Dan McCoy

Dr. Dan McCoy serves as Director of the Jay Kemmerer Wyoming Outdoor Recreation, Tourism, and Hospitality (WORTH) Institute and holds an adjunct professorship in the University of Wyoming’s College of Business and College of Education. He leads the WORTH Institute, focusing on outdoor recreation policy and sustainable tourism, while contributing to academic programs in recreation management and outdoor leadership.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Education (Higher Education Administration), University of Wyoming (2018)
• M.A. in Adult and Postsecondary Education, University of Wyoming (2013)
• B.S. in Recreation Management, University of Montana (1997)

Research Interests: Dr. McCoy specializes in sustainable tourism economics, resident sentiment analysis, and outdoor leadership education. His research has secured over $4M in grants for initiatives addressing Wyoming’s recreational and tourism challenges. He explores how climate and policy changes impact outdoor recreation industries and community well-being through interdisciplinary collaborations.

Awards & Recognition:

• 2024 Promoting Intellectual Engagement (PIE) Award
• 2022 UW Mortar Board Top Professor
• 2021 Person of Influence (UW Veterans Services Center)

Advising & Grants: He has advised 14 graduate committees (8 as chair) and led projects on recreation economics and community engagement. His work bridges academia and industry through partnerships with organizations like the Wyoming Outdoor Recreation Business Alliance.

Labs & Initiatives: Directs the WORTH Institute, oversees the ORTM degree program, and collaborates with the Pilot Hill Project to advance outdoor recreation innovation.