Finding Connection in a Digital World: Student Retreat Builds Community and Industry Pathways
For students in CU Boulder’s Outdoor Recreation Economy master’s program, community is something intentionally cultivated. Because the program is fully online and draws students from across the country, opportunities to gather in person play a powerful role in strengthening relationships and grounding academic learning in shared experience. The Outdoor Recreation Economy annual student retreat, held November 7–9, 2025, offered exactly that—a weekend dedicated to connection, collaboration and insight into the outdoor industry.
Bringing Online Students Together
Outdoor Recreation Economy students visit Avid4 Adventure in Louisville, CO.
The retreat began Friday morning with a visit to Avid4 Adventure in Louisville, CO. Students toured the warehouse and operations space while hearing from Founder and CEO David Secunda about mission-driven leadership, company culture and the realities of running an outdoor education organization. These conversations provided invaluable context to what is being taught in the program’s classes.
After lunch in Louisville, students gathered for a second industry session with 303 Ski on CU Boulder’s campus. Founder Dwight DeBroux discussed the journey to purchase Eldora Mountain, the challenges of community-centered ski area management and the importance of preserving a mountain’s “soul” amid growth. These sessions highlighted both the opportunities and complexities shaping today’s outdoor recreation industry, giving students new insights to bring back to their coursework.
Friday concluded with a relaxed happy hour at Rayback Collective, a favorite Boulder gathering spot. These informal moments together become the glue of the ORE community. Students who have only interacted virtually get to share stories, compare professional paths and build strong connections throughout the program and, hopefully, beyond.
Deepening Knowledge and Strengthening Networks
Saturday’s sessions took place on campus and began with breakfast, introductions, and a Town Hall discussion. These activities gave students the chance to connect with program faculty, ask questions about upcoming projects, and reflect on their experience in the online environment.
A highlight of the day was the keynote presentation from Kathryn Jacobs, managing director at Accenture, entitled: “Embracing Innovation in the Outdoor Experience: Technology, Awe, and the Future of Connection.” Jacobs challenged future outdoor leaders to consider how digital tools can support, rather than detract from, transformative experiences in nature. Her message resonated strongly with students, who navigate technology-driven coursework while preparing for careers rooted in authentic human and environmental connection.
Outdoor Recreation Economy students participated in a speed-networking session on campus.
The afternoon’s speed-networking session gave students dedicated time to connect with one another and share professional interests. With prompts ranging from lessons learned outdoors to trends shaping the industry, the activity encouraged meaningful conversation that often leads to collaboration on class project ideas.
A Community That Extends Beyond the Weekend
The retreat wrapped up with a social dinner in Boulder, a final chance to solidify new friendships and professional relationships before students headed home. By bringing people together for shared learning, industry exploration and informal connection, the student retreat strengthened a sense of belonging that carries through the rest of the academic year.
For an online master’s program grounded in community, stewardship and the future of the outdoor industry, the retreat is far more than a weekend event. It is a reminder that even in a digital learning space, strong relationships remain at the heart of the Outdoor Recreation Economy program journey.