World's Largest LGBTQ Aviation Organization Welcomes New Diamond-Level Sponsor
St. LOUIS PARK, MN. FEB 3, 2022 – Today, the National Gay Pilots Association (NGPA) announced that it had reached an agreement with Southwest Airlines for sponsorship at its Diamond level valued at over $25,000.
As part of the agreement, Southwest Airlines will help sponsor NGPA's presence at EAA's 2022 AirVenture in Oshkosh, WI, and participation in the Association's Palm Springs career expo and events held in February. The sponsorship also includes funds for aviation scholarships specified by Southwest Airlines offered through the NGPA's Scholarship Program.
"Having the support of Southwest Airlines as a new NGPA sponsor furthers our mission as well as bolsters LGBTQ inclusion throughout the entire aviation industry," said NGPA President Brian Gambino. He went on to say, "Southwest shows their true 'Heart' with their support of the NGPA, and we thank them for standing behind that vision."
“Southwest Airlines prides itself on the principle of putting People first; inclusion is at the Heart of who we are as a Company. We are honored to be a NGPA sponsor as this organization aligns with our commitment to cultivate diverse, equitable, and inclusive experiences for people to thrive.” said Juan Suarez, Vice President of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Southwest Airlines.
With the ever-increasing demand for a diverse workforce in the aviation industry, the NGPA has provided many of its sponsors with the ability to connect with the LGBTQ community in aviation. Since its founding in 1990, donations to the NGPA have brought forth educational programs, networking opportunities, and scholarships that support LGBTQ inclusion in aviation while furthering participation and careers. This year, the NGPA is pleased to announce over $150,000 in scholarships while having awarded over $750,000 throughout the lifetime of the NGPA Scholarship Program.
Current sponsors include several airlines, aviation corporations, and flight schools that support the NGPA's mission year-round. The Association expanded globally in 2017 with members in over 14 countries and growing every year.
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Founded in 1990, NGPA is an international organization of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) aviation enthusiasts and professionals worldwide. Through education, outreach programs, and events, the organization encourages members of the LGBTQ community to begin aviation careers, fosters equal treatment of LGBTQ aviators through advocacy and outreach, promotes aviation safety, and provides an affirming social and professional network for LGBTQ aviators. Learn more by visiting us at www.ngpa.org.
