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CEDAR CITY, Utah (AP) -- An alliance between Southern Utah University with neighboring national parks and monuments promises to increase educational opportunities and protect the region's natural resources.
SUU formalized the agreement with the Zion Park Group -- which includes southern Utah's Zion National Park, Cedar Breaks National Park and Pipe Spring National Monument in northern Arizona -- last week at the Zion National Park Nature Center.
The partnership will expand study opportunities in the areas of natural and cultural resource management, public and business administration, Web design and computer engineering.
SUU President Michael T. Benson said an informal relationship between the university and Zion has existed for several years. The school also has a partnership with nearby Bryce Canyon National Park.
Under the partnership, the Zion Park Group will gives students access to park service research and development projects, partner with students and faculty for fieldwork and research publishing opportunities, increase internship opportunities and give park access for class activities, seminars and training.
In turn, SUU will appoint park staff to adjunct faculty posts, provide faculty to assist with research and data collection, give park scientists access to university facilities and assist with visitor education programs.
Dean O'Driscoll, vice president for university relations, said students involved in the hotel, resort and hospitality management program are already doing projects at the park's lodge in preparation for their future careers.
Benson said it is exciting to recognize years of cooperation with a formal agreement that can expand student opportunities across disciplines from geology to biology, literature and history.
"Any student can find a connection to the park and enhance their experience at SUU," he said.
Information from: The Spectrum
(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
