Steger’s unique ability to blend extreme exploration with cutting-edge technology, has allowed him to reach millions of people around the world and pioneer online education. Steger joins Amelia Earhart, Robert Peary, Roald Amundsen and Jacques-Yves Cousteau in receiving the National Geographic Society's prestigious John Oliver La Gorce Medal for “accomplishments in geographic exploration, in the sciences, and for public service to advance international understanding.” Steger also holds the Lindb