Spirit of Columbus | The Columbus Foundation

The Spirit of Columbus® Award 2026 Honoree, Bobby Floyd!

Every year, to commemorate Jerrie Mock's historic flight around the world in her single-engine Cessna named Spirit of Columbus, The Columbus Foundation recognizes members of our community who, like Jerrie, exhibit bravery, determination, and inspiration through their actions.

An Emmy Award-winning and Grammy-nominated artist, Bobby Floyd’s exceptional artistry as a keyboardist has earned him widespread acclaim. His natural talent and devotion to his craft launched a distinguished career that includes touring with legendary artists such as Ray Charles and Dr. John. Today, Floyd is a cherished member of the Columbus Jazz Orchestra, where he continues to uplift the central Ohio community through music.

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A Tribute to Bobby Floyd: “What a Wonderful World”

Local musicians came together to celebrate Floyd’s extraordinary musicianship, generous spirit, and lasting contributions to the cultural life of central Ohio with this heartfelt tribute performance of “What a Wonderful World.”

Featured musicians: Bobby Floyd, Byron Stripling, Jeff Ciampa, Reggie Jackson, Derek DiCenzo, Bryan Olsheski, Sydney McSweeney, and Jimmi Love.

Bobby Floyd: More Musical Moments

A beloved figure in Columbus jazz, Bobby Floyd's remarkable talent and spirit have helped shape the sound of Columbus jazz.

Bobby Floyd performs "Amazing Grace" at The Lincoln Theatre for the 2021 Celebration of Philanthropy.

Bobby Floyd Trio performs "Someday We'll All Be Free" for Songs for the Community.

“I hope that somewhere here and there, just my doing something that hadn’t been done, will encourage someone else who wants to do something very much, and hasn’t quite had the heart to try it.”

Jerrie mock

Jerrie Mock and the Spirit of Columbus Journey

More than 60 years ago, Jerrie Mock became the first woman to fly around the globe solo. On March 19, 1964, Jerrie, then a Bexley resident and mother of three, climbed into her single-engine Cessna, “Spirit of Columbus,” and took off from Port Columbus International Airport.
Mock’s historic journey lasted 29 days as she flew more than 23,000 miles. Stops included Bermuda, Egypt, Libya, and Saudi Arabia where she was met with applause when the men realized she was unaccompanied.
Mock landed safely back at Port Columbus on April 17, 1964. President Lyndon Johnson presented Mock with the Federal Aviation Agency's Gold Medal for Exceptional Service on May 4, 1964.
Originally published in 1970, Mock detailed her flight and stories from around the world in her book, Three-Eight Charlie.
On April 17, 2014, fellow aviators, historians, community leaders, and friends gathered to celebrate the 50th anniversary, when a life-size bronze statue of Jerrie holding a globe, created by Columbus artist Renate Burgyan Fackler, was unveiled at Port Columbus International Airport.
The statue became the inspiration for The Jerries®, the affectionate name for The Columbus Foundation’s Spirit of Columbus Award. Each honoree receives a small recreation of Renate Burgyan Fackler’s bronze tribute to Jerrie Mock, honoring those who embody her courage, determination, and pioneering spirit.