About the Department

Mission and Vision

We strive to be the preeminent center for outdoor recreation and leadership, tourism and special events, and recreation therapy education in the Mid-Atlantic region.

The mission of the Recreation, Parks and Tourism department is to academically engage students through diverse learning opportunities with an emphasis on experiential learning. This approach specifically targets the development of professional competencies in the areas of: (1) foundational knowledge, (2) program leadership, (3) administrative and management functions, and (4) professional skills and behavior.  Emphasis is placed on developing the students’ critical thinking skills as the foundation for competency development.  The ultimate goal is to produce effective leisure service professionals who are able to address the diverse challenges faced by contemporary society.   

Values

Collaboration: We succeed together.
Accountability: We do the right thing.
Respect: We value diversity and inclusion.
Innovation: We cultivate growth.
Excellence: We strive to make a difference.

News and Happenings

Recreation, Parks and Tourism Faculty, Staff and students provide and engage in diverse learning environments, community service, and conduct professional research.  To learn more about some of the highlights of our program click on the below links:

Game On: Radford's Esports Program Gets High Scores from Students

RU Alumni Spotlight: T.C. Johnstone '96

Alleghany Highlands Chamber Announces Josh Taylor as Next Executive Director

Magical Insights: Exploring the Disney College Program Through an Alumni Experience

Women’s Month Spotlight: Eva Graves, Alpine Dispatch Manager

Big time: Radford runs the show at esports’ Big South debut

National Parks and Recreation 30 under 30 for 2021: AJ McCage, 29