Aug. 13, 2015
NBAA marked the passing of Carolyn Williamson, a longtime leader of the University Aviation Association (UAA), who died Aug. 9 at her home in Auburn, AL, at the age of 61.
Williamson worked for more than 22 years at UAA, a nonprofit that serves as the voice of educators, students, high schools and colleges involved in aviation education. She served as executive director for 12 years, leaving in August 2014 due to health issues.
“Carolyn Williamson was a committed champion for aviation and aviation education, helping countless numbers of students begin and advance their careers,” said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen. “For decades to come, the business aviation industry will benefit greatly from her tireless efforts.”
As UAA executive director, Williamson was responsible for the administration and programs of the 500-member organization. She served as editor of the association’s Collegiate Aviation News and Collegiate Aviation Guide.
NBAA has long collaborated with UAA to promote aviation education. Through the UAA Janice K. Barden Aviation Scholarship, NBAA Charities annually awards $1,000 to each of five undergraduates studying aviation-related curricula at UAA-member institutions.
Williamson also was a founding board member of Women in Aviation, International (WAI), and was staff vice president at WAI from 1997 to 2001. She was the founding editor of WAI’s magazine, Aviation for Women. In 2013, she was inducted, along with fellow WAI founding board members, into the International Women in Aviation Pioneer Hall of Fame.
Williamson is survived by her husband of 38 years, Frank, as well as a son, two brothers, twin daughters, a stepdaughter and a grandson.
International Business Aviation Council Ltd.