Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology has partnered with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to launch the JFK Redevelopment Opportunity Scholarship Program—an initiative that will award 10 full-tuition scholarships to eligible high school seniors who live in communities surrounding John F. Kennedy (JFK) International Airport.

The scholarships will support four years of study at Vaughn College beginning in the fall 2026 semester.

The program is designed to connect local students with career opportunities created by the multibillion-dollar redevelopment of JFK International Airport while helping address the growing demand for skilled professionals in aviation, engineering and airport operations.

About the JFK Redevelopment Opportunity Scholarship Program

Funded by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and private terminal developer partners at JFK Airport, the JFK Redevelopment Opportunity Scholarship Program aims to create educational and career pathways for students living in neighborhoods surrounding the airport.

As JFK Airport undergoes a historic redevelopment, the program ensures that local communities directly benefit from the project by providing access to higher education and workforce opportunities in aviation and engineering.

“As Delta continues to invest in the future of JFK as a premier global gateway, we are equally committed to investing in the people and communities that make this airport thrive,” said Shamik Banerjee, vice president of airport operations at JFK for Delta Air Lines. “The JFK Redevelopment Opportunity Scholarship reflects our shared responsibility to open doors for local students, build a strong and diverse aviation workforce and ensure the long-term success of this historic transformation.”

What the Scholarship at Vaughn College Includes

Students selected for the scholarship will receive:

• Full tuition for four years toward a bachelor’s degree at Vaughn College
• Internship opportunities with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey or JFK Terminal Operators
• Access to mentorship, training and real-world aviation professionals and projects
• A pathway toward careers in aviation, aeronautics, engineering and related fields

Vaughn College prepares students for careers in high-demand industries such as aviation, engineering, technology and management. The College is recognized nationally for its strong career outcomes and return on investment for graduates.

Scholarship Requirements 

Here’s a snapshot of eligibility and material requirements for the scholarship:

• Who is it for? 
  • Graduating high school seniors in spring 2026 may apply for the scholarship if they reside in a zip code near JFK International Airport. See list of qualifying zip codes. 
• When is the deadline to apply? 
  • Scholarship applications must be submitted by April 30, 2026.
• What are the requirements to apply? 
  • Students must complete the Vaughn College application for admission plus a scholarship application which is accessible via the application portal. The required documents for application are detailed here which include two letters of recommendation, an essay, completed application form, professional resume, official high school transcript and SAT or ACT scores if applicable.

A Partnership that Expands Opportunity and Creates Impact

Vaughn College President Sharon B. DeVivo said the scholarship represents an important investment in local communities and the future aviation workforce.

“Vaughn College is honored to partner on this scholarship program that expands opportunity for students from the neighborhoods surrounding JFK International Airport,” DeVivo said. “For more than 90 years, our mission has been to ensure that talented, determined minds—many of whom are the first in their families to pursue higher education—can access rewarding futures in aviation, engineering, management and technology.”

She added that the investment will help strengthen families and build the skilled workforce needed for the region’s growing aviation industry.

Jonathan Quezada ’23 was a recipient of the LaGuardia Redevelopment Opportunity Scholarship in 2019 and spoke at the launch of the JFK Redevelopment Opportunity Scholarship at Vaughn College. “The investment changed the trajectory of my life providing not just financial support, but access, mentorship and real-world experience that led to internships and ultimately a full-time career with The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. I am grateful to be part of an organization and a region that believes in building pipelines for the next generation of aviation leaders.” Jonathan Quezada is a shining example that investing in local students creates real, measurable impact. 

Start Your Career in Engineering, Technology, Management or Aviation 

High school seniors who live near JFK Airport and are interested in careers in aviation, engineering or technology are encouraged to apply.

The JFK Redevelopment Opportunity Scholarship offers a rare opportunity to earn a tuition-free bachelor’s degree while preparing for careers in one of the fastest-growing industries in the region. Learn more about the scholarship and how to apply here.