Ski New Hampshire Recognizes Four Ski Industry Leaders at Annual Awards Dinner

Ski New Hampshire, the statewide association representing New Hampshire's ski industry, honored four individuals for their outstanding contributions to skiing and snowboarding during its 2026 Annual Awards Dinner held June 2, 2026 at Crystal Hills in the Rosebrook Lodge at the summit of Bretton Woods.

“It was an honor to present our industry awards to this year’s winners – all of whom have contributed to the ski industry in their own unique ways and inspired us with their passion, dedication, and willingness to work hard to grow and support the sport of skiing,” said Jessyca Keeler, president of Ski New Hampshire.

Al Merrill Award: Ellen Chandler

The Al Merrill Award, which recognizes outstanding contributions to Nordic skiing in New Hampshire, was presented to Ellen Chandler, recently retired executive director of Jackson XC.

Established in memory of Al Merrill, the award recognizes individuals who have made exceptional contributions to Nordic skiing in the Granite State.

Presented by past recipient of the Merrill Award and retired UNH Nordic coach Cory Schwartz, this year’s award recognized Chandler's more than 40 years of leadership in Nordic skiing. A graduate of Williams College and the first female Nordic All-American in the school’s history, Chandler began her career teaching young children to ski in remote Alaska before becoming a driving force behind some of the Northeast’s most iconic Nordic ski centers.

Throughout her career, Chandler managed the Bretton Woods Nordic Center, directed Eastman's youth ski program, led the New England Ski Museum, worked closely with the New England Nordic Ski Association (NENSA), and most recently guided Jackson XC through a period of growth and success.

“Ellen didn't just inherit great Nordic centers—she helped build the institutions that support Nordic skiing today,” Schwartz said. In recognition of her lasting legacy, the Jackson XC Board of Directors recently voted to name a trail “Ellen’s Vision” in her honor.

Keeler also recognized Chandler's years on the Ski NH Board of Directors' executive committee and willingness to contribute to the organization's efforts to bring cross-country areas into the Ski NH community and help develop educational opportunities for the state's Nordic areas.

Accepting the award, Chandler expressed gratitude to the Jackson XC community and the many colleagues and volunteers who helped advance Nordic skiing throughout her career.

H.H. "Bill" Whitney Award: Frank MacConnell

The H.H. "Bill" Whitney Award, presented to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to New Hampshire's ski and snowboard industry, was awarded to Frank MacConnell, owner of Bob Skinner's Ski & Sports, by Ross Boisvert, President and General Manager of McIntyre Ski Area, and Ivar Dahl, ski representative for several premium snow sports brands.

Boisvert highlighted MacConnell’s long involvement in the ski industry, which began at Mount Sunapee where he learned to ski with the Buddy Werner League. As a young racer, he competed with the Mount Sunapee Race Program and was invited to train with the U.S. Development Ski Team in Kaprun, Austria. While attending Newport High School, he earned the prestigious Skimeister Award.

MacConnell continued his ski career at Johnson State College, where he competed on the ski team and coached the ski jumping team. He later coached at Mount Mansfield and served as Head Coach of the Crested Butte Racing Club in Colorado, where he worked with future Olympians Chris and Casey Puckett.

Returning to New Hampshire in the early 1980s, MacConnell held a variety of roles in the ski industry, including ski instructor at King Ridge Ski Area, head coach of the Colby-Sawyer College women’s ski team, and manager of Arrowhead Skiway in Claremont.

A chance meeting with legendary retailer Bob Skinner changed the course of his career. After managing Bob Skinner’s Ski & Sports during the 1984-85 season, MacConnell purchased the business with support from Skinner and his parents. Over the next 40 years, he transformed the shop into one of New Hampshire’s most respected specialty ski retailers.

In addition to building shop, he has supported countless ski programs, mentored generations of athletes, and served on the committee to help secure the long-term success of Mount Sunapee.

In 2018, Governor Chris Sununu appointed MacConnell to the Cannon Mountain Advisory Commission. He became chairman in 2024 and continues to work collaboratively to ensure Cannon Mountain remains safe, successful, and state-operated.

“I’ve learned that there are three traits that define success in the industry,” said presenter Ivar Dahl. “They are passion, commitment, and being present to the customer. Frank embodies all three traits and has always been at the top of my list as an example of what makes a successful retailer and industry leader.”

Next Gen Awards: Sean Norton and Connor O'Neil

Ski NH's Next Gen Award recognizes ski area professionals under the age of 40 who are making a significant impact through leadership and innovation. This year's recipients were Sean Norton, Snowsports School Director at Dartmouth Skiway, and Connor O'Neil, Food & Beverage Manager at Mount Sunapee.

Since joining Dartmouth Skiway, Norton has overseen significant growth in instructional programs, increasing snowsports revenue by 75 percent, doubling participation in youth programs, and expanding the ski school's instructor team while maintaining strong staff retention.

“Sean has transformed the Snowsports School at Dartmouth Skiway,” said Dartmouth Skiway General Manager Mark Adamczyk. “Most importantly, he has created a fun and caring culture focused on developing lifelong skiers.”

At Mount Sunapee, O'Neil was recognized for his exceptional leadership, professionalism, and commitment to both guests and employees. Mount Sunapee General Manager Sue Donnelly praised his ability to lead by example, mentor staff, and maintain a positive attitude while overseeing multiple food and beverage operations.

“Connor absolutely crushes it here at Mount Sunapee Resort,” Donnelly said. “He inspires his team and others around him by working hard and staying involved in every aspect of the operation.”