Class of 2020
Innovator and Leader in West Virginia Snow Sports
Area Operations and/or Management or Development Competition
Murray Dearborn
Murray Dearborn was the original concessionaire for Canaan Valley Resort. He began his ski area management career in the early 60s in New Hampshire, gaining extensive knowledge in developing and operating ski areas. Murray came to West Virginia from New Hampshire in 1971 while the ski area was still under construction. He oversaw and coordinated the opening 1971-72 season. Murray was President and General Manager of Canaan Valley Resort, Inc. for approximately ten years. During the 1974-75 season, Murray, working with the Trustee, also oversaw Snowshoe Resort. Murray soon called West Virginia his home. He lived in and contributed significantly to Canaan Valley and Tucker County for over 45 years.
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Murray was active in the community, promoting tourism, growth, and development. Murray was a recognized leader in the ski industry and community, receiving numerous awards. He received the Bob & Anita Barton award, recognizing his outstanding contribution to the ski industry. He received the Distinguished West Virginian Award for Community Service
and was named Tuckineer by the Chamber of Commerce for his exceptional contribution to Tucker County. Murray was past president of the Tucker County Ambulance Authority, Tucker County Convention and Visitor Bureau, WV Hotel/Motel Association, Blackwater Civic Association, and Tucker County Development Authority. He was past president and a charter member of the Tucker County Rotary Club, Paul Harris Fellow.
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​Additionally, Murray was a founding member of the Blackwater Watershed Association, a founding member of the Potomac Highland Travel Council, past Director of the Southern Innkeepers Association, and the Southern Ski Area Association's past president. Murray served on the board of the Tucker County Chamber of Commerce since its formation. He was a mentor to many and well respected in the Ski Industry Community.