Submitted Photo The late John Odegard, a native of Minot, was founder of the John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences at the University of North Dakota. Photo from University of North Dakota.

DAYTON, Ohio – The late John Odegard, Minot native and founder of the University of North Dakota’s School of Aerospace Sciences, is among members of the National Aviation Hall of Fame’s 2026 induction class.

The National Aviation Hall of Fame (NAHF) recognizes trailblazers who have made groundbreaking contributions to aviation and aerospace, from breaking barriers and advancing safety standards to pioneering innovative technologies and inspiring future generations. The induction ceremony will take place on Sept. 24, 2026, in Washington, D.C.

Odegard transformed a small flight program into one of the world’s leading collegiate aviation schools, according to his nomination. Starting with two aircraft and a handful of students, he grew UND into a global leader in pilot education, aerospace research and space studies. He pioneered Federal Aviation Administration‒accredited degree programs, helped develop international training standards and expanded UND’s work in weather, atmospheric science and space exploration, leaving a legacy that continues to shape aviation education worldwide.

He will join 270 individuals enshrined in the hall of fame to date. Others to be inducted are the late William Bahret, radar engineer at Wright’s Field’s Avionics Lab; the late Leonard Michael Greene, inventor and aerodynamics engineer; Dr. Shannon Lucid, former NASA astronaut and biochemist; Ross Perot Jr., aviation pioneer who has set speed records and business leader who developed the nation’s first industrial airport; Capt. C.B. “Sully” Sullenberger, acclaimed airline captain whose quick thinking and calm leadership during the emergency landing of US Airways Flight 1549 on the Hudson River in 2009 saved all 155 people on board; and Dr. Peggy Whitson, biochemist and astronaut who flew three long-duration missions aboard the International Space Station and became the first woman to command the ISS.