Arctic Expedition: Honoring Matthew Henson's Legacy

What does it mean to follow in the footsteps of one of the most important yet underreported figures in exploration history? This evening centers the legacy of Matthew Henson, whose skill, resilience, and deep knowledge of Arctic travel were critical to early polar expeditions in the 1890s, yet often overlooked. More than a century later, his story continues to shape how we think about exploration and who it represents. Adventurers' Club member Erick Cedeño and Danica Carey, members of a contemporary Arctic expedition team, join us to reflect on how Henson’s legacy informs their work today. They will share insight into the realities of preparing for and undertaking a modern polar journey, from training and logistics to navigating extreme environments, while drawing connections between past and present. The conversation will also explore the changing Arctic landscape and the responsibility of those who choose to travel through and document it.