North Conway, NH (Feb. 2, 2026) — Over the weekend, Cranmore employees, friends, and family gathered to celebrate Karen Dolan’s 50 years of leadership, dedication, and lasting impact as the resort’s Ski School Director.
The newly named Karen Dolan Learning Center, formerly the Arlberg Children’s Center, honors Dolan’s long-spanning career of shaping Cranmore into one of the country’s most trusted and welcoming destinations for learning snowsports.
Dolan’s 50-year tenure as Ski School Director at Cranmore is virtually unprecedented in the U.S. ski industry. Her passion for teaching and commitment to guest experience helped define Cranmore’s reputation as a family-focused mountain where learning is approachable, confidence-building, and fun.
“Karen has been a mainstay for the resort for 50 years, a remarkable commitment to Cranmore and our staff. When we bought Cranmore, we quickly realized there was a unique vibe to this organization's culture,” said Cranmore President and General Manager Ben Wilcox, on behalf of Brian Fairbank, chairman of the Fairbank Group. “This entire staff cares about the guests and their fellow employees. I truly believe Karen contributes immensely with her signature calm and gentle demeanor. She has always exemplified what Cranmore is about.”
Wilcox also reflected on Dolan’s broader influence.
“Karen Dolan’s impact on Cranmore, and on the Mount Washington Valley ski community, is impossible to measure,” Wilcox said. “For more than 50 years, she has led with passion, humility and an unwavering belief that skiing should be accessible to everyone. Karen has inspired generations of skiers, instructors and leaders—including me—and her influence is felt every single day at this mountain. Naming the Karen Dolan Learning Center in her honor ensures her legacy of learning, inclusion and joy on snow will continue for generations to come.”
Dolan’s connection to Cranmore began early, starting on skis at around two years old. By age 13, she had already discovered a passion for teaching others to ski. Years later, Dolan would help guide the evolution of Cranmore’s children’s programs, emphasizing confidence, fun and relationships. Many of the children she once taught now return with their own families.
Beyond technique and instruction, Dolan has always believed skiing is a way to build confidence, independence and lifelong skills. Her approach centered on making guests feel comfortable, supported and excited to return.
“I am deeply grateful to everyone who has supported me throughout my journey. I thank my family and friends, my Cranmore family, and our partners across the ski industry—Snow Operating, PSIA, AASI, Ski NH, the Fairbank Group, and the Home Base crew we work with each year,” Dolan said. “You have made it truly fun and meaningful to be part of this organization. Together, we have built a strong learning culture within our school and a lasting legacy rooted in what those before us established. I sincerely thank each and every one of you who has contributed to my career and my success.”
The Karen Dolan Learning Center ensures her influence will continue to be felt by every skier, rider, and instructor who passes through its doors for generations to come.
In August, Cranmore announced Zack Kirchner of Albany, NH, as its new Snowsports Director. Dolan will continue in an advisory role, focusing on mentoring and supporting the Snowsports team while enjoying more time with family and friends, ensuring the vibrant culture she built continues to thrive.