HUMAN

Name: Hannah Strickland
Age: 26
Residence: Anchorage, AK

Occupation: HR Manager with Target
Years involved with Iditarod: 3rd year volunteering with Iditarod
Iditarod Role: Musher Parking
Current Location: Downtown Anchorage Ceremonial Start, Anchorage, Alaska

Date of Photo: March 1, 2025
Temperature: 30F outside

What, who or how and when did you first get involved with the Iditarod?:

When I moved to Alaska, I did lots of homework and read all about the history, and the Iditarod was something that I fell in love with, the original Serum Run, the community, the selflessness. I just thought it was beautiful, and I love animals. So I was like, “I’ll just volunteer.” So, that’s what it was.

What is your Why? Why are you here TODAY and involved with the Iditarod?

I am here today and involved with the Iditarod, because I love it, because I want to get out in my community and meet people, and meeting the mushers and the dogs is the coolest thing ever. Me and my best friend are here today doing it together, so that’s super fun.

One of my most memorable Iditarod experiences was the Iditarod 2024. I helped with a Ceremonial Start in the morning as Security, and then I went to the end of the trail to help the Iditariders get off. I was able to be right on the trail when the dogs were coming. And so, I was at eye level with the dogs. And it was so cool, I got amazing pictures, amazing videos. And it was just beautiful and fun, and it felt really special.

What do you know for sure?:

What I know for sure in life is that we are here to be happy, and it’s super hard and this world is crazy. But as long as we can try our best every day, be happy, and try to help others be happy, that little bit can change the world. I think happiness is key.