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Danny Twilley
Assistant Dean, The Brad & Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative at West Virginia University
Professional Background
Danny Twilley is a dedicated academic professional with over 14 years of experience in faculty roles and academic administration. His career has been marked by a relentless pursuit of opportunities that foster engagement among faculty, students, administrators, and the broader community. With a strong emphasis on collaboration, Danny has established numerous partnerships at both domestic and international levels, significantly advancing various educational organizations. His strategic vision and commitment to growth and development have allowed him to seamlessly integrate industry needs with academic programs, creating a holistic educational experience.
Danny currently serves as the Assistant Dean of the Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative at West Virginia University. In this role, he utilizes his extensive background in education and administration to serve as a catalyst for initiatives aimed at enhancing outdoor recreation and economic engagement within the region. As he continues to drive collaborative efforts forward, his goal is to produce impactful programs that benefit students, faculty, and the surrounding community alike.
Danny’s remarkable journey includes significant contributions as an Assistant Professor in Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Studies at Ohio University, where he showcased his expertise in outdoor recreation and education. His dedication to student success is evident in his roles as the Director of the Environmental Peacebuilding Study Abroad Program and the Director of the Ecotourism Certificate program, where he inspired numerous students and encouraged them to explore the intersection of environmental stewardship and recreation. Additionally, Danny has demonstrated his leadership as the Summer Camp Co-Director at both Ohio University and the Ohio State University Extension, providing meaningful experiences to participants over the years.
Education and Achievements
Danny Twilley is a proud alumnus of Ohio University, where he pursued his Doctor of Philosophy in Higher Education Administration and Student Affairs, further solidifying his academic foundation and expanding his knowledge in the educational sector. He also holds a Master’s degree in Recreation and Sport Sciences from the same institution, emphasizing his commitment to enhancing recreational programs and services. Prior to that, he earned his Bachelor of Science in Physical Education and Environmental Studies from Salisbury University, a program that laid the groundwork for his current pursuits in outdoor recreation and environmental sustainability.
Danny’s academic journey is complemented by a wealth of professional experiences that span various capacities and organizations. Before his current role, he has effectively served in multiple academic and administrative positions that range from being a program coordinator to leading various outdoor education initiatives. His thoughtful approach to leadership and collaboration has led to innovative programming and improved educational outcomes.
In addition to his primary roles, Danny has worked as a consultant for Be Legendary, where he shared his extensive expertise in leadership training and risk management in outdoor settings. His involvement with the Appalachian Mountain Club as the Leadership Training & Risk Management Coordinator further demonstrates his commitment to safety and effective management within outdoor and recreational programs.
Achievements
Danny Twilley's career has been marked by several notable achievements that underscore his dedication to improving outdoor education and engagement. Under his guidance, many students have successfully participated in innovative programs designed to blend recreation with environmental awareness, enabling them to become leaders in their respective fields. He has actively contributed to outdoor skill development through programs that not only teach essential skills but also encourage responsible engagement with nature.
Additionally, Danny's work in ecological and environmental initiatives showcases his commitment to peacebuilding through outdoor recreation. By overseeing the Environmental Peacebuilding Study Abroad Program, he has allowed students to immerse themselves in different cultures and environments while developing a deeper understanding of how environmental issues interact with social contexts.
One of his defining achievements includes the creation of the Ecotourism Certificate program at Ohio University, which serves as a testament to his innovative thinking and ability to shape academic programs that are aligned with industry demands. This program is designed to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills they need to excel in the growing field of ecotourism.
In summary, Danny Twilley is an accomplished educator, administrator, and advocate for outdoor and ecological initiatives. His extensive experience in academia, coupled with a burning passion and purpose for fostering collaboration, positions him as a leader in the fields of higher education and outdoor recreation. His ongoing commitment to student success and community engagement promises to generate a lasting impact in the years to come.