ERIK MOGENSEN HONORED WITH PRESTIGIOUS BOB GILLEN MEMORIAL AWARD BY SNOWSPORTS JOURNALISTS ASSOCIATION

Erik Mogensen, a prominent figure in the independent ski industry, has been awarded the prestigious Bob Gillen Memorial Award by the North American Snowsports Journalists Association (NASJA). The honor recognizes Mogensen's outstanding achievements and excellence in snowsports public and media relations over the past year.

Mogensen, who wears multiple hats as the owner of New Hampshire's Black Mountain, the Director of the Indy Pass, and the head of snowsports technology company Entabeni Systems, was specifically praised for his highly compelling, transparent storytelling regarding the survival and revival of independent ski areas.

A Narrative That Captivated the Industry

The Bob Gillen Memorial Award judges singled out Mogensen's communication strategy around Black Mountain this season as a masterclass in media relations. Rather than relying on traditional, sterile corporate press releases, Mogensen utilized candid newsletters and consistent, direct messaging to turn a local business challenge into a narrative that resonated across North America.

In an official statement, NASJA highlighted the unique impact of his strategy:

"Through honest newsletters and regular communication, Mogensen brought skiers, media and the broader community into the unfolding story of a small independent ski area making headlines. Judges said his work around Black Mountain this season stood out because people were not just reading updates, they were following a story. Even those who had never heard of or skied Black Mountain found themselves paying attention. His work reflected the transparency, care and independent spirit that keep local ski culture alive."

By inviting the public and media behind the scenes of an independent mountain navigating the modern snowsports landscape, Mogensen succeeded in building a passionate, nationwide community invested in the ski area's future.

Honoring a Legacy of Ski Journalism Allies

The accolade is deeply meaningful within the winter sports media landscape. The award is named in memory of Bob Gillen, a legendary and multi-faceted figure in the ski world. Gillen was the former editor of SKI Magazine, a highly respected marketer for major destinations including Crested Butte and Sugarbush resorts, and a lifelong, staunch ally of the North American Snowsports Journalists Association.

By taking home this year's memorial award, Mogensen joins a distinguished list of public relations professionals and industry leaders who have successfully bridged the gap between complex alpine operations and the media, proving that authenticity remains the most powerful tool in modern public relations.