Michelle Song
Volunteers are the heart of The Mountaineers operations, and this past year was no exception. A heartfelt thank-you to the more than 3,000 members who generously gave their time during Fiscal Year 2024 (October 2023–September 2024), and to the many others who supported us from afar. Your contributions have truly made a difference.
At the start of each year, we recognize a select group of volunteers who have gone above and beyond to support our programs. Among the thousands of dedicated individuals powering The Mountaineers, we’re excited to celebrate our 2024 Volunteer Award recipients. Please join us in congratulating these exceptional volunteers who have earned a Branch Service Award or an Organization-Wide Award.
Table of Contents
Branch Service Awards
- Bellingham Branch Service Award
- Everett Branch Larry Ingalls Service Award
- Foothills Branch Service Award
- Kitsap Branch Service Award
- Olympia Branch Service Award
- Seattle Branch Service Award
- Tacoma Branch Service Award
- Outdoor Centers Service Award
Organization-wide Awards
- Leader of the Year Award
- Martinique Grigg Leadership in Youth Education Award
- The Mountaineer Service Award
BRANCH SERVICE AWARDS
BELLINGHAM BRANCH SERVICE AWARD
James Pierson
James has been a member of The Mountaineers since 2007, starting in Olympia before making his way to the Bellingham Branch, where he has served as our Safety Officer since 2014. In this critical role, James has dedicated countless hours to reviewing accidents and sharing best practices to help keep our branch members safer in the mountains.
James’s contributions extend far beyond overseeing safety. He plays an active role in our Basic and Intermediate courses, leading instruction for Winter Mountaineering and Intermediate Water Ice. He also supports Instructor Refresher courses, leads trips and climbs year-round, and serves as Co-Chair of our Code of Conduct Committee. His commitment to The Mountaineers has earned him recognition as a Super Volunteer many times over.
As a certified guide and AIARE Instructor, James frequently shares his expertise, helping us all learn and grow in our climbing endeavors. His guidance, skill, and dedication have made a profound impact on our branch and community.
To top it off, James is just an all-around amazing person. He’s a phenomenal climber, skier, kiteboarder, motorcycle rider, and dancer. He’s also a sweet dog dad, a mean guacamole maker, and—above all—a genuinely kind and thoughtful human being.
Thank you, James!
LARRY INGALLS DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD
Jill Thornton
Jill Thornton, has been a dedicated member of The Mountaineers since 2017 and graduated from the Basic Climbing course in 2019. While completing the rigorous requirements of course, Jill co-chaired the inception of a Youth Programs Committee and worked diligently to create the foundation for a new Everett Explorers curriculum for ages 7-12. Although the program was unfortunately cut short due to COVID, the course structure Jill helped create is now serving as the basis for a reboot of an Everett Youth program this and next year.
In 2023-2024, Jill’s contributions reached new heights as she co-led the Everett Basic Climbing course. Her leadership was nothing short of exceptional. As anticipated, the course was incredibly well organized, and Jill invested a tremendous amount of time into not only managing the logistics but also fostering an environment where students and instructors felt included and welcomed.
By prioritizing the needs of the branch and the Everett climbing program while juggling the demands of a young family, Jill has earned the admiration and respect of our community and membership. Her dedication and passion embody the spirit of The Mountaineers.
Thank you, Jill!
FOOTHILLS BRANCH SERVICE AWARD
Brad Peacock
Brad has been a member of The Mountaineers since 2018 and has played a key role in the success of the Foothills Branch. As the current Past Chair, his leadership has been instrumental in guiding the branch and shaping its direction. Since 2020, he has led trips for the Foothills Trail Running and Hiking Committees, and in 2023, expanded his leadership to include the Foothills Urban Walks and First Aid Committees.
Since 2020, he has contributed over 900 lifetime volunteer hours, an accomplishment that reflects his commitment to our community. In fiscal year 2024 alone, Brad led 75 activities, trips, and courses—the highest of any leader across all branches. His efforts directly impacted 187 unique participants, again setting a record for the fiscal year.
One of the standout aspects of Brad’s leadership is his ability to create inclusive, supportive outdoor experiences. His participants often share how welcoming, helpful, and kind he is, ensuring that everyone feels valued and informed. Whether it’s providing detailed communications about trail conditions, setting expectations for hiking pace, or coordinating carpooling logistics, Brad’s clear guidance enhances the experience for all involved.
What makes Brad particularly special is his personal engagement with participants. He takes the time to connect with each individual, especially newcomers, to ensure that everyone feels supported and safe. His thorough approach helps participants feel more confident and prepared for future outdoor adventures. But what truly sets Brad apart is his focus on the emotional and social aspects of hiking, trail running, and urban walks - emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and mutual support within the group.
We are incredibly grateful for Brad’s leadership, his unwavering commitment to fostering belonging in the outdoors, and the many hours he has devoted to The Mountaineers.
Thank you, Brad!
KITSAP BRANCH SERVICE AWARD
Nathan Starr
Nathan has been a member of The Mountaineers since 2016 and has been a dedicated volunteer since 2018, contributing over 2,400 lifetime volunteer hours. In Fiscal Year 2024 alone, Nathan generously devoted 501 hours of service, a testament to his commitment to the branch and its members.
Nathan’s leadership within the branch is truly remarkable. He has volunteered with several committees, including chairing the Scrambling Committee, and has served as our branch’s Safety Officer for multiple years. His long-term dedication to ensuring safety and fostering growth within the climbing community has left a lasting impact.
In addition to his committee work, Nathan leads the Scrambling course, dedicating countless hours to revamping the curriculum to better engage students. These improvements have sparked greater enthusiasm for the course and increased volunteer involvement from past participants. Nathan also contributes to the Basic and Intermediate Alpine Climbing courses and leads numerous scrambles and glacier climbs each year, providing valuable experiences for our members.
Nathan’s commitment to education and safety extends beyond The Mountaineers. He continuously advances his knowledge by attending multiple continuing education courses each year. This dedication was particularly evident in April when Nathan, while leading a scramble on Mount Elinor, aided in the rescue of an injured climber from another party. He played a key role in facilitating the climber’s safe descent, enabling a successful extraction by Olympic Mountain Rescue.
Nathan’s outstanding contributions to The Mountaineers and the broader climbing community exemplify the values of leadership, safety, and service.
Thank you, Nathan!
OLYMPIA BRANCH SERVICE AWARD
Dee Ann Kline Parkinson
Dee Ann has been a member of The Mountaineers since 2007, and since 2015, she has been an exceptional volunteer leader with the Olympia Hiking and Backpacking Committee, Olympia Mountaineering Oriented First Aid, and Olympia Naturalist Committee.
Dee Ann is an extraordinary volunteer, leader, and mentor. With almost two decades of service to the branch, she has consistently, and often behind the scenes, made the Olympia branch and The Mountaineers a better organization. Through her friendship, innovation, leadership, mentorship, and tireless volunteerism, Dee Ann has been a key figure in shaping the success of The Mountaineers.
Dee Ann holds multiple Key Leader and Super Volunteer badges and has held branch and activity chair positions. She also plays a critical role in course development and management. These contributions have directly impacted hundreds of students, members, and volunteers within the Olympia Branch and the larger community, helping to ensure the continued growth and positive impact of our organization.
Dee Ann’s work has left an indelible mark on the Olympia branch, and her leadership has inspired countless individuals. She exemplifies the very best qualities of a Mountaineers volunteer - selflessness, dedication, and a passion for fostering a strong and vibrant community. Her influence has been a guiding light, and we are thrilled to be able to present this well-deserved recognition.
Thank you, Dee Ann!
SEATTLE BRANCH SERVICE AWARD
Felicia Wibowo
Felicia is a decades-long member of the Mountaineers, joining The Mountaineers in 1991. Felicia started her volunteering journey in 2014 as a co-leader on a sea kayaking trip at Deception Pass with the Seattle Sea Kayaking Committee. Since then, with nearly 1,900 lifetime volunteer hours, she is a nine-time Super Volunteer. In fiscal year 2024, Felicia not only achieved Super Volunteer status, but she was also a 2024 Key Leader and Key Instructor.
A cornerstone of the Seattle Sea Kayaking Committee, it is no exaggeration to say that the committee would not be what it is today without her. She is a prolific trip leader and teacher, supporting basic and rolling sea kayaking courses, and running many introductions to currents and introduction to kayak-camping classes. Since 2015, she has also been teaching navigation on the water, guiding countless paddlers with her expertise.
But Felicia’s impact doesn’t stop there. Her contributions span multiple activities and committees, reflecting her incredible versatility and dedication to our community. She is also a cross-country ski leader, supporting the Everett Nordic Skiing Program and the Foothills Cross-Country Skiing Committee as both a trip leader and course instructor.
Felicia is well known as the “fixer” – the one who solves problems with websites, room bookings, or logistical challenges . Whatever the problem, she'll know how to fix it. And she has developed strong, productive relationships with Mountaineers staff, further amplifying her impact.
Ultimately, Felicia can be described as always game for any sort of mischief that involves a kayak, a tireless mentor, and a leader that engages with a wonderful laugh and smile. Her contributions have made our community measurably better. We are deeply grateful for Felicia’s years of leadership and boundless energy.
Thank you, Felicia!
Tess Wendel
Tess has been a dedicated volunteer since 2015, bringing invaluable knowledge and extensive experience to the Seattle Branch Council. From her former roles as a staff member, Seattle Climbing Committee Chair, and Seattle Branch Chair to her role as an exceptionally active immediate Past Branch Chair, Tess has contributed to the success of The Mountaineers community in so many ways. Along the way, she’s been recognized as a six-time Super Volunteer.
Both behind the scenes and some in the spotlight, Tess leads with enthusiasm, humor, and accountability, and is always willing to lean in by either taking responsibility or lending a helping hand. She has a strong knack for getting things done, often scheduling events or sending communications before a discussion or meeting has even ended.
Tess has been a key part of shaping the equivalency process for the Seattle Climbing Committee's intermediate climbing candidates and welcoming experienced climbers into our community. At the same time, she creates opportunities for new and upcoming leaders by organizing events like the Seattle Climb Leader and Prospective Leader Potluck and Information Sessions.
This year, Tess has been an active participant in the Seattle Branch Emotional Safety Working Group and co-led the Emotional Safety and Vision Action Workshop in June. Her efforts have made a meaningful impact. Participants who have worked with Tess have shared: "Tess welcomed and introduced me to other participants. Tess also went the extra mile with my partner and I to get us acquainted with The Mountaineers and help us find a route in the program since we are both new" and "Tess is extremely capable and makes everyone feel welcome."
Tess is a model for the Mountaineers Core Values of Adventure, Education, Volunteerism, and Community and we are so fortunate she is part of our community.
Thank you, Tess!
TACOMA BRANCH SERVICE AWARD
RyAnn Peverley
Since joining The Mountaineers in 2016, RyAnn’s dedication to the Tacoma Branch and our broader Mountaineers community shines through in every role she takes on.
Currently serving as the Tacoma Branch Secretary and Chair of the Tacoma Basic Alpine Climbing program, RyAnn has been instrumental in shaping the program into a cornerstone of our branch. Her leadership has been vital in getting the Tacoma Basic Alpine Climbing Program up and running again through and after the COVID-19 pandemic. RyAnn has gone above and beyond to ensure the program’s success. Her unwavering commitment has strengthened the climbing community in Tacoma, fostering a spirit of connection and resilience.
RyAnn’s impact is reflected in the incredible scope of her work. In Fiscal Year 2024 alone, she led tencourses as a volunteer, directly impacting 151 unique participants. Since 2021, she has consistently earned the distinction of Super Volunteer, a testament to her exceptional service and commitment to The Mountaineers mission.
Her impact extends beyond her volunteer roles. As the Tacoma Youth Programs Associate Manager, RyAnn inspires the next generation of Mountaineers by creating thoughtful programs that provide youth with meaningful access to the outdoors and opportunities to build confidence and connection in nature.
RyAnn exemplifies our core values of adventure, education, volunteerism, and community. Her steadfast leadership has made a lasting impact on our climbing community, inspired countless youth, and enriched the lives of many beyond The Mountaineers.
Thank you, RyAnn!
OUTDOOR CENTERS SERVICE AWARD
Dave Claar
Stay tuned for Dave's recognition!
ORGANIZATION-WIDE AWARDS
THE MOUNTAINEERS LEADER OF THE YEAR AWARD
Rob Erickson
Since joining The Mountaineers, Rob has made an extraordinary impact by leading 67 trips and courses in Fiscal Year 2024, volunteering an astounding 1,395 hours. During this time, he positively impacted 166 unique participants, creating meaningful and transformative outdoor experiences for our community.
Rob’s dedication as a hike leader is clear in every adventure he orchestrates. As one participant shared, "Rob is congenial and pays attention to the group. He is an excellent naturalist and enjoys helping us learn to identify plants of all types." His ability to pivot during unforeseen challenges has earned him the trust and admiration of his participants. When faced with unexpected conditions like road closures and snow accumulations, Rob remained calm and resourceful, ensuring the group's safety while adapting the trip plan. One participant praised his leadership: "Rob showed top-tier leadership… ensuring the safety of the group and pacing the trip effectively."
Rob’s trips are more than outdoor outings—they are rich opportunities to learn new things. He fosters an environment where participants are encouraged to grow their skills, whether through trail navigation or understanding the local flora. "Rob’s hikes are learning experiences," shared another participant, "and he has a wonderful way of leading trips—the right combination of enthusiasm and encouragement."
Rob’s immense dedication, passion, and adaptability have made him a standout leader in our community. His deep knowledge of the outdoors, combined with his commitment to sharing it with others, makes him an invaluable asset to The Mountaineers.
Thank you, Rob!
THE MARTINIQUE GRIGG LEADERSHIP IN YOUTH EDUCATION AWARD
Emile Blouin
Since joining The Mountaineers in 2023, Emile has dedicated an astounding 416 volunteer hours in Fiscal Year 2024 alone. Emile’s journey with our Youth Clubs began when a family member in the Nomads program introduced him to the opportunity. From that moment, he has been a powerful force of energy, expertise, and kindness within the community.
In less than a year, Emile has made a lasting impact on the climbing curriculum for all our Youth Clubs, helping to overhaul and revitalize the curriculum alongside the staff. As a mentor and instructor for the Mountaineers Adventure Club leadership meetings, workshops, and weekend activities, Emile’s presence has been integral to the success of the program. His youthfulness and ability to connect with students on a personal level have resonated with participants, and his willingness to teach and empower is felt by everyone he works with.
One of Emile’s most significant contributions has been his tireless work revamping the climbing skills curriculum. Addressing feedback from parents and students, Emile has spent countless hours refining what was previously seen as clunky and vague, essentially treating this monumental task like a part-time job, all as a volunteer. His commitment went beyond just meetings and workshops—he spent the entire month of July in Squamish, supporting all three age groups in the program and leading trips, workshops, and skills nights.
Emile’s impact extends beyond instruction; his kindness and leadership have transformed the Youth Clubs community. As one staff member shared, "Emile is a locomotive of energy, expertise, and kindness, and we are so grateful for him." We are thrilled to recognize Emile’s exceptional service and leadership.
Thank you, Emile!
THE MOUNTAINEERS SERVICE AWARD
Lynn Graff
A dedicated Mountaineers member since 1997 and leader since 2003, Lynn has been Chair of the Seattle Naturalist Committee for the past three years, bringing an infectious curiosity and tireless dedication to everything she does. As one of her fellow Naturalist Leaders shared, "Lynn isn’t just a stellar volunteer; she constantly invites others to share and participate. She’s a gem of a long-standing Mountaineer."
Lynn’s commitment to the naturalist community has been remarkable. Under her leadership, she initiated a new instructor training program that recruits recent graduates from the Introduction to the Natural World (INW) course to serve as field trip instructors, ensuring continuity and fostering new leadership within the program. She is a master at networking, consistently collaborating with other Mountaineers groups and branches to develop enriching courses and lectures. Lynn’s support of subcommittee leads has been outstanding, as she provides guidance without ever "taking over." Her attention to detail ensures that gaps are filled, especially when it comes to following Mountaineers policies and procedures.
The impact Lynn has made on the INW program is nothing short of transformative. As noted by another Naturalist Committee Chair, “The difference between the 2018 course and today’s course is dramatic. The scope, the quality of instruction, and the support given to students and leaders have all improved through Lynn’s leadership and vision.” Lynn’s dedication has extended beyond Seattle, with her efforts resulting in students from at least four different branches joining this year’s course. She has also provided invaluable support to the Olympia Branch’s Naturalist Committee as they work to grow their program, showcasing her collaborative spirit.
In every aspect of her work, Lynn leads by example, modeling curiosity, intelligence, and humility as she guides others in exploring the natural world. Her tireless enthusiasm and encouragement inspire future leaders, and her presence in the community has been nothing short of invaluable. As one nominator perfectly summarized, "Lynn fills every gap that emerges and does it all with grace and thoughtfulness. What hasn’t she done?” We are thrilled to recognize Lynn Graf with this year’s Mountaineers Service Award for her outstanding leadership, dedication, and service.
Thank you, Lynn!
THANK YOU!
A heartfelt thank you to all of our 2024 Branch Service and Org-Wide Award recipients for their unwavering dedication to our community. We would also like to express our deep gratitude to all of our Mountaineers volunteers who consistently go above and beyond to make a meaningful difference across our branches. Your efforts are truly appreciated. Thank you!
