From skiing to whitewater rafting to horseback riding, it has a little something for every student. The program started with a small budget and a handful of trips, but an endowment from Wesleyan Board of Trustee member Bill Goodwin gave the Program the resources needed to subsidize trip costs to make them affordable to students.

The program, established to provide a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities to the campus community, compliments the mission of the College. That mission still has a strong influence on our program according to first-year director Bucky Murray ’04. “We help the students achieve a meaningful relationship with nature through active outdoor pursuits. The outdoor adventures give students a chance to make memories, share the bond of a common experience, and build lasting friendships.”

Murray was heavily involved in the program during his time as a student, and remains dedicated to outdoor life. “There is more pressure and paperwork being on this side of the fence,” remarked Murray about overseeing it, “but I still enjoy going on the trips and being outside with the students.”

The 2005 calendar consists of a full schedule of trips connecting Wesleyan students to West Virginia’s natural beauty. Included this fall are rafting on the Gauley River, rock climbing at New River Gorge, hiking at Dolly Sods, horseback riding at Seneca Rocks, and attending Bridge Day at New River Gorge.

Student interest remains strong according to Murray. “The number of students attending varies from activity to activity. Our rafting trips to the Gauley River and other places are quite popular and can have up to 50 or more students, and then sometimes when we go exploring at Seneca, we only have seven or eight, so it really depends on the expedition as to how many students accompany us.”

In its second decade, the program continues to grow and expand. This fall, the program is offering a new non-credited class where students learn to kayak in the pool. “We are always looking for ways to enhance the student’s enjoyment,” stated Murray. “It is here for the students. They tell us what interests them and we do our best to accommodate them.”

The program has branched out in the last three years by offering a pre-orientation adventure for incoming freshmen, taking them on a three-day retreat to the North American River Runners facility in Fayette County for a whitewater rafting adventure on the Upper and Lower New River. The pre-orientation program is an optional supplement to Wesleyan’s traditional orientation program. “The experience is a great way for freshmen to take advantage of the natural beauty of the state and to form a bond with other incoming students,” said Whitney Hitchcock ’02, assistant director of admission.

The program continues to attract students eager to spend a weekend outdoors and away from a residence hall, and Murray is more than happy to oblige them. “Every student should treat themselves to at least one adventure,” concluded Murray. “What is fantastic about Wesleyan is that all these great attractions the state offers are just a short trip away. We are very fortunate to have so many great opportunities in West Virginia.”

For more information about the Outdoor Recreation Program, please visit their website at www.wvwc.edu/outdoor/index.htm