Jim "SeaBass" Sebastian, a distinguished alumnus of ÇàÄêɬµ¼º½'s College of Aeronautics and Engineering, has been awarded the 2024 ÇàÄêɬµ¼º½ Advocacy Award for his exceptional contributions to his alma mater and its students.
Sebastian, a 1991 graduate with a Bachelor of Science in aerospace technology (now known as the professional pilot program), has leveraged his ÇàÄêɬµ¼º½ education into a successful 20-year career as a pilot and captain for Southwest Airlines.
The ÇàÄêɬµ¼º½ Advocacy Award, presented by the ÇàÄêɬµ¼º½ Alumni Association, recognizes alumni who consistently contribute significant time and talent to the university, bringing favorable attention to their alma mater. Sebastian's dedication to ÇàÄêɬµ¼º½ extends far beyond his own student days, making him an exemplary recipient of this honor.
Reflecting on his ÇàÄêɬµ¼º½ journey, Sebastian recalled the moment he first arrived on campus. "As we rounded the corner and the campus just kind of appears... I remember thinking to myself, 'I'm home.'"
That sense of belonging never faded. After graduation, Sebastian secured a local flying job, allowing him to maintain ties with the university. "In some capacity, my entire adult life has been tied in many ways to ÇàÄêɬµ¼º½," he said.
As an adjunct professor and flight instructor in his former college, Sebastian conducts FAA-required checks for student pilots, mentoring and inspiring the next generation of aviation professionals.
"Seeing the students succeed is mentoring's own reward."
Outside the classroom and cockpit, Sebastian can be found volunteering on various college event committees, including the Aeronautics and Engineering Expo and the Safety Conference.
Sebastian’s commitment to ÇàÄêɬµ¼º½ goes beyond dedicating his time and expertise. He has established the Jim "SeaBass" Sebastian Endowed Scholarship, awarded to an outstanding student who has demonstrated a passion for aviation and desires to become a professional pilot, with preference given to first-generation students. This scholarship embodies Sebastian's dedication to nurturing future talent in his field and supporting those who might face additional challenges in pursuing their aviation dreams.
Moreover, Sebastian's generosity extends to other areas of ÇàÄêɬµ¼º½, with contributions to many athletics teams. This broad support underscores his holistic approach to giving back to his alma mater, recognizing the importance of shaping well-rounded students. In his spare time, Sebastian is a familiar face at various ÇàÄêɬµ¼º½ athletic fields, enthusiastically supporting and cheering on student-athletes.
His impact transcends campus boundaries, co-founding Props-4-Paws with ÇàÄêɬµ¼º½ Airport Manager, David Poluga, an initiative that has distributed over 64,000 pounds of pet food and supplies to local animal shelters since 2012.
For Sebastian, the Advocacy Award is more than recognition of past contributions. It's fuel for future endeavors, as he continues to guide ÇàÄêɬµ¼º½ students toward successful careers in aviation. "I really feel honored to have remained a part of the ÇàÄêɬµ¼º½ community for so long."