Black Tie & Boots Gala
Each year, the CloudDancer Scholarship hosts the Black Tie & Boots Gala — our signature aviation scholarship gala event — an evening of dinner, live auction, and celebration honoring our scholarship recipients and the supporters who make this aviation scholarship gala event possible.
The aviation scholarship gala event brings together veterans, military families, aviation professionals, and community leaders for an unforgettable evening of celebration and philanthropy. Every dollar raised at the annual gala goes directly toward funding pilot training scholarships for deserving veterans and aspiring aviators through the CloudDancer Scholarship program.
Since its founding, the CloudDancer Scholarship has awarded thousands of dollars in aviation scholarships to help veterans and students pursue their dream of flight. Our annual fundraising gala is the cornerstone of these fundraising efforts, featuring live entertainment, silent auctions, keynote speakers from the aviation community, and heartfelt tributes to the men and women who have served our country.
Why Attend
Attending the gala celebration is more than a night out — it is an opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of those who have served. Your presence and support help fund flight training, ground school tuition, and examination fees for scholarship recipients. Join us for our inspiring signature event and help the next generation of pilots take to the skies.
2026 Gala Sponsors
GOLD
The Dove Foundation
by Brian and Stacey Dove
The Whitmans
by Larry and Carol Whitman
SILVER
Weatherford Cosmetic & Family Dentistry
BRONZE
HONORARY SPONSORS
Interested in sponsoring?
Contact us at admin@clouddancerscholarship.org to learn more about sponsorship opportunities and available tiers.
Past Events
Proven Impact
Veterans Who Earned Their Wings
Class of 2025
2025 Gala
U.S. Armed Forces Veterans
“Ashton’s legacy gave us the chance to earn our wings.”
Class of 2024
2024 Gala
Multiple Branches
“CloudDancer made our aviation dreams possible.”
Class of 2023
2023 Gala
U.S. Army Veteran
“This scholarship changed the trajectory of my life.”
Class of 2022
2022 Gala
INAUGURAL CLASS
“The night that started it all — $61,500 raised for veterans who dream of flight.”
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Own a Piece of the Mission: The 2026 Black Tie & Boots Commemorative Belt Buckle
Only 50 made. The 2026 Black Tie & Boots commemorative belt buckle honors SPC Ashton Johnson — $150, with every…
The 2026 Commemorative Belt Buckle
Only 50 made, in memory of SPC Ashton Johnson. $150 — every dollar funds veteran aviation scholarships. Pick yours up at the gala on October 16.
Make a Difference
Fund a Veteran’s Flight
Every dollar goes directly toward helping a veteran earn their wings. Choose an amount to see your impact.
$250 — Funds a veteran’s solo flight preparation
501(c)(3) Tax-Exempt · EIN: 87-3432788 · All donations are tax-deductible