Let’s celebrate our recent scholarship recipients!
Our Leader Advanced Training Scholarship helps reduce the cost barrier for experienced volunteer leaders who want to build new skills beyond the baseline requirements for leading trips.
By investing in advanced instruction, the Boston Chapter strengthens safety, expands the range of activities offered, and grows a deeper bench of knowledgeable leaders across our Boston-area committees. We’re pleased to recognize this year’s recipients and the training each will pursue.
Majid Ali—Hiking and Backpacking
Scholarship-supported training: Wilderness First Responder (WFR)
A trip leader since 2019, Majid is known for thoughtful planning and mentoring newer hikers in navigation, winter travel, and responsible backcountry practices—helping participants stretch their skills while staying safe in changing seasonal conditions.
Matt Day—Mountaineering
Scholarship-supported training: Multi-Pitch Trad Instruction
Matt has served in a range of volunteer roles—including Committee Treasurer and program leadership—while mentoring leaders-in-training and helping improve behind-the-scenes systems that keep trips running smoothly.
Carly Hodes—Mountaineering and 20’s and 30’s
Scholarship-supported training: Single Pitch Instructor (SPI) Course and Exam
A leader for three years, Carly has led dozens of activities and supported multiple major Boston-area programs as an assistant and instructor. She also helps connect communities—especially through 20’s and 30’s programming and cross-audiences that welcome new members into the volunteer pipeline.
Emily Madsen—Ski and Ride
Scholarship-supported training: Wilderness First Responder (WFR)
In her first year as a full leader, Emily has already stepped up as a trip leader and Social Media Chair, while mentoring newer leaders and serving as the contact point for our annual collaboration with SheJumps.
Greg Puszko—Mountaineering
Scholarship-supported training: Single Pitch Instructor (SPI) Course and Exam
Since getting involved in 2021, Greg has become a consistent leader for gym nights, crag days, and community weekends—and has helped build out the committee’s newer sport climbing instructional pathway, expanding opportunities for members to develop outdoor climbing skills.