The Outdoor Pursuits Program (originally titled Adventure Pursuits Program) was started in 1979 by Jim Blanchard with the intent of developing an academically-focused outdoor activities program.

Since its inception the mission of the OPP has been to provide a comprehensive array of safe, high quality, academically-based outdoor activity courses that are challenging, fun and environmentally responsible. It is the intent of the OPP to deliver experiences that:

• Expose as many students as possible to the realm of outdoor pursuits activities.
• Are educational, personally meaningful, enjoyable, and develop interests and skills of lifelong value.
• Develop the knowledge and skills necessary to plan, organize and implement outdoor adventures beyond the umbrella of the OPP.
• Promote safety and emphasize the importance of understanding personal strengths and limitations.
• Embrace the best practices of leave no trace ethics and environmental stewardship.
• Develop the leadership potential of students by providing state-of-the-art instruction in outdoor leadership skills and practices.
• The OPP is committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment that promotes the right of every person to lead a healthy, balanced life. We provide accommodations so that people of all abilities can participate in all the programs and services we offer.