Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports, a leading nonprofit in the adaptive sports industry, has selected John Collins of St. George to receive the 2023 Kellen Sams Memorial Leadership Award.
“John has been a tireless and enthusiastic volunteer for many years,” said Executive Director Erin Fernandez. “John makes himself available in all sorts of manners, from training new volunteers to jumping in on most any lesson, regardless of the difficulty or challenge.”
Collins began volunteering with Vermont Adaptive in 2003. He has taken full advantage of opportunities to further his skills and knowledge and is certified by the American Association of Snowboard Instructors.
Sams, a great outdoor spirit, teacher and avid adventurer, committed his life to further outdoor and experiential education for all, regardless of their abilities. He died in a tragic skiing accident in 2010 at the age 27.
Photo caption: Vermont Adaptive Program Manager Felicia Fowler, left and Program Coordinator Sarah Keith, right, present John Collins with the 2023 Kellen Sams Memorial Leadership Award.