Riddle students.ALUMNI NEWSCLASS NOTESWWW.ERAUALUMNI.ORG SPRING 2011 LIFT1

Unmanned aerial systems(UAS) play an increasinglyimportant role in our nation’ssafety and security.LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENTAs we begin the year that marks the10th anniversary of 9/11, I take great pridein the important role that Embry-Riddleis playing to help ensure the safety andsecurity of our nation—and the world.Today, in partnership with federal agencies, corporationsand other institutions of higher learningand research, Embry-Riddle is preparing studentsfor productive careers and leadership roles in areasvital to national and global security.In this issue of Lift, you’ll discover how ourrapidly growing programs in Global Security andIntelligence Studies and Homeland Security arecreating the intelligence, security and law enforcementprofessionals of tomorrow. Our programschallenge students to turn theory into practiceas they exercise critical thinking skills in globallyfocused “war games.” Further, by using strategicinternships to interact with federal, state and localagencies, we expose students to real-life problemsthat demand solutions.Real solutions for safety and security alsocome in the form of expanded research. In thisissue, you’ll read about how our research partnershipswith federal agencies, corporations andother institutions are helping lead the way inunderstanding how Unmanned Aerial Systems(UAS) and Vehicles (UAV) change the way wefly and protect people from natural and humanmadedisasters.With such great progress happening at ouruniversity, it is no wonder that the subject of ourcover story, former Presidential Pilot Mark Tillman(’95, WW), chose Embry-Riddle for his advanceddegree. Tillman, who was charged with the safetyand security of the President during some of themost significant events in recent U.S. history, is ashining example of the important role aviationplays in our national and global well-being.Similarly, Embry-Riddle is committed to ensuringthat aviation and aerospace play a central rolein creating a safer, more secure world for all. Withour powerful combination of innovative programming,leading-edge research, first-rate faculty anda student body second to none, Embry-Riddle iscertainly up to the task, advancing global securityissues on many fronts and ensuring that ouralumni will be there when needed most.Warmest regards,John P. Johnson, Ph.D.President and CEOLift, Vice President, Institutional Advancement: Director, Development Communications: Anthony BrownOffice of Alumni Relations Executive Director: Director, Prescott: Associate Director, Daytona Beach: Associate Director—Outreach: Communications Specialist: Melissa Judy Director, Strategic Content: Design Director: Production Manager: Production Technology Specialist: Account Manager: UAV: Ethan Miller/GettyLIFT SPRING 2011 WWW.ERAUALUMNI.ORG

CHATTERNEWS & NOTES FROM THE WORLD OF EMBRY-RIDDLENew training devicestudies hypoxia andfl ight performanceALTIMETERMore newsand events atEmbry-Riddle:John P. Johnson,president of Embry-Riddle AeronauticalUniversity, washonored with theJohn K. LauberAward forAviation Safetyby the UniversityAviation Association.The Lauber Awardis granted eachyear to the individualor organizationthat demonstrates aclear advancementin aviation safety.The AccreditationBoard forEngineering andTechnology (ABET)has appointedEmbry-RiddleAeronauticalUniversity securityexpert JamesRamsay to itsboard of directors.THE FINALCOUNTDOWNDiscovery’s fi nallaunch includes twoEmbry-Riddle alumniSpace Shuttle Discovery’sfinal launch will mark alandmark event for Embry-Riddle—the first time thattwo of its alumni will servetogether in space. Air ForceCol. B. Alvin Drew Jr. (’95, WW)and Nicole P. Stott (’87, DB) willserve as mission specialists on theSTS-133 flight to the InternationalSpace Station (ISS), the secondspaceflight for both.On this next-to-last mission ofthe space shuttle program, the sixmemberDiscovery crew will deliverto the ISS a prototype human-likeIn preparation for Space Shuttle Discovery’sfinal flight, Nicole Stott (’87, DB) helpsAlvin Drew (’95, WW) (left) don a suit for aspacewalk training session in the pool at theNeutral Buoyancy Lab.robot for long-term testing, apressurized logistics module, criticalspare components, and otherequipment and supplies. Duringthe 11-day mission, Drew and acrewmate will perform two spacewalksto update and repair the ISSwhile Stott coordinates their activitiesfrom inside. In addition, Drewand Stott will operate Discovery’srobotic arm to perform tasks onthe exterior of the space station.“This unique moment inEmbry-Riddle history is a matterof immense pride to everyoneassociated with our university,”says Embry-Riddle President JohnP. Johnson. “Nicole and Alvin area shining example of the quality ofour alumni and of how far, literally,an Embry-Riddle educationcan take you. I can’t think of betterrole models for students seekingcareers in aerospace engineeringand sciences.”Embry-Riddle Aeronautical Universityhas increased the capabilities of theHigh-Altitude Lab at its DaytonaBeach Campus with the additionof a new Mentor Advanced AircraftTraining Device from Frasca.The Mentor, which is approved bythe Federal Aviation Administration,replicates the cockpit of a Cessna 172aircraft equipped with Garmin G-1000integrated avionics and a Truvisionvisual system, the platform used inEmbry-Riddle’s flight training program.Embry-Riddle researchers will usethe new device to measure performanceand decision-making by pilotstraining in a hypoxic environment.Investigators have already completedone preliminary study of pilot performanceat altitudes where hypoxia canaffect behavior. With about 1,200 studentsat the campus preparing to beprofessional pilots, researchers havea sizable pool of subjects to study.For the 11th year ina row, the annual“America’s BestColleges” guidepublished by U.S.News Media Grouphas ranked Embry-Riddle’s aerospaceengineeringprogram No. 1 inthe nation.Student engineers learn from Dassault FalconDassault Falcon has agreed to make data from its Falcon 10 business jet available asan educational resource to Embry-Riddle student engineers in a collaboration aimedat bringing engineering students and industry closer together.“Dassault Falcon is proud to collaborate with Embry-Riddle on this unique multiyearproject,” says Lionel De La Sayette, senior vice president, Dassault Aviation. “Thisendeavor is sure to be fulfilling to the future innovators of the aerospace industry.”Working in teams with Embry-Riddle faculty and Dassault engineers, the studentswill use the data to develop new ideas and improvements for legacy aircraft like theFalcon 10, which has been in service for three decades. They also will conduct studiesto reduce the Falcon 10’s “flight print,” an environmental impact measurement much like a carbon footprint, looking at issuessuch as noise reduction, maintenance costs, and instrumentation and cockpit redesign.WWW.ERAUALUMNI.ORG SPRING 2011 LIFT3

CHATTERNEWS & NOTESEmbry-Riddle studentWilliam Haupfear participatesin the new CleanEnergy Systems track.The Clean EnergySystems trackat Embry-Riddleis our responseto the growinggreen energymarket and thenational call forthe productionof abundant andeconomicalclean energy.GREENER BY DEGREESClean Energy Systemstrack charges up studentsEmbry-Riddle engineering students are nowable to convert their passion for renewableenergy into a degree, thanks to a new trackin Clean Energy Systems. The program,offered to mechanical engineering majorsat the Daytona Beach Campus, teachesabout turbines that convert wind and waterpower into electricity, systems that make energyfrom the heat of the sun, earth and ocean, andsystems for storing energy.“The Clean Energy Systems track atEmbry-Riddle is our response to the growinggreen energy market and the national call forthe production of abundant and economicalclean energy,” says Maj Mirmirani, dean of theCollege of Engineering.Students take courses and complete projectsrelated to hybrid vehicles, solar lighting, greenengineering and eco-friendly aviation. They learnfrom faculty researchers who are designing alow-emission hybrid automobile, engineeringgiant wind-power turbines, developing systemsto harness electric power from the Gulf Stream’scurrents, testing unleaded biofuel for generalaviation, and building a zero-emission aircraft.“Students in this track gain the knowledgeand skills to help address society’s energy needsand demands,” says Darris White, a professor ofmechanical engineering who helped develop thenew program. “They will become innovators andentrepreneurs in the energy sector and nationalleaders on energy issues.”Ph.D. in EngineeringPhysics lifts offStudents in Embry-Riddle’s new andunique Ph.D. program in EngineeringPhysics are taking courses in spacephysics, planetary orbits, solar wind,remote sensing, spacecraft dynamics,and more.The new Ph.D. builds on the undergraduateand master’s degrees inEngineering Physics and on the university’ssolid program of space researchfunded by NASA, NSF, U.S. Air Forceand other agencies. At Embry-Riddle,faculty researchers probe Earth’s upperatmosphere for clues about globalwarming, as well as space weatherevents like solar storms that can compromisesatellite systems and disruptpower grids and pipelines. Others conductstudies of spacecraft dynamicsand control, space robotics, cosmologyand star formation, quantum optics,and the physiology of space travel.“This degree is a blend of physicsand engineering, and its focus on thespace program is a rare combination,”says John Olivero, professor and chairof the physical sciences department atthe Daytona Beach Campus, whereit is offered.According to Olivero,President Obama’s new focusfor the U.S. space programmeans more money will be spent onspace science research, resulting inmore job opportunities for those withthe Ph.D. in Engineering Physics.“Commercialization of space hasbeen going on for 20 years,” Oliverosays. “Satellites are being sent up bycompanies, and microgravity is bigbusiness. The buzz about space tourismis not just about rich people travelingto the edge of space. Scientistscan hitch rides on suborbital spaceflightsfor less money than they nowhave to pay on government launches.”Ph.D. students in Embry-Riddle’sEngineering Physics program willhave opportunities to conductcutting-edge, upper-atmosphericresearch using student-designedrocket payloads like Sampler (left).4LIFT SPRING 2011 WWW.ERAUALUMNI.ORG

BOUNDLESSUAV: Photo courtesy of USAFUAS research flyinghigh at Embry-RiddleBY DALE SMITH AND BOB ROSSUnmanned Aerial Systems(UAS) are popping up likedrones in the atmosphereat Embry-Riddle’s DaytonaBeach and Prescott campuses.With UAS and UnmannedAerial Vehicles (UAV) increasinglybeing considered and used for newpurposes both military and civilian,Embry-Riddle is advancing its researchprogram to include a variety of projectstargeted at better understanding howthese systems and vehicles will changethe way we take to the air.MANAGING NATIONAL AIRSPACEIn partnership with the FAA, Embry-Riddle is leading a team of partners,including Lockheed Martin, HarrisCorp., General Electric and GeneralAtomic, to find ways to allow UAS tooperate safely in the national airspace.“The current phase of the demonstrationprogram, Task E, is one of aseries that will explore incrementaladvancements toward what we needto do to efficiently integrate unmannedaircraft into the national airspacesystem,” says Todd Waller, NextGenproject manager at Embry-Riddle’sDaytona Beach Campus.The demonstration program willtest a variety of factors, including therole of ADS-B (automatic dependentsurveillance-broadcast) in remotelycontrolling the UAV and the implicationswhen the remote pilot loses voicecontact with the UAS’sspotters or air trafficcontrollers.Another group ofresearchers, led byKelly Neville, associateprofessor of humanfactors and systemsat Embry-Riddle inDaytona Beach, islooking at the wayremote pilots interactwith the UAV controlin order to find and fixpotential breakdownsand weaknesses.“Our research is all about improvingthe interaction between peopleand technology. Where are the weaknessesand breakdowns?” says Neville.“We need to find them before we canfix them.”EYE-TO-EYE WITH HURRICANESOn another “front,” a team of Embry-Riddle engineers is developing aninnovative unmanned aircraft systemThe UAS named Gale will collect dataon temperature, humidity, pressure andwind as it flies through storms.A U.S. Air Force RQ-4AGlobal Hawk highaltitude,long-enduranceUAS on approach toland at Edwards AirForce Base, Calif.that will fly through a storm to collectdata on pressure, temperature, humidityand wind, and send it back to themother plane and the ground.The aircraft, nicknamed “Gale,”features foldable wings that pop outwhen the vehicle is dropped from aP-3 airplane.Gale will get its first real test duringthe 2011 hurricane season when itis dropped from 10,000 feet into theeye of a hurricane. It will then fly in aspiraling descent to 100 feet, transmittingstorm data to theP-3 that dropped it.In a more ambitiousfollow-up test,the researchers plan torelease the UAV insidethe hurricane’s eyeand then let it breakaway and fly into thestorm itself, to seewhat happens.The project isfunded by theNational Oceanicand AtmosphericAdministration’sUnmanned Aircraft Systems Program.Gale has other potential uses besideshurricane sensing. As a firefighter’s tool,the UAV could safely loiter over aforest fire, measuring the heat with aninfrared camera. Following a majordisaster like Hurricane Katrina, Galecould be an eye in the sky to spot survivorswho need to be rescued. Thedevice also could be used for borderpatrol and military surveillance.WWW.ERAUALUMNI.ORG SPRING 2011 LIFT5

WINGS OF LEGACYJACK HUNTCOLLAGEINSTALLEDIN LIBRARYIn celebration ofJack Hunt’s historicand vital role in theformation of the university,the UniversityArchives has createdin the Daytona BeachCampus library acommemorative wallcollage bearing hisname. The collage isdesigned to educatelibrary patrons onHunt’s role as “Thefather of the modernaviation university,” aswell as to honor theHunt family.The Alumni Association staff recently presentedReid Tyre (’54, MC) with a plaque in appreciation ofhis commitment and enthusiasm for Embry-Riddle.Reid Tyre isForever an EagleFor decades Reid Tyre (’54, MC) has been a happy fixture in thelives of his fellow Embry-Riddle alumni, attending Homecomingparades (he was Grand Marshal in the 2008 Daytona BeachHomecoming Parade), reunions and other events whenever hecan. Those who have spent time with him discover quickly thathe “bleeds blue and gold” and talks about Embry-Riddle atevery opportunity. When he’s on campus, he always takes the time tovisit and reminisce with the Alumni Association staff, regaling themwith tales of the “good ol’ days.”For Reid, the “good ol’ days” were Embry-Riddle’s years at theMiami Campus. He fondly remembers his undergraduate time andrecalls some of his training. “When I was here, you were required tolearn aerobatics to get your certificate. I was the master of the Split S,”Reid says, chuckling. He admits that aerobatic flying was not exactlyhis calling. Instead, he owned and operated Reid Tyre CommercialFerry Flying out of Jessup, Ga.The Alumni Association would like to extend a sincere thank youfor his years of service as a great university ambassador. He truly exemplifiesthe Alumni Association motto, “Forever an Eagle.”VERONICAFLOODREMEMBEREDReid Tyre has had manyfriends over his manyyears at Embry-Riddle,but perhaps few wereas important to him asVeronica Flood (’82, DB),who died in 1984 doingwhat she loved best—flying. Reid remembersVeronica to this day asa morally upright andbeautiful person andhe speaks of her often,holding her memoryclose to his heart. LikeReid, Veronica Flood is“Forever an Eagle.”Veronica FloodMYSTERYHISTORY CONTESTAre you an Embry-Riddle history buff?Then here’s your chance to show us your stuff! Enter our Mystery History Contest fora chance to win a copy of Embry-Riddle at War, signed by the author, Stephen G. CraftWhat is the nicknameof the operation tomove Embry-Riddlefrom Miami toDaytona Beach?TO WIN: Search the University Archives online for the correct answer bygoing to www.eraualumni.org and clicking “Archives.” Send in the correctanswer to the e-mail link on the page. Your correct entry will be enteredinto a random drawing to be held after April 1.Embry-Riddle’s University Archives department is dedicated to preservingthe memories and artifacts belonging to the university’s rich history.To view thousands of historical photos from Embry-Riddle’s past, go towww.eraualumni.org and click “Archives.”6LIFT SPRING 2011 WWW.ERAUALUMNI.ORG

Brothers reunitedBrothers of the Wind reconnect and celebratehistoric fi rsts for African-Americans at Embry-RiddleMore than 50 alumni from Brothersof the Wind, Embry-Riddle’s firstAfrican-American student organization,reunited Oct. 8, 2010, at a special luncheonon the Daytona Beach Campus.Representing 30 class years spanning1974 to the present, the Brothers of the Windalumni came together to celebrate their uniqueheritage at Embry-Riddle and raise money for ascholarship designed to help minority students.The organization, dedicatedto supporting the aviationdreams and ambitions of minoritystudents, was an importantcommunity support network forthe better part of two decades.“It was the organization thatgave us a feeling of being, arelationship of oneness,” says1981 Brothers of the WindPresident Clinton Weekes.For Col. Lloyd Terry (’83,DB), Brothers of the Wind wasan energizing force for achievement.“It provided a bond for black students, bothAfrican-American and those from other countries,”he says. “Brothers of the Wind was the rally for thoseof us with the common goal of achieving our dreamto have careers in aviation or related industries.”Brothers of the Wind also proved to be a historicallyimportant organization, home to some importantfirsts in African-American history at Embry-Riddleand beyond. Col. Terry owns many of those African-American firsts: He was one of the first five African-Americans to get a U.S. Air ForceCommission from Embry-Riddle’sAFROTC Det. 157; the first to earnan AFROTC scholarship; the firstto reach the rank of Cadet Lt. Col.at Det. 157; and the first to graduatewith a Computer Science degree fromEmbry-Riddle. Dr. George Cooper(’76, DB), who was the first Treasurerand a co-founder of Brothers of theWind, was also the first African-American to graduate with anAeronautical Engineering degreefrom Embry-Riddle.After the recent luncheon reunion,the Brothers of the Wind have becomeBrothers of the Wind’sFounding Fathersand First Offi cersPRESIDENTRobert WilliamsVICE PRESIDENTStephen GibbsSECRETARYDennis JonesTREASURERDr. George B. CooperTop: Brothers of the Wind alumnigather in 2010. Above: Brothersof the Wind in 1975.even more enthusiastic about their original ideals.Not only are they are trying to get currentstudents involved in the formation of a possibleBrothers of the Wind chapter, but they also havestarted raising funds for an endowed scholarship.They hope that their legacy of camaraderie andmutual support will live on in the dreams andaspirations of current and future students.“Now is the occasion for usto leave an indelible imprint forthe world to see and for everyEmbry-Riddle minority studentto follow,” says Weekes. “We haveno legacy if we cannot inspire.We have no legacy if we cannotensure what we created has perpetuity.It is incumbent that wegive back, so those who followwill also have an opportunity toexcel and achieve.”Special thanks to La DetriaUpshaw (’01, ’10, DB) and MarciStappung for their contributionsto this article.Above: Col. LloydTerry (’83, DB, left) andDr. George Cooper (’76,DB, right) own many ofthe historically importantAfrican-American firsts atEmbry-Riddle.WWW.ERAUALUMNI.ORG SPRING 2011 LIFT7

FLIGHT PATHASHLEE ILG (’03, DB)THINKINGOUTSIDE THEBLACK BOXERIN GORMLEY (’97, PC; ’05, WW)turns black box data inside out foranswers to understand accidentsand improve aviation safetyErin Gormley (’97, PC; ’05, WW) still remembersthe morning she received the flightdata recorder, or “black box,” from theAir Midwest Beech 1900 that crashed inCharlotte, N.C. It was a pivotal moment inher career when she realized she wantedto do everything possible to prevent aircraftaccidents like that one. “It was 2 a.m.when I got the data from that flight,” she recalls. “Iremember that investigation very clearly because itwas a maintenance issue that caused the accident,and it never should have happened. That accidentreally affected me because it could have been prevented,and it made me want to do as much as possibleto continuing enhancing aviation safety.”Erin Gormley (’97, PC;’05 WW) extracts andanalyzes black boxdata to try to piecetogether the sequenceof events that happenedbefore a crash.AN EARLY CRASH COURSE IN SAFETYBut Gormley’s interest in improving aviationsafety didn’t start there. Years earlier, as a younggirl, she watched news coverage from the AirFlorida Flight 90 crash and asked her father howthey were going to figure out what happened. “Iwas so fascinated by the entire investigation processand asked my dad if it was possible to be botha pilot and an aerospace engineer so I could do thesame thing,” she says. “When he said ‘yes,’ I knewwhat I wanted to do for my career. And I knew thatto be an aircraft accident investigator, I wanted togo to Embry-Riddle.”Leaving her family and friends in Long Island,N.Y., Gormley headed to Embry-Riddle’s DaytonaBeach Campus, and then to the Prescott Campus,to pursue her aerospace engineering degree. “Ireally loved the fact that everyone ate, breathedand slept aviation,” she says. “All my peersseemed to have the same passion for aviation asI did, which was very different from my friendsin New York, who thought it was weird to hangout at JFK airport like I always wanted to do,”she says, laughing.After an aviation safety presentation on campus,Gormley approached an Embry-Riddle alumnuswho worked at the National TransportationSafety Board (NTSB), where she had applied for8LIFT SPRING 2011 WWW.ERAUALUMNI.ORG

“ I’VE WORKED ON HUNDREDS OF INVESTIGATIONS AROUNDTHE WORLD. SOME OF THEM ONLY TAKE A COUPLE OFDAYS, WHILE OTHERS CAN TAKE YEARS TO COMPLETE.”a summer internship. “He put in a good word forme, and I got a call the next morning to come outto [Washington, D.C.] that summer,” Gormley says.“I completed a summer and spring internship thereand then got hired on full time after graduation.”SOLVING MYSTERIES, MAKING A DIFFERENCEToday, Gormley is doing what she’s always wanted—to do “as much as possible” to improve aviationsafety—through her work as an aerospace engineerin the Vehicle Recorders Division at the NTSB. Whenan aircraft’s black box is recovered from a crash, shebegins extracting data, like the aircraft’s airspeedand the pilots’ conversations, and then turns it intousable information for the on-site investigators.“My job is to analyze the data from the flightdata recorder and cockpit voice recorder andfigure out the sequence of events that led to anaccident,” she says. “This datadoesn’t always solve the investigation,but it is a valuable pieceto the puzzle.”For 15 years, Gormley hashelped solve many aircraft accidentpuzzles with the evidencefound in the black boxes (whicharen’t black, but are insteadbright orange with reflectivetape). “I’ve worked on hundredsof investigations aroundthe world,” she says. “Some ofthem only take a couple of days,while others can take years tocomplete. It just depends on thecondition of the box and howquickly we can validate all ofthe data.”LEARNING THE INDUSTRYINSIDE AND OUTWhile working at the NTSB,Gormley earned her Master’s inAeronautical Science at Embry-Riddle’s Worldwide Campus.“I returned to school becauseI wanted to learn more aboutthe aviation business and operationsside of the industry,” saysGormley. “I chose Embry-Riddleagain because the campus atthe Andrews Air Force Basewas a convenient location andmy professors let me e-mailmy assignments to them whenI was working halfway aroundthe world.”Unlike the black boxes sherecovers, there’s no mystery toGormley’s successful careerpath. For her, it was the result of professional networkingand an internship opportunity. “Becauseof networking, I had an advantage over othersapplying for the same job because I had an insiderecommendation. And even now in my job, I havea vast group of people in the industry I can call ifI have questions or need a better perspective,” sheexplains. “I also believe my internship gave me afoot in the door and helped me learn about thekind of work I’d be doing without committing to afull-time job. I was confident to take this governmentjob because I already knew I liked it throughmy internship experience.”Gormley continues to be just as excited abouther work today as the day she started. “I absolutelylove my job and am still very passionate aboutaviation safety,” she says. “It’s easy to be good atsomething you love doing!”How theBlack BoxGot Its NameThe black box is notblack. It’s brightorange with reflectivetape to facilitaterecovery. There isdebate about whereit got its nickname:Some say it’s from the“dark and mysterious”evidence containedwithin, while otherssuggest it’s becauseit’s often charred blackafter an accident.WWW.ERAUALUMNI.ORG SPRING 2011 LIFT9

BY CHARLES MCNAIRPHOTOGRAPHY BY BRANDON SULLIVANClassPRESCOTTCAMPUS’SGSIS PROGRAMSUPPORTSSAFETY,SECURITY INA TROUBLEDWORLDWarfareTHE INTELLIGENCE IS DISTURBING.The Chief of Staff of Pakistan’s army may be dead,killed by suspected terrorists. The nation’s militaryappears to be splitting, with a pro-Taliban mutiny inat least one garrison. Chinese troops pour across theborder just north of Indian-controlled Kashmir. Talibanelements march east toward nuclear weapons sites thatmay or may not be secured.Pakistan is in a meltdown.The entire world could follow, if the nuclear weaponsfall into the wrong hands.“We’ve got 25 minutes to reach a decision.”Jennie, an Embry-Riddle senior, studies a group ofintensely focused young faces. She’s a member of a capstoneclass team at the Eagle Operations Center, a newhigh-tech training facility for the Prescott Campus’s GlobalSecurity and Intelligence Studies (GSIS) program.It’s white-knuckle time for Jennie and her cohort.They play roles in a simulation exam that requires realworlddecision-making skills during an internationalsecurity crisis.Jennie is Prime Minister of India. Patrick is her intelligenceczar. Roger is Commander of Armed Forces.Down a hallway, Jeremy plays President of the UnitedStates. Other students act as decision-makers in China andRussia, or as non-state actors—the Taliban, Al-Qa’ida.Today, these GSIS students run the world.ONE-OF-A-KIND PROGRAM“Our program focuses on preparing our graduates to beskilled professionals in the national security arena,” saysDr. Phil Jones, founder of the GSIS Program in 2003 andchair of the Department of Global Studies. “Intelligenceis our nation’s first line of defense, and it has to be upand running well 24/7 to protect our nation.”Embry-Riddle’s GSIS program is the only one ofits kind in the United States. It blends academic andprofessional studies to prepare students to be leaders inintelligence, security and law enforcement communities.A strong liberal arts concentration undergirds intensivestudies in foreign languages, history, economics, internationallaw, foreign policy and world geography.10LIFT SPRING 2011 WWW.ERAUALUMNI.ORG

In the Eagle situation room, eightwall-mounted flat-screen TVsbring students breaking newsand updates. Multiple computerand laptop stations provide opensourceintelligence analysis,language translation, interactiveexercises and weather reports.Students participate ina simulation exercisein the Eagle OperationsCenter, a new high-techtraining facility for thePrescott Campus’sGlobal Security andIntelligence Studies(GSIS) program.WWW.ERAUALUMNI.ORG SPRING 2011 LIFT11

STRAIN SHOWS ONYOUNG FACES NOWSTRUGGLING TOFIND FACTS, PLAYHUNCHES, RECALLTHEIR STUDIES.Demand grows yearly. GSIS isnow the third-largest program on thePrescott Campus, with more than 200students, 28 of them military veterans,a fast-growing group on campus.In 2010, the school added a Chinesetrack, with a summer study-abroadprogram in China.Today, intelligence and securitydemands require more from nations,agencies and professionals than everbefore. With huge numbers of babyboomers set to retire in the next20 years, the imperative for a pipelineof ready-to-work intelligence andsecurity professionals is clear.In October, the efforts of ProfessorBob Baker, GSIS degree programdirector, helped the program get offthe launching pad. The U.S. Office ofthe Director of National Intelligencegranted the university $222,000 tocreate a bachelor’s degree programfor developing a workforce of securityprofessionals with potential to fillhighly coveted positions in the U.S.intelligence community.“It’s not the James Bond profession,”says Baker, “but James Bondis good advertising.”BIG CREDIBILITY, BIG PLANSDr. Jones and Baker bring enormousrespect to their program.Their combined résumés qualifythem to teach students how to dealwith situations ranging from a lonegunman taking over a courthouseto briefing a U.S. President.Dr. Jones grew up in India andPakistan. He spent his early careerworking with the CIA, then consultingon projects in South Asiafor the World Bank and U.S. multinationals.He earned his doctoratefrom The Fletcher School of Lawand Diplomacy, Tufts University, aprogram jointly administered withHarvard University, before joiningEmbry-Riddle in 2000.Baker held key securitypositions with Apple, MidwayAirlines, DHL Worldwide Expressand the Transportation SecurityAdministration, among others. Hecame to GSIS in 2005.GSIS graduates work withthe National Security Agency,CIA, Boeing, World Bank, FBI,Homeland Security Department,Transportation Security Administration,and elsewhere.Jeremy (last name withheldby request) landed with NorthropGrumman. He lauds his GSISexperience.“The program provided me withall the tools I needed to work in theintelligence field,” he says. “Whensome of my co-workers were educatingthemselves on the job, I was a stepahead, thanks to this program.”Another GSIS program alumna,Melissa Napolitano, works as anintelligence-specialist/analyst with theDepartment of Defense. “The programmay be small by university standards,but it offers so much more thanbig campus programs because it is sohighly respected in the intelligencecommunity,” she says.Best of all, GSIS is just gettingstarted.“We envision a day when GSISis a center of academic excellence,”says Dr. Jones. “We’d like a securityoperations track, an Arabic-languageconcentration track. We think teachingcybersecurity is a natural fit withEmbry-Riddle’s strong engineeringand space and physics programs. We’llpush for a master’s degree as thingsmove along.”LESSONS FROM THE REAL WORLD“What are the Americans doing?”Jennie asks. She now has 15 minutesto make a decision. Her choice couldsave—or cost—millions of lives.In the Eagle situation room, eightwall-mounted flat-screen TVs bringJennie and other students breakingnews and updates. Multiple computerand laptop stations provide opensourceintelligence analysis, languagetranslation, interactive exercises andeven weather reports. From an adjacentobservation room, Dr. Jones andProf. Baker, with other faculty andguests, monitor the crisis simulation.The GSIS students have been atthis exercise for four hours now, afterpreparing all semester with research,briefings and analysis. Strain shows onyoung faces now struggling to find facts,play hunches and recall their studies.“Madame Prime Minister,” Patrickannounces, “we ask permission to initiateOperation Cold Start and put allunits on high alert along the borderswith India and Tibet.”It’s as real as it gets in simulation.The scenario has been carefullydrawn up using the interactive modelprovided by the Federal EmergencyManagement Agency, then developedby GSIS faculty. Every element testsstudents’ knowledge and ability asindividuals and as teams to confronttime-sensitive events without completeinformation, then make decisions in atimely, effective manner.Jennie checks the clock. Cold Startwould put half a million Indian troopsacross the Pakistan border. And whatabout those Pakistani nukes? Whatdoes she do?A call comes from the simulation’sWhite House.“Madame Prime Minister,”announces Jeremy, the U.S. President,“we’re mobilizing the U.S. 82ndAirborne ...”Five minutes to make a decision.The future hangs in the balance.12LIFT SPRING 2011 WWW.ERAUALUMNI.ORG

Securingthe NationThe new Homeland Security Program atEmbry-Riddle’s Daytona Beach CampusBY REBECCA DOUGLASEmbry-Riddle has led the world in aviation andaerospace education for decades, but it’s quicklygaining similar prominence in the emerging field ofhomeland security. Students from the four-year-oldDaytona Beach program are already making significantcontributions to counterterrorism campaigns,emergency management efforts and other crucialareas in the wide-ranging field.Andrew Lashlee (’09, DB) was recently selectedto attend the prestigious Federal Law EnforcementTraining Center—an opportunity typicallyreserved for candidates withyears of field experience and/or apost-graduate degree. The rigoroustraining required mastery of academicsubjects including computerevidence and law as well as physicalproficiency in firearms, driving andofficer response tactics. After training,Lashlee is slated for the frauddetection unit of the Department ofHousing and Urban Development.Interning with the Secret Serviceand working at a private backgroundinvestigation company led toLashlee’s current position as an “1811”—a special agent for theOffice of the Inspector General.“My degree [Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security]definitely gave me an edge,” notes 23-year-old Lashlee. “Plentyof people study criminal justice, but homeland security covers alot more federal and international issues.”A curriculum that addresses homeland security as a broadbasedsocial science is essential for students with career aspirationslike Lashlee’s, explains professor and program coordinatorJim Ramsay, Ph.D. “We provide education with real-world applications,not just training,” Dr. Ramsay specifies.In addition to its intellectual bent, the program stresseshands-on experience. Michael Kokes, a Homeland Security majorscheduled to graduate in May, is already steeped in field experiencefrom three internships. At the Volusia County Sheriff’sOffice, he shadowed everyone from homicide detectives toK-9 specialists, then parlayed that experience into a six-monthstint with the Drug Enforcement Administration in Orlando. Asummertime post in the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office backRichard Moore, a planner II in Volusia County’s Divisionof Emergency Management, works with Embry-Riddle’sHomeland Security students in an after-action report ontwo tornadoes that touched down in the county. “Basedon the project, we are going to establish policies onhow we deal with future events,” Moore says.home in New Jersey added legal know-how to hispre-graduation resume.Although the 500-plus students currently enrolledin Homeland Security classes are a diverse lot, Dr.Ramsay notices one common attribute: They’re all “doers” whowant to safeguard our nation.“Some want to jump out of a Humvee dressed in Kevlar whileothers prefer to outsmart the bad guys by analyzing computerdata or developing better policy; but they all want to make a difference,”he explains.Helping students differentiate between national defenseand homeland security is a constant crusade. Those who arrivebrimming with the spirit of Jack Bauer get a balancing doseof Gandhi.“Homeland security is about humanity and sustainable peace,”Dr. Ramsay explains. “Sure, the military plays an important rolein tactical security, but a truly sustainable solution requires civilityand effective international relations.”AN INSIDE LOOK The course list for Embry-Riddle’s HomelandSecurity Program encompasses everything from cybersecurity totransportation policy. For a full list of options and requirements,visit www.erau.edu/db/degrees/bs-homelandsecurity.WWW.ERAUALUMNI.ORG SPRING 2011 LIFT13

PILOT INCOMMANDCOL. MARK TILLMAN(’95, WW) OFFERS HISEXPERIENCES ANDINSIGHT ON PILOTINGAIR FORCE ONEMark Tillman (’95, WW)reflects on his mostmemorable flightsas pilot of Air ForceOne during formerPresident George W.Bush’s administration.14LIFT SPRING 2011 WWW.ERAUALUMNI.ORG

BY ASHLEE ILG (’03, DB)PHOTOGRAPHY BY GREGORY MILLEReing completely in control of thewelfare and safety of the leader ofthe free world when he’s at 40,000feet might be a power trip for some—literally. But for Col. Mark Tillman(’95, WW), it’s just another day atthe office. He has held what manyconsider one of the most prestigious pilotjobs in the country—flying Air Force One.From 2001 to 2009, he flew for formerPresident George W. Bush during many ofthe most historic flights and challengingmissions of our time, including the eventsof 9/11. On the following pages, he shareshis view from the cockpit of supporting andprotecting the President of the United States.WWW.ERAUALUMNI.ORG SPRING 2011 LIFT15

“ WORKING HARDIS THE KEY TOEVERYTHING.YOU NEEDCREDIBILITY ANDACCOUNTABILITYWITH OTHERPEOPLE.”Tell us about your background in the Air ForceQ. and how you were selected as the Air ForceOne pilot?I think it was about being in the right place atA. the right time—and that I worked and playedwell with others. For the selection process, theAir Force provides a list of qualified pilots to theWhite House military office. Because I was theDeputy President Pilot and Pilot in Commandduring Clinton’s reign, it gave me the experienceand credentials to take over for President Bush.Tell us about your first flight on Air Force OneQ. and the thoughts and feelings you experienced.My very first flight was taking former PresidentA. Clinton to Akron, Ohio. I was flying as Pilot inCommand. I’m nervous on every flight—I’m flyingthe leader of the free world. It is always a challengingmission because everything is recorded byvideo and audio and if anything happens, it’s in themedia. I had to keep it perfect. I also had to takeaway any of the President’s fear and keep the focuson his message.Tell us about the historic flight on 9/11.Q. What was your strategy and what thoughtswent through your mind that day?My goal was to get him underground and safeA. so that our airliner wouldn’t be attacked. ThePresident wanted to go back to Washington, butbecause we weren’t sure if the White House wasthe target for another attack, we couldn’t go there.I knew I needed to take him somewhere that wasn’texpected, so we ended up keeping him airborne fora while until things started to settle down.When all the planes were eventually grounded,we landed at Barksdale AFB so that the Presidentcould make an address to the nation. We were allhighly trained to support the President in any kindof national disaster or an attack on our countrylike this, but our training didn’t involve the chaosof buildings and airliners being the terrorists’ targets.Our biggest challenge that day was gettingin touch with people, which seems so simple, butour communications were hindered because of theenormous call volume, as everyone was trying toreach their loved ones on cell phones. Our satellitecapability became saturated as well, so we had torely completely on the military’s satellite capabilities.And while the President was able to speak to theAmerican people, he wasn’t able to send images orvideo of him talking because the plane didn’t havethat capability. Today, the plane has those communicationscapabilities.Please tell us about some of your otherQ. historic flights.In 2003, the President wanted to visit theA.military troops in Baghdad for Thanksgivingto let them know we support them. This first visitwas a secret because it was very dangerous for himto go there. Only a few people knew about it, and16LIFT SPRING 2011 WWW.ERAUALUMNI.ORG

we kept changing the flight plan and jets. It waslogistically very tricky, but it worked perfectly. Themilitary is highly trained to provide protection, andthat’s what they did.On his flight home as former president, I rememberseeing him extremely relaxed for the first timesince he had taken office. He had his entire staffwith him on the flight from Andrews AFB to Waco,Texas. He thanked his crew and had a chance to sitwith old friends and talk about their accomplishmentsand say goodbye.I believe we had a lot of historical flights, but itwasn’t me who did it—we had a group of over 200people who supported all of the President’s efforts.I am grateful and proud to have been a part of allthe great things that President Bush accomplished.Being a military man myself, it was great to seehow he held the military in high esteem and treatedthem as men and women of valor.What were some of your most unforgettableQ. moments as pilot of Air Force One?I would have to say that seeing how theA. President handled the military stands out asthe most important memory in my mind. We visitedBethesda to visit the troops, and I rememberseeing a Marine in a wheelchair who had no legs.The President went over and hugged him. Healways recognized the sacrifice they were makingfor us, and I respect that.Flying into Tulane, Miss., after HurricaneKatrina was also a significant event. There wassignificant damage, and I saw the President stepin and take over the recovery efforts. I trulyadmire him for taking responsibility for that. I alsoenjoyed flying him around during his election yearin 2004.What experiences and insights have youQ. taken from piloting Air Force One into yournew job as a corporate pilot?Piloting in the corporate world is very different,but I think my ability to work with peopleA.is very important. In the corporate world, peopleneed a pat on the back more often, and they appreciatebeing recognized for their work.Embry-Riddle is very proud to call you anQ. alumnus. What motivated you to chooseEmbry-Riddle for your advanced degree? Whatrole has Embry-Riddle played in your career?Well, the Air Force requires us to have aA. Master’s degree to get promoted, so I decidedto attend the Worldwide Campus at Andrews AFB.It was the only school that worked with my flyingschedule and made it simple to go to class. Theinstructors were great, too, and knew how to keepthe topics in our perspective.If you had any parting words of advice forQ. your fellow Embry-Riddle alumni, what wouldthey be?Working hard is the key to everything. YouA. need credibility and accountability with otherpeople. Others need to know that you’re willing todie for them, and then they’ll be willing to die foryou. I’d also recommend continuing your educationas much as possible.AIR FORCE ONE AT A GLANCEAir Force One: Jason P. Robertson/USAFAIRCRAFTOne of two highly customizedBoeing 747-200B series aircraft.The Air Force designation forthe aircraft is VC-25A.RANGEUnlimited (with its midair refuelingcapability).SPECIAL FEATURES ingan extensive suite forthe President that features conference room. those who accompany the other guests. icsto protect against electromagneticpulse. - aircraft to function as a mobilecommand center in the eventof an attack. function as an operating nentlyon board. 100 people at a time.HISTORYAir Force One is maintainedand operated by the which was founded in 1944as the Presidential Pilot Officeat the direction of PresidentFranklin D. Roosevelt. various propeller-driven aircraft President John F. Kennedybecame the first President modified Boeing 707. Over the of the current aircraft beingdelivered in 1990 during theadministration of President WWW.ERAUALUMNI.ORG SPRING 2011 LIFT17

GIVING TO EMBRY-RIDDLEPersonal investmentDave Brown takes the personal approach when supporting Embry-RiddleLeft: Dave Brown withEmbry-Riddle studentSaul Meza, Procter &Gamble Scholarshiprecipient.Below: In 2002, DaveBrown and his son,Chris, welcome Rashadto the family for hisfirst Thanksgiving.Above: DaveBrown (right) andKen Robinson(left), a Procter &Gamble pilot andadjunct professorat Embry-RiddleWorldwide, sharesome time in aGulfstream G550with intern SaulMeza (fourth fromleft) and his family.Right: As a Procter& Gamble intern,Saul Meza helpsdistribute lifesavingtechnologythat provides cleandrinking water toTanzanian childrenin East Africa.When Dave Brown (’89, WW), a corporatepilot for Procter & Gamble (P&G), talksabout his 20-plus years of working withand supporting the students, alumni andstaff of Embry-Riddle, one thing becomesabundantly clear: Spending his time andenergy with Embry-Riddle feels like a family affair.“My entire experience with Embry-Riddle is verypersonal,” Brown says.The names of students, student-athletes, interns,coaches and staff roll easily off Brown’s tongue.Whether talking about Coach Steve Ridder, formerstudent-athletes or the many students and interns hehas mentored at P&G who have gone on to becomepilots in P&G’s flight department, Brown sounds likea proud parent in an overachieving family.And if the past 20 years are any indication, he hasa lot to be proud of. During his two decades workingwith Embry-Riddle, he has launched a summerprogram to introduce students to the world of corporateaviation and helped establish an internshipprogram to recruit, hire and mentor the “best of thebest” pilots for P&G. He also has volunteered andcontributed to various fundraising projects for capitalimprovements, the athletics program and scholarships.“I saw the difference that investing in a universitycan make,” Brown says. “And I see the way studentsat Embry-Riddle are committed to making a difference.They are incredible and are great ambassadorsfor the university.”JOINING THE TEAMWhile Brown can now look back on his 20 yearsof supporting Embry-Riddle and see all the goodthings that have resulted, none of it likely wouldhave happened if he hadn’t met Athletic DirectorSteve Ridder, who was just getting started atEmbry-Riddle back then.18LIFT SPRING 2011 GIVINGTO.ERAU.EDU

“Basically, he recruited me,” Brown recalls.“Steve hooked me in, and through him I got tosee the quality of the students. I was inspired andinfluenced not only to help grow the athletic programat the time but also to be involved with theacademic side.”After meeting with Coach Ridder and hearinghis vision for what was then abrand-new intercollegiate athleticsprogram, Brown got involved ina number of ways. In addition toestablishing a summer program tointroduce students to corporate aviationat P&G, he also helped raisefunds for capital improvements andthe athletics program.It was during that time of supportingathletics that Brown realizedthe difference that smaller giftscould make in the lives of students.When Coach Ridder had asked himto help organize a fundraising effortto equip the new basketball lockerroom, Brown was surprised at thelevel of support they received fromathletics alumni.“I think we raised $30,000, but the thing was,every bit of that money came from the formerplayers. These are guys out there starting theircareers and not making a lot of money, workingentry-level jobs and starting new families. And90 percent of the guys I knew gave back,” Brownrecalls. “The thing I learned from that is that if youhave enough people who have a connection, thenthey don’t have to have a lot of money individuallyto make a difference.”MAKING A DIFFERENCEInspired by his discovery, Brown continued tomake a difference in many ways. He helped launchand manage an internship program at P&G,creating more opportunities for Embry-Riddlestudents. Today, six Embry-Riddle graduates workat P&G Global Flight Operations, two of whomwere once interns in his program (with two otherinterns in the pipeline), and three others arecompleting their degrees with Embry-Riddle’sWorldwide Campus.The surprising quality of those students assuredBrown he was on the right track. “The studentswe’ve had in the program have such a high level ofknowledge and experience that they can participatein what we are doing at P&G with clear understanding.Their abilities, performance, passion and“I SAW THE DIFFERENCETHAT INVESTING INA UNIVERSITY CANMAKE. AND I SEE THEWAY STUDENTS ATEMBRY-RIDDLE ARECOMMITTED TO MAKINGA DIFFERENCE.”professionalism have led to the continued successand continuation of our programs with Embry-Riddle,” Brown says.Seeing that level of commitment and expertiseinspired Brown to contribute more to scholarships.“As my relationship with Embry-Riddle has grown,I’ve become more focused on scholarships,” he says.“There are so many students whoneed help, and it’s great to be ableto contribute to a scholarship andsay, ‘Hey, I love the idea of whatthat scholarship is all about and thestudents who receive it.’ When yousupport a scholarship, you are makinga difference in the lives of thosewho represent what the universityis all about.”ALL IN THE FAMILYAside from the many typicalbenefits that Brown enjoys fromsupporting Embry-Riddle—enhancing the value of his degreewhile employing fellow alumniand supporting what is now anincredibly successful athletics program—he enjoysan even more personal benefit that stems from hisrelationship with Steve Ridder.Brown credits Coach Ridder and his wife, Vicky,for helping him take on the challenge of adoptingand raising his two sons, Chris and Rashad, bothof whom Brown adopted when they were 13. Now,Chris is 29 and Rashad is 22.“As a single parent, when I was trying to figureout how to deal with things, both Steve and hiswife were a key part of the success of me adoptingthose two boys,” says Brown. “I can say withoutexaggeration that Coach Ridder is the reason thatI am still involved with Embry-Riddle, doing whatI’m doing.”A PERFECT MATCHDid you know that you can often double or triple the impactof your gift through your employer’s matching gift program?Many employers like Dave Brown’s Procter & Gamble willmatch any charitable contributions made by their employeesand retirees. To find out more about matching gifts, or tosee if your company participates in such a program, go togivingto.erau.edu/giftmatch.html.GIVINGTO.ERAU.EDU SPRING 2011 LIFT19

ALUMNI IN ACTIONBY JAKE POINIERformulate new strategies and continue to deepen ourrelationship with our airline partners.”THE POINT MANHOUMAN MOTAHARIAN (’97, DB)makes it his business to know thevalue of airline loyalty programs—with a bit of research assistance fromcurrent Embry-Riddle studentsHouman Motaharian (’97, DB) says mostpeople are surprised to learn that the mostprofitable part of an airline can’t be foundin first-class fares or baggage fees. Thefact is, it’s all about the points. “Frequentflyerprograms have been the single mostimportant source of income and, in manyinstances, of capital for the airlines in thepast five years,” he says. “If managed right, the marginsare tremendous.”As Chief Credit Officer–Global Merchant Servicesfor American Express, Houman is responsible forabout 9 million merchants in the company’s portfolioand tens of billions of dollars in credit exposure.Houman also runs the Global Airline Strategy Group,which is the industry group at AmEx that overseesthe relationship with more than 240 global commercialairlines—as many as Boeing or Airbus, he notes.“My group has offices in New York, London, Sydney,Buenos Aires, Delhi and Phoenix,” he says. “Our roleis about monitoring and analyzing the industry closelyin order to create win-win opportunities for all of usas an industry. We are looking at business trends toREADY FOR TAKEOFFWith a background in the oil industry, Houmanhad been working on his postgraduate degreein International Economics in France when hedecided to indulge his passion: to come to the U.S.and Embry-Riddle to earn his MBA in AirlineManagement. After graduating in 1997 from theDaytona Beach Campus, he completed an internshipwith US Airways in Flight Operations, then workedfor Continental Airlines for more than seven years,most recently in finance and labor negotiations.After leaving Continental in 2005, he and severalbusiness partners had planned to start a new low-costairline in the U.S. (through the backing of a majorEuropean LCC), with Houman in charge of raisingcapital. “We raised a lot of seed money, but not thefinal $100 million capital we needed,” he says. “Wecame close to closing the capital raise twice, but duringthe time (2005–2006) we were going to the market,fuel prices weren’t behaving,” he says with a smile.“However, I would not trade that experience for anyother thing that I have done. It has been by far thebest learning experience of my professional life.”With his entrepreneurial ambitions coming to apause, Houman was deciding between returning towork for a major U.S. airline or going to AmericanExpress. “I technically left the airline industry, but thegood thing is my position with the Airline StrategyGroup kept me close to it,” he says.Along the way, Houman has also remained closeto Embry-Riddle, starting up an internship program,serving on the College of Business Industry AdvisoryBoard and recently partnering with Dr. BlaiseWaguespack, professor of Marketing and MBA programcoordinator at the Daytona Beach campus, fora research project about frequent-flyer points in hisBA 514 Marketing Management in Aviation class. The20LIFT SPRING 2011 WWW.ERAUALUMNI.ORG

An MBA from Embry-Riddle gives HoumanMotaharian an edgein analyzing airlineloyalty strategies.client,” says Dr. Waguespack. “They’re learning aboutthe aviation industry in general as well as the specificsof relationship marketing, such as how to attract andretain customers.”Members of Houman’s team came to campus twiceduring the semester, and made themselves available forseveral teleconferences. At the end of the term, studentsmade presentations to the class as well as three AmExrepresentatives, with the most outstanding analysis slatedfor an in-person audience with executives at the NewYork office in the future.MBA STUDENTS DUG INTO THE DETAILS OF NEARLY30 AIRLINE FREQUENT-FLYER PROGRAMS, WITH AN EYE ONHOW AIRLINES CAN LEVERAGE THEIR LOYALTY STRATEGIES.two had kept in touch over the years since Houmanhad served as a graduate assistant for Dr. Waguespack.A joint project seemed only natural.For the Global Airline FFP Evaluation Project,students (many in their first MBA class) dug into thedetails of nearly 30 airline frequent-flyer programs,with an eye on how airlines can leverage their loyaltystrategies to differentiate themselves. The research isdesigned to include a variety of factors that go intovaluing a program: how easy it is to earn and burnpoints; how do the elite status benefits differ; whatare the trends; and what new initiatives are emerging,such as credit card co-branding.“The key is, you want a project that helps thestudents learning as well as meet the needs of theBACK TO SCHOOLIn a way, watching smart, enthusiastic students take onthe AmEx project reminded Houman of his first dayon campus. “I wanted to get into the airline business, soEmbry-Riddle was a natural choice,” he says. “But whenI got there, I ran into all of these studentswho knew more about the airline industrythan I had even read about or experienced.I was truly struck by the passionof the students and the professors.”Finding the passion to give back toEmbry-Riddle taps into that spirit, plusthe knowledge that no other institutionboasts more or better connections in the aviationworld. “At the end of the day, every business is aboutthe people,” Houman says. “I need highly qualifiedand motivated professional people on my team and inother aspects of the business. These are the folks whoare going to be working for you or with you—or you’regoing to be working for them—so it’s important forthose of us who have influential positions to bring theknowledge back to the university and to help shape thestudents for the future. That’s something we can all do.”During his years at Continental, Houman marriedDeborah, a Finance Director, and they have two kidswho are already passionate about aviation. “I think Iwill encourage them to go work for an oil company,”says Houman with another smile.WWW.ERAUALUMNI.ORG SPRING 2011 LIFT21

ALUMNI NEWSMessage from the Executive DirectorHomecoming WeekendI am excited about a yearlong celebration in theAlumni Association—in May 2011 we will reachan exciting milestone, “100,000 alumni strong!”This year we will be establishing the AlumniAssociation Endowed Scholarship. This gives ouralumni a great reason and opportunity to give tosomething they can relate to, and then see thefruit of their giving in future Lift articles—storiesfrom the recipients!This scholarship is something Embry-Riddlestudents can greatly benefit from, and it also willstrengthen our Student-Alumni Association’sgoals and initiatives. I believe our alumnichapters and groups will be excited about thisgiving opportunity, and knowing their competitivenatures, it will be a challenge to see who canraise the most for the scholarship each year!For our alumni on the West Coast: LongBeach, San Diego and San Francisco, markyour calendars for May 2011! Join ouruniversity president, Dr. John Johnson, and hiswife, Maurie, at receptions hosted in each ofthose cities on the next Presidential Tour. Comeand hear about all the wonderful and excitingthings happening at your alma mater—I lookforward to seeing many of you there!Please stay in touch as I always look forwardto hearing back from all of our alumni on howyou are doing, and the exciting and successfulstories you have to share.Sincerely,Michele BergExecutive DirectorAlumni AssociationFROM TOP: Alumni who had previouslyplayed on the men’s Eaglesbasketball team were invited toplay again in the ICI Center in aspecial alumni scrimmage. Left toright: Nathan Rhoades (’06, DB),Matthew Cindric (’03, DB), ElwoodTomlinson (’04, DB), Tyler DeBord(’09, DB), Owen Busch (’94, DB),Denver Cobb (’09, DB), Eric Lorenzi(’10, DB), Ryan Christian (’10, DB)and Thomas Fagley (’94, DB).Owen Busch and Denver Cobbtook home the MVP trophies.The Grand Marshal for the 2010Homecoming Parade was noneother than Conrad Shad (’62, MC).Luis Nesmith (’98, DB), pictured leftwith Head Coach Randy Stegall,was the winner of the 2010 AlumniBaseball Game MVP award.The Alumni Association held analumni BBQ and tailgate eventbefore the homecoming basketballgame.22LIFT SPRING 2011 WWW.ERAUALUMNI.ORG

OctoberWest1. Record numbers of alumnihit the links in their golfing finestfor the annual Alumni GolfTournament.2. Several local alumni madetheir own banner and walkedin the Homecoming Parade onthe Prescott Campus. Ernie theEagle even joined in!3. Dr. Frank Ayers (far right),executive vice president forthe Prescott Campus, enjoyeda pancake breakfast and fly-inwith alumni and students.4. Alumni enjoyed a night offood and fun at the annualAlumni EagleNight celebration.132010PHOTOHIGHLIGHTS24Wings and WavesAlumni Advisory CouncilAlumni members of Alpha Eta Rho reunited at the annualEagleNight alumni celebration, which was held during the Wingsand Waves Air Show and Alumni Weekend. They are picturedhere with President John Johnson (front row, second from left).All 14 Alumni Advisory Council members met in Daytona Beach in October toshare ideas and brainstorm with the Alumni Association staff on ways to betterserve alumni.WWW.ERAUALUMNI.ORG SPRING 2011 LIFT23

ALUMNI NEWSALUMNI AWARDSAN ALUMNI ‘FERRY’ TALEWhen Matt Chapman, anaerobatic pilot sponsoredby Embry-Riddle, askedalumnus Tyler Shoemaker(’09, DB) to ferry his Eagle580 aerobatic plane to differentstops on his multi-city tour,Shoemaker felt he was living a dream.Shoemaker, who was an aerobaticinstructor for the Sport Flying Club atEmbry-Riddle and had experience inflying tail wheel airplanes, remembersmeeting Chapman at AirVenture inOshkosh, Wis., and then later taking his“ IT’S NOT EASY TO HANDOVER THE KEYS TO YOUR$250,000 AIRPLANE … ANDSEND [SOMEONE] OFF ON ATHREE-WEEK ADVENTURE.”checkout flight on the Eagle 580 justsouth of Oshkosh in Dodge City. “Aftermy first loop, roll and hammerhead ina high-performance mono-wing,” saysShoemaker, “I was hooked for life.”Impressed with Shoemaker’sskills and precision after his checkout,Chapman allowed him to fly theplane back to Oshkosh. “Tyler laterexplained it was truly a dream cometrue to fly an airplane into Oshkosh,let alone one of the highest profileplanes there,” says Chapman.In the coming weeks, Shoemakerwould fly the Eagle 580 across theTyler Shoemaker(’09, DB), left, isliving the dream,thanks to Embry-Riddle-sponsoredaerobatic pilotMatt Chapman.country, proving himself and earningother duties from an impressedChapman, who even allowedShoemaker to compete in the SebringAerobatic Contest in his airplane.“That experience closely rivals myfirst arrival into Oshkosh duringAirVenture,” Shoemaker says.Taking Chapman’s plane allthe way to the West Coast allowedShoemaker to see landscapes,weather and altitudes he had yet toexperience—like the time he landedat an airport in New Mexico that wasat the same elevation he normallycruised at while flying in Florida!Both Chapman and Shoemaker saythey really enjoyed working together.“It’s not easy to hand over the keysto your $250,000 airplane, along withyour credit card, and send him off ona three-week adventure,” Chapmansays. “But, that said, Tyler made it agood experience for me. He was professionalfrom start to finish. He wasdoing a good job representing me andthe university.”Above all else, Shoemaker hadthe opportunity to put the skills helearned at Embry-Riddle to the test,allowing him to feel like “a real pilot.”Chapman is already booking for nextyear’s schedule, and he says he hopesShoemaker will be available to workwith him again.Shoemaker looks forward to livingthe dream for yet another year. “Myonly hope is that I can take what Matthas instilled in me and pass it on toother young aspiring aviators,” he says.Embry-Riddle alumni receivedawards in six categories duringthe annual EagleNight alumnicelebration held Oct. 9, 2010,on the Daytona Beach Campus.“We felt it was important toacknowledge our alumni whocontinue to give back to theiralma mater and, in turn, inspireother alumni to do so as well,”says Michele Berg, executivedirector of the Alumni Association.Paul McDuffee (’76, DB) received the AlumniAchievement Award for demonstrating an exceptionalcommitment to the aviation and aerospace industrythrough his personal and professional success.Arnie Quast (’90, DB) received the Alumni ServiceAward for his continuing enthusiasm and service toEmbry-Riddle. Arnie continually demonstrates anextraordinary level of selfless commitment throughhis service, support and chapter leadership.NOT PICTURED: Kaylene Giri (’04, PC) received theMilitary Achievement Award for continued serviceto the U.S. military. She was unable to attend theawards ceremony because of a conflict with herwork schedule. Kaylene is a weapons system officerin the U.S. Air Force.24LIFT SPRING 2011 WWW.ERAUALUMNI.ORG

Linda Titus (’79, DB), far right, received the Philanthropy Award for herconsistent high level of commitment to Embry-Riddle through her ongoingcontributions to the Titus Family Scholarship, which she establishedwith her father, Chandler P. Titus, Professor Emeritus. Linda’s acceptancespeech was particularly bittersweet, as Chandler passed away inFebruary 2010. Linda was nominated for this award by Embry-Riddlefaculty and staff.FOUR OF A KINDAt first glance, most wouldn’t recognize all the waysthat Rany Azzi (’86, DB), Neil Duggan (’88, DB),William “Bill” Herderich (’84, DB) and ChristinaMarsh (’89, DB) are alike. But in addition tobeing alumni from Embry-Riddle’s DaytonaBeach Campus, these four work at the AircraftCertification Office in Atlanta, Ga., where they approveand oversee the engineering and manufacturing processesof aircraft parts for various companies.Because of their Embry-Riddle heritage, these alumnienjoy a unique camaraderie. “Because we’re all alumni, wehave more in common with each other than we do withothers here, and it gives us a similar foundation to build onfor the work we do,” says Azzi, associate manager of thePropulsion and Service Branch.Rany Azzi (’86, DB), William “Bill” Herderich (’84, DB), ChristinaMarsh (’89, DB) and Neil Duggan (’88, DB) work together at theAircraft Certification Office in Atlanta, Ga.Jamail Larkins (’07, DB) received the Outstanding Young Alumnus Award forhis high field of endeavor and personal achievements with the Dream LaunchTour. He also continues to serve the university and community selflessly.Bill Thompson (’87, PC), director of Alumni Relations on the PrescottCampus, received the Global Service Award for his continual outreach tonational and international students and alumni.All attended Embry-Riddle in the 1980s, which meansthey have a lot in common to look back on fondly. “It’seasy to start reminiscing with each other,” says Herderich,an aerospace engineer in the Airframe Branch, who remembersdriving from Albany, N.Y., to start at Embry-Riddlewithout ever visiting. Duggan, who earned his degree in theACET program, recalls working directly out of the FAAhandbooks. “I really enjoyed it, and the flight labs were myfavorite,” he says.Because of their training at Embry-Riddle, thesealumni know they have an advantage over many of theircolleagues. “We received a diverse and hands-on educationat Embry-Riddle,” explains Azzi. “Others don’t have thepractical knowledge that we do—it’s just theory to them.”Do you work with other Embry-Riddle alumni?We’d love to hear about it! Please e-mail us atERalumni@erau.edu and tell us where you workand how many other alumni are there, too.WWW.ERAUALUMNI.ORG SPRING 2011 LIFT25

ALUMNI NEWSSTRENGTHIN NUMBERSImportant milestonesparks scholarshipAs the saying goes, “There’sgreat strength in numbers,”and two Embry-Riddle alumnichapters are ready to put it tothe test by adding their existingscholarship funds to a newAlumni Association EndowedScholarship.The New York City MetroArea and Atlanta Alumnichapters have agreed toredirect their scholarshipfunds to support the newAlumni Association EndowedScholarship. By combiningtheir dollars with contributionsfrom other alumni chapters,they hope to have a far greaterimpact in helping students.“Embry-Riddle alumni,through their local alumnichapters, or on their own, willnow have another way to helpEmbry-Riddle students in need,”says Chris O’Gwen (’96, DB),former New York City MetroArea Alumni Chapter president.The Embry-Riddle AlumniAssociation is launchingthe new Alumni AssociationEndowed Scholarship inrecognition of a key milestonein its 85-year history:In May of this year, the universitywill officially become“100,000 Strong,” celebratingthe graduation of its100,000th alumnus.“What a wonderful milestoneto reach in the AlumniAssociation—100,000alumni strong!” says AlumniRelations Executive DirectorMichele Berg. “I am excitedabout our establishing theAlumni Association EndowedScholarship, because it givesour alumni a great reason andopportunity to give to somethingthey can relate to.”LOOKING AHEADPresident John Johnson updates alumni andfriends on Embry-Riddle’s plans for the futurePresident Johnson traveled to New York City to connectwith local alumni and friends at a reception heldat the Yale Club of New York City on Sept. 16, 2010.He updated attendees on current plans for expansionon the Daytona Beach Campus and the explorationinto a third residential campus location.Special guest speaker Chris Rossi (’90, DB) spoke aboutaviation business and the challenges facing all air carriers.Rossi currently serves as the senior vice president for NorthAmerica at VirginAtlantic Airways.“[It was] a refreshingupdate on thestate of the industry,”says New York Cityalumni chapter leader,Amanda O’Brien-Brown(’02, WW). “It’s alwaysa pleasure to hear fromsuccessful industryDr. John P. Johnson withWendy Stanley (’09, WW),Alumni Advisory Council memberalumni. It reminds us allwhat a prestigious institutionwe’ve come from.”While in Washington,D.C., President Johnson held a reception for alumni andfriends at the Russell Senate Office Building. Guest speakerFAA Administrator Randy Babbitt (’65, MC) spoke aboutthe role Embry-Riddle is playing in the NextGen project andshared his excitement about the new regulations on pilotfatigue. He also stated that he felt the aviation industry wasvital to our nation’s economic recovery.Talk to an EagleAlumni faculty and staff wereencouraged to promote Talk to anEagle with buttons and posters.ARTPhoto: talktoeagle.jpgEmbry-Riddle alumni who work forthe university were honored on theDaytona Beach Campus on Sept.22, 2010, with a special luncheonhosted by the Alumni Association.Guest speaker Michael Pepin(’86, DB) spoke to the attendeesabout different ways to promoteEmbry-Riddle in their daily liveswhile off campus and encouragedthem to get involved in alumniactivities outside of their jobs.Alumni Relations staff introduceda new program, called“Talk to an Eagle,” that promotesinteraction between faculty andstaff who are alumni and students.“The idea is that we want tofoster mentor-type relationshipsbetween students and alumni whowork on campus,” says EdmundOdartey, associate director ofAlumni Relations. “This would bea way for alumni to give back toEmbry-Riddle, and students couldlearn from alumni who are on campusevery day.” Alumni receivedposters at the luncheon to put ontheir office doors and windows tohelp advertise the program, alongwith buttons so that students couldidentify alumni working on campus.26LIFT SPRING 2011 WWW.ERAUALUMNI.ORG

CLASS NOTESTo be sure your announcements are included in the next issue of Lift, become a member of the eaglesNEST,the FREE online community created exclusively for Embry-Riddle alumni at www.ERAUalumni.org.Members can post their career news, wedding announcements, family updates and more at the eaglesNEST “Class Notes” pagesat any time. Please also submit them to Melissa Judy at Melissa.Judy@erau.edu to be included in Lift magazine.CAREER NEWS1970sNichole MarshallRaul Regalado (’72, DB)was appointed to theU.S. Department ofTransportation’s FutureAviation AdvisoryCommittee in May 2010.Raul is currently thePresident and CEO ofMetropolitan NashvilleAirport Authority.1980sHoward “Bud” Blower(’80, DB) was promotedto Director of AviationServices for VF Corporationin Greensboro, N.C. In thisrole, Bud will be responsiblefor managing all of VF’sflight operations globally.He joined VF in 1985.Lloyd Terry (’81, DB) was promotedto Colonel in the U.S.Air Force Reserves in May2010. He graduated fromthe Naval War College inNewport, R.I., in June 2010.Mark L. Berry (’85, DB) haswritten another piece featuredon the eaglesNEST.Visit www.eraualumni.org/markberry to read his latestreflection.Marvin Diaz (’85, WW) wasnamed Managing Directorfor Mexico by AmericanAirlines in October 2010.He is a 20-year veteran ofthe airline. In his new role,Marvin will be responsiblefor operations at theMarvin Diaz14 destinations Americanserves in the country aswell as its two reservationscenters located there.Nichole Marshall (’86, PC)opened Pangaea Bakery inPrescott, Ariz., which waslisted by Arizona Highwaysmagazine as one of the bestrestaurants in 2010.Jeff Pearse (’86, DB) wasappointed Deputy Directorof Aviation for the PortAuthority of New York andNew Jersey in October 2010.His responsibilities includedeveloping strategy for anddirecting senior staff in thepreparation and executionof Aviation’s annualBusiness Plan, Long-TermStrategic Plan and CapitalPlan. He also providesoversight for ongoing airportprojects, directs staffin pursuing commercialdevelopment and ensuresstaff operate the PortAuthority’s five airports(JFK, LaGuardia, Newark,Stewart and Teterboro)safely and effectively whileapplying best practices andmeeting the highest standardsof customer care and service.Tim Bradshaw (’88, DB) hasbeen named Director of theEastern Iowa Airport.1990sMaj. Claude “Arch”Archambault (’92, DB) wasselected for promotion toLieutenant Colonel in theU.S. Air Force. He is currentlyin navigator requalificationtraining in theE-8C Joint STARS aircraftat Robins AFB, Ga.Capt. Joseph McGuiness(’99, WW) took command ofCoast Guard Sector SaultSainte Marie.CAMPUS LEGENDMC Miami CampusDB Daytona Beach, Fla.PC Prescott, Ariz.WW Worldwide CampusWWO Worldwide OnlineMatt Hinshaw/The Daily CourierWWW.ERAUALUMNI.ORG SPRING 2011 LIFT27

CLASS NOTESLloyd TerryDaniel Pradel, Jr.Brent TerwilligerAndrew and Ashlee (Fiser) IlgNatalie (Martin)SteinhauserTravis Marshalland Julie TurnerHayden andJocelyn Blackwell2000sBrent Terwilliger (’00, DB;’05, WW) successfullypassed the ComprehensiveExaminations for theNorthcentral UniversityPh.D. of Business Administrationprogram. He transitionedfrom Ph.D. Learnerto Ph.D. Candidacy statusand is beginning work onhis dissertation.Daniel Pradel, Jr. (’05, WW)has joined Aviation &Marketing InternationalInc. (AMI) to serve as thecompany’s Vice Presidentof Sales and Operations.He joins his father, DanPradel, Sr., the company’sowner and founder. Bothare instrument-rated pilots.FAMILY NEWS1990sRussell Blackwell (’98,DB) and his wife, Staci,welcomed twins HaydenMitchell and JocelynGayle Blackwell onApril 15, 2010. Russell isan ERJ-170 Captain atRepublic Airlines, based inWashington, D.C., and livesin Charlotte, N.C.2000sAndrew (’03, DB) andAshlee (Fiser) Ilg (’03, DB)welcomed their first child,Owen Kenneth, on Aug. 28,2010. They currently live inthe Atlanta area. Andrewis an Aerospace Engineerfor Dixie Aerospace Inc.and Ashlee owns her ownbusiness.Natalie (Martin) Steinhauser(’04, DB) and her husband,Scott, welcomed their son,Jacoby Luke Steinhauser, onApril 27, 2010. They live inOrlando, Fla.MARRIAGES/ENGAGEMENTS1980sLloyd Terry (’81, DB) marriedOlivia Garner on July 3, 2010.2000sTravis Marshall (’09, DB)married Julie Turner (’05,DB) at the top of AspenMountain in Aspen, Colo.,on April 10, 2010. Travis iscurrently working towarda career in aviation insuranceand Julie is a weatherradar systems engineer forRockwell Collins.28LIFT SPRING 2011 WWW.ERAUALUMNI.ORG

IN MEMORY1940sRobert J. Hellwid(’43, WW) April 11, 20101950sAlvin E. Bennett(’50, MC) June 1, 2010Robert A. Steinnagle(’56, MC) April 7, 20101970sJames Michael Nestor(’74, DB) Aug. 20, 20101980sCapt. Raymond T. Alouf,Jr. (’81, DB) Oct. 23, 2010Eric Von (’81, DB)Sept. 4, 2010Ivory Wilson, Jr. (’81, DB)Jan. 21, 2010Michael S. Lux (’82, PC)Jan. 16, 2010Joan T. Shelson (’83, DB)Nov. 12, 2010Charles D. Buck (’84,WW and Former AdjunctFaculty) Aug. 18, 2008Stephen M. Wall (’86,DB) June 20, 2010Capt. Douglas E. Lampe(’87, DB) Sept. 3, 20101990sLarry K. Newbern (’97,’01, WW) July 28, 2010David R. Cummock A friend and supporter of Embry-Riddle for morethan 16 years, Dave served six years on theUniversity’s Daytona Beach Campus Board ofVisitors, including two years as Chairman. Beforehis involvement with Embry-Riddle, he served10 years as an officer in the U.S. Air Force and30 years as a pilot for American Airlines.A great champion of students, Dave, alongwith his wife, Marguerite, established two scholarships:the Dr. Irwin Price Board of VisitorsEndowed Scholarship, which benefits freshmenfrom the Daytona Beach area, and the SusanMcCarthy Endowed Scholarship, which supportsROTC students on the Daytona Beach Campus.Dave and his wife also recently established theDavid R. Cummock Living Trust. In describinghis support of Embry-Riddle over the years,Col. Cummock said, “Our relationship withEmbry-Riddle is not a one-way street. It’s goodfor them, but it’s great for us. We believe in theschool and are proud to be associated with it.”2000sThomas M. Delaney (’00,WW) Sept. 1, 2010Harper C. Wren (’03, WW)April 1, 2010Loren V. Copeland (’04,WW) Dec. 5, 2009Lambert Hartle (’05, WW)July 18, 2010Benjamin Glattstein(’10, DB) Nov. 25, 2010Lt. Clinton R. Wermers(’10, WW) Jan. 23, 2010OthersDonna M. Amore (Friendof the university) May 17,2010Mary Alice Anderson(Friend of the university)Aug. 27, 2010Michael D. Crotty (Friendof the university) Oct. 7,2010June R. Fidel (Friend of theuniversity) Sept. 1, 2010John M. Holley (ProfessorEmeritus) Aug. 9, 2010Robert Long (DBBookstore Manager)May 30, 2010Beverly A. (Chase)McCollister (Friend of theuniversity) April 5, 2010Hazel M. Owens(Friend of the university)Aug. 31, 2010WWW.ERAUALUMNI.ORG SPRING 2011 LIFT

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University600 S. Clyde Morris Blvd.Daytona Beach, FL 32114NON-PROFIT ORG.US POSTAGEPAIDLIFTFLORIDAARIZONAWORLDWIDETM