Deane Malott

For 46 consecutive months, Deane and his son shared a singular goal: to ski together every month. Their dedication to outdoor adventure was rooted decades earlier during a formative NOLS backpacking course in the Wind River Mountains, where Deane first developed a lasting reverence for the wilderness. He still vividly remembers the sense of triumph after completing a three-day fast on the hike out—an experience he wishes remained part of NOLS programming today.

Now, his connection to NOLS has come nearly full circle. He listens with pride as his son and niece swap stories from their own NOLS expeditions, including tales of navigating unexpected August blizzards. Though his son’s basketball injury eventually ended the skiing streak, Deane feels immense pride in witnessing his son’s growth through NOLS experiences —from eager participant to thoughtful planner, from outdoor novice to capable leader.

Deeply grateful for the impact NOLS has had on his life and family, Deane is honored to serve on the NOLS Advisory Council. He is committed to expanding access to the same transformative experiences that shaped his worldview and continue to inspire the next generation of wilderness leaders.