Through Fellowship, Eagle Follows in the Footsteps of Admired Embry-Riddle Alumna

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University junior Chanel Davis has been named to the 2025 Brooke Owens Fellow class, a program that provides mentorship and career opportunities to exceptional undergraduate women in aerospace.

Davis, an Aerospace Engineering student with a concentration in Astronautics, is among 44 fellows selected from a competitive pool of more than 400 applicants.

For Davis, the fellowship holds personal meaning. Its namesake, Dawn Brooke Owens, graduated from Embry-Riddle’s Prescott Campus in 2002. Owens, a beloved space industry pioneer and accomplished pilot, held roles at NASA’s Johnson Space Center and the Federal Aviation Administration before passing away from cancer at age 35.

“To be chosen as a fellow is humbling and deeply personal, as I follow in the footsteps of someone who not only shared my university roots but also shared the belief that aerospace should be a place where talent, passion and innovation thrive regardless of background,” Davis said.

Davis will intern with BryceTech in the company’s analytics and space division. Last year, Davis interned with the same team as a Patti Grace Smith Fellow.

“I’m excited to continue building on the skills I developed last summer and deepen my expertise in analytics and space,” said Davis, who is from Oceanside, California. “Eventually, I aim to transition into space policy in Washington, D.C., where I can help bridge the gap between policymakers and engineers.”

Davis’ contributions at Embry-Riddle have extended far beyond her coursework. She has researched equity in engineering education, studying how group projects impact students' sense of belonging.

With support from the Undergraduate Research Institute, Davis has presented her research at conferences and expanded her work to examine software engineering education. She plans to present her findings at the American Society for Engineering Education’s conference this summer.

Davis has also contributed to technical projects with the Rocket Development Lab and held leadership roles in the National Society of Black Engineers, Delta Phi Epsilon and Student Outreach Action Resources.

Davis credits her success to the Embry-Riddle professors and mentors who have supported her throughout her academic journey.

“Their guidance, encouragement and belief in my potential have helped shape me into who I am today. I am incredibly grateful for their support,” she said.

Caroline Koons, assistant professor of Communication, said that “Chanel embodies what we hope Embry-Riddle students will get out of their education. I am glad that the Brooke Owens Fellowship committee also sees what an excellent student and engineer Chanel is.”

Davis is part of the ninth class of Brookie fellows, who were selected for their “desire to pursue a career in aerospace, stand-out creative abilities, strong record of leadership and, most importantly, a commitment to their communities,” the Brooke Owens Fellowship program said in its announcement of the 2025 class.

“The 2025 Fellows represent incredible leaders who span many different communities and are committed to making a difference in the aerospace industry with their unique, individual talents,” said former NASA Deputy Administrator Lori Garver, who is a co-founder of the program.

The program has selected Embry-Riddle undergraduates in previous years. Fellows are rewarded with space and aviation internships, executive mentorship and a lifelong professional network.

“This fellowship is not just about what I’ve accomplished so far, but what I will do next,” Davis said.

Posted In: Engineering | Institutional News