Hear the incredible story of Shirley Brooks-Jones, a 9/11 "Plane Person" who turned tragedy into hope.We welcome Shirley Brooks-Jones, a remarkable individual whose life was forever changed by the events of September 11, 2001. Shirley shares her compelling story as a passenger on Delta Flight 15, which was rerouted to the small town of Gander, Newfoundland, amid the chaos of 9/11. Along with nearly 7,000 other stranded travelers, quickly dubbed “the plane people, ”Shirley experienced firsthand the extraordinary kindness and generosity of the people of Newfoundland.Shirley reflects on her background at The Ohio State University, her unexpected role in fundraising, and how those early experiences helped shape her response to the crisis. She recounts what it was like to wait for over 28 hours aboard her plane, the confusion and fear among passengers, and how calm leadership made a difference in such a tense moment.When Shirley and her fellow travelers were finally welcomed into the community of Lewisporte, the outpouring of support was unforgettable. The local Lions Club, alongside townspeople, provided comfort, food, shelter, and even medical help, asking for nothing in return.Deeply moved, Shirley and fellow passengers began the Lewisporte Area Flight 15 Scholarship Fund, an endowed scholarship that now sits at $2 million and has supported over 460 students as of this year.Shirley also shares heartfelt stories of gratitude from the scholarship recipients and their families, and she recounts touching encounters with Canadian citizens and dignitaries, including being honored with the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador and a meeting with King Charles III.Throughout our conversation, Shirley offers wisdom on giving back, the impact of community, and how each of us can find fulfillment in service, regardless of age. Her story is a powerful reminder of the good that can arise from even the most challenging circumstances.If you like this episode, please let us know. We appreciate the feed back, and your support of offset costs of producing the podcast!FAQ about Shirley Brooks-Jones and Lewisporte Area Flight 15 Scholarship Fund1. Who is Shirley Brooks-Jones and why is she featured on this episode?Shirley Brooks-Jones is a former Ohio State University staff member and a passenger on Delta Flight 15, which was diverted to Gander, Newfoundland on September 11, 2001. She shares her story of the kindness shown by the people of Lewisporte, Newfoundland, and her efforts to give back through the creation of the Lewisporte Area Flight 15 Scholarship Fund. 00:392. What happened to Shirley Brooks-Jones during 9/11?Shirley was returning from volunteering and meetings in Europe when her plane was diverted to Gander, Newfoundland after the US airspace was closed on September 11, 2001. She spent 28.5 hours aboard the plane before being welcomed by the community of Lewisporte, who cared for her and the other "plane people" for several days. 09:233. What is the Lewisporte Area Flight 15 Scholarship Fund?The fund is an endowed scholarship established by Shirley and fellow Flight 15 passengers as a way to thank the citizens of Lewisporte for their generosity. The fund, managed through the Columbus Foundation, has grown from $15,000 to $2 million and has provided hundreds of scholarships to local students. 27:304. How has the scholarship fund impacted the community in Newfoundland?As of the current school year, 461 scholarships have been awarded to students in the Lewisporte area, helping many pursue higher education and vocational training. The initiative has created lasting positive change in the lives of the recipients and their families. 45:155. How can retirees or seniors stay engaged an