Abby believes the power of a NOLS course is connecting to wild places and education in ways that open possibilities for people to change the world for better. Abby grew up in the mountains of Colorado and spent time with family in the woods of upstate New York. These environments, and the family bonds and friendships developed in them, spurred her inspiration to take a NOLS course in Alaska in 1987. From there to here has included a lot of weeks in the field teaching NOLS courses, supervising field faculty, supporting Leave No Trace and alumni, and leading NOLS Teton Valley. Abby loves mountain biking, backcountry skiing and paddleboarding with her two children, her husband, and friends who also love living in this incredible place. In her words: "I find strength and solace in my ability to connect to what time with NOLS in the field has given me without needing to be 'in it' in the same capacity anymore–the qualities endure well past the experience of being there. That is pretty awesome."