Student Life

Outdoor Ed: Student Staff Profiles

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• Class of 2012

  Carrie Coates (Portola Valley, CA) Carrie is a senior planning to double major in Math and Environmental Biology. She grew up in the suburbs of San Francisco spending as much time as possible in the Sierra Nevada Mountains hiking, camping, and backpacking. Snow is currently a foreign substance to Carrie, but she hopes to learn more about it through OE. Sometimes referred to as a "camera sniper," a trip with Carrie will result in tons of photos, some candid and some posed, but always reminders of the best and worst moments on trail.

  
  

  Mike Chamberlain (Washington, D.C.) There is a senior named Mike, Who enjoys to cave, climb, and hike. He sings like James Blunt, and many a stunt, Or does whatever he would like. -Written by Jack Pitfield

  
  

  Cal Crawford (Needham, MA) Running around in a Chaco or a Croc(o) she is one of the most optimistic people you will ever meet. With experience hiking with seven-year-olds, she knows how to make any situation feel like home. If you are feeling a damper in morale you should pick up the phone and call your friend Cal. You will feel like you've known her forever after just a few minutes.

  
  

  Alice Feng (New Zealand) Born in Shijiazhuang (don't ask), China. Subsequently plonked into New Zealand. Now, a senior at Colgate. Half Chinese, half kiwi. Take your pick. (btw the left arm is NOT broken).

  
  

  Kat Hess (Falmouth, ME) A Mainah. Every autumn she watches green change to yellow and yellow fall to the ground. If you are ever about to hit a moose (the animal) this Mainard can tell you how to hit this ungulate. She is a mean white water kayaker, shreds the powpow on teles, but can also prove herself as a knarly rock climber. Kat's favorite food on a hot summers day is a chilled ice cream sundae. Kat can count to ten in under ten seconds.

  
  

  Peter Kropp (Franklin, TN) Hailing from the great state of Tennessee, Peter left the land of bluegrass, smokey mountains and barbeque to come to Colgate and fight the fabled white stuff called snow. A long time backpacker, he picked up rock climbing and beyond all odds ice climbing. Peter has a developed a passion for both rivaled only by his passion punishing himself through the study of molecular biology. He once ate 6 peaches in a single sitting.

  
  

  Ryan Loomis (Mahtomedi, MN) Growing up in the great northern territory - often mistakenly referred to as Minnesota - Ryan Ames Loomis took to the snow like someone who liked it. He would often travel exactly 5 kilometers with great speed atop a shiny layer of P-tex in sub zero temperatures for no apparent reason. In the warmer months Ryan climbed rocks, hunted game, fished fish, paddled boats, and told tall tales among friends while, perhaps, sharing a sauna. At Colgate, Ryan studies Chinese, International Relations, and tea.

  
  

  Claire Maggiotto (New York, NY) Claire Maggiotto is a senior from the jungle of New York City. She found a love for the outdoors when she attended HMI, a semester program in Leadville, CO. She enjoys kayaking and hiking and hopes to master her tele skiing skills during her time with OE. Claire used to wear an eye-patch, which explains her constant clumsiness. Although she is not quite sure of her major, she is currently considering mathematics and a Pre-Med path.

  
  

  Andrew Palmer (Saratoga, CA) Andrew is a senior who gave up the sun of Northern California for the pleasure of being part of the best outdoor program in the country! No, he doesn't surf gnarly breakers or 'like, know, like, all the stars'. But he does love to backpack, rock climb, and ski. He hopes to work on his tele and kayaking skills with OE. Long walks on the beach may be great, but he has been known to settle for a long van ride with Natasha Bedingfield blaring. Palmer thinks he wants to be a history or econ major, but is keeping his options open. He'll see you on trail.

  
  

  Jack Pitfield (Toronto, Canada) Jack is not like most people. In fact, I think it is safe to say he is not like anyone. He was born, extraordinarily, in a kayak. He was first seen floating on the Amazon River, and by floating I really mean paddling up a storm. By the age of one month he could already roll, both with and without his paddle and in many different fashions, none of which I know the names of or the technique for because I am not nearly as adept as Jack. At two years of age, he kayaked over Niagara Falls, which seemed to be the end of Jack; but fortunately, when hope seemed dim, a large dolphin flipped his boat upright and performed CPR. Turns out, not only is Jack a master kayaker, but he is also friends with animals. Jack has been known to backpack, canoe, cave, and climb with his animal (and human) friends as well. -Written by Mike Chamberlain

  
  

  Billie Pritzker (Wayzata, MN) Billie Pritzker is a bubbly blonde senior with a passion for the outdoors. She enjoys backpacking and climbing, but is always up for a new adventure. She finds great satisfaction in a well-packed backpack, and eco-sprays like a pro. An avid trail cook, Billie specializes in making pancakes and desserts of all sorts. When she's not occupied with Outdoor Ed, Billie is running, reading, or napping. She loves to travel and hopes to find a career that allows for further exploration. Billie is a self-proclaimed "girly girl" who feels most herself outside. She plans to major in Environmental Economics.

  
  

  Will Schlitzer (Mattapoisett, MA) Will, a freshman at Colgate, decided to apply for Outdoor Ed staff training after his amazing caving Wilderness Adventure. Since then he has proven to be a comedic stand-by at Base Camp and in the backcountry, and inspires us all to dress well by owning his own natural instinct for outdoorsy fashion (flannel and poly-pro being his key couture pieces). -Written by Casey Schmidt '11

  
  

  Chris Valk (New Canaan, CT) Possibly the classiest person in OE, Chris is a native to New Canaan. He can be found wearing a sailing hat, in both the quad and the Adirondacks. Chris is known to belt out a good Bruce Springsteen jam or an unbelievable Christopher Walken impersonation. His canoeing J-stroke is rivaled by none other.

• Class of 2013

  Jacky Baughman (Henrietta, NY) Studying off campus Spring 2012 Casually aggressive or aggressively casual but always sassy, Jacky is a geology major so that she can spend all the more time outside. Oh and rocks are cool, really cool just ask her. If she’s not tearing up fresh pow on teles or her snowboard, climbing some ice or taking a stroll through the woods she’s probably identifying volcanic deposits, piecing together geologic histories or napping. Besides geology and the outdoors, her favorite things include tie-dying, impromptu dance parties in the rain, and nature peeing.

  
  

  Jamie Bruening (Queensbury, NY) Studying off campus Spring 2012 Born heel-hooking on the side of Mt. Marcy, he soon discovered his true calling was in the Adirondacks. Jamie is the type of guy, that if you have time, you should ask him to tell you a story. An avid rock climber and tree hugger, he enjoys a good Grateful Dead t-shirt. Jamie leaves an imprint on everyone he meets, and everywhere he goes makes an imprint on his hat. He wants to be a physics major and knows the mechanical advantages of a good truckers hitch.

  
  

  Joe Coplan (Glencoe, IL) Studying off campus Spring 2012 One word to describe this native of the windy citier is goofy. With the dynamic energy of a hurricane, he is an avid questioner of theoretical concepts and philosophies never ceasing to question even the most out of ordinary questions. This is coupled with his love for the outdoors and interpretive dance. Joe is a little confused as he enjoys spending his time both above and underground (rock climbing and caving). He asks (like the great Socrates) can you smell the smell out of a flower? Think about it…

  
  

  Dave Esber (New Franklin, OH) Studying off campus Spring 2012 Did America really land on the moon? We will never know. But David Esber did…multiple times. As a Gemini most people are sure to assume that he likes to talk; this is not the case. Loves long walks on the beach and tearing it up on the stage (mostly musicals). Name any show tune and Dave will sing it to you better. Once a trainer of Boy Scouts, Dave knows how to paddle canoes and sea kayaks with ease and grace. David has black hair.

  
  

  Corey Fitzgerald (Harwich Port, MA) Studying off campus Spring 2012 Bubbly and full of energy this freckled Providence/Seattle/Boston (her parents can't decide where they want to live) gal is sure to make you laugh. Corey has been known to enjoy the rock wall and has found her calling in the art of flipping/rolling/wet exiting a kayak. With her flawless sense of direction and internal compass, Corey loves to wander through the trails of the Adirondacks in any weather. You might not think she is a B.A. at first glance, but when she puts on a harness or a nice pair of boots you will quickly be proven wrong. Spend a trip with her and you will feel like you're with your sister or your best friend.

  
  

  Fran Hodgins (West Chester, PA) Studying off campus Spring 2012 Known as frantastic, franberry, or even frantana, this world traveler has experienced every kind of culture. She can cut a rug and sea kayak through the elements like no one's business. She cares about everyone, and if you ever feel uncomfortable in a situation turn yourself Fran's way. If we ever discover a new planet we should probably look in to calling it Franistan.

  
  

  Maddy Keenan (Oakland, CA) Studying off campus Spring 2012 Haling from the rolling hills and sunshine of good ol' California, Maddy and her family are enthusiastic growers of grapes. Often called 'Maddy-long-legs', she is the most efficient hiker in the training class. Despite also being known as 'Mads', she most certainly will not be upset if you ever ask her to slow down so you can keep up. Always wearing her wool hat, she brings energy and style to any trip. Next time you see her, ask her to show you her trademark dance move ("Save the Last Dance" totally stole it from her); which she's happy to do any time -- even on the rock wall.

  
  

  Shanshan Mai (Honduras) Originally from China, Shanshan grew up in Honduras and loves all things that involve adrenaline and/or the outdoors. When she isn’t in the woods climbing trees, rock hopping and cowboy camping, she's concocting something in the kitchen or lounging with a book. She has a confessed addiction to four-legged, tail wagging friends and has trouble passing up hot chocolate. One day, Shanshan hopes to run a triathlon, be certified in scuba diving, organize a fundraiser, and much more.  Track her down to chat in Spanish, talk about your favorite scar stories or how you are changing your world!

  
  

  Tyler Makepeace (Wallingford, CT) Tyler is a junior and is studying International Relations. He joined Outdoor Education his sophomore year and has since learned to telemark ski, cross- country ski, and to kayak. His favorite meal on trips is mac and cheese.

  
  

  Haley Mirr (Cherry Hills Village, CO) Also from the foothills of the Rockies, Haley, or H as she is known in the Hamilton area is an avid hiker and friend of the outdoors. If you ever have a question about jeans (not genes) ask Haley, because she considers herself a denim expert.  You never know who you are talking to—as she is a fantastic impersonator—Sarah Palin often accompanies us on outdoor adventures. Haley excels at rock climbing, hiking, and canoeing…check this gal out!

  
  

  Ross Mower (Greenwood Village, CO) Studying off campus Spring 2012 Born and raised in Denver, Colorado, growing up Ross made the Rocky Mountains his playground. Now at Colgate, Ross has really focused on excelling in outdoor activities such as fly fishing, white water kayaking, canoeing, rock climbing, and tele skiing. With his laid-back attitude and dimples the size of craters, Ross is always looking to enjoy his time in the outdoors with others. And don't hesitate to seek out his help if you ever find yourself in need of assistance in building tree houses.

  
  

  Spenser Nehrt (Cheshire, CT) Studying off campus Spring 2012 Spenser is in the lucky class of 2013, he's from central Connecticut, and only recently discovered his affinity for the outdoors. He enjoys nighttime hiking, canoeing, caving, and plenty of other activities he has yet to try. You'll probably find him chasing squirrels or trying to convince the guy at the rental station in Huntington's to let him have the key to the climbing wall. He loves animals, though he would appreciate it if you stopped him before he tries to hug that fuzzy, soft-looking bear.

• Class of 2014

  Neal Barber (Seattle, WA) Born and raised in Seattle, Neal was drawn to the outdoors from a young age. He is known to start to get the pre-ski season jitters as early as September. You should not be surprised to see him in the mountains at anytime during the year. If you happen to find yourself next to him on a long car ride be aware, he might get "Cooped".

  
  

  Sean Bjornsson (Bridgewater Corners, VT) Sean is one of the few out there to call the Green Mountains of Vermont home (you know, that east coast ski destination where nobody actually lives). He enjoys a good paddle, hike, climb or cave and is always down to build a snow shelter. If you want to find him around campus, look for the kid with overly large mirrored aviators on a sunny day.

  
  

  Evan Chartier (River Forest, IL) Evan is a native of Oak Park Illinois; but you’ll be lucky to find him there. He enjoys international travel, long journeys in the backcountry, head rubs, and outdoor education. If falling on teleskis was a Major, he would graduate with high honors. Over committed, Evan spends his free time avoiding closed toed shoes, hot drinks, and socks.

  
  

  Alex Coffin (Concord, MA) Born and raised in the historical town of Concord, Massachusetts, Alex Goodspeed Coffin has spent her first 19 years of life trying to emulate Thoreau’s spirit and connection with nature. Whether its kayaking, downhill skiing, or crawling through caves, Alex puts both the “good” and the “speed” in Goodspeed with her enthusiasm and vigor. On or off the trail, this feather-ruffling, card-playing fiend is forever ready for a game of Hearts or Oh Hell. If, in fact, you’re lucky enough to spend any time in the wilderness with our freckly friend, you’ll witness the phenomenon of her hourly hiccups and spontaneous fits of laughter. Alex’s charisma and intense passion for life will leave you ready for your next pursuit of the flighty temptress that is adventure.

  
  

  Sarah Dickson (Wayne, PA) As a native of Pennsylvania, Sarah has a natural affinity for Philly-Cheese Steaks and Wawa. With a personality more bouncy and perky than her curls, Sarah has been known to pull-off some mad dance moves. Something of an adventure junkie, Sarah can often be found attacking the climbing wall, hitting the ski slopes, or blasting out some Nelly in the car (AWH AWH!). Whether she is at Colgate or leading a trip in the Adirondacks, Sarah always has a friendly smile and positive outlook.

  
  

  Paul Donahue (Wilton, CT) Hailing from the distant shores of Connecticut (specifically Fairfield County…you may have heard of it) Paul grew up a typical bro complete with sick flow. He soon discovered however, that maybe lax wasn’t for him and he took to the outdoors with the same enthusiasm and compassion he once used to tone his calf muscles. Bred from a ski racer’s lineage, he generally likes going fast despite his laid back manner. Known to drop knees or die trying, Paul is quick with a joke, a smile, or a blank stare. According to the man himself, Paul should by no means be considered a space cadet, he just gets distracted easily. Happiest in the mountains on a bluebird day with fresh pow, this wonderchild will be sure to drop anything even in the face of stupidity.

  
  

  Molly Heller (Swampscott, MA) Molly Davenport Heller, born and raised on the remote shores of Swampscott, Massachusetts, is a ferocious, new force in the Outdoor Education program. Molly, pegged as OE’s very own “Humpty Dumpty,” has had some issues with falling off walls. But, when Molly isn’t trudging around campus with a bloated arm and a sling, she is pursuing outdoor activities with all the intensity of a crotchety bull. Her favorite activities include climbing, backpacking, mountain biking, and downhill skiing. Whether you’re admiring Molly’s famous Spongebob laugh, listening to her sing as she hikes behind you, or chilling in the outdoors with her, you’re bound to have a good time. This blue-eyed, beautiful animal will surely have you bewitched with her enthusiasm, spirit, and rugged yet graceful outdoorsieness. Real Talk.

  
  

  Alec Hyde (Akron, OH) A direct descendant of the nomadic Siberian mountain men, Alexander Hyde, informally known as Alec, lives the life less lived. An Ohioan who you would likely guess is not from Ohio (Colorado maybe?), Alec has discovered personal and spiritual fulfillment through rock climbing, backpacking, whitewater paddling, high altitude hula-hooping, and slack-lining. Alec has spent an excessive amount of time in the backcountry as both a NOLS and Outward Bound participant and has the ability to regurgitate the ten essentials in 3.2 seconds. When you are in the outdoors, however, the only thing essential to your success is Alexander Hyde as your leader. Vote Alec Hyde: for our future.

  
  

  Alice Matlock (Chattanooga, TN) Hailing from Chattanooga, Tenessee, Alice Matlock (known by her friends as Bev or Big Pookie) is Outdoor Education's southern belle... but don't let that fool you. Bev not only hikes, kayaks and rock climbs like a pro... she can also cut a rug like it is her day job and is a seasoned world traveler. She's still a little young for a cup of jo, but with all her energy and enthusiasm, you wouldn't even know it. This potential International Relations major's freckly face can typically be seen around campus searching for her next backgammon victim.

  
  

  Ellie McGuire (Baltimore, MD) Eleanor Vera McGuire a.k.a. Ellie is an enthusiastic, fun-loving girl who will climb anything you put in front of her (trees, rocks, buildings, people).  She was born and raised in baltiMOOOREEE, maryland and loves to sail and hike! Your life is not complete until you've experienced a multiple hour van ride with Ellie consisting of non stop dancing / raving to top-quality jamz.

  
  

  Josh Riefler (Buffalo, NY) Born and raised in the legendary metropolis of Buffalove, New York, Josh can withstand any blizzard the mountains may hurl at him. Currently planning on majoring in sass with a possible minor in "havin' fun," he always is sure to wear his smile and mark his territory with his contagious laugh. His zest for life is quite admirable and sometimes it is believed he is two places at once. Able to tweet with both a phone and the birds, Josh loves to climb, paddle, backpack, be outdoors, and is always ready to get down to business and defeat the Huns, should they ever cross his path.

  
  

  Tara Salisbury (Mill Valley, CA) Tara Elizabeth Salisbury was born in New York and was soon thereafter displaced to California where she lived outside as a child, making gourmet mud pies, and camping with her family since the tender age of 9 months. Later on she took up skiing in the Sierra Nevada’s. Tara recently made the epic journey back to her native land to join Colgate’s Outdoor Ed trainee class, where she has learned all sorts of useful things like how to roll a kayak and how not to cook hash browns, bringing her cheerful smile and enthusiasm to any task she takes on. She is currently working on honing her snot rocket and eco-spray skills, and is excited to get to know the Adirondack region. Additionally, she has mad Spanish skills and can do fabulous gritos, a demonstration of which might just change your life. -Jenny Trahan

  
  

  Tyler Smith (Poughkeepsie, NY) The names Smith, Tyler Smith. And he might just give the most interesting man in the world a run for his money. Some say his ginger beard alone has experienced more than a lesser mans body and that he once ran a marathon backwards, just to see what second place looked like. All we know is that TyTy is a beloved member of outdoor ed, known for his clever and witty jokes, backcountry shenanigans, and hands that feel like rich, brown swede. Tyler is a native of Poughkeepsie, Ny, and he is planning to major in Math and Philosophy. His favorite outdoor activities include, but are not limited to, rock climbing, canoeing, and tree climbing. -David Andrew Johnson

  
  

  Josh Solomon (Ellicott City, MD) The tumultuous waters of yet another Class 5 rapid crash over the bow of the kayak. Bulging biceps power over the massive granite overhang. Snow flies out from under skies following each graceful lunge. Amid the unpredictable chaos of nature, students find solace in the collected, controlled centering calm that is Josh Solomon. Hailing from the ancient warrior proving ground that is Ellicott City, Maryland, this legendary guru of all things outdoors spends his days lackadaisically scaling rock walls, paddling New England’s greater tributaries and telemarking. As he nonchalantly hangs off the smallest of holds, thousands of feet up on a sheer Adirondack cliff face, Josh likes to apply firsthand the knowledge he’s gained studying Geology here at Colgate. While hoping to major in this science of rocks, Josh takes every aspect of life by its unsuspecting horns and loves to teach others how to do the same.

  
  

  Kara Vadman (Los Angeles, CA) Kara Vadman, who hails from the sandy beaches of Southern California, left sunny L.A. to make it big in the village of Hamilton. Lured to Colgate’s campus by the prospect of studying fossilized phytoplankton and a pursuing a future in paleontology, Kara has quickly created a name for herself within the university. Finding Colgate neither remote enough nor cold enough for her taste, Kara, following in the footsteps of Shackleton, is extending her travels to the beautifully barren continent of Antarctica to further her geological knowledge. If not in the lab, you are likely to find Kara sea kayaking, tree climbing, slacklining, or making friendship bracelets (see Schlitzer’s wrist). No matter the time or day, Kara will be there to yum-yum gado-gado for you on trail or save the day off-trail. You couldn’t ask for a cheerier person to enjoy the great outdoors with!-Alex Coffin and Molly Heller

  
  

  Michelle Van Veen (Golden, CO) Whether shredding the pow pow, impressing us with her Swedish skills or flashing those precious dimples, Michelle Van Veen has perfected the art of being adorably rugged. A true Bruce Springsteen fan, Michelle has been rumored to break into song whenever a guitar is near. She loves hiking, theater and skiing (tele, alpine, XC... you name it) but her absolute favorite thing in the whole world is chocolate pudding. Her laugh has been likened to that of a baby kitten.

• Class of 2015

  Ben Cook (Andover, MA) Greetings! Ben "Jammin" is quite quirky. Raised as a lad in Andover, Massachusetts, he knows a thing or two about the great outdoors. He loves a good corny joke and has a few up his sleeve. He enjoys lovely canoe rides and a good hike. He makes wonderful company and is a champ at building campfires for his group. In his spare time he plays way too much Words with Friends. He knows all 92 two-letter words so watch out. Despite hating the cold, he loves the snow. Your life will never be the same after spending quality time with Ben on a trip. He be jammin'!

  
  

  Myles Davis (Brooklyn, NY) This real talking city slicker is as comfortable leading with only a bearing on a foggy schwack as he is navigating the urban jungle of Brooklyn. With a compulsive affinity for beavers, Myles is certainly one of a kind. Find him crawling through caves, canoeing in the ‘dacks, or climbing at the wall wearing his tightest pants. -Alec Hyde

  
  

  Emily Holzman (West Hartford, CT) Emily Rose Holzman grew up deep in the Hart of Connecticut, where she spent her childhood frolicking in the vibrant leaves of the beautiful New England fall and going on family camping trips in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. As a new member of Outdoor Ed, she is looking to hone her climbing skills and get back into shredding on the slopes in the winter. Emily will take anything the world throws at her with a contagious smile and a positive attitude, whether it’s a mile long portage or the prospect of sharing a narrow cot with an almost stranger on the first day of training. She’s a fearless hiker, a maker of friendship bracelets, and…a woman? Emily brings life to any group with her boundless energy, enthusiasm, and passion for Latin music. Ai ai ai!-Tara Salisbury

  
  

  David Johnson (Austin, TX) David Andrew Johnson first arrived at Colgate by horseback, equipped with his ten-gallon hat and spurred riding boots, all the way from his cattle ranch deep in the heart of Texas, specifically the city of Austin. Alone, dazed, and weary he quickly found a home here at Outdoor Education, who welcomed him despite his many quirks and old-fashioned Texan spirit. Known in some circles as Crotchety Dave, Davey Crotchet, DaJo, JoDa, or just plain Paul, his quick wit and eerie charm has made him a crowd favorite among fellow OEers. He plans to major in environmental studies and his favorite outdoor activities include fly-fishing, rock climbing, and canoeing. When he’s not tackling the outdoors, crotchety enjoys long walks on the beach, the smell of fresh coffee in the morning, and yelling at those darn kids in the neighborhood who keep ruining his lawn. -Tyler Smith

  
  

  Skylar Lindsay (Seattle, WA) SPECIES PROFILE: The Skylar Lindsay is a rare subspecies of Homo sapiens indigenous to Seattle, WA. While seemingly not too different, The Skylar is distinguishable from other Homo sapiens by his dashing good looks and distinctive, soothing deep voice. Enjoying its position near the top of the food chain, the only predator that the Skylar has to look out for is the notorious cougar. Initially brought into the outdoor ed family to be one of the animal mascots, the Skylar quickly proved itself more than capable in the sports of sea kayaking and rock climbing and it was unanimously decided to upgrade the Skylar to staff. It is clear that since migrating to Colgate University with the class of 2015, the Skylar Lindsay has found its niche in Outdoor Education. (Solomon, 2011).

  
  

  Jenny Trahan (Canajoharie, NY) Genevieve Rose Trahan, who most of us know as Jenny or maybe you know her as Ruth (aka Ruthless), was born and raised in the quaint upstate NY town of Canajoharie. Growing up she enjoyed camping in the summer with her family in all of the beautiful New England states. But obviously nothing compares to the majestic Adirondacks of her own home state. Jenny’s pastimes include listening to epic movie soundtracks, eating corn on the cob, and putting her knitting skills to use. The bearded hat is one of her specialties. Each hat is made on an individual basis, so you’ll be sure to know that each is made with love and care. Jenny is a hardworking individual who tries everything with a positive attitude and enthusiasm. Her outdoor interests include descending with ascenders, paddling in kayaks and canoes, and backpacking. Jenny, “Ruth”, is excited to get out of doors and put her skills to use! -Emily Holzman

  
  
  

  Kevin Trippe (Traverse City, MI) What a guy! Having grown up in the cold state of Michigan, there’s no condition that Kevin can’t take on, whether that means crawling through a cave with half his face under water, or going out in a cold rainstorm to fix someone else’s tent. Because of his greed for selflessness, Kevin is willing to cook you a full meal or bake a mean apple pie, without even tasting it himself. He is an avid rock climber, and a flag football champion. Kevin plans to major in Neuroscience. He has a pet poster lion named Leo, who can inspire people much in the same way that a Tchaikovsky symphony can. Kevin's eyes are the color of a Canadian summer sunset.

  
  

  Julie Wiese (Washington, D.C.) Julie Wiese, where to start? Julie has a family, with members, but don’t worry about them because she is the ripest Golden Delicious off the Wiese tree. Julie comes from the capital of the good ole’ US of A. Because of this she knows people, CIA people, the kind of people that make Jason Bourne look like a schoolgirl jumping double-dutch, so maybe just pay her any money you owe her right away. Julie is also of Prussian descent. Julie’s Germanic blood is best displayed during one of her favorite outdoor activities, climbing. She attacks the rock like a blitzkrieg of rock climbing fury and tenacity. Julie is also now known as “that girl” because of her recent claim that she thinks the LSATS would be fun, I guess it is just one of them German quirks like clogs or bratwurst. Julie plans to major in philosophy and in four years will be philosophizing all up in our faces. Julie is also an avid Beatles fan, we have tried to explain that Beatlemania has been over for a while but she still screams like a 15 year old girl at a Bieber concert when Love Me Do is played. -Kevin Trippe

• Furry Friends & Mascots

  Marly Marly is possibly the most enthusiastic member of the Outdoor Ed community. An active adolescent, Marly is always ready to go for an adventure on the ski hill, join in a cross-country ski session, or fetch a thrown object. Marly is the outdoorsman's (or woman's) best friend. Upon hearing Marley is visiting Base Camp, Outdoor Eddies will drop everything to come lavish her with love. Come by Base Camp and play with her!

  
  

  Ginger Ginger was born in 2000 in Ely, Minnesota. She spent 9 years as a lead dog at White Wilderness in Ely and a year pulling a demanding three year old around the dog yard. Then, she arrived in Hamilton NY to retirement with gusto.  We think she's a cat in a dog suit... she's afraid of turtles, loves to cuddle on the couch, has to be coaxed out of bed in the a.m. (yes, she has us well trained!), and makes more noise dreaming when asleep than she does when awake.  Ginger loves the ski trails on campus where she prances with paws and head held high, occasionally skulks like a wolf in the general direction of squirrels and rolls in really stinky things. She is a relentless beggar when the grill is on and can always find the sucker in the crowd willing to give her a bite or two. When really excited she jumps in circles in the air and stands on her hind legs to "hug" people friends. Most of the time, she sits looking adoringly at passers-by with her tulip shaped ears alert and eyes encircled in permanent black eyeliner channeling Maybeline and saying "Don't hate me because I am beautiful." We have come to adore this sweet, gentle love of a dog and feel honored to be her "pack".

  
  

  Ollie Ollie Oliver is a two-year old lab-border collie mix (read: mutt). Ollie came from West Virginia up to White River Junction, VT where the Olivers met him. Janine had found his picture on the internet and instantly fell in love. The only problem was that they couldn’t have a dog in their apartment. A few short weeks later the Olivers moved into their new apartment on the same day that they picked Ollie up from the rescue center. Ollie is an amazing runner and loves to explore. Ollie’s favorite pastime is cuddling on the couch. His second favorite pastime is following Ben around on cross-country skis and playing chicken by standing in the tracks on the downhills. He also loves to run and swim, and will reluctantly fetch, but only to keep Ben happy. Before coming to Colgate, Ollie was the official mascot for the UNH PAWs program and is looking forward to getting to know Marly, Ginger, and figuring out which OE leaders want to cuddle with him.