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National Ski Patrol (NSP), in partnership with North American Rescue Dogs (N.A.R.D.), is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 National Avalanche School (NAS) scholarship awards. This program supports patrollers who are committed to deepening their knowledge and leading in snow safety education.

Each of this year’s five recipients brings a unique perspective, regional experience, and deep commitment to avalanche preparedness, grounded in the belief that education saves lives.

Meet the 2025 NAS Scholarship Recipients:

Raven H. Cashen – Telluride Ski Patrol

Raven patrols in the rugged San Juan Mountains, where she emphasizes the importance of strong backcountry protocols. As a newer patroller working full-time for a small nonprofit, financial assistance allows her to invest in avalanche training while continuing her role in the community. She shared:

“I live, ski, and patrol in the San Juan Mountains. This terrain demands constant learning and awareness. NAS will help elevate my confidence and capabilities on snow.”

James DePew – Alpine Meadows Professional Ski Patrol

Now in his third year at Alpine Meadows, James has seen firsthand how dynamic snow conditions require rigorous training. He’s pursuing advanced education to support his team and lead by example.

Balancing the physical demands of patrol with the cost of ongoing education, James is grateful for the scholarship’s support.

“Working at Alpine Meadows has reinforced the responsibility we carry. Avalanche education isn’t optional—it’s vital.”

Molly Hoelper – Deer Valley Ski Patrol

Molly patrols in the Wasatch and is passionate about mountain safety.

With both personal and professional motivations to grow in this field, she notes that financial support is essential to make attending NAS possible this year.

“Avalanche education is critical for my work as a ski patroller. I’m deeply committed to improving safety for my team and guests.”

Annabelle Kays – Crystal Mountain Ski Patrol

At Crystal Mountain, Annabelle is part of an active avalanche mitigation team.

She and her husband are both full-time ski patrollers, and she emphasized that without this financial aid, attending NAS would be out of reach for them.

“Avalanche education is essential to my work and helps me better understand and evaluate terrain to keep people safe.”

Morgan Throckmorton – Lost Trail Ski Area

She patrols in Montana, where remote terrain and limited resources make advanced avalanche training especially valuable.

Morgan also works in avalanche mitigation and is committed to sharing what she learns with her patrol and broader community.

“Avalanche education is a critical part of our job. With this support, I can continue learning and contribute more effectively to our mountain safety efforts.”

About the National Avalanche School

The National Avalanche School (NAS) is a premier training program designed for ski patrollers, highway forecasters, and public forecasters. It offers comprehensive professional avalanche training tailored for ski area operations.

The curriculum follows American Avalanche Association (A3) guidelines and emphasizes ski area management, while also delivering essential skills for anyone involved in avalanche control. Graduates earn the Pro 1-NAS designation, which exceeds A3's basic Pro 1 requirements, ensuring top-tier avalanche safety training. 

This scholarship program, made possible by the generous support of North American Rescue Dogs (N.A.R.D.), is a powerful example of how strategic partnerships can directly strengthen safety outcomes in the mountains.

Together, we are building a safer, more informed mountain community—one course, one patroller, and one avalanche dog at a time.