Notebook

UPFRONT Back on the Trail

MARCH | APRIL 2026 Margot Ruland ’27
Notebook
UPFRONT Back on the Trail
MARCH | APRIL 2026 Margot Ruland ’27

UPFRONT Back on the Trail

Notebook

THE GREEN 12 BRICKS & MORTAR 16 THE ARTS 20 PERSONAL HISTORY 22

Dartmouth Outing Club assistant director Brad Geismar ’17 is working to build the close student-administrator collaboration he previously fostered as Colby College’s director of outdoor leadership and education. He credits the DOC, to which he returned last year, for helping him find his home at Dartmouth and in New Hampshire’s wilderness. Earlier years in the Upper Valleyincluding time on Moosilauke Ravine Lodge’s crew and 18 months as DOC program coordinator-strengthened Geismar’s commitment to share his excitement about the outdoors, as did his predecessor, Rory Gawler ’05, whom he calls a “friend and mentor.”

In addition to pushing more students into leadership roles, Geismar says, “A key priority of mine is to spread awareness of the wonderful opportunities and resources the DOC and Outdoor Programs Office offer to help members of the Dartmouth community get outside.” He also stresses the importance of lowering economic barriers, such as with the club’s free gear rentals.

Margot Ruland ’27