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National Awards

OBUSA RE(CREW)NITION AWARDS

What are the Re(crew)nition Awards?
At Outward Bound, we’re “crew, not passengers.” Each member of our crew plays a vital role in pushing our organization forward and helping us achieve our mission. From field instructors to administrative staff, every individual contributes to the impact of Outward Bound and helps make transformative outdoor experiences possible for students & young people. Each year, Outward Bound USA recognizes outstanding crewmates across our national network for their significant contributions to Outward Bound and the communities we serve.

What is the Re(crew)nition Awards Ceremony?
The Re(crew)nition Awards ceremony is a virtual event that serves as a celebration of our most recent Award Recipients, recognizing their outstanding achievements and contributions to Outward Bound. During the ceremony, crewmates and community supporters from across the national network - staff, Board members, family & friends - come together in honor of the unique talents & collective teamwork that make Outward Bound possible, and what sets us apart. From the east coast communities and public schools in New York City and Baltimore, to the west coast of San Francisco, one thing’s for sure: We all aspire to create a more resilient and compassionate world, together.

Our Awards & 2024 Award Recipients

John McGrory Award

  • The John McGrory Award is presented to an individual who has made significant contributions to enhance the safety of Outward Bound programs.
  • Eligibility: Outward Bound staff, current or former Outward Bound Board Members, as well as individuals who have supported safety in the Outward Bound system are eligible. 
  • 2024 Recipient: Jason Schmidt, Director of Programs and Safety | Outward Bound California

Kurt Hahn Award

  • The Kurt Hahn Award is presented to individuals who have made a significant contribution through their life’s work on behalf of others, while demonstrating the values and ideas of Kurt Hahn, the founder of Outward Bound. 
  • Eligibility: Nominees must be volunteer leaders. Board membership, past or present, is not a requirement nor a primary consideration. Posthumous nominations are not encouraged. Additionally, while there is precedence for dual awards, it is not a regular occurrence.
  • 2024 Recipient: Arthur Pearson | Consultant and Advisor

Joshua Miner Award

  • The Joshua Miner Award is presented to an individual whose commitment and contributions to Outward Bound have improved the lives of students and staff, and have enhanced Outward Bound’s ability to fulfill its mission.
  • Eligibility: Current Outward Bound staff who have worked within the Outward Bound system for 5+ years. (*Executive Directors from Outward Bound Schools/Outward Bound USA are not eligible for this award)
  • 2024 Recipient: Jennifer Raymond, Scholarship and Recruitment Manager (Former) | Philadelphia Outward Bound School

Marina Ewald Award

  • The Marina Ewald Award honors an Outward Bound student-facing staff member who has advanced and improved the Outward Bound student experience.
  • Eligibility: Current student-facing Outward Bound staff.
  • 2024 Recipient: Han Bourne, Staffing Manager | Outward Bound California

Submission Requirements & How to Apply

Nominations for the 2025 Outward Bound USA Re(crew)nition are now open! Click here to nominate someone. 

For more information about the Awards and submission details, please reach out to Vic Kerr, Director of Human Resources, at: [email protected].

 
 
 
 
 

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