Telluride Academy remains saddened by the loss of former student and longtime instructor Chason Russell in June of 2021. Chason grew up in Telluride and within the community of Telluride Academy. From his first Academy program in 1986, through his last summer as an Instructor in 2010, Chason was an integral and deeply cherished member of the Academy Family.

Chason was a dynamic and passionate advocate for adventure who lead numerous expedition-based programs for Telluride Academy students. True to his passions, Chason’s programs varied in focus between backpacking and mountaineering, mountain biking, hard shell kayaking clinics, whitewater river trips and international travel. Chason influenced countless Telluride Academy students and his legacy will carry forth every time those now adult students scale a rock wall, summit a peak, paddle a river and sleep under the stars.

Chason will forever be the embodiment of everything Telluride Academy stands for. He was a selfless teacher and mentor who inspired students of all ages to pursue their passions, to overcome challenges with grace, perseverance and humility and to celebrate the beauty and power of the natural world.

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Chason P Russell Memorial Fund

Chason P Russell Memorial Fund