Our Stories
2026 NCTA Volunteer Awards: Lifetime Achievement
Lifetime Achievement Awards are presented to individuals, in recognition of 15+ years of true dedication, exceptional service and outstanding contributions toward the dream of the North Country Trail, or the success and growth of the NCTA.
Mary Moberg
For two decades, Mary has steadily worked behind the scenes to advance the mission of the North Country Trail Association. She inspired others while leading hikes, mentored new leaders, grew membership, organized signature events, and created welcoming spaces that connected people to the trail and to one another. Her generosity extended well beyond volunteer hours, opening her home, sharing her knowledge, and making everyone feel they belong in this trail community. Mary’s thoughtful leadership strengthened the Dakota Prairie Chapter and ensured its future through clever succession planning and community engagement. Her lasting impact is reflected in the people, partnerships, and thriving Chapter she helped build. Mary’s legacy is one of humility, dedication, and heartfelt service.
Jane Norton
Since joining the NCTA in 2010, Jane has devoted herself wholeheartedly to the trail, contributing thousands of volunteer hours while inspiring everyone around her. As Chapter President, Secretary, hike leader, Trail Adopter, committee chair, Trail Angel, and now an NCTA board member, Jane has led with enthusiasm and humility. She has strengthened membership, built lasting relationships with volunteers and landowners, guided the Chapter through challenging times, and welcomed countless people into this trail community. Whether blazing trail, organizing events, or sharing her love of hiking, Jane always goes the extra mile. Her selfless service, infectious passion, and genuine care for others have strengthened both Michigan’s Chief Noonday Chapter and the Association as a whole in lasting and meaningful ways.
Mark VanHornweder
Mark has dedicated 20 years of his time, expertise, and heart to completing and caring for the North Country Trail in Minnesota and Wisconsin. From designing sustainable routes and maintaining challenging trail segments to mentoring volunteers and leading at both the Chapter and national levels, Mark’s commitment has left a lasting mark on the trail and its community. His leadership, technical skill, and collaborative spirit have strengthened partnerships, drastically improved the trail, and inspired countless volunteers. For many, thanks to Mark, a first trail-building experience became the beginning of a lifelong connection to stewardship.
Learn more about this volunteer awards program at northcountrytrail.org/awards.
