Ann Bancroft is one of the world’s preeminent polar explorers and an internationally recognized leader who is dedicated to inspiring women, girls and audiences around the world to unleash the power of their dreams. Through her various roles as an explorer, educator and sought-after speaker, Bancroft believes that by sharing stories related to her dreams of outdoor adventure, she can help inspire a global audience to pursue their individual dreams.
Born: St. Paul, Minnesota
Hometown: Scandia, Minnesota
Education: B.S., Education
Occupation: Explorer/educator
Expeditions: First Woman to the North Pole across ice 1986. Led First American Women team across Greenland 1992. Led First Women’s team to the South Pole 1992/93. Became first woman to cross the ice to both Poles. First woman with Liv Arnesen to cross Antarctica 2000-2001
Favorite place to be: Outside just about anywhere
Best discovery: Living in East Africa as a child and understanding there is a big wonderful world to travel.
Favorite item to have in the field: Compass
Personal Hero: My older brother Bill
Hobbies: Farming, being with my nieces and nephews
Advice: Listen closely to what your heart tells you to pursue, and let it drown out the negative voices and step forward.
