First Jim Maxwell Memorial Scholarship awarded to local Wallowa County student pilot Sidney Stonebrink
By Garrett Christensen on Wednesday, January 21st, 2026 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
JOSEPH – (Release from the Northeast Oregon Aviation Foundation) The North East Oregon Aviation Foundation is proud to announce the first recipient of the Jim Maxwell Memorial Scholarship: Sidney Stonebrink, a dedicated student pilot with deep family roots in aviation and agriculture.
Sidney grew up on a farm and ranch outside of Lostine, Oregon, where a strong work ethic and appreciation for wide-open spaces shaped her early years. Aviation runs in her family — both of her grandfathers were pilots, and her father is currently a private pilot. Those influences planted the seeds of a lifelong dream to fly.
In May 2024, Sidney officially began her pursuit of earning her Private Pilot License. She currently completes most of her primary flight instruction with Skelton Air out of Lewiston, Idaho, balancing training with her personal and professional commitments.
According to her flight instructor, Jasen Skelton, Sidney is very close to reaching her goal of becoming a licensed private pilot. Her progress reflects not only strong technical skills but also discipline, focus, and a genuine passion for aviation.
For Sidney, the milestone is personal as well as professional. She looks forward to one day flying her father as pilot in command from the left seat, reversing the roles after years of being his passenger.
The Jim Maxwell Memorial Scholarship was established to honor the legacy of Jim Maxwell and to support aspiring pilots in Wallowa County who demonstrate commitment, integrity, and a love of aviation. Awarding the first scholarship to Sidney marks an exciting milestone for the foundation and its mission to invest in the future of flight in the region.
“The foundation is proud to support Sidney as she takes this important step in her aviation journey,” said representatives of the Northeast Oregon Aviation Foundation. “Her dedication and connection to the aviation community truly embody the spirit of the Jim Maxwell Memorial Scholarship.”
The Northeast Oregon Aviation Foundation congratulates Sidney Stonebrink and looks forward to celebrating her continued success in the cockpit.
