FEB 4, 2020
BY CAROL BEST
MNU welcomed Alumnus Capt. Tammie Jo Shults for several events Feb. 3 and 4, 2020. Capt. Shults, who was thrust into the public spotlight in April 2018 when she safely landed Southwest Airlines flight 1380 after the catastrophic loss of an engine, has authored Nerves of Steel. The book recounts her humble beginnings, perseverance to become one of the early female Navy pilots and the training and opportunities that culminated in her God-given strength that day.
Capt. Shults and her husband Capt. Dean Shults enjoyed the Kansas City Chiefs win of Super Bowl LIV with friends, before a variety of events on Monday and Tuesday, held for the university at MNU, Garmin International and the Olathe Public Library.
At MNU’s Community Chapel on Tuesday, Shults was given the key to the City of Olathe by fellow MNU alum, Olathe Mayor Michael Copeland, in recognition of her extraordinary skill and bravery in the face of danger, and for exemplifying the values of leadership, perseverance and service.
Enjoy photos of the visit in Flickr. The full remarks of Mayor Copeland when he presented the key to the City are below.
Key to the City Presentation to Tammie Jo Shults
Tuesday, February 4, 2020
College Church of the Nazarene | 2020 E Sheridan St, Olathe, KS 66062
Captain Shults, it’s truly an honor to have you here today. Listening to your story again of that fateful flight – we’re reminded of just how extraordinary your team’s performance was that day. As well as how remarkable you are.
It’s hard for any of us to imagine being in that situation – rocked by an explosion, surrounded by smoke – let alone piloting that plane. And instead of panic, you showcased to your passengers, your team, and to your country – superior leadership, exceptional skill, courage and confidence – all while giving 148 people a second chance at life.
That ordeal is unbelievable. But it’s only part of the reason you are such an inspiration to us. We’re impressed by your commitment to your country that led you to never give up until you made it into the military. We admire your esteemed service in the Navy. And are in awe of your steadfast faith and how it’s guided you through life.
It’s a privilege to call you a fellow alum of this great university. And it’s a privilege to see how you represent Olathe so well.
That is why we have for you today the Key to the City.
Captain Shults, you have opened our eyes to what’s possible with hard work, commitment and courage. This key represents the open arms with which we welcome you back to Olathe, today, and each day, no matter where you go next in life. You truly make Olathe proud.