The Mountaineers
Since its founding in 2018, The Mountaineers Equity & Inclusion Committee has played an important advisory role in helping the organization identify barriers to participation and explore ways to make our community more welcoming and accessible. This group of volunteers and staff partners has guided our organization in identifying and addressing barriers to participation, offering tools for inclusive leadership, and supporting efforts that make our community more welcoming. As our understanding of equity has grown, so too has our language, and with it, a renewed commitment to fostering true belonging.
New Name, Same Mission
As part of our growth, the Equity & Inclusion Committee has changed its name to the Equity & Belonging Committee. Recognizing that belonging grows from intentional and inclusive practices, this name change reflects a deeper understanding of what it means to build community and establish our organization as a place where everyone not only feels included, but can find belonging.
Alongside the new name, the committee also adopted an updated Equity & Belonging Charter, which more clearly outlines its advisory role, core values, and goals. Approved by the Board of Directors in March 2025, this refreshed framework guides the committee’s efforts and deepens its alignment with the organization’s long-term vision for equity and community.
While the name has changed, our purpose remains the same. The committee will continue its advisory role to our volunteer leadership, guiding organization-wide efforts to expand access, address systemic barriers, and create spaces where all people feel physically and emotionally safe.
Leadership Transition
As the committee steps into this next phase, we also mark an important transition in leadership. This moment offers us a chance to reflect with gratitude on the individuals who helped guide our work thus far, and to look ahead.
We extend our deep appreciation to Robert White for his year of service as Chair of the Equity & Inclusion Committee. His thoughtful perspective and care for our community helped shape the foundation we continue to build on today. As Robert steps into his new role as Everett Branch Chair-elect, we’re thrilled to welcome Ramki Pitchuiyer as the incoming Chair of the Equity & Belonging Committee.
Ramki brings a collaborative spirit and deep commitment to creating inclusive spaces. We’re excited for the thoughtful leadership he’ll bring to this next chapter, and are grateful for his continued involvement in this work through a new lens.
Recognizing Service With New Badges
As part of this transition, we’re proud to introduce two new volunteer recognition badges:
These badges honor the expertise and contributions of volunteers engaging in equity and belonging work across The Mountaineers. They also help increase visibility and accountability within our broader leadership structure.
Get Involved
We welcome new voices to join us! If you're passionate about building a more inclusive outdoor community and want to help shape the future of equity and belonging at The Mountaineers, we invite you to get involved. Whether you bring lived experience, a desire to learn, or a vision for change, your perspective matters.
Interested in joining the Equity & Belonging Committee? Email Michelle Song at michelles@mountaineers.org to learn more or express your interest.
