Sarah Finlay’s dream of climbing the Grand Teton has been years in the making. Born and raised in Laramie, Wyoming, Sarah grew up balancing two cultures: her Indian heritage, where women are often discouraged from participating in sports and outdoor activities, and her deep-rooted love for Wyoming’s wild places. Though she didn’t have early opportunities to explore the outdoors, Sarah’s determination led her to embrace hiking, climbing, and adventure as an adult—paving her own way toward strength and independence.
A University of Wyoming alumna and former member of the UW Cowboy Climbing Club, Sarah credits her college experience and mentors with sparking her passion for climbing and outdoor pursuits. Over the past four years, despite financial and scheduling obstacles, she has kept her goal of climbing the Grand alive through steady training, building endurance, and honing her climbing skills at a local gym.
For Sarah, the Grand Scholarship isn’t just a chance to summit an iconic peak; it’s a step toward finding community and connection. She has often felt isolated in outdoor spaces, struggling to find women climbing partners, and is eager to be part of an all-women’s team where camaraderie and shared experience amplify the joy of the journey. As an advocate for survivors of sexual violence, Sarah’s outdoor pursuits have also been a powerful part of her healing—helping her reclaim strength and confidence on her own terms.