WoW Blog (Woman of the Week)

Ann Bancroft is an American adventurer who is well-known for her successful expeditions to the Artic and Antarctic.

Bancroft was born September 29, 1955 in Mendota Heights, Minnesota. She loved the outdoors even as a young child, and spent her time exploring the Minnesota wilderness. When she was growing up, her father took her on canoe and camping trips. At the age of eight, Bancroft started her own winter camping expeditions with her cousins.

As a child, Anne Bancroft struggled with dyslexia; however, she went on to earn her Bachelor of Science degree in physical education from the University of Oregon. Bancroft then taught physical and special education in Minneapolis, Minnesota. During that time, she also coached various high school sports, including wilderness education and gymnastics.

A Woman of Many Firsts

In 1986, Anne Bancroft left her teaching position in Minnesota to join the "Will Steger International North Pole Expedition". After 56 days, Bancroft and five others arrived in the North Pole by dogsled. In successfully completing the expedition, Bancroft became the first woman to reach the North Pole by sled and on foot.

In 1992, Bancroft led the first women's crossing of Greenland. The following year, Bancroft led three other women on a 67-day, 660-mile skiing expedition to the South Pole. The journey was funded by the American Women's Expedition, and earned the distinction of being the first group of women to reach the South Pole on skis. Bancroft's achievements later led to her induction into the United States National Women's Hall of Fame.

Where is She Now?

Along with her friend and fellow teacher, Liv Arnesen, Ann Bancroft founded the Bancroft Arnesen Explore (BAE). According to the organizations website, the BAE is a non-profit organization that aims to "inspire people, particularly women and girls, to follow their dreams". Since the foundation of the BAE, the two women have traveled around the world to share their stories through presentations, films, and workshops.

Ann Bancroft has become an international figure. Her expeditions have been tracked by major news networks across the globe, and she has been featured in magazines ranging from beauty magazines to Sports Illustrated and National Geographic.

According to her website, Bancroft is a spokesperson for the Learning Disabilities Association, Wilderness Inquiry, and the Girl Scouts of America. She also serves on the board for various youth and women's organizations.

Resources:

http://www.yourexpedition.com/ann_bancroft

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ann_Bancroft

http://www.greatwomen.org/women.php?action=viewone&id=16

http://www.yourexpedition.com/about_bae