Luis Benitez, director of the newly formed Colorado Outdoor Recreation Industry Office, will speak on campus Feb. 23, from 12:30–1:30 p.m. in the Cherokee Park Ballroom of the Lory Student Center.

Colorado is the second state to have an office dedicated to the rapidly developing outdoor recreation industry. Benitez, described as a “natural fit” to lead the new effort, has extensive experience in the industry as a mountain guide (summiting Everest 6 times), former leader of Colorado Outward and Outward Bound Professionals, successful outdoor industry consultant, and former talent development manger for Vail Resorts.

Benitez will discuss the goals for the newly-formed office, including enhancing the industry’s economic development, conservation, stewardship and access, industry anchors in the state, and improving workforce training and education.

The CSU Tourism Association, a new student organization in the Warner College of Natural Resource’s Department of Human Dimensions of Natural Resources is sponsoring Benitez’s visit.