The Black Diamond Elevate Scholarship exists to reduce barriers to wilderness education and leadership development. It provides financial support for students who may not otherwise have access to a NOLS semester course, helping foster a more inclusive and resilient outdoor community.
The scholarship supports immersive, multi‑discipline semester courses that emphasize technical skills, leadership, decision‑making, and collaboration over an extended period of time.

2026 ELIGABLE COURSES:

The Elevate Scholarship applies to the following NOLS semester courses in 2026:

Summer Semester in Alaska
  • Dates: May 17 – July 30, 2026
  • Length: 75 days
  • Core disciplines: Sea kayaking, mountaineering, backpacking
Summer Semester in the Rocky Mountains
  • Dates: June 12 – August 18, 2026
  • Length: 68 days
  • Core disciplines: Rock climbing, backpacking, whitewater paddling

These courses are designed for students seeking a deep, time‑intensive leadership and wilderness education experience across varied skill types.