Our history
The PNW Chapter has a rich history of fostering Explorer Club member camaraderie in the region encompassing Washington, Oregon, and Idaho.
Established in 1990 under Don Ryan’s leadership, our chapter held gatherings every other year, and it went through a period of growth under Ed Sobey from 2002 to 2012. Achieving nonprofit status in 2003, our chapter hosted regular meetings and organized expeditions such as the Explorers Columbia River Expedition in 2004. We continued to thrive with notable contributions from Lynn Danaher, John Lawrence, Ron Zuber, and John All. Specifically, Ron focused on community-building initiatives such as the Chapter Student Section, while John steered our chapter through the challenges of COVID-19, initiating virtual meetings and a chapter website.
Eric Rasmussen, who guided the chapter through recent years, has just passed the torch to Mark Kerr, ushering in a new era of leadership for the chapter of more than 100 members in the Pacific Northwest.
Committee 2025
Chapter Chair: Mark Kerr
Treasurer: Dean Gushee
Membership Chair: Doug Pierson
Program Chair: Megan Fanning
Executive Administrator: Jackie Delie
Grants/Awards Coordinator: Constance Scharff
Our committee comprises Explorer Club members across the PNW who are volunteers elected by our chapter members. Each committee member comes from different disciplines of exploration and science, with a central focus on serving our chapter and its members.
Past Chapter Chairs
1990 - 2001: Don Ryan
2002 - 2011: Ed Sobey
2012 - 2013: Lynn Danaher & John Lawrence
2014 - 2018: Ron Zuber
2019 - 2022: John All
2023 - 2024: Eric Rasmussen
Logo
Our chapter logo is a design that encapsulates the essence of the Pacific Northwest through its incorporation of iconic elements: an orca representing Washington, Mount Hood representing Oregon, and a Douglas-fir representing Idaho.
Crafted in 2018, the logo design process was a collaborative effort of our chapter members.
Coin
Our chapter coin was crafted in 2024. On one side, there is The Explorers Club logo, and on the reverse is the PNW Chapter logo. This coin is presented to individuals who support our chapter, including guest event speakers. It is also available for purchase at $12 a coin, with all the proceeds supporting chapter events. Contact us for more information.
Get Involved
We foster a strong sense of community through regular events and social activities in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. These gatherings are designed to connect individuals with a shared interest in exploration and to promote exemplary storytelling, education, and fellowship. We warmly welcome you to join our vibrant community!
How to Join
To become an Explorers Club member, visit the headquarters website to review the membership qualifications and download the application form. The application requires two sponsors from within the Club, and each application is assessed at the Club headquarters quarterly meeting. Feel free to contact our chapter (PacificNorthwest@Explorers.org), and we will liaise with you on possible support.
Global Network
We are one of over 30 chapters worldwide. Connect with members and explore other chapters to share stories, ideas, and inspiration.