FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 11, 2007

Contact: K.E. Schwab  

724.738.2199

 karl.schwab@sru.edu

SRU graduate heads Wildlands Conservancy

SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. – Scott J. Cope, a 1981 Slippery Rock University recreation graduate, was named Monday as chief program officer for the Wildlands Conservancy, which covers more than 45,000 acres in and around Emmaus, Pa.

           Cope, who also studied natural resource management at SRU, takes over responsibilities for managing the organization’s four program disciplines; land, rivers, recreation and trails, and education. Cope will also be responsible for implementing the organization’s strategic objectives and vision.

           “I am pleased to add someone of Scott’s caliber to the team. His expertise will help Wildlands Conservancy reach its conservation goals,” said Christopher Kocher, conservancy president.

           Established in 1973, the conservancy is committed to saving the natural treasures of the Lehigh Valley and the Lehigh River valley for current residents and future generations. Its mission is to preserve, protect, restore and enhance the land, water, ecological and recreational resources of the area. Located in eastern Pennsylvania, the conservancy covers farmland and wildlands in 18 counties.

           Cope has been employed by government entities for most of his 25-year career, most recently as assistant to the bureau director at the Pennsylvania’s Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. He entered the agency as a park and recreation adviser and managed development grant projects averaging $5-6 million annually. He later worked on the Pennsylvania Recreational Trails program and the Snowmobile /ATV grants program. He was promoted to chief of the Planning Projects Section and responsible for more than $6.5 million in grants, involving municipalities, non-profit organizations and private enterprises.

           Prior to his Harrisburg position, Cope was bureau chief of recreation for Whitehall Township where he created the Ironton Rail-Trail and oversaw the township’s 28 public recreation and park sites and special events.

            Cope and his family make their home in Whitehall.

Slippery Rock University is Pennsylvania’s premier public residential university. Slippery Rock University provides students with a comprehensive learning experience that intentionally combines academic instruction with enhanced educational and learning opportunities that make a positive difference in their lives.

GN