An article in the July/August issue of Pennsylvania Angler & Boater features a field trip taken by Rob Cooley’s Outdoor Recreation as a Therapeutic Tool course during the spring semester. The class traveled to nearby Rose Valley Lake, accompanied by Lycoming College’s director of outdoor learning and education, for an enjoyable and insightful day of kayaking. Students making the trip were Colin G. Browne Jr., Cody R. Englehart, Brad S. Grenoble, Payge C. Hess, Kai K. Marshall, Krystle J. Richardson, Nicole M. Smulligan and Devon M. Wasson. Grenoble is an emergency management technology major; the others are enrolled in human services and restorative justice. The magazine piece was facilitated by Douglas M. Hess, manager of the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission’s Benner Spring State Fish Hatchery in Centre County (and Payge Hess’ father). Included are a number of quotes about the day’s positive effects on members of the group, from enjoyment of local wildlife to the accent on their chosen field – such as this from Wasson: “There is something about just being on the water that is so calming to me and brings me that instant stress relief that everyone needs.”

– Photos by Cindy Davis Meixel, writer/photo editor

Reflecting blue skies and verdant foothills, Rose Valley Lake – typifying the outdoor treasures within a short driving distance of Penn College – beckons boaters.

Marshall, of Pottsville, carries paddles down to the water.

The kayakers undergo a safety demonstration by Jae Ellison, director of outdoor learning and education at Lycoming College …

… that continued on the water (with Ellison at left).

Smulligan, a Shenandoah resident, gets ready to take her kayak out on the lake.

Cooley (left) joins his kayaking colleagues for a group photo at the lake’s edge (taken while proximity carried a masking requirement).

Lycoming College generously provided a trailer full of kayaks and related gear to further the day’s success.

Richardson (left) talks with Marshall, as Smulligan paddles in the background.

Therapeutically traversing the “mirror-smooth water”

Gaining confidence with their oars, the students spread out on the nearly 400-acre lake.

Ever the mentor, Cooley – associate professor of anthropology and environmental science – leads by example …

… and signals encouragement to a novice.

Englehart, of Montgomery, takes to the open water.

Williamsporter Browne, clearly enjoying himself!

Relishing a perfect late-spring morning