LARAMIE, Wyo., April 16 -- The University of Wyoming issued the following news release:

For Diego Lobatos, growing up in Lander meant having the Wind River Mountains as his backyard. With Sinks Canyon State Park just minutes from home, he developed a deep love for the outdoors that now drives his academic and career goals.

"One thing I love about my hometown is that Lander is right at the base of the Wind River Mountains," Lobatos says. "It's super easy to get into the mountains and the backcountry. My favorite part is having such easy access to explore nature."

Now a sophomore in the Outdoor Recreation and Tourism Management Program in the University of Wyoming's Haub School of Environment and Natural Resources, Lobatos is preparing for...