CMC - Colorado Mountain Club

Executive Director Keegan Young

Keegan Young was the Colorado Mountain Club's Executive Director from September, 2018 through October, 2023. Keegan succesfully navigated the club through some very difficult times - the pandemic, legal issues, the usual myriad financial problems associated with owning an old building, and doing it all during a questionable economy.   There's no doubt that the club wouldn't have survived without Keegan's leadership and guidance - he certainly has our thanks! In this photo, as is Keegan's custom, he's celebrating a member's (me!) personal achievement! A few days earlier I completed my 1,000th climb up nearby Mount Morrison. Thank you, Keegan!

Membership SERVICES Specialist
Roger J. Wendell - WBØJNR
rogerwendell@cmc.org
(303) 279-3080 x 1

Roger has been a part-time staff member since 2013 and a CMC member and volunteer decades prior that. Roger's primary duties directly involve him with all aspects of membership services - new memberships, membership renewals, 40 year and lifetime memberships, CMC Press and CMC store fulfillment, in addition to fielding telephone inquiries and sorting  through a few dozen club emails each day. Roger also works closely with CMC trip leaders, instructors, and school directors on a wide variety of courses, events, and outings throughout the year.

roger_wendell_05-16-2023.jpg
Roger earned the Denver Group's "D" hiker rating, advanced skier rating, and has completed BSTS, WSS, WTS, BMS, HAMS, IRCS, MOFA, WFA, ATA, AIARE Level 1, Trip Leader School and Advanced Leader Training for Adventure Travel. In addition to leading hikes and climbs, he also leads ski trips and adventure travel outings. Roger has assisted with Youth Programs, Champ Camp, and as an assistant instructor for IRCS, BRCS, and WTS.

Roger served on Denver Group Council for nine years and as chair of Denver's Classification Change Committee for over six years. He received the Denver Group's Service Award in 2017 and continues assisting all of the groups whenever possible. Roger has completed all of the 14ers in addition to a few hundred other peaks around Colorado, the country, and the world. He enjoys his grandkids, climbing 13ers, and low power Morse code on the 10 and 20 meter amateur radio bands.

Roger's personal website: https://www.rogerwendell.com

Me, the CMC, and Media

Over the years, while a staff member, I was interviewed a number of times about the CMC. Admittedly, most of the interviews took place only because I happened to be an employee but, sometimes, because I was involved in an outdoor activity as either a volunteer or trip leader. This interview concerned my overall view of opportunities in the club and was published by Colorado Serenity Magazine in August, 2019 - p. 51

May 9, 2025 was my last day as a regular CMC employee (I then averaged about one-day-per-week assisting them with shipping related duties for many months after that...)
So, when I "retired," the CMC honored in me in a number of ways. First was a very flattering aricle they added to the main CMC website (see further below). Then, on May 8th they had me lead a staff hike up Mount Morrison (it was my 1,374th trip up to the top). On May 8th, also, Executive Director Madeline Bachner Lane and IT Manager (formerly my supervisor) honored me at the new building open house event. It was there that they presented me with a work-up of a plaque naming the shipping room after me that included my amateur radio call sign!

Finally, on about May 1st the club created this webpage about me at www.cmc.org/

Roger Wendell: A Distinguished Legacy of Service to the Colorado Mountain Club

As Roger Wendell prepares to retire in May 2025 after decades of dedicated service to the Colorado Mountain Club (CMC), it's fitting to recognize his remarkable contributions and the indelible impact he has made on both the organization and its members. A Chronicle of Distinguished Service Roger's journey with the CMC began in 1981 when he joined as an enthusiastic member eager to explore Colorado's magnificent landscapes. By 1983, he had already stepped into a leadership role, becoming a certified trip leader guiding fellow outdoor enthusiasts on countless adventures through Colorado's backcountry. In 1991, Roger took on the significant responsibility of serving on the Denver Group Council, where he helped shape policies and initiatives that strengthened the organization's largest chapter until 1994. His administrative acumen and passion for the club's mission made him a natural fit for these leadership roles. One of Roger's most notable achievements came in 1998 when he authored a series of influential articles on backcountry survival for the club's publications. These educational pieces, including one titled "Survival is Your Own Responsibility," highlighted essential wilderness safety principles and encouraged members to practice self-sufficiency in the backcountry. Rogerwendell His expertise in this area has helped countless hikers and climbers stay safe in Colorado's sometimes treacherous mountain environments. Conservation Advocacy and Education Roger's commitment to conservation has been exemplary throughout his tenure. In 2003, he organized the highly successful "Preserve Our Peaks" campaign, which mobilized over 500 CMC members to advocate for the protection of sensitive alpine environments in the Front Range. This initiative played a crucial role in securing additional protections for several threatened wilderness areas. As an instructor for the CMC's Wilderness Trekking School since 1989, Roger has personally trained more than 2,000 students in wilderness navigation, Leave No Trace principles, and mountain safety. His dedication to trail conservation is evident in his educational efforts, where he emphasizes the importance of staying on established paths to minimize environmental impact, noting that properly maintained trails "really do help the landscape by keeping us two-leggeds in a narrow little corridor so the rest of nature can flourish around us unmolested." Roger 6.jpg Roger & Gudy Gaskill Mountain Safety Expert Since 2007, Roger has been one of the club's most trusted voices on mountain safety issues. As the CMC's membership specialist, he has frequently provided expert advice to media outlets on mountain conditions and safety precautions. In a Denver Post interview, he warned hikers about early-season snow hazards, noting that "traveling through snow, especially on a steep slope, can be hazardous" and explaining the dangers of "post-holing" and ice-related accidents on Colorado's peaks. His practical wisdom has undoubtedly prevented numerous accidents and potentially saved lives. Roger 2.jpeg Personal Achievements and Recognition Beyond his organizational contributions, Roger has accomplished impressive personal feats in Colorado's mountains. In August 2022, he was awarded several badges under the CMC's recognition system, including one for his successful climb of Mount Rainier (Tahoma), which stands at 14,412 feet. Rogerwendell His personal accomplishments in the mountains have given him the credibility and experience necessary to be such an effective leader and educator. In November 2021, just before his 66th birthday, Roger completed his 1,000th ascent of Mount Morrison, representing a cumulative elevation gain of 2 million feet over 3,800 miles. This remarkable achievement demonstrates not only his physical prowess but also his extraordinary dedication to mountain pursuits. Roger 9.jpg Radio Host and Media Ambassador Beginning in 2007, Roger leveraged his background in broadcasting to create and host "Mountain Connections," a popular monthly radio segment that highlighted CMC activities and environmental issues. His ham radio call sign, WB0JNR, became familiar to outdoor enthusiasts throughout Colorado as he shared his knowledge of wilderness skills and conservation ethics over the airwaves. Roger at KGNU The Voice of the Colorado Mountain Club Since 2012, Roger has served as the primary point of contact for CMC's information line, where his warm, congenial voice has welcomed countless inquiries from members and the public alike. With remarkable patience and enthusiasm, he has provided information about everything from trail conditions and class registrations to the history of Colorado's mountain ecology. His encyclopedic knowledge of Colorado destinations and CMC programs has made him an invaluable resource for both novice hikers and seasoned mountaineers. Roger 7.jpeg A Bittersweet Farewell As Roger prepares to retire in May 2025, there is no question that his absence will be deeply felt throughout the organization. Members calling the information line will sorely miss his friendly voice and wealth of knowledge about both the club and Colorado's magnificent outdoor destinations. His colleagues will miss his steady leadership and unwavering dedication to the CMC's mission. While Roger's day-to-day involvement with the club may be coming to an end, his legacy of service, education, and conservation advocacy will continue to shape the Colorado Mountain Club for generations to come. The trails he has blazed—both literally and figuratively—have made the CMC a stronger, more vibrant organization, and for that, the entire Colorado outdoor community owes him a debt of gratitude. Roger 5.jpg As Roger Wendell prepares to retire in May 2025 after decades of dedicated service to the Colorado Mountain Club (CMC), it's fitting to recognize his remarkable contributions and the indelible impact he has made on both the organization and its members. Graham OttleyGraham Ottley April 27, 2025 Roger Wendell: A Distinguished Legacy of Service to the Colorado Mountain Club A Chronicle of Distinguished Service Roger's journey with the CMC began in 1981 when he joined as an enthusiastic member eager to explore Colorado's magnificent landscapes. By 1983, he had already stepped into a leadership role, becoming a certified trip leader guiding fellow outdoor enthusiasts on countless adventures through Colorado's backcountry. In 1991, Roger took on the significant responsibility of serving on the Denver Group Council, where he helped shape policies and initiatives that strengthened the organization's largest chapter until 1994. His administrative acumen and passion for the club's mission made him a natural fit for these leadership roles. One of Roger's most notable achievements came in 1998 when he authored a series of influential articles on backcountry survival for the club's publications. These educational pieces, including one titled "Survival is Your Own Responsibility," highlighted essential wilderness safety principles and encouraged members to practice self-sufficiency in the backcountry. Rogerwendell His expertise in this area has helped countless hikers and climbers stay safe in Colorado's sometimes treacherous mountain environments. Conservation Advocacy and Education Roger's commitment to conservation has been exemplary throughout his tenure. In 2003, he organized the highly successful "Preserve Our Peaks" campaign, which mobilized over 500 CMC members to advocate for the protection of sensitive alpine environments in the Front Range. This initiative played a crucial role in securing additional protections for several threatened wilderness areas. As an instructor for the CMC's Wilderness Trekking School since 1989, Roger has personally trained more than 2,000 students in wilderness navigation, Leave No Trace principles, and mountain safety. His dedication to trail conservation is evident in his educational efforts, where he emphasizes the importance of staying on established paths to minimize environmental impact, noting that properly maintained trails "really do help the landscape by keeping us two-leggeds in a narrow little corridor so the rest of nature can flourish around us unmolested." Roger 6.jpg Roger & Gudy Gaskill Mountain Safety Expert Since 2007, Roger has been one of the club's most trusted voices on mountain safety issues. As the CMC's membership specialist, he has frequently provided expert advice to media outlets on mountain conditions and safety precautions. In a Denver Post interview, he warned hikers about early-season snow hazards, noting that "traveling through snow, especially on a steep slope, can be hazardous" and explaining the dangers of "post-holing" and ice-related accidents on Colorado's peaks. His practical wisdom has undoubtedly prevented numerous accidents and potentially saved lives. Roger 2.jpeg Personal Achievements and Recognition Beyond his organizational contributions, Roger has accomplished impressive personal feats in Colorado's mountains. In August 2022, he was awarded several badges under the CMC's recognition system, including one for his successful climb of Mount Rainier (Tahoma), which stands at 14,412 feet. Rogerwendell His personal accomplishments in the mountains have given him the credibility and experience necessary to be such an effective leader and educator. In November 2021, just before his 66th birthday, Roger completed his 1,000th ascent of Mount Morrison, representing a cumulative elevation gain of 2 million feet over 3,800 miles. This remarkable achievement demonstrates not only his physical prowess but also his extraordinary dedication to mountain pursuits. Roger 9.jpg Radio Host and Media Ambassador Beginning in 2007, Roger leveraged his background in broadcasting to create and host "Mountain Connections," a popular monthly radio segment that highlighted CMC activities and environmental issues. His ham radio call sign, WB0JNR, became familiar to outdoor enthusiasts throughout Colorado as he shared his knowledge of wilderness skills and conservation ethics over the airwaves. Roger at KGNU The Voice of the Colorado Mountain Club Since 2012, Roger has served as the primary point of contact for CMC's information line, where his warm, congenial voice has welcomed countless inquiries from members and the public alike. With remarkable patience and enthusiasm, he has provided information about everything from trail conditions and class registrations to the history of Colorado's mountain ecology. His encyclopedic knowledge of Colorado destinations and CMC programs has made him an invaluable resource for both novice hikers and seasoned mountaineers. Roger 7.jpeg A Bittersweet Farewell As Roger prepares to retire in May 2025, there is no question that his absence will be deeply felt throughout the organization. Members calling the information line will sorely miss his friendly voice and wealth of knowledge about both the club and Colorado's magnificent outdoor destinations. His colleagues will miss his steady leadership and unwavering dedication to the CMC's mission. While Roger's day-to-day involvement with the club may be coming to an end, his legacy of service, education, and conservation advocacy will continue to shape the Colorado Mountain Club for generations to come. The trails he has blazed—both literally and figuratively—have made the CMC a stronger, more vibrant organization, and for that, the entire Colorado outdoor community owes him a debt of gratitude. Roger 5.jpg Add comment You can add a comment by filling out the form below. Plain text formatting. = required field Comment Michael Rees says: Apr 28, 2025 10:21 PM Roger, Thanks so much for all that you've done for the CMC, and for me, answering all of my many questions!! Best of luck to you in your retirement. I hope we can cross paths many times in the future. Happy trails!! Michael Rees Reply Jan Dudley says: Apr 29, 2025 06:49 AM Roger, congratulations on your retirement! I appreciate your assistance on many CMC matters, and I feel privileged to know you, especially after reading this comprehensive tribute to your CMC involvement. Perhaps we will cross paths on trails to come! Best to you! Jan Dudley Reply Judith Childers says: Apr 30, 2025 06:51 PM Roger, Reply Judith Childers says: Apr 30, 2025 06:54 PM Roger, You will be sorely missed. you know everything about the CMC. Best wishes and don't be a stranger! Reply Erika May says: May 01, 2025 12:50 PM Roger- Your spot will be hard to fill! I sure hope you come on some of my hikes and I am glad we are connected on Facebook. Thank you for your amazing service! Erika Reply Erika May says: May 01, 2025 12:50 PM Roger- Your spot will be hard to fill! I sure hope you come on some of my hikes and I am glad we are connected on Facebook. Thank you for your amazing service! Erika Reply Rosemary Burbank says: May 01, 2025 01:08 PM Dear Roger, Thank you so much for your service to the CMC over the years. When others were coming and going, you provided a steady contact when we needed it. You helped make the Grand Canyon Raft and Hike trips so successful. We really appreciate your dedication. Good luck with your next life adventure. — Rosemary and Blake Reply Mark Armstrong says: May 01, 2025 01:22 PM Roger, Congratulations on a well-deserved retirement! Your leadership during WTS hooked me on CMC. I'm still not sure if the stories you told about being involved with a barefoot walking club are true, but they are memorable. Your ability to teach through story telling is second to none and will be missed. Thank you for making the outdoors more accessible through education, for making us safer while pursuing mountain craft, and for making CMC stronger by exemplifying the CMC culture in everyday interactions. Cheers to you! Mark Armstrong Reply Steve Billig says: May 01, 2025 03:57 PM I have no words. You've been such as stalwart for me and the club. See you on Mt. Morrison, if I can get up that early. Reply Jeffrey Eisele says: May 01, 2025 04:32 PM I recently called CMC and had the pleasure of talking with Roger. In addition to addressing the issue that I called about, we had a short, delightful, personal conversation. It made an impression on me at the time and did so again today as I read this article. Thanks, Roger, for your many contributions to the club. Reply David Ditchkus says: May 01, 2025 06:26 PM Congratulations Roger on another retirement! It's been fun seeing you over the years and we wish you the most fun as you continue your wanderings. Best Wishes, Dave & Linda Ditchkus Reply Christian Davis says: May 02, 2025 04:40 AM Thank you for fielding all my endless questions through all those emails. Enjoy your retirement, sounds well deserved. -73 -Christian Davis, W8PJQ Reply Sandy Heise says: May 02, 2025 07:54 AM Roger, You will be greatly missed! Thanks so much for your stellar customer service and support, always being so helpful and pleasant. Have a wonderful retirement! Sandy Heise Reply Rolf Asphaug says: May 02, 2025 01:58 PM Congratulations to Roger on an incredible, distinguished career! Roger, I hope you have a wonderful retirement with many, many more joyful trail adventures. - Rolf Reply Brian Burd says: May 03, 2025 09:50 PM Roger, Thank you so much for your endless patience helping with any question I might have as a trip leader, posting trips, etc. You are truly a loving person, the world is a better place with you in it. Hope we can stay in touch. Reply Frank Burzynski says: May 04, 2025 08:35 AM Roger, You're simply the best! Thank you, see you on the trails! Frank B Reply Linda Lawson says: May 07, 2025 10:53 AM Roger, no one will ever "replace" you with your extensive knowledge of both CMC's systems and processes, congenial attitude and endless patience! Much appreciation for your service to all of us who love CMC. Best wishes for the "next chapter" of your life. Linda Lawson Reply Kathy Kurtz says: May 11, 2025 01:24 PM Roger thank you so much for your wonderful, long-time, excellent, appreciated and needed service to our members. It is greatly appreciated by many members and definitely by me! You are a rockstar! THANKS! Kathy Kurtz Reply Stephen Soich says: May 12, 2025 09:57 AM Thanks for your service to the club!! Enjoy your retirement! Reply Ida Sansoucy says: May 19, 2025 02:19 PM You were always there....the backbone of rmothg and cmc. Thanks and best to you in your new gig. Ida Sansoucy Reply Suzanne Allexan McClain says: May 24, 2025 06:56 PM I will miss his kind voice and helpfulness on the office phone. A very very hard chair to fill. Reply