Media coverage: Flight mentorship and Hudson internship

Recent local media coverage of the ECU College of Health and Human Performance included a summer update from WITN on Delaney Hudson, a spring graduate in recreational therapy who walked across the stage May 9 and three days later began an internship at ECU Health in pediatric inpatient rehabilitation.

HHP alum Delaney Hudson listens to the TV reporter’s question on WITN.

“I will say I was very exhausted the first few weeks, but it’s been really good. I’ve learned so much, and I’m so thankful that I was able to get this internship,” Hudson told WITN.

Nearby in Washington, the Washington Daily News covered aspects of ECU’s partnerships with D2 Flight Training Center and Washington-Warren Airport to offer a summer flight academy to Junior ROTC high school students. Helping kinesiology faculty members Lisa Frederickson (program director) and Patrick Rider (assistant director) are HHP students who serve as chaperones/mentors in the program.

One of the chaperones is Selina Banks, a second-year master’s student. Below is her insight:

“I’ve had the privilege of watching these students rise to every challenge and excel in their learning. In the first week, many of the cadets had never flown a plane before, and there was a mix of excitement and nerves surrounding those first flights. As the days went on and they spent more time in the air, I saw each cadet’s confidence grow — and with it, their love for flying. There were both good days and tough ones, and I had the opportunity to offer encouragement throughout. On the harder days, I’d remind the cadets, ‘Tomorrow is a new day — don’t get caught up in today.’

What has been most amazing to witness is how the cadets have grown — not just in skill, but in connection. As a chaperone, I saw their dedication and discipline when it came to studying and flying, but I also saw them laugh, play games and build friendships. Over time, I think they began to see us not just as chaperones, but as people they could trust and relate to as well. One of my favorite parts of this experience has been watching the cadets support each other — especially cheering one another on after their solo flights. Their camaraderie has been a beautiful thing to witness. Despite coming from different backgrounds, they found family in each other through this program.
It has truly been an honor to serve as a chaperone. Knowing that we’ve helped make this experience a memorable and meaningful one for these students is something I’ll always carry with me.”

The JROTC Air Force Academy graduation ceremony is scheduled for July 18 on ECU’s main campus.

Flight prep at Washington-Warren Airport in Washington, North Carolina.