Celebrating this Year’s Barry Hance Award Recipient!
October 9, 2026 – Yosemite National Park officials announce the 2025 Barry Hance Award recipient.
During a ceremony in Yosemite Valley on Tuesday, September 1, Yosemite National Park Superintendent Ray McPadden announced Gary Dunworth, maintenance worker supervisor, as this year’s recipient of the Barry Hance Award, the highest annual award presented to a Yosemite National Park employee.
Named in honor of park employee Barry Hance, who tragically lost his life in an avalanche on Tioga Road in 1995, the award recognizes an employee who exemplifies Barry’s legacy of dedication to the park, care for fellow employees, a positive attitude, a willingness to help others, and a true team spirit.
Gary’s team shared: “Gary embodies every ounce of what this award recognizes and is a radiating example of how a positive attitude and dedication to the mission can have a pivotal impact on visitors and employees alike.”
Congratulations, Gary, and thank you for all you do for Yosemite!
The celebration also highlighted the One Park spirit, featuring our annual all-employee photo, Ripple of Gratitude peer recognition, and a taco social served by the Yosemite Leadership Team.
Source & photo: NPS 
Related: Yosemite National Park Announces Erik Westerlund as the 2024 Barry Hance Award Winner
Yosemite National Park Announces Mariposa Resident Jon Babcock as the 2023 Barry Hance Award Winner
Ansley Singer Receives the 2019 Barry Hance Memorial Award at Yosemite National Park
