Jen Black #14023 Board of Directors Jen says, “I am thrilled to join the Board of Directors to continue to amplify the mission of the 46ers. After finishing my 46 in 2022, I looked forward to giving back to the mountains and community that gave me and taught me so much. Becoming involved with the Trailhead Steward program the following year enabled me to further connect with not only the existing passionate community, but with all different types of hikers. It has also been a rewarding experience becoming a certified Leave No Trace Level 1 Instructor on the Education team. This has empowered me to contribute further to the organization’s critical education mission. I am energized by the opportunity to continue the important work of the 46ers through fostering more community and member engagement across all the diverse volunteer opportunities we offer and look forward to spreading more of the joy that this journey has brought me.” Brent Pierce #5959V Dinner/Events Committee Chair Brent says, “The 46er organization has given me opportunities to do what I enjoy almost as much as hiking — volunteering. I have been a Trailhead Steward for many years and have served on the 46ers Board of Directors for the past two years. During my time as a director I’ve been able to help plan and organize the annual meetings and work with the committee to add new events to the dinners. Now I’m following in the footsteps of the previous Dinner and Events Coordinator — and former President and Past President — Laurie Rankin. Laurie has led this committee for many years, and the groundwork she has laid will make it easier for me and the rest of the committee to continue planning fun, informative, and meaningful dinners and events. I look forward to leading this committee and helping members of the 46er community come together for fellowship, learning, and enjoyment.” Tom Caruso #10486V Trail Crew Tom says, “I joined the trail crew back in Winter 2017 after I completed the 46 that fall. I love the Adirondacks so much that I moved here from the NYC area some 16 years ago. I’ve enjoyed doing trail work because it makes me feel good giving back and for the camaraderie and friends that I have made. These volunteers are a great group of people and many of them must travel many hours to work for the trail crew! I am grateful for all they do!” Pete Sucheski #15500 PEEKS Art Director Pete says, “Having spent the last 25 years working in the magazine industry, I immediately emailed Peeks when the call to action came for some graphic design help. Combining my love of magazine design with my passion for the Adirondacks seemed like a dream come true. Over the last few months, I helped us rethink and redesign the overall look and feel of PEEKS. My hope is that the magazine is a bit easier to follow, and is presented in a way that creates a lot of excitement for the High Peaks and our organization. My 46er journey was a long one. I grew up canoeing the backcountry with my Dad, but only climbed my first High Peak in 2001 at age 19. From there, I chipped away at the list, and finally wrapped things up in the summer of 2024. And although my 46 list is complete, I’m now focused on getting my son Luke, 12, to his goal. So far he has two completed, and two more planned this summer.” SUMMER 2026 | 63
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