Thank You to Our Departing Board Members
The Society of Outdoor Recreation Professionals (SORP) extends our heartfelt thanks to the board members whose terms have come to a close. Each brought unique expertise, energy, and perspective to our work. As they transition from board service, we are grateful for the ways they have advanced our mission and helped strengthen the outdoor recreation profession.
- Michael Bradley – President As SORP President, Dr. Michael Bradley led with professionalism and purpose. His extensive background in outdoor recreation research and natural resource management helped guide the organization through continued growth and innovation.
- Mike Hill Mike Hill, a landscape architect with the U.S. Forest Service, brought a creative and equity-focused lens to recreation planning and design. His work emphasized access, inclusion, and cultural relevance in outdoor experiences.
- Chris Zajchowski Dr. Chris Zajchowski is a researcher and educator who focuses on the social dimensions of parks and protected areas. His contributions helped SORP stay grounded in evidence-based strategies that support diverse visitor needs and experiences.
- Rex Turner With a career rooted in conservation and outdoor recreation planning, Rex Turner provided valuable insights into backcountry management, recreation policy, and stewardship of public lands.
- Glenn Haas Dr. Glenn Haas has long been a leader in outdoor recreation planning and policy. His experience in academia and federal collaboration brought strategic vision and a deep understanding of sustainable recreation frameworks.
With Gratitude
We are thankful for the leadership, insight, and dedication each of these individuals brought to SORP. Their work continues to inspire the profession, and we are honored to have had them as part of our board.
“It has been a privilege to work alongside these thoughtful and committed leaders,” said Rachel Franchina (she/her), Executive Director of SORP. “Their dedication to outdoor recreation, equity, and public service has left a lasting impact on our organization and the communities we serve. We wish them the very best in their continued endeavors.”
Thank you, Michael, Mike, Chris, Rex, and Glenn—you’ve helped shape the future of SORP and the profession we love.
Welcoming SORP’s New Board Members and Executive Leadership Team
The Society of Outdoor Recreation Professionals (SORP) is excited to welcome our newest board members and introduce our 2025 executive leadership team. These talented professionals bring a range of experiences and perspectives that will help shape the future of outdoor recreation.
“We are thrilled to welcome our new board members and executive leaders,” said Rachel Franchina (she/her), Executive Director of SORP. “Their diverse backgrounds and deep commitment to outdoor recreation will be instrumental in guiding SORP towards continued success and impact in the outdoor industry.”
This next chapter of board leadership builds on that momentum, deepening SORP’s commitment to empowering individuals and organizations advancing outdoor recreation, conservation, and community service.
New Board Members
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Kate Porsche – Director, Oregon State University Center for Outdoor Recreation Economy
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Mike Ferguson – Assistant Professor, University of New Hampshire
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Akiebia Hicks – Connecticut Bureau of Outdoor Recreation; Ph.D., Clemson University; NORC 2022 Scholarship Recipient
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Kathryn Wrigley – Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation
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Colby Parkinson – Ph.D. Student, Penn State University (Emerging Leader Board Seat)
Highlight: Emerging Leader Board Seat
New this year, SORP has introduced a dedicated Emerging Leader position to ensure early-career professionals have a voice in shaping the organization’s direction. The seat is reserved for individuals under the age of 30 who are either currently students or have fewer than five years of experience in the outdoor recreation field. This role holds the same voting rights and responsibilities as other board members and includes a special focus on mentorship programming and professional development. We are thrilled to welcome Colby Parkinson as the inaugural Emerging Leader.
New Executive Team
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Lisa Loukkala – President, Executive Director, Superior Hiking Trail Association
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L Fisher – Vice President, Trail Policy Manager, Continental Divide Trail Coalition
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Tyler Thompson – Treasurer, Research and Evaluation Analyst, Three Rivers Park District
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Monika Derrien, Ph.D. – Secretary, Research Social Scientist, USDA Forest Service
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Dakota – Endowment, Recreation Coordinator, City of Boulder Open Space & Mountain Parks
Continuing Board Members
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Bess Perry, Ph.D. – Assistant Professor, Michigan State University
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Lara Jacobs, Ph.D. – Postdoctoral Researcher, Michigan State University
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Whit Patterson – Outdoor Recreation Planner, Bureau of Land Management
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Anne Marshall – Recreation Resources Director, Tennessee Parks and Conservation Bureau
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Drew Pollak-Bruce – Founder & Principal, CRO Planning + Design
We are inspired by the leadership and service of all our board members and look forward to the collaboration and innovation ahead.
For more information about SORP and its initiatives, please visit www.recpro.org.