Oklahoma Aviation Academy Senior Rena Du Named ODAA Aerospace Student of the Month for April 2026
NORMAN, Okla., — The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) is proud to announce Rena Du as the Aerospace Student of the Month for April 2026. A senior at Norman North High School and a standout student at the Oklahoma Aviation Academy (OAA), Du is being recognized for her academic excellence, leadership, and hands-on contributions to Oklahoma’s aerospace industry.
As a member of the OAA Tango Flight class, Du has spent her senior year collaborating with classmates to build a functional aircraft. The project is currently in its final stages and is scheduled for official Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification in May 2026.
Du’s academic record is equally distinguished. A National Merit Scholar, she has completed seven AP courses and multiple concurrent college credits while maintaining a rigorous technical workload. Following graduation, she will attend the University of Oklahoma on a National Merit Scholarship to study aerospace engineering. She has been accepted into an accelerated program that will allow her to earn both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees within four years.
“Although her academics are exceptional, it is her attitude and character that shine through. Rena possesses a growth mindset and above all, she demonstrates integrity in every aspect of work here at the Oklahoma Aviation Academy,” said Dr. Starlynn Nance, OAA aviation instructor. She is a bright, cheery, and delightful student... As Rena pursues her career goals in engineering, she will no doubt make an impact on Oklahoma’s vital aerospace ecosystem.”
With a lifelong passion for mathematics and engineering, Du is a vocal advocate for technical education. “Give aviation a shot!” Du encouraged. “Whether you like numbers or working with your hands, there’s something in the aviation industry for you.”
The ODAA congratulates Rena Du on this well-deserved honor and looks forward to her future contributions to the aerospace industry.
