SIU's Paul Simon Public Policy Institute Hosts Trailblazing Pilot Theresa Claiborne

Claiborne was the first Black woman to serve as a pilot in the U.S. Air Force and later became a captain at United Airlines.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 12:20am

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Theresa Claiborne, the first Black woman to serve as a pilot in the United States Air Force, will discuss her groundbreaking military career during a discussion at 6 p.m. Thursday, March 26, in SIU Student Center Ballroom B. The conversation with John Shaw, director of the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute, is free and open to the public.

Why it matters

Claiborne's visit highlights the importance of expanding opportunities in aviation and the armed forces, especially for underrepresented groups. Her story of perseverance and breaking barriers in public service can inspire future generations of pilots and leaders.

The details

Claiborne was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Air Force in 1981 and became the Air Force's first Black woman to serve as a command pilot and instructor for the Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker in 1982. She left active duty in 1988 and served as an instructor pilot and flight commander for the Air Force Reserves, rising to the rank of lieutenant colonel before retiring in 1993 with more than 3,000 military flight hours. She later joined United Airlines in 1990 as a first officer, becoming the second Black woman pilot at the airline, and rose to the rank of captain on the Boeing 757/767 and 787 before retiring in 2024 with over 23,000 flight hours.

  • Theresa Claiborne will speak at 6 p.m. on Thursday, March 26, 2026.
  • A reception is set for 5 p.m. on March 26, 2026, in the Student Center's John W. Corker Lounge.

The players

Theresa Claiborne

The first Black woman to serve as a pilot in the United States Air Force, where she became a command pilot and instructor. She later had a 34-year career as a commercial pilot at United Airlines, rising to the rank of captain.

John Shaw

The director of the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute at Southern Illinois University, which is hosting the event featuring Theresa Claiborne.

Bill and Molly Norwood

Friends of Theresa Claiborne whose generous lecture series is supporting her visit to Carbondale.

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What they’re saying

“Theresa Claiborne is an inspiring, trailblazing pilot and leader who set lofty goals for herself and then exceeded them with hard work and great skill.”

— John Shaw, Director, Paul Simon Public Policy Institute

“She is especially eager to see SIU's aviation program up close and to meet with students and instructors.”

— John Shaw, Director, Paul Simon Public Policy Institute

What’s next

Attendees are encouraged to submit questions for Claiborne on the registration form or by email to the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute.

The takeaway

Claiborne's visit to SIU highlights the importance of expanding opportunities in aviation and the armed forces, especially for underrepresented groups. Her story of perseverance and breaking barriers can inspire future generations of pilots and leaders.