The legacy of Kay Lawrence, the first woman aviator from the University of North Dakota (UND), continues to inspire new generations of female pilots. Despite her tragic death during World War II while serving as a Women Airforce Service Pilot (WASP), Lawrence’s contributions and spirit live on through the Kay Lawrence Women in Aviation Scholarship.
Mike Lawrence, Kay’s nephew, recalls his family’s sorrow upon learning of her death. “Momma couldn’t stop crying,” he said. The recognition of WASPs came much later when President Jimmy Carter signed a bill in 1977 acknowledging them as military veterans.
Capt. Sawyer “Rizz” Murray, a UND graduate and current F-22 Raptor pilot for the U.S. Air Force, highlights the significance of women like Kay: “The WASPs were some of the forgotten, unsung heroes who weren’t formally recognized.” Murray acknowledges that these pioneers paved the way for others like herself to pursue aviation careers.
Morgan Schoenecker, whose grandmother was Kay’s best friend, shares stories about Kay and how she feels connected to her legacy. Morgan values flying as a balance to her challenging work as a forensic nurse: “You feel like you’re above it all.”
Beth Bjerke, associate dean of aerospace at UND, notes an increase in women pursuing aviation at the university. “Our women in aviation numbers are increasing exponentially,” she stated.
Recent scholarship recipient Kanishka Keswani from India expresses her gratitude: “I’m really honored to get the Kay Lawrence Scholarship.” Angie Joven, another scholarship recipient and now a first officer with Endeavor Air, appreciates its impact on her career: “It encouraged me to keep going.”
The scholarship is supported by UND’s Women in Aviation chapter but aims for endowment status to ensure its longevity. Keswani hopes to contribute after graduation: “Once I graduate from UND…support this scholarship myself.”
