Spirit of Columbus | The Columbus Foundation

The Spirit of Columbus® Award 2025 Honoree, Dr. David Harrison!

Every year, to commemorate Jerrie Mock's historic flight around the world in her single-engine Cessna named Spirit of Columbus, The Columbus Foundation recognizes members of our community who, like Jerrie, exhibit bravery, boldness, and determination through their efforts and accomplishments.

Dr. David Harrison, President of Columbus State Community College, has led Columbus State since 2010, developing strong partnerships with public and private stakeholders to address regional workforce challenges, expand access to higher education, and support students as they complete their degrees. Leading with gratitude, Dr. Harrison is transforming how Columbus State and our region can meet this moment in our community’s history.

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“I hope that somewhere here and there, just my doing something that hadn’t been done, will encourage someone else who wants to do something very much, and hasn’t quite had the heart to try it.”

Jerrie mock

Jerrie Mock and the Spirit of Columbus Journey

More than 60 years ago, Jerrie Mock became the first woman to fly around the globe solo. On March 19, 1964, Jerrie, then a Bexley resident and mother of three, climbed into her single-engine Cessna, “Spirit of Columbus,” and took off from Port Columbus International Airport.
Mock’s historic journey lasted 29 days as she flew more than 23,000 miles. Stops included Bermuda, Egypt, Libya, and Saudi Arabia where she was met with applause when the men realized she was unaccompanied.
Mock landed safely back at Port Columbus on April 17, 1964. President Lyndon Johnson presented Mock with the Federal Aviation Agency's Gold Medal for Exceptional Service on May 4, 1964.
Originally published in 1970, Mock detailed her flight and stories from around the world in her book, Three-Eight Charlie.
On April 17, 2014, fellow aviators, historians, community leaders, and friends gathered to celebrate the 50th anniversary, when a life-size bronze statue of Jerrie holding a globe, created by Columbus artist Renate Burgyan Fackler, was unveiled at Port Columbus International Airport.