“It always seems impossible...until it's done!!” — Nelson Mandela

Hello, Mile High Friends and Supporters,

We hope that you’re enjoying this glorious Rocky Mountain weather. As we celebrate the return of Spring, we’re coming to the end of another great year. With just two remaining events, we continue to reflect on challenges, successes, past achievements and journeys yet to begin.

Our MHF event planners really had their work cut out for them, as they worked overtime to rearrange our tour schedule several times to accommodate host availability and limitations on tour spacing. We appreciate everyone’s flexibility, but we’d like to recognize our MHF “Crew” who made it all possible in our first quarter, to include: Nicole Frazier, Captain John Frazier, F/O Andrea Martinez, F/O Willy Martinez, F/O Kelly Akulschin, and Commercial Pilot Nathan Hudnell. Behind these team leaders are scores of additional volunteers who contribute their time and talents to make our tours a success. Thank You!

Captain Mosley and the MHF “Crew”

Guided by History, Driven by Hope

Skyward Bound - MHF Events

January 17, 2026 - United Launch Alliance (ULA)

On January 17th, we had the opportunity to visit the United Launch Alliance. These are exciting times in aerospace, and ULA leads the way, as “The nation’s most experienced, reliable and accurate launch service provider, delivering unmatched value, a tireless drive to improve, and commitment to the extraordinary.” They lived up to our highest expectations. Each of our students had an opportunity to interact with and ask questions of the engineers and experts who make this cutting-edge technology

possible. The highlight of our tour was hands-on participation in a simulated launch of a ULA heavy-lift rocket. Our students recognized that their limits are “Beyond the skies!”

January 24, 2026 - United Airlines Maintenance Facility

After just a two-week break, we were back in action—this time visiting one of the most advanced aircraft maintenance facilities in the world: the United Airlines Aircraft Maintenance Facility at Denver International Airport. Our gracious hosts took us for a great behind the scenes look at what it really takes to keep some of the most modern, sophisticated aircraft safely up in the air. In addition, we met with the first responders from DIA’s Fire Fighting teams and got an up-close look at some of their heaviest equipment.

February 7, 2026 - CU Boulder

Our February 7th visit to the University of Colorado’s Aerospace Engineering Department was one of our most popular events. We received detailed presentations from some of the most brilliant minds in the world, discussing a wide range of topics in aerospace, AI and robotics. After lunch and a tour of their world-class facility, our students each participated in a hands-on competition to design and build a device to collect rocks, soil samples and artifacts for a future mission to Mars. It was obvious that the parents enjoyed this event as much as our students. We were also proud to feature several of our former MHF students who are now enrolled at, or have recently graduated from, the University of Colorado. These include Saul Gutierrez, Ricardo Zapata, Angelika Chum, Thomas Gaither, and Kaiya Wahl.

March 7, 2026 - Metropolitan State University

On March 7th, we visited Metropolitan State University’s Aviation Department. We’re ever grateful to introduce our students to this jewel of aviation, right in our backyard in downtown Denver. Our students received a variety of presentations from professors and students, many of whom are graduates and volunteers for the Mile High Flight program. The visit was complete, as our students had the rare pleasure of flying some of Metro’s most advanced simulators. MHF Phase 2 Solo Flight student Emma Oliver also had a chance to fly their Virtual Reality flight simulator. Topping off a perfect afternoon was a surprise visit from our very own Colonel James Harvey, who braved the clear but cold weather to meet with our students. It was an incredibly inspirational moment. Chief of Staff to the President of MSU, Edward J. Brown Jr., was also on hand to welcome us. Channel 4 and Channel 7 covered the event.

Next Level Flight

Kelsy Palacio

MHFP Phase 2 Solo Flight Graduate Kelsy Palacio earned her wings in 2024, and she’s on her way to the next big steps of becoming a professional pilot for a major airline. She recently updated us on her progress. She’s now a rising star at Embry Riddle University in Daytona Beach, FL. Kelsy writes: "Hello Mile High Flight “Crew”! I have some wonderful news.... Yesterday I passed my Private Pilot Check ride! Thank you so much for your support and setting me up with a strong foundation. I hope you have an amazing day!"

Bea Miller

We’re always looking for opportunities for our students, beyond what we offer through the Mile High Flight Program. While touring the Aims Community College campus, they offered to provide a Discovery flight for one of our students. Bea Miller was quick to take them up on their generous invitation. She writes: “Hey MHF “Crew”, this is Bea Miller from MHFP. Here’s the picture from my discovery flight. Thanks again for the award that gave me the chance to do this.”

Emma Oliver

2025 Mile High Flight Phase 2 Solo Flight grad Emma Oliver speaks to her high school class about her experiences in the program. Emma has chosen to attend Metropolitan State University this Fall and will start earning her qualifications towards becoming a pilot for a major airline. 

Cleared for Legacy

Mark Reese

United Airlines B777 First Officer and MHF Phase 2 Solo Flight graduate Mark Reese is pictured here with Captain Glen Roane and First Officer Stephanie Grant just before departing Newark for Europe—an inspiring moment that reflects how far his journey in aviation has taken him.

Sariena Corvid

Sareina Corvid embodies the Tuskegee Airmen’s “Rise Above” Principles. She writes: “Hello MHF “Crew.” I just finished training at my new role working for Denver International Airport. I am an Airport Operations Representative, where I work closely with Airport Emergency Dispatchers, Emergency Managers, Airfield and Terminal Operations, Airport Security, Maintenance control, TSA, Ramp Tower and the FAA tower; to assist with normal and irregular operations that occur at the Airport. Read More

In Honor & Rememberance

Shay Farrell

2011 MHFP Solo Flight grad Shay Farrell is about to pin on the rank of Major, as a United States Marine Corp instructor pilot. He recently reached out to salute one of our chapter’s founding members. Shay writes: “Day 2 of 7 of the aviation picture challenge. The man pictured is Lt. Col. John Mosley, a Tuskegee Airmen. His story defines perseverance and service. He was one of the first black pilots to be trained in the North American B-25 Mitchell in a time of segregation. I was able to meet this man while in the Mile High Flight Program, the program is sponsored by a local Tuskegee Airmen chapter. The program introduces young men and women to opportunities in aviation and aerospace throughout Colorado and also for a chance to fly. I was blessed to receive that opportunity and am honored to have a logbook signed by LTC Mosley. The program continues to inspire and keeps his story alive. 

Tailwinds,

Rest In Peace Sir

Shay Farrell”

Traye Jackson

I’m thinking about our departed leader, friend and mentor to so many, Captain Darryl Searuggs. We dedicated this, our 30th year, to his memory, and his great influence continues. MHF Solo Flight graduate, now commercial pilot Traye Jackson writes: “Since the day I first met Captain Searuggs at the age of 14, he has embodied the principles I’ve always admired. He was patient, honest, and never hesitated to challenge me when I wasn’t performing to my potential. He pushed me further than I ever thought I could go, always doing so with kindness and genuine care. Now at 24 years old, I can attribute much of who I am and what I’ve accomplished to his mentorship. As I continue pursuing my career as a pilot, I hope to honor his memory by mentoring and guiding others with the same dedication and impact that he had on me.”

“Well done, my good and faithful servant” Matthew 25:12

Be an Inspiration: Share Your Experience

We want to hear from YOU! Whether you’re a student, parent, donor, educator, or supporter, your story matters and can inspire others. Sharing your experience with our program helps us grow, improve, and continue making a difference. Take a moment to write a testimonial and let your voice be part of our journey. Your words could be exactly what someone needs to hear to take flight with us!

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