State Library of Pennsylvania Lunch and Learn Program: “Women in Aviation” | Compendium
Amelia Earhart

The 99s First President: Amelia Earhart

Who: Dr. Carolyn J. Van Newkirk
Where: Room 321 Forum Building, Harrisburg
When: Tuesday May 23rd, from 12-1 PM

The State Library invites you to meet aviator Carolyn Van Newkirk.

Ms. Van Newkirk holds a world speed record!  She is active in the Air Race Classic, a cross country all women air race held once per year! Most of her flying experiences centers on participation in twenty Air Race Classics, a transcontinental race for women. She’s landed in all forty-eight states and Canada. She is currently a Director of the Air Race Classic and is the recruiter for collegiate teams.

Van Newkirk is a member of The Ninety-Nines – a group of International Women Pilots, which organization began in 1929 with Amelia Earhart as its first president.  They boasted 99 Charter Members at the time, hence, the tagline 99s. The organization is very much alive today with headquarters in Oklahoma City.  The 99s promote women in aviation through advancement in education, awarding scholarships, and mutual support as ladies enter this unique activity. Dr. Carolyn J. Van Newkirk also serves as a Director of Susquehanna Area Regional Airport Authority.

Ms. Van Newkirk looks forward to sharing her experiences with the group and is happy to answer questions about her fascinating experiences!

No reservations necessary: for further information call Ellen Shenk at 783-5989 or ellshenk@pa.gov.