Art Wilcox

Source: Presentation at 50th Anniversary Celebration of The Department of Natural Resource, Recreation and Tourism - 1997

We are here to honor a good friend, colleague, and a giant of a man both in stature and in our profession – Art Wilcox. Art has degrees from New York State College of Forestry – Syracuse, and the University of Michigan. He has not only been successful in academics, but in sports. He rowed for the national collegian champion Syracuse rowing team.

After working for a period of time on the design of the B26 and B29 bombers, Art embarked on a 50 year service to our profession. He was:

• Director of the Akron, Ohio Metropolitan Park District. 

• Fifteen year head of department at Michigan State University where he took a one dimension department and expanded the focus to include interpretation. 

• Department head at Colorado State University between 1965 and 1986.

While here he:

• took the department from what we endearingly refer to as the "ranger factory" to a multifaceted department which included interpretation and parks and recreation
• kept the focus and strengths of the department and built upon them
• developed the first research focus
• assembled an excellent faculty
• increased student numbers significantly 
• built Partnerships with Professionals 
• taught the first tourism class
• established an extension program 
• brought to campus the university Landscape Architecture Program 
• helped diversify the university with the first study program with the Navajo and Sioux nations 
• helped establish department international focus 
• helped develop a new department at Lincoln University, New Zealand 
• started the Environmental Learning Center 
• initiated the first study abroad programs at CSU 
• began the first CSU internship program • started and led the Senior Field Trip 
• produced the High Plains Conference 
• located in our department the Association of Interpretive Naturalists (NAI) 
• initiated and led the Philosophical and Epicurean Society, which brought comradery and enjoyment to our college

His service outside the University to the profession is truly amazing. He was:

• Second vice-president of the National Society of Park Resources (NSPR)
• Editor of the American Institute of Park Executives (AIPE) Management Series
• Chairman Committee on National Maintenance Standards (AIPE)
• Fellow (highest honor) of the American Association of Interpretive Naturalists

He was on the National Advising Boards:

• US BLM • US NPS • Navajo Nation • Michigan State Parks • Ohio State Parks

He was also:

• visiting scientist SAF 

• involved in the establishment of Rocky Mountain National Park Associates which has raised several million dollars for capital improvements projects 

• a founding member of the Fort Collins Convention and Visitor Bureau; and is still involved now with CSU in building the State Welcome Center, State Parks Office, and ELC headquarters 

• awarded one of the highest honors of the Rotary Club for his service to Fort Collins – the "Service Above Self Award"

On top of all this, Art puts his teaching and students first. Art is one of the true statesmen of the world. He is a gentleman, portraying the highest values of our profession and society. He is a good friend to all of us. The world is a richer place with Art Wilcox.

So, Art, as a token of our esteem and affection – 

• First, we embrace you and your two Bettys. 

• Second, we honor you with the Lifetime Achievement Award for Academic Leadership . 

• Third, we establish a scholarship in your name. 

• Fourth, we name the department archives of the new ELC visitor center the Arthur Wilcox Archives.

Back to Former Members List