2025 – 2027 SE Section Nominees

Marilyn Shafer

Biography

Born in Michigan, my father was a carrier pilot which inspired me to become a pilot. Life takes its turns and earning my pilot’s certificate didn’t happen until the age of 50. At present, I am not current as I have decided that my funds would go to traveling the world and to my love of aviation through the 99s.

I joined my Florida Suncoast Chapter at the Christmas dinner in 2004 and became the Vice Chair in 2005! This led to a Chairman position for two terms where I moved our meetings around our area to accommodate and grow our membership. This outreach continues today. 

Serving as The 99s International NIFA (National Intercollegiate Flying Association) Chair, I became excited about the prospects of meeting and assisting collegiate women aviators in their goals. Now that NIFA no longer supports the advancement of women in collaboration with The 99s, in particular, I have been working with our 99s International Board of Directors to establish the 99s Collegiate Women’s Achievement Award. Hopefully this will be the year in which the award is approved. 

Vision Statement

As Governor, I would like the next two years to continue with more transparency of our finances. Having the active support of the incoming Board of Directors for the Southeast Section and relying on the Committee Chairs in their various roles will aid in this endeavor. 

The involvement of the Section membership during the budget process last year proved to be invaluable. To continue this openness, having a finance review committee each February/March prior to the Spring Section Meeting and Budget presentation will allow member input into any suggested changes or adjustments.

Terri Bazacos

Biography

From a young age, I had a strong desire to fly; however, I was influenced by societal beliefs that girls could not pursue careers as pilots, which led me to explore other professional avenues. At the age of 49, I took an introductory flight and found myself captivated by the experience. Within ten months, I successfully obtained my private pilot certificate and became a proud aircraft owner.  I frequently considered pursuing an instrument rating; however, various factors repeatedly hindered my ability to allocate the necessary time and financial resources for training. Ultimately, in October 2024, I successfully completed my instrument rating.

I am dedicated to educating girls and women about aviation and the various opportunities aviation offers.  It is important to challenge the misconception that aviation is not accessible to women.  I have had the privilege of introducing many young women to the world of aviation. Some have successfully pursued their dreams of becoming pilots or entered other aviation careers.  

My experience as a business owner and professional has refined my abilities in leadership, communication, strategic planning, delegation, budget management, and problem-solving. I am eager to contribute these skills to the Southeast Section by fulfilling the responsibilities of Vice-Governor.

Vision Statement

I firmly believe female pilots have some of the greatest potential to shape the future of aviation and desire to inspire current and future female pilots realize their potential by supporting the goals of the International Ninety-Nines in advancing aviation through education, scholarships, and mutual support. 

Katrina McLeod

Biography

Hi, I’m Katrina, and I’m currently serving as a Lieutenant in the United States Coast Guard at Aviation Training Center Mobile, Alabama. I have over 2,000 flight hours and am accredited with 16 lives saved over my career so far. I’m fortunate to be a HC-144B Instructor Pilot and Flight Examiner, teaching the next generation of Coast Guard aviators how to fly as well as master our core mission: Search and Rescue. Just this past January I earned my Airline Transport Pilot certificate, something I never imagined possible without the incredible mentors I’ve had along the way.

To pay it forward, I dedicate much of my free time seeking further opportunities to connect girls and women to the profession I love so much. There isn’t much that is more rewarding than seeing a young girls’ eyes light up when they fly underneath the local bay bridge in the HC-144 simulator! Even if only one or two are inspired to pursue aviation, it’s absolutely worth the effort.

Outside of aviation, you can usually find me on the hiking trails with my dogs, Dahlia and Jacqueline Cochran, or in my garden on the eternal quest to grow the perfect tomato.

Vision Statement

I have served as Treasurer of the Emerald Angels of the Gulf Coast Chapter for the past two years and seek to take my service within this great organization to the next level. I will continue to help foster a network of support for other women in this highly male-dominated profession. My unique and varied experience as a pilot in the military has molded me into an officer with tons of practice in keeping detailed written logs, perfect for the attention to detail needed as Secretary. I would be honored to be elected Secretary for the Southeast Section!

Claire Posey

Biography

I’m Claire Posey, a commercial pilot and flight instructor (CFI, CFII) with single- and multi-engine ratings. I started flying in high school and have been building my experience ever since, instructing and recently stepping into the right seat on jet trips. My long-term goal is to become an international airline pilot, and right now, I’m focused on gaining experience and hitting my ATP minimums.

I’m an active member of The Ninety-Nines and love being involved in the aviation community, whether it’s mentoring newer pilots or helping plan events like the Top Gun gathering for the NOLA 99s. Flying has given me incredible opportunities, and I want to keep paying that forward. Outside of aviation, I stay busy with fitness, traveling, and exploring new places—especially anything off the beaten path (or deep in the swamp). I have a soft spot for timeless, put-together style, but at the end of the day, I’m happiest in a cockpit, working toward the next big step in my career.

Vision Statement

I want our section of The Ninety-Nines to be a place where women pilots feel supported, connected, and inspired. My goal is to strengthen mentorship, bring more pilots together through meaningful events, and create opportunities for members to learn from each other. Whether someone is just starting out or advancing their career, they should know they have a community that has their back. By building on what’s already here and bringing in fresh ideas, we can keep growing, supporting each other, and inspiring more women to chase their aviation goals.

Meagan Harr

Biography

I have lived in Blountville, Tennessee, my entire life. I graduated from East Tennessee State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Education. I am currently employed at Tri-Cities Airport in the Administration and Finance Department. One of my leading roles is assisting in securing grants for project work that takes place on airport property. I am working on an FBO Management Certification through Embry-Riddle and hope to assume a leadership role overseeing FBO Operations. 

I fulfill my passion for aviation by flying as a private pilot and volunteering at local events. I plan to further my endorsements and ratings as a pilot. I am currently working on my instrument and ground instructor rating.

As a private pilot, I have been able to share the love of flight with friends and family who may not have had a chance to enjoy it otherwise. I believe the true joy of learning to fly is not just being able to say I am a pilot but seeing the excitement of others who want to learn to fly themselves and being able to help them on their own journey of becoming an aviator.

Vision Statement

Being a female aviator, I am fortunate to represent seven percent of the pilot population. With seven percent being a small number, I feel the need to give over one hundred percent of my energy to help ladies who aspire to become an aviatrix. The journey of an aviatrix is ongoing, with the opportunity to reach new heights once their wings are earned. As a Ninety-Nine, I want to be known as an approachable representative of my Section and develop fresh ideas on how to make becoming a pilot within reach of all women. In addition, I want to enhance the organization’s enthusiasm and feed my passion for aviation by sharing my talents with others.

Ivy Adams

Biography

A member of the Nashville Chapter, Ivy Adams is an alumna of Middle Tennessee State University, having earned degrees in Aeronautical Science. Advocating for women pilots to pursue leadership positions within the industry, Ivy is currently a participant in the Professional Pilot Leadership Initiative. She is certified as a flight instructor. Her long-term career goal is to fly for a major air carrier.

Vision Statement

As Director, I will aim to increase awareness and participation in Section Meetings. These gatherings offer opportunities for networking, learning, and collaboration. By raising visibility and encouraging attendance, we can strengthen connections within our Section and ensure our Meetings become vital to every member’s experience. Additionally, I will work to make the Southeast Section a resource for chapters and their members by providing support, sharing ideas, and fostering a sense of unity that empowers all of us to thrive within The Ninety-Nines.

Maria Choi

Biography

I joined the Ninety-Nines in 2017 as a student pilot and found incredible support that helped me advance in my aviation journey. This inspired me to give back to the community early in my career. As an Amelia Earhart Scholarship awardee and PPLI graduate, I understand the power of mentorship in advancing training and shaping aviation careers. Today, I am a Captain flying top-tier business jets for a large corporation and a simulator instructor at CAE, continuing to stay engaged with the aviation community.

I led the FL Suncoast Chapter through the challenges of COVID-19. As a current SE Section director, I have focused on growing membership, supporting chapters, and engaging with the Professional Pilot Leadership Initiative (PPLI).

Vision Statement

I hope to continue expanding the SE Section, strengthening member connections, and empowering the community of women pilots.

Emily Dykstra

Biography

After entering the world of aviation in 2020 through a neighbor who took me for a sightseeing flight, I fell in love with every aspect of flying. While working in finance, I pursued my ratings and began instructing part-time until making the leap into a full-time position as a flight instructor in early 2023. Upon reaching my hours, I landed my dream job as a pilot at NetJets, where I currently fly the Citation Latitude. I am motivated by my love for being in the air, as well as by the methodologies and structure that flying demands of pilots to ensure safety. The support that I have received from the Ninety-Nines, including being the recipient of the Amelia Earhart scholarship, has been pivotal to my journey. As the current Secretary for the Georgia Flying Belles Chapter, I have experience assisting with planning the Southeast Section conference, supporting the accomplishments of our Chapter members, and developing a vision for our Chapter alongside wonderful board members, all of which I hope to bring to the table as a Director at the Section level.

Vision Statement

As the Section continues to grow, I envision further emphasis on fresh faces and the involvement of new members. We will support the women around us through increased mentorship and opportunities to meet one another in person while remaining connected at the international level. As a Section Director, I will assist the Board in strengthening the Southeast Section’s presence through existing conferences and ideating new ways to reach different demographics within our communities.

JoAnne (Jo) Alcorn

Biography

I live in Winter Haven, Florida, and I’m a Commercial pilot, single- and multi-engine land and single-engine sea with 2,400 hours. I am retired from IT management and now work with my husband, Steve, in several aviation businesses, the latest and most rewarding being testing and certifying prospective airplane mechanics. I am the Chapter Chair for FL Heartland 99s and President of our homeowner’s association. Besides flying, I love researching my family tree, reading a good mystery, and cooking. 

Vision Statement

As part of the nomination committee, I will seek qualified members for the Southeast Section 99s leadership positions.

Mary Bryant

Biography

I grew up in the Midwest, earned a BA from Northwestern University and an MBA from the University of Illinois, and then achieved CPA and CFP credentials. Initially, I worked in finance for Fortune 200 companies evaluating investments and acquisitions/divestitures. Later, I was a management consultant for a leading international consulting company.

After soloing right out of college, I didn’t fly for years. Once I started flying again, I decided life was too short to not enjoy work. I quickly earned my private, instrument, commercial, CFI, CFII, and MEI. I later added an ATP and Citation type rating (CE-500). I went to work for Piper Aircraft as an instructor and, subsequently, Director of Sales for the eastern United States. Eventually, I co-founded Attitudes, the company which was awarded the worldwide training contract for Piper. After selling Attitudes, I worked for Cessna managing the reestablishment of the Cessna Pilot Center Program. I’ve founded and managed three companies.

I’m an aircraft owner and active pilot. I’m currently semi-retired and provide PA-46 transition training. I have two daughters, one in Philadelphia and one finishing college in Seattle, and living in Tampa Bay, Florida.

Vision Statement

I’ve received wonderful support and encouragement from fellow 99s and learned much from the experience of others. The enthusiasm and comradery provided by fellow members has been a contributing factor to my success in aviation and enjoyment of flying.

As a member of the nominating committee, I’ll recruit fellow 99s to serve in leadership roles who will work to achieve our goals of supporting, mentoring and educating our members. We should focus on positioning our organization to capitalize on the current unprecedented opportunities in aviation, while acknowledging the contribution of those whose shoulders we stand on.

Jessica DeCorte

Biography

I began my aviation journey in December 2022 and have been flying since. Passionate about expanding my skills, I am currently working toward my IFR rating to enhance my proficiency and confidence as a pilot. I am an active member of three flying clubs, Women in Aviation, and the Civil Air Patrol (CAP), where I continue to learn and contribute to the aviation community. My goal is to grow as a pilot while supporting and inspiring others. With a deep appreciation for the challenges and rewards of flying, I am committed to advancing my knowledge and contributing to the legacy of women in aviation.

Vision Statement

My vision for the 99s is to create a strong, supportive community where women in aviation can connect, grow, and inspire one another. I want to promote an environment that encourages mentorship, education, and leadership, empowering women to excel in all areas of aviation. Through scholarships, outreach, and networking, we will help break barriers and open doors for future generations. I envision a club that honors the legacy of pioneering female aviators while embracing innovation and progress. Together, we will uplift and support each other, ensuring that women continue to soar to new heights in aviation.

Janice McWilliams

Biography

When I was 14, my father got his private pilot’s certificate and bought a Piper Tri-Pacer. I remember flying to West Texas with a 40-knot headwind and watching the cars on the highway below pass us by. Still, flying was far better than driving. That was 56 years ago, and I’m still in love with flying.

I started flying lessons at age 17 in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and received my ticket in 1970. I first joined the 99s in Memphis in 1976. I held all the chapter offices and was a member of the SES nominating committee. While in Memphis, I completed my multiengine and instrument rating and flew in the 1979 Air Race Classic. I met my husband Billy while in pharmacy school in Memphis. We married in 1982 and moved to St Petersburg, Florida, in 1987. I joined the FL Suncoast Chapter and have held all the office positions as a FL Suncoast 99. I was the SES secretary in 2021/2023.

I recently retired after 40 years as a pharmacist for the Veterans Administration. I am still flying a Mooney Mustang that we purchased in 1992.

Vision Statement

The SES of the 99s is a great organization offering support, opportunity and comradery for women pilots. I would love to see more of our members attending the section meetings and getting involved at the section level.

I support our scholarship opportunities and hope that with continued fundraising, our scholarships can increase.

As a member of the nominating committee, I would select candidates that look to continue to improve and update the organization. Comradery I feel is the best part of the 99s so I believe in officers who are friendly, open and caring towards all the members.