Greg Corio, founder and director of Adventure West Virginia has been named executive director of Student Recreation and Outdoor Education at West Virginia University, effective June 1.

Corio has been at the University since 2004, and created the outdoor orientation program for incoming WVU freshmen as a graduate project for his master’s degree in recreation, parks and tourism. Under his leadership, Adventure WV grew from a small outdoor orientation program to one of largest and most respected programs in the country. Research shows that students who participate in the program have higher retention and graduation rates than a control group of student population at WVU.

“In my brief time at WVU I have been very impressed with the work Greg Corio has done with Adventure WV, and I know he will bring the same innovative and passionate approach to leading the combined efforts of Student Recreation and Outdoor Education,” said Vice President of Student Life Bill Schafer.

“I believe that this is an important step in aligning key student life functions to more effectively and efficiently provide services and programs to students,” Schafer said. “Students will see a greater collaboration of services and programs and more efficiency in how they are delivered.”

In 2007, Corio also oversaw the construction and programming of the WVU Challenge Course, and, in 2013, WVU became the first and only University in the country to own and operate a canopy tour. The program also offers international study abroad programs, leadership training opportunities, and many other outdoor and experiential education programs.

“I am excited and honored to have the opportunity to impact the WVU community through this new position,” Corio said. “The Student Recreation Center is a wonderful resource, and I look forward to working with the staff to continue successful programs and find opportunities for growth that benefit our students and members. I’m also committed to supporting Adventure WV as we continue to grow its reach and impact on the WVU student population.”

As executive director, Corio will report directly to the vice president and will oversee the Student Recreation Center and Adventure WV. The177,000-square-foot state-of-the art Rec Center opened in 2001. It is home to a six-lane, 25-yard lap/fitness swimming pool and another leisure pool; a massive, 50-foot climbing wall; and a 17,000-square-foot weight and fitness area. Intramural and club sports programs are also managed by staff at the Center.

The director of the Student Recreation Center has been vacant since the retirement of David Taylor in July 2013. Jeff Berryman has been serving as interim director and a search for a permanent director is ongoing. Nathan Harlan, associate director of Adventure WV since 2007, has been appointed director of Adventure WV, effective June 1.

-WVU-

ta/5/20/15

CONTACT: Sabrina Cave; WVU Office of Student Life
304.293.2506; Sabrina.Cave@mail.wvu.edu
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