In 2008, Val Hovland '98, SM '98 set off to climb the largest mountain in the world, Mt. Everest. In addition to the base camp and summit, her trip included four main camps. All photos courtesy of Val Hovland
Hovland (second from the left) initially traveled with a team of three others including Monty, her climbing partner (third from the left).
Tents in a row at the first camp.
The team advanced slowly and carefully.
From Camp 2, Camp 3 looked like a tiny speck.
Weather conditions changed rapidly on the mountain, but on a clear day the views were breathtaking.
Fully suited, Hovland posed for a photo just above Camp 3.
Camp 4 offered a clear view of the summit.
Hovland reached the summit in the early hours of May 24th. This photo was taken at 4:30 a.m.
Sunrise at the top of the world.
It took 63 days to climb Everest and only 17 to descend.
Part of the reason Hovland climbed Everest was to raise money for an NGO that builds schools in underserved communities, including one in Nepal. Hovland says she loved spending time with the Nepalese children.