Challenge Mountain recently celebrated a milestone for longtime leader and volunteer Bill Aten, who retired from the Board of Directors in January 2025 after most recently serving as Board Secretary.
Though Bill has stepped away from the Challenge Mountain Board of Directors in January of 2026, his presence at continues…on the slopes, at programs and throughout the community he has served for so many years. His legacy is not just one of leadership, but of showing up, pitching in and making a difference that lasts.
A retired Boyne Falls Schools teacher and principal, Bill’s commitment to education, recreation and community connection has defined much of his life’s work. That commitment found a natural home at Challenge Mountain, where Bill has served in nearly every way imaginable: teacher, adaptive skiing volunteer, year-round programming volunteer, handyman, construction helper, Boyne Thunder liaison, board member and past board president.
Recently, Bill’s contributions to Challenge Mountain and the Boyne area community were recognized at a special event. “Bill has given so much of himself to this community,” shared Elizabeth Gertz, Executive Director. “His impact can be seen in our programs, our spaces and, most importantly, in the lives of the people he’s helped along the way.”
One of Bill’s most visible roles over the years has been as a volunteer in the Challenge Mountain adaptive ski program, helping connect participants with life-changing, adaptive winter recreational opportunities.
At the event, Bill shared a story that perfectly captured the long-term impact of his involvement. Years ago, he taught a young boy how to ski through Challenge Mountain programming. Just this winter, Bill found himself working with a young man on the slopes when the participant explained, “I remember you from 11 years ago.”
“That moment really says everything,” Gertz adds. “It reinforces how deeply Bill’s involvement has impacted our participants and how those experiences stay with them for a lifetime.”
Beyond the Slopes and Boardroom
Beyond the slopes and boardroom, Bill’s presence has brought joy and connection through music as well. As a member of the Full Moon String Band, Bill has shared his love of music alongside fellow community members, often performing at charitable and community events—including Challenge Mountain social programs where participants can dance, sing along and simply have fun.
Bill has also jumped in when needed behind the scenes, including lending his time and skills during the opening of Challenge Mountain Resale Store at its current location more than 10 years ago—a project that continues to support Challenge Mountain’s mission today.
“Bill has long known the benefits of recreational activities, both for himself and for our participants,” said Gertz. “While Bill is stepping away from his role on the Board, he remains very much a part of the Challenge Mountain family.”
Bill’s leadership, generosity and belief in the power of recreation and community continue to shape Challenge Mountain—and the many lives served through adaptive programs.
Decades for Fun and Friendship in Photos
