In loving memory of Captain Paul Criswell, who passed away on February 8, 2025, his family and close friends has established the Paul Criswell Memorial Aviation Scholarship. In lieu of flowers, friends and loved ones contributed to this fund to honor Paul’s legacy and to support aspiring pilots as they pursue their dreams.

From his first flight at 16 years old, Paul’s passion for aviation was undeniable. He completed his training as a student in the Beaver County Community College flight program. He built his early flight hours flying checks overnight from Pittsburgh to Charleston, West Virginia—earning approval to command a twin-engine aircraft for the first time.

Paul’s career soared from there. He was hired by World Airways as a flight engineer on the Boeing 727, later joining USAir where he quickly advanced from flight engineer to co-pilot. His journey eventually led him to American Airlines, where he proudly served for 38 years. At the time of his passing, Paul was a highly respected Captain flying international routes aboard the Boeing 777.

Paul’s life was marked by perseverance, humility, and a deep love for aviation. This scholarship, offered in his name, will be awarded to a dedicated student who shares the same commitment of excellence and dreams of taking to the skies that Paul had. Helping the next generation of pilots would have meant the world to him. This annual scholarship will be awarded to one student in the amount of $2,500.

With heartfelt gratitude,
Paul’s Dad, Mom, Wife, Family, and many Friends