06/30/2026
To us, mentorship is a HUGE part of climbing, but doesn’t get enough appreciation. Whether it be your first day out at the crag learning the ropes, or advice from someone who’s been through it themselves, mentorship is leadership we all need, and some of us give it out in arm-fulls like slack at the Coliseum.
A few leaders and mentors come to mind when we are thinking about the New; Maura Kistler, Brittany Chaber, Tricia DiFranco, Elena Fouch-Watson, Stella Mascari, and Colette McInerney. All women who donate their time, knowledge, gear, resources, and energy to keeping the gears turning, ball rolling, events happening, and people feeling welcome. Sometimes their contributions are 1 on 1; a chat with someone who needs a shoulder to cry on, advice, a good idea, or micro-beta.
These contributions often go unannounced, but not unnoticed. They could seem subtle, but are fundamentally crucial to the community as a whole, crafting a welcoming space, and this deserves recognition.
With great leadership comes camaraderie. Seeing each other as partners in something bigger than ourselves, and these ladies help us get there. Everyone has their place at NRAC!
