Greetings from the Warner College of Natural Resources (WCNR) at Colorado State University. This is an exciting time for the college and for me. I joined the College as the new Dean on May 1. I am pleased to be a part of this group of outstanding students, faculty, staff, and alumni who have done so much to build this College into a leader in natural resource learning, discovery, and engagement. The Warner College is committed to helping students, faculty, and staff reach their goals and full potential while serving the residents of Colorado, the nation, and the world.

Colorado State is dedicated to providing the best learning opportunities for our students. This includes world-class faculty members who work closely with our students. It must also include classrooms, laboratories, technology, and libraries that foster learning and embrace diversity. It includes experiential learning opportunities such as Pingree Park, the Environmental Learning Center, internships, and community engagement. It includes undergraduate and graduate research experiences, Study Abroad, and collaboration with others from around the globe.

WCNR faculty and staff are the foundation for quality and excellence – from conducting world class basic and applied research to engaging stakeholders one-on-one to help in the management and planning of resources. The College continues to emphasize the land grant mission for learning, discovery, and engagement. Important contributors addressing this responsibility include the Natural Colorado Forest Restoration Institute, and the Colorado State Forest Service, to name a few.

Societal changes taking place in Colorado, the country, and the world will emphasize the role the College must play in the stewardship of resources, in developing and applying new knowledge to strengthen and energize the state economy, and in training the next generation of natural resource leaders and decision makers.

The Warner College of Natural Resources has the opportunity and responsibility to help set the bar for natural resource leadership in Colorado.

As the new Dean, I am committed to help achieve the exciting global vision for WCNR. I look forward to working with you to help make this a reality.

Best Regards,

Joseph T. O’Leary