Outdoor Leadership Minor Sees Enrollment Boost, Increased Opportunities for Students

Photo Submitted

From left, outdoor leadership students Hanna Cravens, Rayla Payne, Anna Claire Johnson and Lily Eisold on a recent class excursion.

The outdoor leadership undergraduate minor offered by the College of Education and Health Professions' Recreation and Sport Management program consistently allows students to step outside the classroom walls and into the Natural State.

The program has seen significant growth since its launch in the second eight weeks of the fall 2022 semester. In just one academic year, enrollment in the outdoor leadership minor increased from eight students to over 60, with more than 380 electing to take courses offered through the program.

Anya Bruhin, director of outdoor recreation, and Michael Hoover, clinical instructor of outdoor leadership, helm the program. Together, they're working to build a program that allows students to earn certifications, gain field-based experience and hone leadership skills.

"Reception from the community and students has exceeded our expectations," Bruhin said. "One of the metrics we are most proud of is the percentage of women both in classes and in the minor is 39%."

Bruhin and Hoover connect with industry partners to provide students with experiential learning opportunities that offer businesses real value and students with quality training. Lacaida Ropes, Coler Mountain Bike Preserve, Pedal it Forward and Merman Bicycles are just a few businesses working with outdoor leadership students.

"Connection to the local outdoor industry is one of the most valuable things students leave the program with," Bruhin said. "Arkansas has such a growing network of business, non-profit organizations and land managers, all hungry for a competent and passionate workforce."

The program's wide assortment of courses prepares students for careers as outdoor professionals like adventure guides, camp directors, park and trail designers and more.

Through a slate of skill-based courses, students can leave the books behind and harness up in Rock Climbing, roll out in Mountain Biking and learn how to save lives on the trail in Wilderness First Aid. These and several other unique courses help students develop a knowledge basis for leading in outdoor settings.

Sophomore Rayla Payne said her time spent in outdoor leadership classes thus far has led to fulfilling connections and nontraditional college experiences.

"The outdoor leadership minor provides me with meaningful friendships and opportunities to grow through outdoor recreation and hands-on leadership experiences," Payne said. "I'm so grateful for the opportunity to participate in this minor, for the people I've met and the things I've gotten to experience."

As excitement surrounding the program continues to grow, new experiences for students are constantly popping up.

This summer, students have the opportunity to travel to New Zealand to camp, raft and hike around the country in collaboration with the University of Canterbury. They'll also continue their trips back home, with excursions in Minnesota and several locations in Arkansas currently planned.

The minor was made possible by a gift from the Walton Family Charitable Support Foundation supporting outdoor recreation programs on the U of A campus.

To learn more about the opportunities offered within the Outdoor Leadership program, visit their website or contact Anya Bruhin at adergaz@uark.edu.