Stratton Patroller Lewis Berman, CT Alumni Advisor Bob Cassello, Eastern Division Alumni Supervisor Allan Miller
Stratton Mountain buzzed with camaraderie and shared passion as alumni, active patrollers, regional leaders, and friends of the National Ski Patrol (NSP) gathered from March 18-22, 2025 for the second annual Eastern Alumni Event. Organized again this year with meticulous attention to detail by Eastern Division’s Alumni Advisor, Allan Miller, and the Region Alumni Advisors, the event proved to be a resounding success, offering a perfect blend of engaging activities, insightful discussions, and excellent spring skiing.
The Black Bear Lodge served as the event’s hub, providing a cozy and convenient location just a short stroll from Stratton Village. Attendees traveled from across the entire Eastern Division for a few days or the entire week, and were offered five days of thoughtfully planned activities, fostering connections and celebrating the rich history and future of the NSP.
The event started on Sunday evening with a warm welcome get-together in the Black Bear Lodge lounge, followed by a delightful dinner at Table 43.1. This set the tone for a week of shared meals and lively conversations.
Each day began with a meet-up and boot-up at the Gondola side of the Main Base Lodge, ensuring everyone was ready to hit the slopes. Monday’s agenda featured a mountain tour led by Stratton Ski Patrol’s Lewis Berman, providing attendees with an insider’s perspective on the mountain’s terrain.
Tuesday offered an opportunity to tour the very unique Stratton Mountain Urgent Care, led by Executive Director Seth Boyd. This visit provided a glimpse into the incredible medical support system that not only keeps skiers safe on the mountain but also provides health services for the entire community.
Wednesday’s schedule included a tour of the Summit Patrol HQ, led by Patrol Director Chris Schilling. This afforded a fascinating look at the inner workings of the very efficient Stratton Ski Patrol. That same evening, I was offered the opportunity to speak with a group of about fifty members. As one might imagine, sage and savvy alumni peppered me with very specific questions about programs, program delivery, current initiatives, and the future direction of the NSP. And I survived.
Thursday’s activities included a presentation by Kathy Fitzpatrick from the NSP Safety Team, focusing on crucial safety protocols and best practices. Later, National Historian Rick Hamlin captivated the audience with a presentation on the rich history of the NSP.
Friday provided a final day of skiing and socializing, with attendees enjoying the classic spring conditions and each other’s company.
In attendance were 50 patrollers and partners from all over the Eastern Division. A special thanks to Minnie Dole Award recipient Dick Woolf, a Stratton patroller, who ensured the group felt welcomed and well-cared for, allowing everyone to experience the best of Stratton.
NSP is extremely grateful to its loyal alumni members, who continue to contribute through instruction, mentoring, and board/committee participation. There is a great deal of knowledge in this group, and we deeply appreciate their input. The Eastern Alumni Event at Stratton Mountain was a testament to the enduring bonds within the NSP community. It was a week filled with skiing, learning, laughter, and the shared passion that unites all who are dedicated to the safety and enjoyment of the slopes. Watch for this event next season. Regardless of your NSP status, the Alumni Group welcomes you to attend.
