STUDENT INSIGHTS
Forever an Eagle “Embry-Riddle has been the place of many firsts for me. It carries a sense of sentimentality because of the strong connections I’ve made, the opportunities I’ve had and the achievements I’ve earned — experiences and accomplishments that no one can take away.”
Patti Grace Smith Fellow Selected through a highly competitive national process, this prestigious fellowship recognizes exceptional Black and African American students pursuing aerospace careers. Fellows receive scholarships, mentorship and a paid internship with a leading aerospace company — empowering the next generation of innovators and industry leaders.
Driven to Innovate Bankole is looking forward to an opportunity to make a positive impact in his industry — and is well on his way to doing so.
Built for Balance “Achieving balance is possible — it simply requires discipline, consistency and the determination to stay committed to your goals.”
Ashley Strickland ’24, ’26 LEADERSHIP MANAGEMENT A Journey Defined by Growth
Omoniyi Bankole ’27
AEROSPACE ENGINEERING
Where Passion Meets Possibility Omoniyi Bankole (’27) is passionate about driving innovation in space scientific discovery. As a 2025 Patti Grace Smith Fellow and an Aerospace Engineering student, he’s preparing to turn his dreams into reality. Bankole’s fellowship provides scholarship grants and an internship with a leading aerospace company. He passed an extensive and rigorous review process (among hundreds of applicants) to be selected as a fellow, including an interview, a stamp of approval from various aerospace professionals and a selection process from the host company he was matched with — Lockheed Martin. Bankole traveled to Colorado to work as a systems engineering intern focused on deep space exploration mission strategy and capabilities.
Ashley Strickland (’24, ’26) began her journey unsure of her long-term path, working full-time while searching for direction. After joining Embry-Riddle as an employee, she enrolled in her first Worldwide course in 2020 — and never stopped. Now nearing completion of her M.S. in Management, Strickland has balanced continuous education with roles in Financial Aid and the Office of the Registrar. Worldwide’s flexibility allowed her to apply leadership theory directly to real workplace challenges, strengthening her confidence and sense of purpose. Over time, school became part of her daily rhythm, and growth became constant. “If there is one lesson I have taken from both programs, it is that anyone can be a leader.” Today, Strickland sees her experience as more than a degree path — it’s a reflection of persistence, belonging and growth.
7 | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
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