Michael B. Adler

Recipient of the first annual Harris Award

About Michael

I was born and spent my first ten years in Chicago. Then Dad brought me to Aspen where he helped start the Aspen Institute and I went to High School at CRMS in Carbondale. I was drafted from Pitkin County in 1958 and served 5 years in the Army. I worked for Mutual of Omaha Insurance Co based in Omaha for 20 years until I went back to Aspen. Later, I moved to Grand Junction because I wanted warmer weather and didn’t ski anymore. For the past five years, I have been retired except for my Internet business.

I first heard about Aspen Camp in 1972 when Shorty Pabst, a friend of mine, donated the property to the Camp. John Denver got me involved helping with the Deaf Camp Picnics. I was partner with Chalmers Morse in several businesses in 1992. Chalmers was a Trustee of the Camp. Three years ago when I heard that the Camp was closing, I said “no they aren’t” and became heavily involved.

For fun, I do things that help others and make me feel good. Since I started fighting Cancer I have used the Camp to keep my mental state positive and to keep me going. I have a purpose and a vision for the Camp that I want to complete in my lifetime. This includes having a successful Capital Campaign and seeing the results of that Campaign.

Three interesting facts you may not have known about Michael:
1) He is very shy.
2) He loves to fly-fish.
3) He enjoys “seeing others succeed.”

Why Michael

This year Michael B. Adler was chosen because of his inspiring commitment to Aspen Camp over the past year. He became involved, and, despite fighting cancer, has made an appearance at many of our programs. He also now serves on our Board of Trustees as well as the chair of our capital campaign. He has made countless outreach efforts with the local community in gaining financial and in-kind support. He even set up an American Sign Language class at his local church! His vigor, sincerity, and compassion for the deaf community made him an honorable recipient for the first ever Harris Award.

Mike, we cherish you.

To learn more about the Harris Award, go here.

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