Campus News

Photo by John Rudd

Ryan Walton joined Garrett College this past summer as a program coordinator with GC's Outdoor Leadership and Adventure (OLA) Education program.

When it came to college, Ryan Walton's initial reaction was, "No, that's not for me."

"I'd been a rock climber from a young age and loved being outdoors," said Walton, who first realized education and a passion for outdoor recreation could be combined after entering the Parks and Resource Management program at Slippery Rock University.

"I definitely didn't think I'd enjoy it, but college ended up being the greatest years of my education," he said. "It's special to find something you're passionate about – I even went on to earn a master's degree."

Walton – who earned his master's degree in Natural Science Education from the University of Northern Colorado – now mentors the next generation of students to make that same connection. He joined Garrett College this past summer as a program coordinator with GC's Outdoor Leadership and Adventure (OLA) Education program, which operates out of the Center for Adventure and Outdoor Studies (CAOS).

"During my master's program, I knew I wanted to work in higher education," said Walton. "I found I enjoyed the joint focus on academics and outdoor recreation, helping outdoor enthusiasts prepare to work professionally in the field."

"We're thrilled to welcome Ryan to CAOS as the new Experiential Education Service program coordinator," said Professor Andy Hershey, OLA's program director. "His experience developing and leading youth programs is a tremendous asset to our outdoor adventure-based summer camps, and we're looking forward to seeing the growth and innovation he brings to that area."

Walton, previously assistant director of campus recreation at PennWest Edinboro, coordinates Garrett College's experiential education services for both GC students and the community. He also develops field experiences for GC students and teaches in the OLA program, including fall 2025 courses in outdoor leadership and group dynamics.

"Ryan is a committed outdoor professional with a strong understanding of the needs of today's adventure industry," noted Hershey. "We're excited for the leadership he will provide as we expand our professional development and training opportunities for those pursuing careers in the outdoors."

Walton lauded the unique qualities of the OLA program.

"It helps students understand and develop the ability to be professional leaders in the outdoor recreation field while holding on to the allure of the industry," said Walton.

Walton noted that Garrett County is a perfect location for an outdoors-oriented academic program.

"There's so much going on in the region – skiing at the Wisp and climbing at Seneca Rocks are both incredible; the whitewater access is immense," observed Walton. "There's so much opportunity within an hour of the College."