Terry Tempest Williams has been called a citizen writer, a writer who speaks and speaks out eloquently on behalf of an ethical stance toward life. A naturalist and fierce advocate for freedom of speech, she has consistently shown us how environmental issues are social issues that ultimately become matters of justice. So here is my question, she asks, what might a different kind of power look like, feel like, and can power be redistributed equitably even beyond our own species?

Known for her impassioned and lyrical prose, Terry Tempest Williams is the author of the environmental literature classics Refuge: An Unnatural History of Family and Place; An Unspoken Hunger: Stories from the Field; Desert Quartet; Leap; Red: Passion and Patience in the Desert; The Open Space of Democracy; F

inding Beauty in a Broken World; When Women Were Birds; Erosion: Essays of Undoing; The Hour of Land: A Personal Topography of Americas National Parks; and The Story of My Heart by Richard Jeffries, as rediscovered by Brooke Williams and Terry Tempest Williams. She has collaborated with photographer Fazal Sheikh on The Moon Is Behind Us, with artist Mary Frank on A Burning Testament, and What My Body Knows, and she wrote the introductory essay for A Wild Promise by Allen Crawford. In 2024 she wrote text to accompany woodblock prints by Gaylord Schanilec for the fine press book Oracle Bones (Red Butte Press).

 

Following the keynote address, Symposium attendees will have the opportunity to attend presentations, expert panels, and breakout sessions covering the following topics:

• The Central Wasatch National Conservation and Recreation Area Act
• The Cottonwood Canyons Watershed
• Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest Plan 101
• Rock Climbing Across the Central Wasatch
• The Visitor Economy in Park City and Summit County
• Backcountry Skiing in the Central Wasatch
• An Introduction to the Biodiversity of the Central Wasatch
• Transportation Planning for the Central Wasatch
• The Unique Opportunities and Challenges of Leading a City Along the Central Wasatch Mountains
• The Current State and Future Outlook of the Ski Industry in the Cottonwood Canyons
• Forest Service NEPA and Public Participation
• Advancing Wildfire Mitigation and Defensible Space Initiatives in the Wasatch
• The History and Significance of Wilderness Designations within the Central Wasatch Mountains
• Avalanche Forecasting in the Central Wasatch Mountains
• A Crash Course in the State Legislative Process

 

Central Wasatch Symposium Event Program

“The Central Wasatch Symposium will be an opportunity for the public to engage in all the work of the Central Wasatch Commission over the course of two days.” Central Wasatch Commission Chair and Mayor of Millcreek, Jeff Silvestrini said, “It will spotlight the interdependence of the four systems of the Central Wasatch while bringing stakeholders and the public together for learning and networking. The Commission is especially pleased to welcome Terry Tempest Williams, a writer and poet with a specific connection to the Central Wasatch Mountains will provide the keynote address during this first annual event.”

The Central Wasatch Symposium will begin on January 9th, 2025 at 10:00am with a keynote address from award-winning author, environmentalist, and activist Terry Tempest Williams. Lunch will be served at 11:00am, and the remainder of the day will consist of breakout sessions until 5:00pm. There will also be a tabling expo during the lunch hour.

We pick back up on January 10th, 2025 at 1:00pm with a panel discussion with mayors from across the Central Wasatch Front and Back. The day will continue with more breakout sessions, a tabling expo in the middle of the afternoon, and will conclude with the opportunity to network with other attendees and speakers over light appetizers and live music from 5:30-6:30pm.

Click here to view the PDF version of the program

 

 

Why the Central Wasatch National Conservation and Recreation Area Act?  –  by Ralph Becker

Abstract

Mountain Accord was the culmination of three years of intense interaction seeking long-term solutions to the endless battles over the Central Wasatch Mountains, and the foundation for an agreeable solution realized in Mountain Accord continues to exist today. At the time, there were two competing objectives about what should happen in the Central Wasatch Mountains at the inception of Mountain Accord. One group was anxious to see the mountains better protected and managed for watershed protection, lands and resource management, and visitor use. The second group wanted to see transportation problems resolved for better access. Both major interests agreed on a comprehensive solution that provided the path forward that achieved their ends while respecting other interests’ needs through the CWNCRA. Today the Bill sits at the CWC. Every provision, the subject of intense debate and refinement, reflects a need of an interest or jurisdiction. Looking forward, the Central Wasatch Mountains interests face two choices: 1) continue the battles on a case-by-case basis; or 2) resolve many of the major issues through the Central Wasatch National Conservation and Recreation Area Legislation and agreeable transportation solutions as laid out by the Mountain Accord.

Biography

Ralph Becker is a 44-year resident of Salt Lake City where he served two terms as mayor (2008- 2015). He served in the Utah State Legislature as a member of the House of Representatives for 11 years (1996-2007), including five years as House Minority Leader. In 2015, Ralph served as President of the National League of Cities. In June, 2018, Ralph Becker was selected as the first Executive Director of the Central Wasatch Commission, an interlocal governmental entity consisting of elected leaders of jurisdictions with responsibilities for the Wasatch Mountains. Their mission is to coordinate and take actions to protect and administer this heavily used and prized region while respecting the many jurisdictions’ responsibilities. It is tasked with implementing Mountain Accord. In 2017, Ralph served as a Leadership in Government Fellowship with the Open Society Foundation. He speaks regularly around the world on governance and sustainability and has authored numerous publications. Prior to his legislative service, Ralph was Utah State Planning Coordinator under Governor Scott Matheson, and co-launched a consulting firm (Bear West) for 22 years specializing in community and resource management planning, environmental assessment, public lands, and public involvement. Ralph was an adjunct professor in the University of Utah College of Architecture and Planning. Ralph holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania, and from the University of Utah he has JD and a MS degrees. He is a FAICP planner. Ralph Becker is married to Kate Kopischke, the father of two, and grandfather. He enjoys spending his free time participating in a wide range of outdoor recreational activities.

 

Whatever Happens to the Water, Happens to the People  –  by Salt Lake City Public Utilities

Abstract

The mountains of the Central Wasatch provide most of the drinking water to more than 500,000 people in the Salt Lake Valley. As such, these mountains play a critical role in the health and prosperity of Utah’s most populous communities. To ensure a reliable and high-quality water supply continues for the public, the Central Wasatch watersheds are managed by multiple jurisdictions to preserve water quality and quantity. The Central Wasatch watersheds are vulnerable to degradation if not properly managed. Climate change, increasing recreational demand, development pressures, and forest health are some of the challenges facing these watersheds. At the same time, the population that depends on these water resources is increasing, Great Salt Lake is shrinking, and drinking water regulations are becoming more stringent. These factors are colliding to create vulnerabilities and risks to the water supply so many people depend upon. Laura Briefer will discuss the iterative process employed by Salt Lake City Department of Public Utilities to mitigate risks and protect watersheds and water resources in this dynamic time so that the public’s access to clean and reliable water supplies remains now and in the future.

Biography

Laura Briefer is the Director of Salt Lake City Department of Public Utilities (SLCDPU). She has served as Director of SLCDPU since 2016. Laura has worked at SLCDPU for 16 years in various areas of the organization and has devoted a 29-year career in natural resource, environmental, and public policy professions in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies from the University of California at Santa Barbara, and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Utah. Laura is a co-author of several peer-reviewed published papers alongside Utah’s academic institutions, focused on water resources, climate change, and watershed management. She serves on local and national boards, including the Provo River Water Users Association, National Association of Clean Water Agencies (https://www.nacwa.org/), the national Water Research Foundation, (https://www.waterrf.org/), and the Utah Water Task Force.

 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest Plan 101  –  by Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest

Abstract

The Wasatch-Cache Forest Plan provides strategic and programmatic guidance and management direction for the Wasatch-Cache National Forest. This presentation will describe the long-term vision and strategy to guide future on-the-ground activities, and highlight the sideboards and constraints within which the Forest makes project decisions. The discussion will include some history of how the Wasatch-Cache Forest Plan was developed, the legal and regulatory framework in which it functions, and how the Forest Plan informs project-level NEPA decisions. Some time will be provided for questions and answers about the Forest Plan and its use.

Biography

Adam Shaw is the Acting District Ranger for the Salt Lake Ranger District, Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. He has spent much of his 20-year federal career in NEPA and Planning roles. He has led and worked with interdisciplinary teams completing project and forest planning across many resources and program areas. Adam is a Utah native, born and raised in the Wasatch. Outside of work he enjoys traveling and exploring the world with his family, cooking and eating delicious food, skiing, mountain biking, hiking, camping, and fishing.

 

The Visitor Economy in Park City & Summit County: Successes, Mitigating Impacts, & Regionality  –  by Park City Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau

Abstract

Park City & Summit County’s visitor economy is the primary driver for the local economy, generating $2.2 billion in economic impact and directly supporting almost 30% of all jobs in the county. However, this robust economic engine doesn’t come without some unique pressures. Presenters will provide an overview of Summit County’s visitor economy and discuss the nuances of the positive and negative impacts of a robust visitor economy. Topics covered include: An outline of the recent Park City Tourism Economy Impact Study results Positive effects of tourism dollars in the local community The realities of a large workforce with limited affordable housing options How you shape responsible visitation when visitors don’t care about jurisdictional boundaries. Creating plans to mitigate impacts using Sustainable Tourism frameworks including: Regional transportation opportunities for workforce and guests Affordable housing Natural resource preservation and amenity demand controls.

Biography

Becca Gerber is the Senior Director of Community & Government Affairs. Growing up in Park City inspired Rebecca’s love of community and the outdoors. She’s managed ski shops across Utah and Colorado, always finding time to mountain bike, hike, hit the slopes, and explore. A political science graduate of the University of Utah, Rebecca served on the Park City Council for eight years prior to joining the Chamber, advocating for family and worker issues such as childcare and affordable housing. A mom raising two young children, she continues working to balance Park City’s economy and environment, serving on the boards of Mountainlands Community Housing Trust, the Hive and the Early Childhood Alliance Steering Committee. Why I love Park City: “Park City is home! I love being 5 minutes from two world class ski resorts and having 400 miles of trails outside my door.” Morgan Mingle is the Director of Sustainable Tourism. Hailing from Texas, Morgan’s work in wildlife research and tourism inspired her to pursue sustainability studies, earning a Master’s in Sustainability from Harvard. She directs the Chamber’s sustainability programs, such as our sustainable tourism grant process and the strategic implementation of our Sustainable Tourism Plan. Off hours, you’ll find Morgan stopping at local ice cream shops while on all-day bike rides, hiking, cooking Cajun food, or petting dogs. Doing puzzles while listening to records is a favorite way to unwind. What I love about Park City: “I love grabbing an early coffee and strolling as the town wakes up. The transition from peaceful to lively as Main Street starts opening is beautiful.”

 

Preserving Utah’s Climbing Legacy  –  by Salt Lake Climbers Alliance

Abstract

Little Cottonwood Canyon Climbing Area Receives Historical Nomination – 1st Climbing Area in the Nation Climbing is part of what it is to be a Utahn and is part of our legacy that is enjoyed still today by a growing new generation of climbers. Along with the increasing interest of rock climbing comes the challenge and responsibility to preserve and protect these areas with rich historical value. Because of advocacy and care through the community of climbing, these experiences from early to modern day have not changed much. As climbing evolves, the routes and the passion for where we climb remain the same.

Biography

Julia Geisler is the Executive Director of the Salt Lake Climbers Alliance whose mission is to engage as an advocate to protect outdoor climbing access and as a steward to maintain sustainable climbing resources in the Wasatch and surrounding regions.

 

An Introduction to the Biodiversity of the Central Wasatch – by Sageland Collaborative

Abstract

An introduction to the CWC’s online Environmental Dashboard will be provided along with a summary of the biodiversity of the Central Wasatch through a description of species representatives from each taxa (e.g. native plants, mammals, insects, herpetofauna, and fish). A bingo card or interactive tool for the audience will be provided in some form. A message on the importance of the CWC and Environmental Dashboard and information on ways to engage in community science in the Central Wasatch will be included.

Biography

Mary Pendergast is a Ph.D. Ecologist working at Sageland Collaborative, a conservation science non-profit based out of Salt Lake City. She has 20 years of experience in ecological and biological studies, research project management, and strategic planning in support of wildlife conservation, habitat restoration, and collaborative landscape-scale planning processes. In her role at Sageland Collaborative, Dr. Pendergast designs, manages, and acquires funding for multiple grant supported conservation programs with government and academic partners. She presents research, develops manuscripts for publication, and produces and/or reviews conservation analyses in preparation for species status reviews, listing petitions, and land management plans. Dr. Pendergast also engages in and oversees data collection efforts such as graduate student internships and community science programs. Mary has served on the board of the Utah Chapter of The Wildlife Society as well as on the Tracy Aviary Conservation Science Committee and Board of Trustees. Additionally, Dr. Pendergast teaches select ecology and field biology courses at Westminster College.

 

Canyons Transportation Planning Panel

Abstract

Nichol Bourdeaux has over 20 years of experience working in communications and government relations. Before serving in her current position at UTA, Ms. Bourdeaux served as the Deputy Chief of Staff for Mayor Ralph Becker, in Salt Lake City. Prior to that, she served as the Deputy Director of Housing and Neighborhood Development for Salt Lake City Corporation. She began her career in communications working for sporting and news affiliates. Her passion for sports led her to join the Salt Lake 2002 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games where she was the entertainment and leisure coordinator for the Athlete’s Village. Ms. Bourdeaux served as the Government Relations Director for the Boys and Girls Clubs North Carolina Alliance. Ms. Bourdeaux has served on the Utah Performing Arts Advisory Board, Utah Nonprofit Association, and NeighborWorks Salt Lake Board of Directors, as well as the Chapel Hill/Carrboro Chamber of Commerce Business and Education Committee. She holds a BA in Communications and an MPA from University of Utah. Ms. Bordeaux is a native of Salt Lake City, Utah, and a sixth generation Utahan.

Alex Fisher-Willis: I am hard working and dedicated to my career. I have a passion for the environment and currently am pursuing a career in Transportation Engineering with goals to gain experience in project management, quality management, contracting and construction. I received my Masters and Bachelors Degree from the University of Utah and plan to continue my career in the Salt Lake City Area, with hopes to travel out of state to collaborate with other government agencies and private firms on new technologies, policy development and procedures.

Devin Weder: Licensed Professional Engineer currently working in the project management field, with a focus on civil heavy industry projects. Skilled in contract management, construction management, and picking up programming/data analysis tasks. Strong engineering professional with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) focused in Civil Engineering from University of Utah.

 

Opportunities and Challenges of Running a City Along the Central Wasatch Mountains – Mayor/Council person Panel

 

Current State and Future Outlook of the Ski Industry in the Cottonwood Canyons – Ski Resort Panel

Biography

Amber Broadaway started at Sugarbush as manager of risk and safety in 2013. As vice president of guest services and safety, her role and responsibilities expanded to oversee the risk and safety, guest services, parking operations, and public events operational departments, as well as communications and public relations, on-site brand management, and charitable giving and donations.

Broadaway has been responsible for numerous initiatives that have led to nationally recognized awards throughout her career at Sugarbush, including NSAA’s Best Guest Safety Program (2020), Vermont Governor’s Excellence in Workplace Safety (2018), Best in Service East by SKI Magazine (2018), and runner-up of NSAA’s Best Employee Safety Program (2020).

 

Forest Service NEPA and Public Participation  –  by Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest

Abstract

The Forest Service is required to assess the environmental effects of proposed major Federal actions prior to making land management decisions to comply with the National Environmental Policy Act (“NEPA”) and other applicable laws. This presentation will provide a general overview of the Forest Service NEPA process and public participation opportunities, including guidance on how to formulate substantive and effective comments during formal public comment periods. Lance Kovel is a Special Projects Coordinator on the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest and is the Forest Service Liaison to the Utah Department of Transportation for projects on National Forest System lands in the State of Utah. In these capacities, Lance manages and coordinates large scale projects during Forest Service NEPA analysis and implementation. Prior to working for the Forest Service, Lance previously served as the State Engineer and Environmental Coordinator for USDA Rural Development in Utah, as an Environmental Engineer for the U.S. Air Force, and worked as a Professional Environmental and Civil Engineer in the private sector specializing in NEPA, environmental compliance, and environmental remediation for governmental and industrial clients.

Biography

Lance Kovel is a Special Projects Coordinator on the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest and is the Forest Service Liaison to the Utah Department of Transportation for projects on National Forest System lands in the State of Utah. In these capacities, Lance manages and coordinates large scale projects during Forest Service NEPA analysis and implementation. Prior to working for the Forest Service, Lance previously served as the State Engineer and Environmental Coordinator for USDA Rural Development in Utah, as an Environmental Engineer for the U.S. Air Force, and worked as a Professional Environmental and Civil Engineer in the private sector specializing in NEPA, environmental compliance, and environmental remediation for governmental and industrial clients.

 

Advancing Wildfire Mitigation and Defensible Space Initiatives in the Wasatch: Partnerships and Community Engagement  –  by Salt Lake County with Utah DNR, Division of Forestry, Fire, and State Lands

Abstract

This presentation covers collaborative wildfire mitigation efforts underway in the Wasatch region, with contributions from Utah Division of Forestry, Fire and State Lands (FFSL), Unified Fire Authority (UFA), and the Canyons Management Program at the Salt Lake County Office of Regional Development. We’ll discuss critical wildfire prevention strategies, including recent updates to the County’s Foothills and Canyons Overlay Zone (FCOZ) ordinance that brings it into closer alignment with Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) code, enhancing fire safety standards and reducing risk. Highlighting the current landscape in the Wasatch, we’ll outline FFSL and UFA’s key initiatives, including defensible space education, mitigation practices, and public resources such as community chipper days. Additionally, the County’s commitment to wildfire mitigation will be emphasized through its proposed Defensible Space Program. The presentation will also address practical steps for residents, encouraging the use of Utah’s wildfire risk assessment portal to help individuals evaluate and manage their own risk. These efforts reflect a coordinated approach to safeguarding both communities and natural resources, underscoring the value of partnerships and public engagement in effective wildfire mitigation.

Biography

Jason Wolf is passionately committed to conservation and natural resource management, having served in local and state government for over 13 years. He enjoys finding solutions to problems using GIS and data-driven decision-making. As the Canyons Management Program Director, he strives to balance conservation and accessibility, fostering community connections to public lands. Through this role, he promotes stewardship and ecological preservation. He lives in Millcreek, where you’ll find him outdoors skiing and biking with his family. Jason holds degrees in Geography, Environmental Studies, and a GIS certificate from the University of Utah.

Jennifer McBride has a passion for tackling the complex situations of fuel management in the Wildland-urban Interface and working and adapting to this everchanging environment. She has spent the last 23 years in wildfire response, management, prevention and mitigation. Over the years she has learned a lot about wildfire behavior and what it takes to manage our resources from the threat of wildfires effectively. She is passionate about protecting our communities and natural landscapes from this threat and is excited to be here to share her thoughts and knowledge with you today.

 

The Historical Journey and Significance of Wilderness Designations within the Central Wasatch Mountain  –  by Save Our Canyons

Abstract

Spencer Shaver, Executive Director of Save Our Canyons, will deliver a presentation on the historical journey and significance of Wilderness designations within the Central Wasatch Mountains. The presentation will walk through the first designation of Wilderness in Utah, starting with designation of the Lone Peak Wilderness in 1978 by the Endangered American Wilderness Act, then expand on discussion of the Mount Olympus and Twin Peaks Wilderness Areas after passage of the Utah Wilderness Act of 1984. This presentation will delve into the legacy of conservation efforts that have safeguarded critical landscapes and ecosystems, tracing how past wilderness designations have provided essential protections for wildlife habitat and outdoor recreationists. By reviewing key milestones, the presentation will highlight the collaborative campaigns and legislation that helped shape the current boundaries of protected Wilderness areas. The central themes will cover how Utahns lives and livelihoods have been shaped by Wilderness, the beneficial impacts to nearby communities, businesses and explore the concept of a Wilderness edge economy, where some of the most sought after recreational opportunities and private property in Utah exist today. The presentation will underscore the need for new, permanent protections to connect canyon ecosystems at risk of fragmentation due to development, and will emphasize how further wilderness designations can bolster protections for wildlife corridors, preserve biodiversity, and maintain the ecological balance that benefits countless species. Additionally, attendees will learn about the value such designations bring to outdoor enthusiasts by securing access to undeveloped, forested natural spaces, ensuring the continuity of recreational traditions cherished by our community. The presentation will conclude with a call to action, rallying support for the passage of the Central Wasatch National Conservation Act and the designations included within. The goal is to inspire advocates to contribute to a legacy of conservation that benefits not just today’s canyon visitors, but future generations of visitors to the Central Wasatch.

Biography

Spencer Shaver is a passionate advocate for all Americans’ access to our public lands. After receiving a B.S. in Environmental Science, Policy and Management from the University of Minnesota, Spencer guided canoe and fishing trips in Minnesota’s Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness where he learned the importance of advocating for the protection of wild places first hand. Spencer has worked alongside hunters, anglers and passionate advocates across the country to design and build advocacy organizations and campaigns which protect public lands and water for future generations. For his work, Spencer received the Sigurd F. Olson award from the Backcountry Hunters & Anglers in 2022, recognizing outstanding effort conserving rivers, lakes and wetland habitat. When not working for the Wasatch, Spencer is skiing, trail running (mostly speed walking), biking, hunting or fishing somewhere in Utah.

 

Where We Came From and What Makes an Avalanche Forecast  –  by Utah Avalanche Center

Abstract

The Wasatch is steeped in rich history. Little Cottonwood Canyon is where avalanche mitigation all began, and the Utah Avalanche Center is honored to be a small piece of this deeply-rooted heritage. We have come a long way since 1939, when forecasting and mitigation began with forest service snow rangers in LCC. In 1980, forecasts started being published on the website, and as the need for avalanche safety quickly grew, so did the Utah Avalanche Center. As the industry quickly grew, Utah Avalanche Center leaders quickly realized that there was not enough funding to provide timely, accurate avalanche information, and thus the nonprofit was born. Today, the two branches of the UAC, the nonprofit and USFS forecast team, work harmoniously to provide forecasting, awareness, and education to help backcountry users make informed decisions in the backcountry. We’re excited to showcase the history of the UAC, describe the mechanics of how the nonprofit and USFS branches work together, and unpack what it takes to bring an avalanche forecast to your fingertips each morning.

Biography

Caroline Miller is the Executive Director of the Utah Avalanche Center Nonprofit. Passionate about empowering complex teams to solve dynamic problems, she brings experience with nonprofits, business development, operations, project management, and building a strategy & seeing it through. She received her undergrad degree from Montana State in Bozeman and her masters from University of Utah. She joined the Utah Avalanche Center in June 2024 from the Sierra Nevada where she worked in risk management and ski resort mountain operations.

 

The Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation Presents: A Crash Course in the State Legislative Process  –  by Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation

Abstract

The Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation (DOR) invites you to learn how a bill becomes a law in Utah, and where recreation fits in on Capitol Hill. After an intro into Utah’s Division of Outdoor Recreation and the support opportunities it can provide to those in the central Wasatch, attendees will learn how to be involved in Utah’s legislative process from a variety of perspectives and roles. This will primarily focus on the state legislative process, but feel free to come with your questions about how to get involved at the municipal, county, or federal level. While this presentation can be related to all of the focus areas, special attention will be given to the legislative process through the recreation lens, looking at specific bills and committees who are most impactful in creating recreation policy. Attendees will leave with a solid foundation of the state legislative process, how to engage with their legislators, and how to follow key bills and committees using the website. Attendees will also learn the many ways the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation can support their recreation projects and management.

Biography

Patrick Morrison is a Recreation Program Director with the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation. A Utah native, he is an avid climber, fly fisher, and backpacker. Before his current role, he served as Trails Director for the Cottonwood Canyons Foundation, an environmental stewardship non-profit in Salt Lake City. He is the current Board Chair for the Salt Lake Climbers Alliance, and a member of the Central Wasatch Commission Stakeholder Council. He has a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Utah and a Master’s degree from New York University. A former political professional in New York City, the natural lands of Utah are where he belongs. India Nielsen Barfuss is a native Utahn and proud Weber State Wildcat. She joined the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation shortly after finishing her Master of Public Administration degree with a parks and recreation focus. She served in the State Elections Office under Lt. Governor Cox for four years and loves obstacle course racing, backpacking, the Jordan River, and her rescue cat.