Prestigious honor recognizes decades of dedication, leadership, and passion for the Ice Age National Scenic Trail

Cross Plains, Wis. — Barb and Jerome Converse of Whitewater have been named the 2026 recipients of the Spirit Stick Award, the most prestigious honor presented by the Ice Age Trail Alliance. The award recognizes long-term dedication, leadership, and a deep passion for the Ice Age National Scenic Trail.

The Converses were honored on April 25 during the Alliance’s Annual Conference Awards and Recognition ceremony.

Presented annually, the Spirit Stick Award celebrates individuals for whom the Trail is not just a place but a way of life. Recipients are selected by Alliance staff from nominations submitted by members, volunteers, and staff, following a rigorous review process. Inspired by the European “Wood Spirit” legend, the award symbolizes enduring commitment, enthusiasm, and the ability to inspire others.

Barb and Jerome Converse exemplify these qualities through decades of service and leadership. As dedicated members of the Walworth/Jefferson County Chapter, they have been a steady and positive force through multiple periods of growth and change within the organization.

Their contributions span Trail construction and maintenance, youth engagement, community outreach, and more. Whether working on local projects or supporting statewide efforts, the Converses have consistently shown up; month after month, year after year bringing optimism, cooperation, and a deep belief in the Ice Age Trail’s future.

“Jerome and Barb have been a steady, positive force for the Ice Age National Scenic Trail and Alliance for decades,” says Luke Kloberdanz, Executive Director and CEO of the Ice Age Trail Alliance. “Their volunteer involvement has impacted multiple areas of our work. Their generosity and leadership continue to strengthen the entire organization.”

The Spirit Stick Award honors individuals who lead by example, inspire those around them, and carry out service with cooperation, enthusiasm, and optimism. The Converses’ impact reaches far beyond any single project—and has helped lay the foundation for future generations to explore, connect with, and continue building the Ice Age National Scenic Trail.

“Their dedication is a powerful reminder that meaningful progress on the Trail happens over time through persistence, belief, and a willingness to keep showing up,” says Kloberdanz.

About the Ice Age Trail Alliance:

The Ice Age Trail Alliance is a nonprofit member- and volunteer-based organization that conserves, creates, maintains, and promotes the Ice Age National Scenic Trail along with the Wisconsin Department of Tourism and the National Park Service. To learn more about the Alliance, including how you can get involved, visit www.IceAgeTrail.org.

About the Ice Age National Scenic Trail:

The Ice Age National Scenic Trail is a 1,200-mile footpath contained entirely within Wisconsin. It traverses the state from St. Croix Falls in the west, to Sturgeon Bay in the east, going as far south as Janesville. One of 11 National Scenic Trails, the Ice Age Trail highlights the landscapes carved out by ancient glaciers, which happen to be some of the most beautiful areas in the state. Approximately 78% of Wisconsin residents live within 30 miles of the Ice Age Trail.