2025 Pre-Con: Outdoor Orientation Program Symposium (OOPS)
2-DAY OUTDOOR ORIENTATION PROGRAM SYMPOSIUM
Join Us for OOPS 2025: Elevate Your Outdoor Orientation Program!
Connect, Learn, and Grow at the Premier Pre-Conference for Outdoor Orientation Professionals and Students.
Are you interested transformative outdoor orientation experiences? Don't miss the Outdoor Orientation Program Symposium (OOPS), happening just before the AEE International Conference! This is your chance to dive deep into best practices, network with peers, and gain fresh insights at the stunning West Virginia University Adventure Outdoor Education Center.
OOPS 2-Day 2025 Pre-Conference Details:
Dates:
Tuesday, November 4th, 2025: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Immersive program sessions at WVU’s Adventure Outdoor Education Center, followed by an evening activity in Morgantown)
Wednesday, November 5th, 2025: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM (Immersive sessions at WVU’s Adventure Outdoor Education Center)
Location: West Virginia University Adventure Outdoor Education Center, Morgantown, WV.
Seamless Transition: We'll wrap up by 3:00 PM on November 5th, giving you ample time to travel to the AEE International Conference opening in Pittsburgh.
Why Attend OOPS?
Focused Learning: Engage in targeted sessions and discussions tailored specifically to the unique challenges and triumphs of outdoor orientation programs.
Networking Power: Connect with a dedicated community of professionals and students. Share ideas, build collaborations, and forge lasting connections.
Stunning Venue: Experience the exceptional facilities and natural beauty of WVU's Adventure Outdoor Education Center.
All-Inclusive Value: Your registration fee includes breakfast and lunch on both Tuesday and Wednesday, fueling your learning and networking. (Dinner will be on your own, offering a chance to explore Morgantown with new colleagues).
Registration Information - Secure Your Spot Early! Participation is limited to 80 registrants to ensure a high-quality, interactive experience. We anticipate strong interest, so early registration is highly encouraged! (Please note: 10 spots will be held for presenters).
Convenient Lodging & Logistics:
Stay On-Site: Affordable lodging options will be available at the WVU Adventure Outdoor Education Center for the nights of Monday, November 3rd, and Tuesday, November 4th. Perfect for settling in early or staying over between OOPS sessions!
Airport Shuttles: Convenient shuttle services from the airport can be arranged.
Dietary Needs: Easily submit your meal preferences and allergy information.
Airport Shuttle / Overnight Yurts Booking Link: https://secure.touchnet.net:443/C20389_ustores/web/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCTID=5164&FROMQRCODE=true&SINGLESTORE=true
Don't miss this opportunity to kickstart your AEE Conference experience with a focused, enriching, and community-driven symposium. Mark your calendars and prepare for an unforgettable OOPS 2025!
Dr. Brent J. Bell, University of New Hampshire, is the leading expert on outdoor orientation programs. Dr. Bell will host the symposium and share the latest insights from his current research, building upon his 30+ studies of outdoor orientation programming.
Greg Corio, founder of West Virginia University's Adventure WV program will be the keynote speaker. Discover the compelling 20-year evolution of the Adventure WV model and how this program has adapted and grown to serve different populations in the state.
Pre-Conference sessions (Extended Education) take place prior to the start of the 2025 International Conference, and are in-depth workshops, activities and excursions that provide an expanded opportunity for professional development.