COLLOQUIUM SPEAKERS

Date Speaker Topic Alex Snyder And Their talk will explore how we connect to different places and Libbey how that affects our desire to Holewski protect and care for the places are the founders and directors of we live and recreate. Appalachian Expeditions, an outdoor education program in Entering our third year of 12/3/19 Davis, WV. Their program seeks to programming we are excited to inspire appreciation and awareness continue to grow while for the central Appalachian developing our niche in the ecoregion through adventure, community, the region, and the community, & sustainable living industry. skills.

Ron Hawkes is the new general manager at the Wisp Resort. Students were able to hear about how Ron began his career, how he set goals early on to be a general manager at a ski resort 11/19/19 and what it took to get there. He also gave advice on planning ahead financially, for challenges he’s faced in the industry, and how people working together make all the difference in the world.

Ron Hawkes, General Manager, Wisp Resort “Chattahoochee “Chattahoochee Unplugged” Unplugged” tells the story of how that dream From the producers of the has finally come true – restoring a Emmy award-winning key stretch of the Chattahoochee documentary, “Chattahoochee: river through Columbus, GA to its 11/5/19 From Water War to Water natural state and at the same Vision” time creating the world’s longest urban run. Wild as the Colorado, yet warm as Costa Rica! Some 26+ years ago one man dreamed the impossible: “What if we remove the dams?”

Following more than a decade as full-time professor in Garrett College’s Adventure Sports Management program, Andy’s now the Program Coordinator of the Adventure Sports 10/29/19 Management degree program @ FSU. He is the owner of Coopers Rock Climbing Guides & co-owner Will Masavage, Gary Dunn (Inst), Kayley Green, Andy Hershey, John DeWitt, of North Fork Adventures LLC. & Lee Ware volunteering for the Paradox Sports ice climbing event. Andy is currently the Climbing Instructor for the Adventure Andy has worked in the outdoor industry his entire adult life. He’s worked as Sports Program @ Garrett. a backcountry ranger in Yosemite National Park, an administrator @ a non- profit experiential learning based school & with a variety of other outdoor education programs & guide services.

Annie Simcoe Annie Simcoe is a paper artist working and living in western Maryland with her husband, Jeff. She has her masters in Geology.

Annie has been an avid mountain biker, skier, snowboarder, runner, and kayaker since the late 10/19/19 1990s. These activities have provided ample inspiration for her artwork. More recently, she has facilitated numerous women’s mountain bike skills workshops and group rides.

Adventure Sports Students Students from the Sea provided a presentation regarding Expedition in GA their experiences about the trip to GA on a Sea Kayaking Expedition. Their excitement was obvious, as well as the teamwork 4/16/19 involved.

They also earned college credits in Intro to Sea Kayaking, Sea Kayaking Techniques I, and Special Topics: Sea Kayaking Expedition AVS Graduate: Ben began his career after leaving Garrett by taking a position at the Virginia Outdoor Center as the manager. Over the past 10 years, he has guest instructed and guided for several big named companies and organizations, including trips 3/12/19 overseas. Ben is an ACA instructor trainer under many disciplines. Currently Ben is finishing Masters’ degree in Performance Coaching and continues to teach paddlesports, lead coach education workshops, and guides overseas.

Ben Morton

Dylan Jones and Nikki Forrester are media professionals based in Davis, West Virginia. Together they publish Highland Outdoors, a quarterly print and digital magazine covering West Virginia's outstanding recreation opportunities, spectacular landscapes, and inspiring Dylan Jones & Nikki Forrester individuals. Highland Outdoors 3/5/19 proudly sponsors events in West Virginia, including the Mountain State Fat Bike Champs, Canaan Valley Half Marathon, and Cheat Fest. Dylan and Nikki will be chatting about how outdoor adventure shaped their career paths and where they plan on going in the future with Highland Outdoors.

Audrey Kopich and Rob Adventure Sports Students tell Abramowitz about their experiences in the White Mountain Expedition. As participants they had a lot of 2/26/19 tips, dos and don’ts that they were able to share. Rob had been to the White Mountains before and was able to share those experiences as well.

The Adventure of being a Non- Traditional student: Jeff Simcoe is currently the Recreation Land Manager at the Big Bear Lake Trail Center in Bruceton Mills, WV. Jeff earned his Master’s degree from West Virginia University in Environmental and Natural Resource 2/19/19 Economics in 2002 and has spent several years in senior leadership positions within the land management, technology and energy business sectors. He also has 30 plus years of experience participating and working as an adventure sports Jeff Simcoe professional A former professor at the Adventuresports Institute of Garrett College, Andy is now Program Coordinator and Lecturer in the Adventure Sports Management program at Frostburg State University. Andy's career has included field, classroom and administrative positions working with a variety of populations in the outdoor industry and he has spent time as a backcountry ranger in November Yosemite National Park, as a 27, 2018 Program Coordinator at the Yellow Breeches Educational Center and as a guide and instructor at a variety of outdoor programs and guide services. In addition to his role at Frostburg, Andy is also a co‐owner at North Fork Adventures, LLC (www.nfadventures.com and Andy Hershey www.senecarocks.com) and is an instructor and guide in the Paradox Sports Adaptive Climbing Initiative (www.paradoxsports.org).

Human Attitudes that Lead to Suffering in the Backcountry: Can we prevent outdoor accidents before they happen? Owner of WILD GUYde November Adventures, in Harrisonburg 13, 2018 Virginia. He was a former professor of Outdoor Recreation at EMU. Lester is an AMGA Single Pitch Instructor, WFR, and member of PCIA, National

Lester Zook Speleological Society, and the Access Fund. Greg Corio was the former Executive Director for Student Recreation and Outdoor Education at WVU and a 1999 graduate from the Adventuresports Management program at Garrett. Greg developed several programs for WVU including the largest Outdoor Orientation program in the country and the WVU Outdoor Education Center. November Greg also invented an artificial 6, 2018 ice climbing wall while at Garrett. Greg’s love for the outdoors is evident as he takes his family along with him to give them the same experiences. Greg has recently been Greg Corio promoted to the Assistant Dean of Strategic Youth Development Initiatives at West Virginia University focusing on strategic outreach initiatives.

Daniel MacFarland graduated from both Garrett College’s Adventure Sports Management program and Frostburg State’s Bachelors program during the October same week. He will present his 30. 2018 talk regarding his adventures tackling Mt. Kilimanjaro and the experiences he found through this journey.

Daniel MacFarland Tom McEwan an American Whitewater Kayaker. He competed internationally on the US National Wildwater Team. Tom is credited with numerous 1st descents including the Great Falls of the Potomac in 1975, the 1973 descent of approx. 8 miles of Linville Gorge, with Jamie McEwan. He, Jamie, Andy Bridge & Wick Walker were the 1st to explore the Mexican whitewater on the Santa Maria in 1985. In 1981 Tom participated in an expedition to Bhutan with Wick Walker, Les Bechdel, Eric Evans, Jamie McEwan, with Ed Hixon in support, October on the Wong Chu, Para Chu, Pho 23, 2018 Chu, and Mo Chu. In 1998, McEwan& his brother Jamie, Roger Zbel & Doug Gordon were the kayaking members of an expedition team to run the Tsangpo Gorge, considered the "Mount Everest" of rivers. They were supported by Wick Walker, Harry and Doris Wetherbee, Tom McEwan Paulo Castillo, & Dave Phillips. The expedition encountered unanticipated high water &ended in tragedy when teammate Doug Gordon capsized, missed his roll, & lost his life. Tom currently runs the Liquid Adventures School, now Caleva, in Cabin John, MD.

Lt. Col. Robert Turbyfill, retired US Federation Orienteering Coach, 2 time world champion and US Army veteran gave a presentation on ‘Where Does Life Take You.” He gave examples of his life history and defined the meaning of choice vs chance. He March 13, remains an instructor and 2018 competitor in orienteering. He is the co-author of “Discovering Orienteering: Skills, Techniques, and Activities”. Turbyfill has also developed an Bob Turbyfill orienteering course entitled, Zero to Orange. Bob was an adjunct professor in the Adventure Sports Program. Lane Maust gave a great explanation of what it was like to hike the Appalachian Trail March 6, alone and the dramatic end, 2018 when he reached his goal of completing the trail. Lane is also a graduate of the Adventure Sports Program. Lane Maust Dave Jones is an Inspirational and Motivational Speaker…Guinness World Record holder 2018. Originally from Oakland In late January 2017, Dave became 1 of only 4 people in history to ever run official, public marathons on All 7 Continents in less than 7 Consecutive Days (166 hours, 54 February minutes, and 11 seconds to be 27, 2018 exact)!! Since last August, he has also completed a Full Ironman Triathlon (140.6 miles), 50 Full Marathons (26.2 miles) in different States and Countries, a 50 mile trail race, and the Savageman Dave Jones (120) Triathlon which is widely considered to be the hardest triathlon in North America!

Brett & Jess Miller Brett &Jessi Miller shared their experiences eating fermented breadfruit and dodging falling coconuts on a tiny sandspit of an island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. They reflected on how their time as Peace Corps volunteers in the Federated February States of Micronesia from 20, 2018 2003-2004 has influenced who they are now. Whether traveling with an organization or independently, the second and third missions of Peace Brett & Jessie Miller Corps challenge us to consider how we should live as part of a global society.

Dave Erbe spoke about his expeditions through personal ambitions and through his work. He has worked with Colorado Outward Bound, has 10+ years of experience in the February field, Leave No Trace values 13, 2018 and ethics, & led an international trip to Norway. He is also now an employee of Garrett College as an Assistant Dave Erbe Professor in the Adventure Sports Program.

Jess Daddio is the travel editor for Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine. Jess spoke on her 44-day tour of the Great Divide November Mountain Bike Route, a 2,700- 28, 2017 mile two-wheeled journey that began in Banff, Canada, and ended at the Mexico border in Antelope Wells, New Mexico. Jess Daddio In 2013 Brett entered into and completed what is considered one of the hardest bikepacking races in the world - the Tour Divide. Tour Divide travels 2745 miles down the Rockies from Canada to Mexico. This solo, self-supported, race involves over 200,000 ft. of climbing. November Since then, he has participated 14, 2017 in other bike races and tours including the Arrowhead 135 (a winter fat bike race with temperatures reaching -50F) and bike touring the Hot Springs Route. Brett Simpson Along with his talk, he brought his bike and some of the ultralight racing gear he used on this adventure of a lifetime. Steve Creech grew up in the suburbs of Cleveland and didn't go camping until he was a sophomore at Ohio University. But after he did, he never looked back. Steve has worked at a variety of positions within education, summer camps, guiding, environmental education, therapeutic November programs, international trips, 7, 2017 and has worked at Outward Bound for the last decade, both within the field and in the office across the country. He enjoys trail running, canyoneering, photography, climbing, rafting, maps, backpacking and has been fortunate to undergo Steve Creech extended personal expeditions in the Grand Canyon, Patagonia, Alaska, and Iceland.

Adventure Sports graduate Kenny Barr, raised in North Canton Ohio, grew up with a love of the outdoors and extraordinarily unconventional lifestyles. After discovering the ASI program and taking advantage of the program's resources; October Kenny Barr Kenny is now a certified rock 31, 2017 climbing guide, ski instructor, dog sled guide, and professional in the outdoor industry. His presentation was on his position with Seward Helicopter Tours as a sled dog guide in Alaska, where he lived on a glacier during his 4 month stint there.

Zach Adams Zach has been digging the dirt since 2012 with his company Appalachian Dirt: specializing in sustainable construction of awesome trail. Still a new company in the trail industry, he has spread the trail love in 6 October states and 2 countries: including 24, 2017 project consultations, system design, mechanized building, trail head infrastructure and bridges, maintenance, and tight hand built single track trail. He recently did some trail building in Austria.

The Telluride Film Festival, hosted at FSU, was supported by GC & FSU Adventure March 30, Sports Management Bachelors Telluride Film Festival 2017 majors.

Spoke about his experiences with instructing Wilderness March 27, First Responder throughout Karl Schmidt many different venues 2017 including oversees to help a village take care of their injured. Dr. Robert Their presentation is Kauffman and representative of the Frostburg Professor Clemencia initiative to provide Adventure March 7, Caporale from Sports transfer students information on how to do that. 2017 Frostburg State University FSU Instructor, Clemencia gave a presentation on ultralight camping and where her journeys have led her. Daniel Caston presented group February initiatives that encouraged Daniel Caston groups to get out of their 28, 2017 comfort zones and how to lead groups through a 7 step process. Andrew Hawley presented his February experiences all around the Andrew Hawley 21, 2017 world through expeditions both private and professionally. Vaughn Ripley has been writing all of his life. Born in Washington D.C. in 1967, he is the Chief Information Officer of Emergent in Northern Virginia. Born a hemophiliac he March 29, has wrestled with Hepatitis C, 2016 and continues to fight for more than twenty-nine years in a battle with HIV and AIDS.

Vaughn Ripley Vaughn is one of the longest Surviving HIV+ people on the planet.

Mt. Bike Competitor and Instructor will speak on her November trials of competition throughout her lifetime. Sue Haywood is 15, 2016 an instructor for the Adventure Sports Program in the Sue Haywood Intermediate Mt. Bike course.

Life Experience in the Frostburg Bachelors in Adventure Sports Management November program. These Garrett 8, 2016 College AVS graduates are the first 10 students to enroll in the FSU program that was taught at

FSU Students from Garrett College Garrett College. Lee Ware spoke about his Backcountry Ranger Internship at Yosemite National Park. Lee is an October Adventure Sports graduate of 18, 2016 Garrett College and also obtained his BA in Adventure Sports Lee Ware Management through FSU. Peter Skylstad is a Professor of Biology for the Natural Resources and Wildlife Program at Garrett College. For the past 10 years, he has taught classes abroad on Neotropical October Ecology in Nicaragua and Costa Rica and has studied 25, 2016 nature in Southern China and the Peruvian Amazon. He is a published author and avid photographer of the rare and Peter Skylstad sometimes strange creatures that live in some of the most remote regions on Earth. “Overcoming Adversity” National Geographic’s 2015 Adventurer of the Year. Lonnie, who was shot in a hunting accident & lost his vision, overcame adversity. He was the 1st blind person September to the entire Grand 27, 2016 Canyon in a kayak. Lonnie, a veteran, has that can do

Lonnie Bedwell spirit in everything he does. Photo of Lonnie on the Zambezi River.

Jacob’s Ladder is a long-term addiction treatment program for young men challenged by the disease of addiction. Unconditional positive regard for all people, at all times, is the fabric binding our community as we farm and heal together. Jacob’s Ladder is a healing community that uses art, music, & outdoor recreation as part of March 22, their programming. They 2016 incorporate a 12 step program and an amends & healing workshop at the end of their programming.

Andy Horton In Search of Insignificance. As Andy spoke March 8, on the ups & downs in his life, and he found 2016 a much richer life working with people less fortunate than others.

“What does it Mean to Survive?”

Wilderness Survival Instructor for the March 1, Adventure Sports Program, since the Fall of 2016 2003. Ruth-Ann spoke about her venture into the woods for one year, after completing a BA degree in Outdoor Recreation. There was so much more to living and breathing it, than hearing about it. Ruth Ann Colby-Marth

Adventure Sports graduate Sierra Griffith spoke about her 3 month road trip around the United States. "Take the skills you've learned and do what you've always wanted. Travel and tips to do February 23, it successfully.” Sierra continued to work with 2016 our Transition Age Youth program and AmeriCorps after graduation. She was presented with the Leadership and Excellence Award in 2015.

Sierra Griffith “” Adventure Sports students, Stephen Mogge, Nate Watt, Winston Ernst, & George November Polimenakos spoke about their experiences 17, 2015 during a Surf Kayaking trip at the Outer Banks. All are now graduates and two have received a Bachelor’s degree in Adventure Sports Management from FSU.

“Building a Lifetime of Adventure on a Foundation of ASI Skills”

Adventure Sports Graduate, Thomas Sheaffer spoke on how his experiences in the adventure November sports field has led him to great adventures. 10, 2015 Thomas has worked in the field since graduating from Garrett. He finished his Bachelor’s degree in Adventure Sports Management the Spring of 2017 and is now seeking his Masters.

Thomas Schaeffer November 3, “Boaters Held Captive at the Rio Copon” 2015

Peter Zurflieh spoke on his trip to Guatemala in January 2012, where, at one point, they were held captive. There was bravery, excitement, and compassion expressed throughout the experience.

Peter Zurflieh

October 27, “Overcoming Adversity” 2015 National Geographic’s’ 2015 Adventurer of the Year. Lonnie, a veteran, was the 1st blind person to paddle the entire Grand Canyon in

Lonnie Bedwell a kayak. Having been shot during deer season, he lost his vision. He has never lost his nerve to get outside and experience life.

“Paradox Ice Climbing Event ” Instructor, Andy Hershey and students John DeWitt, Kayley Green, Will Masavage, & Lee Ware (now graduates), provided a presentation on their experience working March 10, with participants ranging from the 2015 paraplegic to the blind in a Paradox Ice Climbing Event in New Hampshire. Their humbling experience will remind us of how very lucky we are and how strong & brave Will Masavage, Gary Dunn-Instructor, Kayley Green, the injured & disabled really are. Andy Hershey-Instructor, John DeWitt, & Lee Ware

“Sustainable, Multi-use Trails”

Steve provided an overview of the proposed Eastern Continental Divide Loop Trail and other ongoing trail projects in the county. He spoke about Garrett Trails work bringing sustainable, March 3, multi-use trails to Garrett County. The insights 2015 into the role of advocacy for recreation in natural resource management and particularly trail development as a key element of a career in adventure sports. And, volunteer and work opportunities with trails and career options in outdoor recreation planning and management. Steve Storck Joel Wolpert is the creative force behind the “Wolpertinger, LLC” – a mythical film and photography production company based in February 23, the hollows of Belington, WV. From 2015 mountain running in far-flung landscapes to farming in Appalachia, the Wolpertinger immerses in the landscape, both physical and emotional.

Joel Wolpert “The History of Advanced Fabrics Used in Adventure Sports Clothing” Jess Whittemore, Director of Research and Development, Immersion Research, Inc. in Confluence PA. His presentation February 17, incorporated the advanced fabrics used in 2015 adventure sports clothing. A debut of a new 2015 line of Immersion Research products included drysuit’s, drytops, layering, and kayak spray skirts. Jess Whittmore

“Adaptive Programming in Adventure Sports” A challenge to students to volunteer to May 7, 2015 Paradox Sports Representative assist in climbing events around the country.

Jess has spent her entire life in the great outdoors. From the back of a horse to the cockpit of a kayak, Jess feels most at home when she is outside. She has worked as a raft guide in the New River Gorge and spent three months bushwhacking and in November the Amazon River Basin in Brazil with the National 18, 2014 Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS). In May of 2013, Jess joined the Blue Ridge Outdoors team as the magazine's travel editor. She now travels and lives on the road full time, writing articles, gathering Jess Daddio of interviews, and shooting photo and video throughout Blue Ridge Outdoor Magazine the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic. Nelson Rocks Outdoor Center (NROC)

How to transition from a great educational November program to a career in outdoor adventure. 11, 2014 Owner of Nelson’s Rocks. Home of the Via Ferrata & the North Fork Valley Canopy.

David Huber

Steve shared Garrett Trails objectives

- Gain insights into the role of advocacy for recreation in natural resource management - Sustainable trails, & multi-use trails to Garrett County. - Trail development as a key element of a November 3, career in adventure sports. 2014 - An overview of the proposed Eastern Continental Divide Loop Trail and other ongoing trail projects in the county - Explore upcoming volunteer and work opportunities with trails and career options in outdoor recreation planning and management.

Steve Storck

Anthony "AMO" Oliverio

Amo spoke on his adventures in Nicaragua October 28, and Costa Rica with students from Garrett 2014 College. He offered a visual tour of the rain forests in Central American countries. Amo is a Natural Resources and Wildlife graduate from Garrett College. Anthony "AMO" Oliverio Mark “Indy” Kochte

October 21, World Renown Climber spoke on Maryland 2014 Climbing: History, Evolution, Development, and the Future.

Mark "Indy" Kochte

2014 World Championships

March 11, Deep Creek 2014, Volunteer Coordinator 2014 for the 2014 & Kayak World Championships at ASCI

Melissa Anderson

Jeff Gette of the US National Team

Slalom boater, coach and competitor speak March 3, about his experiences as a whitewater 2014 slalom kayaker and Junior National Team Member. He is also an Adventure Sports Adjunct Instructor. Jeff Gette Stephen Hyndman

Adventure Sports graduate, from Garrett College, spoke about his work as a climbing February 25, guide in Oman, Saudi Arabia during the 2014 winter and Seneca Rocks in the summer. He also assisted fellow graduate, Josh Lyons, on the "Thaitanium Project" in Thailand, replacing rusted bolts with titanium ones.

Stephen Hyndman “A Changed Life” After an ominous warning from his doctor, Dan decided to make positive changes in his life and make personal fitness a priority. He transformed into a champion adventure racer and SWAT officer. He has also competed in the US Adventure February 18, Racing National Championships, led adventure 2014 Scout trips & is the fitness coordinator for his SWAT Team.

Dan examined with the students what motivates us to improve ourselves and those around us. Dan Scheafer

International Race in Mexico

February 11, Kyle Burton & Garrett College - Adventure Sports 2014 graduates speak about their experiences as they prepared for and competed in an International Whitewater Kayaking competition in Mexico. Wyatt Hyndman

Author, Andrew McEwan

Wildwater Kayaker, explorer, and November adventure seeker. A Maryland resident, 19, 2013 McEwan spoke on his team expedition where they explored the rivers of Kyrgyzstan.

Andrew McEwan Author of The Backpacker’s Field Rick Curtis Manual Rick Curtis is the Director of the Outdoor Action Program at Princeton University. He is known for many things, but one is that November he is the author of The Backpacker’s Field 12, 2013 Manual, used by outdoor programs around the country as a teaching textbook and staff manual, including Garrett College’s Adventure Sports program.

Mike White Director, Center for Adventure & Experiential Learning (CAEL) until 2015, Michael White has been working in the outdoor adventure industry for more than 18 years. Some of his favorite experiences included managing a fly fishing guide service in UT, working on a big game November 5, hunting ranch in TX, mountaineering in the 2013 North Cascades of WA, SCUBA diving caverns in FL, and working at Wageningen University in The Netherlands. During his presentation, he shared one of the most powerful experiences of his career…his involvement with adventure travel and voluntourism in East Africa.

Dr. Robert “Cold, Wet, & Alive.” Kauffman Dr. Robert Kauffman, American Canoe October 29, Association (ACA) Instructor Trainer and 2013 Director of the Department of Recreation at Frostburg State University spoke on his experiences in the production of the ACA video, “Cold, Wet, & Alive.”

"Maximizing Your Life" Vaughn Ripley has been writing all of his life. Born in Washington D.C. in 1967, he is the Chief Information Officer of Emergent in Northern Virginia. Born a hemophiliac he has wrestled with Hepatitis C, which he recently beat after enduring a yearlong battle with medicine. He has also fought and continues to fight for more than twenty-seven years in a battle with HIV and AIDS. Vaughn is one of the longest Surviving HIV+ people on the planet. He and his wife went through many hardships and October 22, tribulations to finally have two children via in vitro 2013 fertilization. Vaughn has spent time racing motorcycles on the street and track. He excelled at rock climbing for more than seven years and attempted to climb Mount Rainier three times. He ran in and completed the New Orleans Mardi Gras Marathon, raising more than $3,500 for AIDS care Vaughn Ripley giving and research. He is a certified personal trainer and adamantly works out to stay healthy, fit, and trim. Along with his adrenaline and fitness related hobbies, Vaughn is also an avid guitarist with a thirst for musical theory.

Hans Florine, spoke on his journey to become “The World’s Fastest Climber”, twice!

May 2012

Hans Florine “Life After Graduation” Gatan Waddell, graduate of the Adventure Sports Program and Kellee (Gomola) Waddell, graduate of the Natural Resources and Wildlife Program have combined their March 2011 knowledge and efforts to manage the Nelson’s Rock Preserve & Outdoor Center in WV.

Kellee & Gatan Waddell

Speakers: Matt Taylor, Executive Director, Adventure Sports Center International and March Scott Richardson, Coordinator, ASI 2011 Auxiliary Programming. The two spoke on the partnership between ASCI & ASI and the plans for this summer’s activities.

“Creating your own Business” Marcelo came to Garrett College and received a certificate in Adventure Sports, where he took his skills and created a Fall 2011 business in his home country, Brazil. He is also an educator at their university and has attempted to do Everest with no use of oxygen. Marcelo Grisi

“Thaitanium Project “ Josh Lyons, a graduate of the Adventure Sports Program, gave a video presentation on the “Thaitanium Project,” in which he and Tom Cecil (Seneca Rocks Mt. Guides) October 2012 were instrumental in replacing rusted anchors with titanium bolts. Josh was also instrumental in having these bolts constructed through a US company. This all was to provide a safer environment for those who climb in Thailand.

Josh Lyons “Business Owner at the CTC” Doug “Hutch” Hutchinson, a graduate of November the Adventure Sports program, gave a 2012 presentation on the Cumberland Trail Connection and his ownership of the CTC Bike Shop in MD.

Doug “Hutch” Hutchinson

“Advocating for the Preservation of our Future”

Judy, a long-time advocate for the November protection and preservation of the High 2012 Allegheny National Park & Preserve spoke about the future of the park system and the fight to protect them.

Judy Rodd

“TEVA Games” The team spoke on their experiences from the TEVA Games as they traveled to Vail, CO and competed in the games for the November Adventure Sports Program! 2012

All are graduates of the Adventure Sports program.

Joe Bever, Kyle Burton, Alex Zachrel, & Ryan Hood

“Ecuador Expedition” Rob Palmer, a graduate of the Adventure December Sports Program, gave a presentation on his 2012 Ecuador Expedition. Rob is a professional photographer and travels quite a bit.

Rob Palmer ”Sales for Cycling Sports Group” After spending his first 7 years in the design and manufacturing arena Rob moved into his current position as director of sales for the east coast. Rob is currently the Eastern Regional Director of Sales for Cycling Sports Group. The Cycling Sports Group is the parent company for Cannondale, Scwhinn, GT, Mongoose bicycle companies and the Sugoi clothing line. Rob works October daily with a 34 person team that operates all 2010 aspects of technical support while driving 28 million dollars in annual revenue. Certification and accomplishments; 30 year area raft guide/kayaker, endurance cycle racer completing 22, 24 hour mountain bike Rob Vorhees (left in red) races, 24 years of off road Motor cycle and bicycle competitions, ACA certified white water instructor, Member Nation Ski Patrol, & PSIA.

“Wildwater – a Love Story”

World class kayaker Doug Ammons brought the presentation “Wildwater - a love story” - an evening of incredible Fall photos, video, and especially, human 2010 insights into the beauty and challenge of wild rivers. Doug was recently named by Outside Magazine as “one of the top ten ‘game changers’ in adventure since 1900.”

Doug Ammons Agua Azul

Don gave a presentation on the Proposal for the Adventure Sports Center International October (ASCI). He was very instrumental in 2010 bringing it to the table and implementing the proposal. The map was completed in 2004. Don Storck

Tony spoke on his career as a climbing Fall instructor. Tony also taught courses for our 2009 Adventure Sports Program at Seneca Rocks, WV.

Tony Barnes

Eric gave a presentation on his training, his book, “Learning to Climb Indoors” (Falcon), was released in July, 2006, and his previous book, “Training for Climbing” (Falcon 2002) are both best sellers among climbing books. He released a third book, “Conditioning for Climbers” in May 2008. A student and teacher of climbing performance, Eric has personally helped train hundreds of climbers, and his training books and concepts have spread to climbers in more than 50 countries. He is widely recognized for his innovative training techniques and equipment, and he has been a training products design October consultant for Nicros, Inc., since 2008 1994. Eric has written five books on climbing performance including “Flash Training” (Falcon, 1994) and “How to Climb 5.12” (Falcon, 1997/2003). Several of his books have foreign translations. In addition to numerous TV appearances, Eric has written over 35 magazine articles. His writings and photographs on climbing techniques have appeared in a number of nationally and internationally

recognized professional Eric Horst (pronounced “Hirst”) publications, including Climbing, Outside, Men’s Health, Fortune, and National Geographic Adventure.

"The Evolution of an Outdoor Educator" Owner/Operator of Green River Adventures, a whitewater kayaking school and river guide business in Saluda, NC. Has led multi-day wilderness trips for American teenagers in Costa Rica, started an outdoor program for troubled teens in Vermont at the Bennington School, managed operations for Pisgah Whitewater before turning that business into Green River Adventures, teach WW kayaking classes for Brevard College, & serve on the board of directors October for ECO (Environmental 2008 Conservation Organization) for Western North Carolina. She spoke on how to set themselves up for a successful career in the outdoors, and the path changes that many faced, hitting on topics: starting with your first job/internship how to get the right start in this very small industry, how many plan on being field instructors forever & how life goals can change

Sara Bell those plans, how to seize Green River Adventures opportunities when they present themselves, & running a small business in the outdoor industry, headaches & rewards. “Competing on the World Stage”

Rock, Ice, Sky: a slideshow on setting the world paragliding distance record, rock climbing & high-end mixed climbing (a super-slick type of ice climbing). Will’s presentations bring humor and adventure to the stage. He also presented in several classes and then a time of climbing techniques where the students were able to be more one on one with Will.

October 10, To climbers, he is known for 2006 and radical ice routes, high-level April 13, 2000 competition climbing & mountain experiences. Kayakers know him for pioneering new descents down wilderness rivers across North America, as well as teaching & writing about paddling for magazines. In paragliding, he is best known for record-setting paragliding flights (current national/world record

Will Gadd is one of the top extreme sports athletes in the holder), as well as decent world. competition results both in the US & Canada. He is also known for his ability & desire to complete successful, safe outings in adverse conditions. Risa was a competitor in the 1989 World Whitewater Championships, former December 8, Executive Director of the Risa Shimoda 2004 American Whitewater, President of the The Shimoda Group & on the Adventure Sports Center, Inc., board.

Doug provided concepts of risk management, planning, budgets & marketing. Doug tied in the Doug Crytzer theoretical to the real world to April 8, 2003 Pennsylvania Adventure Racing help students to become more productive members in the adventure sports community. He is an accomplished businessman and adventure racer. David provided information regarding a career in the outdoor field, from guiding hikes to David Anderson summiting large scale April 22, 2003 NOLS Instructor mountains, kayak instructing, studying song birds, sharing outdoor living skills. He is also an author, & photographer. Sarah Ballard March 11, 2003 Longacre Expeditions Historian of the paddlesports era, from the 60’s to present day kayaking. Susan, being a paddler herself, noted that in the 60’s and 70’s you just grabbed Susan Taft your boat and taught yourself. Author of She explained about the changes February 12, “The River Chasers” in how were built, like a 2002 Sue is also a published chemist, in ISD (instructional collapsible kayak that was systems design), she has been in chemistry, engineering, portable & easy to take, then the plastics manufacturing that spans over 25 years. more durable plastic ones, and now the kayaking industry is growing for manufacturers, competitions, and adventure seekers. Rebecca spoke on the opportunities for students to Rebecca Nitteraur December 3, work in outdoor programs taking Baltimore Chesapeake Bay 2002 out participants into the field, Outward Bound teach them great outdoor skills, travel, and more. “The Culture of the Para- Olympic Athlete” Chris is a member of Team Sunrise. He was born with the potential to be an athlete; however, it was his involvement in wheelchair sports that brought it out of him. Now that he’s the athlete he was meant to be, Chris is on the fast track. Following his 3-medal performance at 1992 April 12, 2001 Barcelona Paralympics, Chris has given over 50 lectures. “It is my goal, with all the publicity I get, to try and educate people about the sports for people with disabilities.” Following the Atlantic Paralympics, Chris looks forward to taking the Chris Ridgeway plunge-scuba diving that is. During the winter, Chris hits the slopes as a ski instructor. Feb 2001 Jack Hughes Risk Management Opportunities in the World of Nov 2000 Randy Smith Challenge/Ropes Courses “Women in World Class Competitions” Sue’s presentation spoke of the extensive training one has to embrace if you’re going to compete on an international level. She spoke of the many October 2000 races she had won and the ones she didn’t. She was Olympic material. However, one of the organizers failed to report the stats for a race she was in and

Susan Haywood she didn’t have enough points to be considered for the Olympics that year. September 2000 Thailand Climbing Expedition

Tom Cecil (photo at Seneca) “The Culture of Olympic Athletes” Oliver is the Head Coach for the Bethesda Center of Excellence, a Oliver Fixx non-profit club. He coaches, February 10, 1995 World Champion and trains & supports canoe & kayak 2000 1996 Olympic Champion athletes in their pursuit of In K-1 excellence in international competitions. He noted that community outreach projects are a large part of their mission. Patagonia's Niche in the Nov 1999 Patagonia Representative Marketplace “Special Populations and the Need for Inclusion” Slim was paralyzed from the waist down and had paddled for Oct 1999 Slim Ray years. He, along with friends, was able to continue paddling. However, Slim also knew his limitations and adhered to them.

President & CEO of Wilderness Odysseys, LTD, provided information how his company explores unspoiled rivers of Canada through whitewater rafting, canoeing & sea Kayaking. He shared how he worked with the Native Americans and their culture. He Oct 1999 David Koritko shared how natural history, archeology, and wildlife encounters were sought by participants. He also noted that he worked with satellite weather reports, for the chef & guest could pull off river before the rain came and it made for a better experience, on their 2-4 week trip. Mountain Bike Racing at the Mar 1999 Gunnar Shogren National Level