Major $1 Million Donation Renames U.S. National Ski & Snowboard Hall of Fame and Museum
Stowe, Vermont - In a remarkable act of generosity, Chuck and Jann Perkins, prominent figures in the ski industry and longtime supporters of winter sports history, have donated a staggering $1 million to the U.S. National Ski & Snowboard Hall of Fame and Museum. In recognition of their substantial contribution, the museum will undergo a prestigious rebranding, henceforth to be known as the "Charles N. and Janet B. Perkins Building | Home of the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Hall of Fame and Museum."
The Perkins' journey in the ski industry commenced in 1963 when they opened an alpine shop in Burlington, Vermont. Their store swiftly became a hub for skiing enthusiasts, catering to both visitors and Vermont residents during the alpine skiing boom. Their passion for the sport and dedication to its community transformed them into well-respected ski dignitaries. Remarkably, their shop thrived until the early 2000s when they decided to sell it and embark on a well-deserved retirement.
Throughout their illustrious careers, the Perkins consistently supported the 10th Mountain Division veterans, generously sponsoring regional events and trade shows. To this day, they actively serve on various ski history organization boards, maintaining their commitment to preserving the legacy of winter sports.
The Perkins' love for skiing and snowsports history led them on countless adventures, touring and skiing at hundreds of resorts across the United States and around the world. Their invaluable experiences and contributions to the skiing community have solidified their place as snowsport history advocates.
Jann Perkins spoke about their motivation for investing in the museum, emphasizing its dedication to honoring those who have left an indelible mark on the world of winter sports. "The hall's inductions are incredible, and they work tirelessly to recognize the highest level of ski and snowboard industry pioneers annually," said Jann Perkins in a press release. "Chuck and I have seen their events first-hand for decades all over the country. This organization serves a key role in archiving our nation's winter sports history, and Chuck and I wanted to leave our legacy and our name backing those efforts so they can continue doing what they do long after we are gone."
Justin Koski, the museum's executive director, described the Perkins' generous donation as a "milestone" for the institution. He noted that the museum's reach now extends across the nation, with supporters from various regions of the United States coming together to ensure the organization's continued success.
The donation's proceeds will be directed toward strengthening the museum's financial position, creating a robust foundation for future collaborations with community and regional entities that share a commitment to supporting the organization. These funds will also be allocated to essential maintenance projects and other operational needs to sustain the museum's mission.
To celebrate this momentous occasion, the museum has planned a statue unveiling event, offering an opportunity for local supporters and admirers to meet Chuck and Jann Perkins personally. The museum anticipates announcing further details regarding this event in the coming weeks.
The remarkable generosity of Chuck and Jann Perkins ensures that the U.S. National Ski & Snowboard Hall of Fame and Museum will continue to serve as a beacon of winter sports history for generations to come.