Southern Utah University has entered an educational alliance with the Zion Park Group, marked by a formal signing ceremony between SUU, Zion National Park, Cedar Breaks National Monument and Pipe Spring National Monument at the Zion National Park Nature Center on Wednesday.

The Zion Park Group alliance will improve educational access to valuable resources, with the goal of enhancing the services and opportunities within the National Parks Service and the
University.

The driving force behind this partnership is a commitment by all four partnering organizations to the protection of natural resources through education and research.

Though this partnership will certainly directly impact the study of geological and ecological systems, its educational potential spans a
myriad of academic fields and professional interests, including:

- Natural and cultural resource management
- Public and business administration
- Hospitality and tourism services
- Web design
- Computer engineering
- Marketing and promotions
- Outdoor recreation
- Law enforcement
- GIS technology
- Geological studies
- Economics


This partnership speaks to SUU's continued commitment to providing unique educational opportunities that capitalize on the University's business relationships, local resources and surroundings - taking education far beyond the walls of the classroom.

The relationship and missions of SUU and both Bryce Canyon and the ZionGroup include specialized services to students, park visitors and regional development.

This second Alliance for Education solidifies efforts of both NPS and the University to protect natural resources and provide enhanced opportunities for visitors in the Parks; expand knowledge and use of the Park as a resource; provide excellent educational and experiential opportunities for SUU students; and continue to enhance the economic, technological, and cultural development of the communities served.