A study abroad trip led by Professor John Loegering, interim head of the Math, Science, and Technology Department and Lisa Loegering, assistant director of community engagement took students to Australia and New Zealand. On May 22, the group was at the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, one of the top 3 winter hikes in New Zealand. 

They started at 3707 feet, climbed 2481 feet to the summit of 6188 feet and then descended to 2493 feet -- a total elevation change of 6176 feet! The climb featured lovely names like "the devil's staircase" and Lord of the Rings fans will recognize "Mount Doom" in the background from the series of movies. The climb was not for the meek but well worth the effort.