Andy Hershey

Meet Andy Hershey, the climbing enthusiast who's been scaling peaks for over three decades and now wears many hats within the climbing community. From teaching outdoor leadership to guiding climbers of all abilities, Andy's journey began in the wilderness of north-central Pennsylvania, where outdoor adventures were a way of life.

His passion for climbing was sparked during a college weekend climbing course, and since then, he's been hooked. Andy's not just a climber; he's a Program Director and Professor at Garrett College, where he shares his expertise in outdoor leadership. When he's not shaping young minds, you'll find him guiding climbers at Seneca Rocks or working with adaptive climbing programs.

For Andy, climbing isn't just about reaching summits—it's about the journey, whether it's a long route in the mountains or a day at Seneca Rocks. As an Executive Member of the Climbing Coalition, Andy's mission is clear: to ensure that climbing areas remain accessible and inclusive for all. From working with land management agencies to fostering mentorship in the climbing community, he's dedicated to preserving the spirit of climbing for future generations.

Seneca Rocks holds a special place in Andy's heart—it's where he's honed his skills and shared countless adventures over the years. But his love for the outdoors doesn't stop there; whether he's cutting firewood with his family or getting lost in a good book, Andy finds joy and fulfillment in the simple pleasures of life outside the crags.