In Loving Memory of Cindy Schreiber-Beck
It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of Cindy Schreiber-Beck. Cindy was a beloved figure in North Dakota’s aviation, agricultural, and political communities—known for her unwavering dedication, thoughtful leadership, and enduring spirit. Her loss is deeply felt by all who had the privilege of working alongside her, learning from her, or simply knowing her.
Cindy’s remarkable career spanned decades, each year marked by service, innovation, and care for her community and her state. For 25 years, she served as a North Dakota Aeronautics Commissioner, helping guide the vision and strategy for aviation across the state. Her efforts helped ensure that aviation remained not only a critical component of the state’s infrastructure, but also a thriving and forward-looking industry.
Beyond aviation, Cindy dedicated 11 years to public service in the North Dakota House of Representatives. There, she brought the same integrity and pragmatic leadership that defined her work elsewhere—always focused on serving the needs of her constituents with fairness and vision. Her legislative work was grounded in common sense, respect for tradition, and a commitment to progress—especially in areas like education, agriculture, and transportation.
For nearly four decades, Cindy also served as the Executive Director of the North Dakota Agricultural Aviation Association. In this role, she became a tireless advocate for agricultural aviators across the region. Her efforts helped elevate the industry, promote safety and innovation, and support generations of agricultural pilots who feed and sustain our communities. She understood the vital intersection of agriculture and aviation better than most, and her leadership helped ensure that the state’s agricultural aviation sector remained vibrant and resilient.
Through every role she held—whether commissioner, legislator, or advocate—Cindy led with a steady hand and a generous heart. She was not just a leader; she was a listener, a mentor, and a friend. She brought people together, bridged divides, and always sought the best path forward. Cindy had a unique gift for balancing tradition with progress and policy with people. Her leadership was as thoughtful as it was effective.
This past March, we had the distinct honor of celebrating Cindy’s extraordinary contributions with her induction as the 50th member of the North Dakota Aviation Hall of Fame during the 2024 Fly-ND Conference. It was a moment of well-earned recognition, and one that will be forever etched in our memories. The toast offered that evening now takes on an even deeper meaning as we reflect on the legacy she leaves behind:
“To the Wright Brothers, whose vision and ingenuity carried us from the sands of Kitty Hawk to the skies above.
To our North Dakota Aviation Hall of Fame inductees, past and present, who have shaped the legacy of aviation in our state.
To our fallen heroes, those we have lost this past year—may their contributions and sacrifices never be forgotten.
To our aviation forefathers in North Dakota, whose pioneering spirit laid the foundation for the thriving aviation community we celebrate today.
And to Cindy, our 50th inductee into the North Dakota Aviation Hall of Fame.
Cindy’s lifelong commitment to aviation—from agricultural advocacy to legislative leadership—has left a permanent mark on this industry. Her passion, innovation, and tireless service continue to inspire us all. May we carry her legacy forward with the same dedication and vision. To Cindy!”
Cindy Schreiber-Beck’s legacy is one of leadership, purpose, and heart. She showed us all what it means to serve with grace and vision. Her impact will live on in every small-town airfield, every flight that supports our agricultural heartland, every young leader she inspired, and every policy she shaped for the betterment of North Dakota.
As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate a life lived with courage, compassion, and clarity of purpose. Cindy’s absence leaves a void, but her influence remains—steadfast, enduring, and full of hope for the future she helped build.
May we continue her work with the same strength, humility, and heart that she brought to everything she did. Rest in peace, Cindy. You will never be forgotten.