2015 Ski Hall of Fame

Benny Abruzzo was born in Albuquerque in 1958 and attended Eldorado High School and the University of New Mexico. His father, Ben Abruzzo, served as president of Sandia Peak Ski Area and the Sandia Peak Tram Company, introducing Benny to skiing at an early age.

Following the untimely passing of his parents in 1985, Benny took the helm as owner and operator of both Sandia Peak Ski Area and Ski Santa Fe—the two ski areas closest to New Mexico’s largest population centers. Under his leadership, the ski schools at both resorts have become the primary entry point for most skiers and snowboarders in the state.

For over 24 years, Benny has been deeply involved with the KOAT Learn to Ski Program, helping foster countless winter sports enthusiasts who might not otherwise have had access to the sport. He also developed various discount ski and ride programs to keep winter sports affordable and accessible at Sandia Peak and Ski Santa Fe.

Benny’s passion for winter sports fuels his commitment to managing two ski areas that face unique snow and water challenges in the Southwest. An avid outdoorsman, he skis or snowboards every day during the winter season and pursues other adventurous activities including ice climbing, rock climbing, paragliding, skinning, and water skiing. He has also participated in many aspects of his father’s and brother Richard’s ballooning adventures and is a partner in the Northern Escape Heli-Skiing Company in British Columbia, Canada.

Married to Sandra Daneman Abruzzo, Benny is the proud father of two sons, Benjamin and Dane. His lifelong dedication to skiing and the ski industry was honored with his induction into the New Mexico Ski Hall of Fame in 2015.