As a lifelong Alaskan, I have been inspired by so many that have come before me. Watching the Olympic athletes from our own state, and seeing the positive impacts they have had on our community lit a fire in me to try and do the same. As an elite cross country skier, I am lucky to live in this great state where the trails and snow are renowned. However, the financial demands of training and competing against the world’s best, including trying to make the U.S. Olympic team, are extremely intense. The 2013 Winter Olympians Scholarship makes this pursuit possible. Without it, I would not be able to push myself, and help inspire the next generation, to strive for greatness. Thank you so much to the Alaska Community Foundation for the positive impact they make!
Reese Hanneman, Ski Racer & 2013 AWOF Scholarship Recipient
(Photograph courtesy of Toko)
