“My Fulbright in 2010 in Ireland was an outstanding experience,” says Nan McEntire. “I want to make sure that Fulbright continues to provide a strong and viable professional program for teachers and scholars throughout the world.”

Many Fulbright alumni share Nan’s passion for promoting and protecting the Program. But not many go through such great lengths – literally – to do it. To raise money and awareness for the Fulbright Association’s mission, Nan plans to cycle coast-to-coast across America in a six-week journey. She will meet Fulbrighters and other friends of the Program along the 3400-mile trip.

At 72 years of age, Nan is a veteran cyclist. “A bicycle has been my number one mode of transportation for most of my life,” she says. “I rode a bike to Indiana State University for all of my teaching years because I was to cheap too pay for an annual parking permit, and I also ride everywhere here in Salt Lake City.”

As the President of the Utah Chapter of the Association, Nan also is serious about giving back to the Program from which she received so many priceless experiences. She has led the Chapter through a range of activities, from potlucks to hikes in Big Cottonwood Canyon.

Nan is riding with CrossRoads Cycling, an organization that gives participants the option of raising money for non-profit causes of their choice. Her cycling team will embark from Los Angeles on May 11, and plan to finish their long journey on June 29 when they ride into Boston. As they pass through 15 different states, covering an average of 90 miles per day, the group will take in the local sites and landmarks.

Would you like to support Nan’s ride? Click here to make a pledge. All donations will go directly to the Fulbright Association.

–Alison Aadland

Support Nan's Ride for Fulbright