Alum of the Month
Jerome Diehl '75 Erskine Grad Flies High
Jerome Diehl spends most of his time in the skies as a pilot on a 727 jet airplane. He became interested in flying when he took a ride in a small plane prior to his first year at Erskine, and he never stopped talking about it. When it came time to plan for college, his parents urged him to consider a college that offered training in aeronautics. Although his family’s resources were limited, he was able to attend and receive his training at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach , FL.
After college, Jerome chose to give flight instruction and work for PeoplExpress Airlines, a “no frills” airline. He then landed a job with Federal Express. Now, with 23 years in the flying industry, Jerome flies mainly between Philadelphia and his home in 
Indianapolis , which gives him time to enjoy fishing, hunting, skiing, biking, and boating.
On occasion, Jerome participates in the “Pilots for Kids” program, visiting children’s hospitals bringing toys and other needed items. This year Jerome went with the group to the Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital in Indianapolis. Right: Jerome Diehl '75 on far right in photo.
One of Jerome’s favorite Erskine memories is of Winter Carnival, during which he and a group of classmates made a giant snowman and train complete with a cow-catcher and the class year carved in front. He recalls Brenda Peabody Curtis ’75, Eddie Hubbard ’75, Dean Sheaff ’75, Jeff Campbell ’75, and others.
One of Jerome’s favorite classes was with Mr. Johnson, who taught physics and chemistry and made possible several non-school funded class trips.
He enjoyed playing sports with fellow athletes Keith Sylvester ’77, Dennis Scates ’76, Brian Ballantyne ’75, Larry Rexford ’76, Everett Bronn ’75, and Scott Kenoyer ’77.
He offers the following wisdom for our youngest graduates: Be grateful and keep a positive attitude. Take time to enjoy your relationships with schoolmates and teachers, pursue your passions, and allow yourself to be inspired by others. Remember, it’s up to you to motivate yourself. Your experiences at EA give you a great foundation.
Lastly, occasionally watch the movie “Pay It Forward” and live it.
Past Alum of the Month features
Dec06 / Jan07 / Feb07 / Apr07 / Aug07 / Oct07 / Nov 07
Copyright 2007 Erskine Academy
