CLT Airport Endows Scholarship Fund at Central Piedmont

CHARLOTTE, NC – The successful CLT Runway 5K will continue to have a major impact on the region through the creation of an endowed scholarship, called the “Charlotte Douglas International Airport Scholarship Fund,” at Central Piedmont Community College. This endowment will support students pursuing aviation-related careers and ensure that CLT’s charitable impact at Central Piedmont continues indefinitely.

Since 2019, the Aviation Department has raised more than $317,000 for Central Piedmont Opportunity Scholarships through the CLT Runway 5K—more than doubling the original goal. The Oct. 18, 2025, race was another record-breaking event. It sold out in less than three hours, drew more than 1,600 participants, and raised $90,930.

“We are proud to establish a permanent scholarship fund that will help develop the next generation of aviation professionals,” said Haley Gentry, chief executive officer at Charlotte Douglas International Airport. “This endowed scholarship reflects CLT’s long-term commitment to workforce development, education and creating opportunities for students who will shape the future of our industry and region.”

Endowed scholarships are established to provide ongoing support in perpetuity, with funds invested to generate annual scholarship awards for students today and in the future.

So far, 30 students from Mecklenburg County have received CLT Airport Opportunity Scholarships.

“We are incredibly thankful for Charlotte Douglas International Airport’s sustained investment in Central Piedmont students and their futures,” said Lisa Schlachter, chief philanthropy officer at Central Piedmont. “By covering tuition, program-required fees and books, this scholarship expands access to aviation career pathways for students with financial need—opening doors to stable, meaningful employment while creating long-term opportunity for our region.”

Once the Endowed Scholarship Fund is fully funded, CLT will redirect race proceeds to another scholarship or charitable cause.

This year’s CLT Runway 5K is set for Saturday, Oct. 17. Registration starts on Aug. 1.

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