DSU’s Dr. Polly Steenhagen inducted into Delaware Aviation Hall of Fame

Delaware State University’s aviation community is celebrating one of its own, as Dr. Polly Steenhagen was officially inducted into the Delaware Aviation Hall of Fame on November 15. The honor recognizes her decades of teaching, mentoring, and helping students find their place in the world of aviation.

For Dr. Steenhagen, the moment felt personal. “It confirms that I have a meaningful and useful career,” she said, reflecting on the night of her induction.

Her journey into aviation began in a surprisingly simple way. While living in Maryland, she became close with Jill, the daughter of her landlord. One afternoon, a small plane flew low over the neighborhood. Jill casually mentioned that it was her father and added that she was also a pilot. She later offered Dr. Steenhagen a ride. That flight changed everything. Jill Brown would go on to make history as the first African American woman to fly for a major airline, and Dr. Steenhagen would begin a long and impactful career of her own.

During nearly thirty years at DSU, she has taught almost every course in the professional pilot and aviation management programs and even served as department chair. She helped build the aviation management degree, creating new pathways for students who want to work in aviation beyond the cockpit. One of her former students, Kelvin Lesene, went on to manage Wilmington Airport and recently returned to DSU as director of the aviation program.

Her career spans a time when opportunities for women in aviation were far more limited. She recalls job interviews where she was told that airlines did not hire women or that a captain’s wife would not like him flying with a female co-pilot. Today she sees more women entering DSU’s program and stepping into competitive aviation careers, a shift she deeply appreciates.

Dr. Steenhagen hopes her induction reminds students of the strength and legacy of the DSU aviation faculty. “I am not the first faculty member to be inducted. We had three more ahead of me,” she said.

Among her favorite memories is Opportunity Skyway, a Maryland initiative launched to help young people earn their pilot’s licenses. The project drew national attention and even a visit from President Bill Clinton, who shook her hand and congratulated the team.

Asked what she would tell DSU aviation students today, her message is straightforward. “Just keep pursuing your dream and kick down the roadblocks as you go.”

Her induction is a meaningful milestone not only for her but for the entire DSU aviation family.