KALAMAZOO, MI, July 30, 2025 — The Aviation Accreditation Board International proudly announces its 2025 award recipients—visionary leaders whose innovative scholarship, industry collaboration, and steadfast commitment have propelled aviation education to new heights worldwide.

Dr. Paul Whelan Aviation Educator Award

Established in tribute to Dr. Paul Whelan, the first Chair of the original Council of Aviation Accreditation, this award recognizes educators who mirror his pioneering efforts in developing accreditation standards and fostering academic excellence in aviation.

Dr. Wendy Beckman, a full professor in the Aerospace Department at Middle Tennessee State University, is the 2025 honoree. Over her 30-year collegiate career, she led five undergraduate programs through AABI reaffirmation and secured accreditation for MTSU’s master’s program while serving as department chair (2015–2021). An accomplished researcher in flight training methods and safety management, she has edited the Collegiate Aviation Review and published extensively throughout her career. Dr. Beckman holds an FAA Airline Transport Pilot certificate, has logged nearly 3,900 flight hours, and has chaired more than 30 graduate theses.

Richard Taylor Aviation Industry Award

Named for Boeing engineer Richard “Dick” Taylor—one of the first industry trustees of CAA/AABI—this award celebrates professionals who have strengthened aviation accreditation through industry collaboration, regulatory innovation, and technical leadership.

Dr. Lynnette Sorrentini is the 2025 recipient. During her tenure at United Airlines, Dr. Sorrentini played a key role in shaping the Aviate pilot hiring and development program, and led Aviate and Pilot Strategy within Flight Operations. Prior to that, she served at Piedmont Airlines, where she spearheaded multiple initiatives, led the Latin Diversity Network Employee Resource Group, and held roles across Engineering, Human Resources, and Pilot Hiring.

Dr. Sorrentini holds a B.S. in Agricultural Science from the University of Puerto Rico, an M.S. in Human Resources Management from Wilmington University, and a Doctorate in Business Administration with a focus in Human Resources from Liberty University. She is a Certified Professional in Talent Development (CPTD) and a SHRM-Certified Professional (SHRM-CP), and actively advises several SHRM chapters and aviation education boards.

Currently, Dr. Sorrentini is pursuing her lifelong dream of becoming a pilot and is in the process of earning her certifications.

AABI Chairperson Award

Selected by the current Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, and immediate Past Chairperson, this award acknowledges members whose exceptional service has significantly fortified AABI’s organizational growth and impact.

Ms. Maryanne DeMarco, managing director of the Coalition of Airline Pilots Associations (CAPA), received the 2025 Chairperson Award. Since 2009, she has been at the forefront of CAPA’s global advocacy, championing safety, security, and workforce development across the aviation community worldwide ensuring international impact and collaborating with DOT, FAA, TSA, DHS, Congress and EASA. A member of AABI’s Board of Trustees, and the Regulatory & Compliance Officer, DeMarco also served on the DOT/FAA Women in Aviation Advisory Board and has represented aviation interests in Brussels, Hong Kong, and Singapore. Her strategic leadership in aviation rulemaking, policy development, and association governance has shaped international standards and industry partnerships.

Rudy Frasca Award for Professional Excellence

In memory of Rudy Frasca’s dedication to high-fidelity training and student safety, this award honors visiting team and committee members who exhibit professionalism, integrity, and passion for aviation education and mentorship.

The 2025 recipient is Mr. J. Randolph “Randy” Babbitt, principal partner of Babbitt & Associates, LLC. A veteran Eastern Airlines captain and former FAA Administrator (2009–2011), Babbitt later served as SVP of Labor Relations at Southwest Airlines. He co-founded Eclat Consulting and led ALPA’s global “One Level of Safety” initiative. Recognized with Aviation Week’s Laurels Award and the Aero Club of Washington’s Donald D. Engen Trophy, he continues to serve on AABI’s Board of Trustees and co-Chairs AABI’s Safety Committee.

About AABI

The Aviation Accreditation Board International advances excellence in aviation and aerospace education by establishing rigorous accreditation standards. AABI-accredited programs prepare the next generation of aviation professionals with the knowledge, skills, and ethical foundation required for a safe and sustainable global industry. For more information about these awards and to see past recipients, please visit the awards page on the AABI website: Awards - AABInternational