F. Craig Barber, an avid skier, professional adaptive ski instructor, and devoted father, spent his life encouraging his four daughters — Bevin, Megan, Tara, and Deedee — to pursue challenges with confidence and determination.

After Craig passed away in 2023, his daughters sought a meaningful way to honor the values he instilled in them and their family's lifelong love of skiing. Through the Montana Community Foundation, they established the F. Craig Barber Memorial Alpine Ski Scholarship Fund. The fund provides annual scholarships for young women participating in the alpine ski program at Bridger Ski Foundation, helping ensure that future generations of female athletes have opportunities to develop their skills, build confidence, and pursue their goals on the mountain.

Grace, this year’s recipient, is a motivated and dedicated skier who shows up every day with a fantastic attitude toward ski racing, said Laura Huggins, the director of development for Bridger Ski Foundation. Grace rebounded from injuries this year with grit and determination, and qualified for the Tri-Divisional Championships even after missing a significant portion of the season.

“This financial assistance makes it possible for Grace to continue following her ski racing dreams and pursue her greatest passion. Grace is an athlete who will be grateful for every bit of this scholarship and the opportunities it provides her,” Laura wrote.

Grace said she’ll now be able to train five days a week, attend Bridger Ski Foundation ski camps, and pay for team travel to races.

"Thank you so much for the scholarship. It is so amazing that you give it out to a girl who needs it," Grace wrote in a letter to Craig's daughters. " ... So many new and exciting opportunities arose with the scholarship."

For Craig’s daughters, the scholarship reflects a legacy that extends far beyond skiing.

"His spirit will delight in knowing that for many years to come female athletes will be supported through this scholarship fund," they wrote.

The scholarship honors not only Craig’s passion for skiing, but also his unwavering belief that young women should be encouraged to take risks, challenge themselves, and discover what they are capable of achieving.

Today, every scholarship awarded carries that belief forward, helping young athletes gain access to opportunities that can shape their futures. Through the fund, Craig’s legacy continues to inspire courage, confidence, and adventure on Montana’s slopes for years to come.

Support the F. Craig Barber Memorial Alpine Ski Scholarship Fund