In partnership with the Mount Washington Avalanche Center Foundation, East Cost Avalanche Education has generously funded one Professional Level 1 Avalanche Course.
This course is a professional level training designed for avalanche workers early in their careers or for experienced workers looking to stay current with industry standards. Workers are prepared to be a contributing member of a risk management team, a skilled observer, and able to manage their small team in avalanche terrain. The goal of this scholarships is to help reduce barriers to entry in avalanche education for professional participants in our local community. Please read over the application prerequisites before completing the application.
Requirements:
- Must be used for the February 17-February 21, 2025 course on Mt. Washington, NH.
- Scholarship recipient must meet the course requirements listed here.
Applicant Prerequisites:
Residency and Recreation: Applicants must demonstrate that they are a member of the local community and frequently recreate in the Mount Washington area or surrounding states.
Financial Need: Applicants should provide a brief statement explaining their financial need and how the cost of avalanche education is a barrier to entry for them. This can include information on current employment, income level, or other financial obligations.
Commitment to Avalanche Awareness: Applicants should express a strong commitment to improving avalanche awareness within their community. This can be demonstrated through previous volunteer work, involvement in community activities related to outdoor recreation, or a clear plan on how they intend to use the education to benefit others.
Inclusivity and Diversity: While the scholarship is open to all who meet the criteria, preference will be given to applicants who belong to underrepresented groups in formal avalanche training, including but not limited to, BIPOC individuals, women, non-binary individuals, and those identifying as LGBTQIA+.
Selection Criteria:
Financial Need (40%): The primary criterion will be the applicant’s demonstrated financial need. The scholarship is intended to lower barriers to entry, so applicants who can clearly show how the cost of the course is a barrier to their participation will be prioritized.
Commitment to Community Impact (30%): Applicants who demonstrate a strong commitment to using their avalanche education to benefit their community will receive higher consideration. This might include plans to share knowledge, lead group outings, or engage in community education efforts.
Connection to the Local Area (20%): Priority will be given to applicants who live, work, or frequently recreate in the Mount Washington area or surrounding regions. Applicants should describe their connection to the area and how the training will impact their activities there.
Diversity and Inclusion (10%): Preference will be given to applicants from underrepresented groups in avalanche education, as well as those who can bring diverse perspectives to the community.
Application Timeline:
Applications Open: November 1 – November 20, 2024.
Selection and Notification: Awardees will be notified by November 30, 2024.
Note: If you apply for the John Donnellan Avalanche Education Scholarship and are a runner-up for a Pro 1 Avalanche Course, you will automatically be considered for the Mount Washington Avalanche Center Foundation Pro 1 Scholarship. You are welcome to reapply if you wish to update your information.
