Story

North to the Pole: 40 Years Later

2026 marks the 40th anniversary of the Steger International Polar Expedition, the journey that set Ann as the first known woman to reach the North Pole on foot and by sled. The Steger expedition is the first known fully unsupported dogsled journey to the North Pole.

Forty years ago, our founder, Ann Bancroft, went on the Steger International Polar Expedition with seven other team members and 50 dogs and became the first woman to reach the North Pole on foot and by sled. The Minnesota Historical Society hosted a special event on October 8th, celebrating their groundbreaking expedition and enduring legacy.

The program reflected the challenges, discoveries, and significance of their journey while highlighting the courage and determination that continue to inspire explorers around the world. It was a meaningful opportunity to look back on this remarkable achievement and honor the spirit of adventure that made it possible.

Ann expressed gratitude to Will and others for believing in her and the platform that she was given afterward, which led her to lead the first all-women's expedition across the South Pole and launch the Ann Bancroft Foundation 29 years ago!

Learn More About the Expedition

Related stories

  1. Story
    Mercy Trailblazer Fellowship Learning Log
    Meet Mercy Ncube, Trailblazer Fellow, and read about her experience competing at DECA Nationals in her senior year of high school.
  2. Story
    Our Impact: The Power of $1,000
    A $1,000 investment is building up the next generation of leaders, scientists, athletes, authors, and doctors to be change-makers in their communities. We are taking this bold step to say to our youth that in a constantly changing world, we are still here, and we believe in your dreams!
  3. Story
    LaCora Bradford Kesti: Seven lessons to my younger self
    The Ann Bancroft Foundation welcomes LaCora Bradford Kesti as a new board member in 2023. Below, LaCora shares seven leadership lessons she has learned from nearly a decade of working in nonprofits.