Leadership, board & awards

The Kurt Hahn Award, established by the Outward Bound USA Board of Directors in 1982, is the highest form of recognition conferred by Outward Bound. Recipients make contributions through a life’s work on behalf of others, in ways that embody the spirit of Hahn’s approach to education. Each recipient demonstrates “…an enterprising curiosity, an undefeatable spirit, tenacity in pursuit, sensible self-denial and, above all, compassion.” The 2022 Kurt Hahn Awardees are volunteer leaders who significantly impact Outward Bound’s mission through extended involvement with the organization and in keeping with the ideals of Kurt Hahn.

Gruffie began her long association with Outward Bound in the early 1970’s as a field instructor at the Colorado Outward Bound School (COBS).  In her early years she navigated field instructor life while she taught high school Social Studies, climbed mountains, and sharpened her skills at numerous adventure sports—summiting all of Colorado’s 14,000-foot peaks, and Mt. Kilimanjaro 13 times. Throughout her varied endeavors Gruffie remained connected to COBS as a board member and served in this capacity for nearly 30 years.  

While a keen and accomplished whitewater paddler, Ted’s true passion was education, with a penchant for social-emotional growth. In 1973, Bob Pieh invited Ted to join him in at MOBS (former name of Voyageur Outward Bound School) to improve the safety of its whitewater programs.  After 4 years, he accepted a role as Outward Bound USA’s National Safety Director and then the National VP of Safety. He traveled around the country conducting safety reviews and working together with John McGrory on what would become the organization’s first National Safety Standards (NSS). Ted’s trust-filled relationships with Outward Bound Schools across the country paved the way for the successful rollout and implementation of the NSS, forming the foundation upon which Outward Bound in the USA has built its robust network and culture of safety.  

Josh Miner Award - Judith Robertson
Marina Ewald Award - Abby Dare
John McGrory Award - Jerry Rosen