History

Stark Mountain Foundation and Mad River Glen’s ski scholarship offerings have a rich history. Past programs were made possible by the dedication and passion of key individuals who inspire us to continue providing access, affordability, and inclusion in recreating on Stark Mountain. SMF invites you to contribute to this page by sharing your memories of scholarship programs from the early days of Mad River Glen.

SMF’s recent initiative, the 2021 Children’s Ski Scholarship Program was established by a group of friends from the Mad River racing team who wanted to honor the memory of Terry Harris. Terry was a dear friend who loved Mad River Glen. The vision is to remove the financial burden of access and affordability of skiing, so local children can begin skiing at a young age. By supporting young athletes with lessons and gear, the program aims to foster self-accomplishment. SMF’s vision is for children in this program to grow through multi-year participation in outdoor recreation and develop a lifelong passion for skiing, adventure, and the natural environment.

SMF’s Children’s Ski Scholarship Program pays tribute to Terry Harris, who passed away in 2020. Terry was a passionate skier who found his true ski home at Mad River Glen. He appreciated everything about the ski area, including its natural mountain trails and friendly people. Terry and his family became true Mad River skiers. His children joined the Mad River Race Team and his grandson was on the Mad River Freestyle Team. Terry loved skiing with his grandson and enjoyed spending time with his friends and family in the Single Chair line or upstairs in the Basebox. He was a proud member of the Mad River Glen Cooperative and was deeply grateful for the community and enrichment that Mad River provided his life.

SMF’s Children’s Ski Scholarship Program also remembers Paul Berzatzy, a legendary ski instructor at Mad River Glen. Paul was born in Hungary and came to the United States in 1957. He taught skiing at Mad River Glen for 42 years and was recognized by Ski Magazine as one of the top 100 ski instructors in North America in 2006, at the age of 80. Paul was an avid tennis player and inventor. He touched many lives during his long tenure at Mad River Glen. He considered the Mad River community his family. We will always remember him with fondness and admiration. Donations to support the Children’s Scholarship Program may be made to the Stark Mountain Foundation.