The Rock and Snow Beau Johnson Memorial Scholarship
We at Rock and Snow believe that outdoor rock climbing is a soul-nourishing, healthy, and low-impact way to interact with the natural environment. At its best, outdoor rock climbing allows for a deeper understanding of oneself, one's partners, and the land on which we recreate. In our 50+ years in business, Rock and Snow has seen the tremendous growth of the sport and the ever-increasing struggle of land managers to continue to accommodate all who wish to experience outdoor climbing. In addition, many people are introduced to climbing indoors, but aren't quite sure where to start when it comes time to head outdoors.
The Beau Johnson Memorial Scholarship is an opportunity for those who have a passion for climbing and are looking to find access in the outdoor space. We encourage those who are interested in learning not just technical climbing skills, but best practices and Leave No Trace ethics from the non-profit Rise Outside, and a ranger from the Mohonk Preserve.
Awardees will receive two days of climbing instruction, and one night of camping gear and accommodations at the Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground. Applicants who are applying with partners must apply separately. If applying solo, you will be paired with someone who has similar climbing experience. Those with financial barriers or those who have been historically underrepresented in the climbing community will be prioritized.
Beau Johnson embodied all that we treasure about the climbing community. He was kind, knowledgeable, and so friendly. A true Gunks character, he climbed in soaring temperatures and on weekdays, and he always carried a small hammer for tapping his nut tool. He perished in 2018 in a fall, and his memory remains a blessing and a balm to all who knew him. Gunks or bust!