As part of Southwestern’s Outdoor Adventure program, 12 Southwestern students kicked off the new year by summiting Mount Kilimanjaro!

The expedition to Africa’s tallest peak was led by seasoned explorer Branndon Bargo, assistant director for Outdoor Adventure at the University, executive producer and host of The Highpointers on PBS and Amazon Prime, and member of the prestigious Explorers Club. In an experience that combines physical and mental challenges with breathtaking natural beauty, Bargo and the students scale the mountain’s 19,340-foot Uhuru Peak.

The journey transcended mere mountain climbing; it blossomed into a profound appreciation for diligence and teamwork among the students. United by a singular objective, they exemplified how diversity can forge a powerful unity. Remarkably, one student achieved the feat of summiting the mountain twice. Meanwhile, one found an unforeseen artistic kinship.