Mick Daniel

  • Lecturer
  • OUTDOOR RECREATION ECONOMY
man in sunglasses and hat standing in front of mountain range shot as a selfie from shoulders up

Mick Daniel is a visionary leader and advocate for outdoor recreation, community development, and environmental stewardship in the San Luis Valley of Colorado. As Executive Director of San Luis Valley Great Outdoors (SLV GO!) since 2016, Mick has championed inclusive recreation initiatives, strengthened regional partnerships, and expanded organizational capacity. His leadership has been instrumental in implementing the San Luis Valley Trails and Recreation Plan, aligning community aspirations with actionable strategies that enhance quality of life across the region.

With more than 25 years of experience in outdoor recreation and nonprofit leadership, Mick has built a career rooted in collaboration, innovation, and service. His professional journey spans roles with Adams State University, the Association of Outdoor Recreation and Education, the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, and the North Carolina Outward Bound School, as well as partnerships with federal land agencies such as the Bureau of Land Management, Rio Grande National Forest, and Great Sand Dunes National Park.

Mick’s expertise extends from strategic planning and board development to youth engagement and outdoor economic development. He is a seasoned public speaker and facilitator, having presented at national conferences such as the Colorado Outdoor Industry Leadership Symposium and the AORE Summit Series. His leadership philosophy emphasizes connection—between people, place, and purpose—and his efforts have continually empowered communities to design sustainable futures through outdoor recreation.

A lifelong learner, Mick holds a Master of Science in Leisure Services Management from Oklahoma State University and a Bachelor of Arts in Wilderness Leadership and Experiential Education from Brevard College. He also completed the Nonprofit Executive Leadership Institute program at the University of Washington’s Evans School of Public Policy & Governance.

Mick currently serves on the Outdoor Recreation Advisory Committee of the Colorado Outdoor Recreation Industry Office and Colorado Parks and Wildlife State Recreational Trails Committee. His work continues to inspire collaboration, stewardship, and innovation throughout the San Luis Valley and beyond.