Russ Crispell

BUFFALO, NY - University at Buffalo Coordinator of Outdoor Pursuits and head men's tennis coach Russ Crispell has been elected president of the Association of Outdoor Recreation and Education.

The AORE is an organization of nearly 400 professionals that represent colleges, universities, military and other not-for-profit outdoor programs. AORE is the definitive voice in outdoor recreation and education.

Crispell, a Buffalo native, has already made an impact on the organization in his first month of service by successfully bidding for the Greater Buffalo Niagara Frontier region to host the 2005 International Conference of Outdoor Recreation and Education. The conference is slated for October 27-29, 2005 and will be held at the University Inn and Conference Center and UB as well as at other assorted outdoor venues in Western New York and Ontario. Seminars and workshops including wilderness first aid, team building, canoe and kayak certifications, risk management and other educational presentations will be offered during the three-day event.

"It is an honor and a privilege to not only be elected president of the Association of Outdoor Recreation and Education but to serve as host for the international conference in the same year. It's awesome," said Crispell. "Several years ago, I was part of the local organizing committee to host the World University Games. Buffalo was showcased then and it is my intention to showcase our region and all the incredible natural resources we have in this area to the rest of the world."