UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Andrew Mowen, professor of recreation, park, and tourism management (RPTM), received the Cliff Jones Keystone Legacy Award from the Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation (PPFF) at its 17th annual awards banquet, where it celebrated conservation leaders from across Pennsylvania.
The Cliff Jones Keystone Legacy Award honors individuals who have shaped the future of parks and recreation through influential research, statewide impact and professional mentorship. Throughout his career, Mowen has focused his research on the funding and health outcomes of state and community park and recreation services.
“Outdoor recreation plays a crucial part in health, from obesity to anxiety reduction,” Mowen said. “Knowing how to incorporate public health metrics into outdoor recreation activities is important to our state parks. I am proud of the work that is being done by Penn State RPTM faculty. Through our work, Penn State is a viable partner in leading research in outdoor recreation activities."
In conjunction with the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Mowen has conducted economic impact studies that estimated the economic value of Pennsylvania state parks throughout his career. Data and findings from economic impact studies have shown the return on investment of state parks and have helped shape policy and practice for state parks and state forests.
“Andrew has a remarkable ability to translate data into stories that resonate with communities and policymakers alike,” said Marci Mowery, president of the Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation. “His work has deepened our understanding of how parks and forests support the well‑being of Pennsylvanians. We are honored to recognize his contributions, which inform both the present and the future of our state parks and forests, with the Cliff Jones Keystone Legacy Award.”
Mowen's economic impact studies from 2010 and 2023 highlighted the positive economic impact of visitor spending for local businesses, demonstrating to state policymakers how state parks contribute to Pennsylvania’s outdoor recreation economy. His research also highlighted Pennsylvanians’ recognition of parks as an essential part of the healthcare system, supporting statewide initiatives and partnerships with health providers.
He has also conducted studies on the impact of state forest recreation, hunting and boating, among other research impacting outdoor and community recreation.
Mowen has guided Penn State students while conducting research, including previously serving as the RPTM honors adviser and currently helping graduate students with their dissertations and research activities.
“I have had great students and colleagues to work with,” Mowen said. “Serving as a mentor has been the best part of my job. Students are in a moment of discovery about the field, and it is a privilege to help them learn what they are passionate about and guide the impactful work they undertake.”