Rick Ridgeway

Rick Ridgeway, Based in Ojai, Rick is an outdoor adventurer, writer and advocate for sustainability and conservation initiatives. For 15 years, he was a VP at Patagonia, developing environmental and sustainability initiatives, including Freedom to Roam, the Footprint Chronicles and Worn Wear. He also was founder of the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, today the largest apparel, footwear and home textile trade organization in the world. In addition, Rick is recognized as one of the world’s foremost mountaineers. With three companions, he was the first American to summit K2, and he has done other significant climbs and explorations on all continents. National Geographic honored him with its “Lifetime Achievement in Adventure” award and the Explorer’s Club gave him their most prestigious award, the Explorer’s Medal. He has written seven books including his memoir Life Lived Wild released in 2021. He serves on the boards of several environmental nonprofits including Tompkins Conservation, The Kiewit Family Foundation, One Earth, and WWF’s National Council. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in conservation, non-profits, donor relations, strategic planning and fundraising.