Welcoming Dr. Michael Gass to the Play for Peace Team

Welcoming Dr. Michael Gass to the Play for Peace Team

We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Michael Gass has joined the Play for Peace team as our new Director of Research and Funds. With an illustrious career spanning decades, Dr. Gass brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and passion to our organization, and we couldn't be more excited to have him on board. Here are a few highlights from his illustrious career.

Academic Excellence

Dr. Gass’s work is highly respected in the academic community, with over 2,000 citations. His extensive research has significantly advanced educational research, clinical marriage, and family therapy. His contributions have paved the way for new methodologies and understandings in these disciplines, making him a pivotal figure in academic circles.

Published Works

He co-authored the leading textbook "Adventure Therapy" alongside Drs. Gillis and Russell. Published by Routledge Press, this book is an essential resource for professionals and students, further cementing Dr. Gass’s reputation as a thought leader. This publication has been instrumental in shaping the curriculum and practice of adventure therapy worldwide.

Leadership Roles

Dr. Gass has demonstrated exceptional leadership throughout his career. He served as the inaugural Chair of the AEE Accreditation Council for its first decade. He was the President of the Board of Directors of the Association for Experiential Education (AEE) in 1990. His leadership has helped shape the standards and practices in adventure therapy and experiential education. His vision and guidance have been pivotal in the professionalization of these fields.

Innovative Research

Dr. Gass’s current research projects are diverse and impactful. They include risk management statistics of adventure therapy programs, adventure competencies for therapists, and cost-benefit analyses of outdoor behavioral healthcare programs. His dedication to supporting emerging scholars in adventure therapy ensures the continued growth and development of the field. His work advances theoretical understanding and provides practical solutions to enhance program effectiveness and safety.

Community Impact

Beyond academia, Dr. Gass is committed to making a difference in communities. His work with vulnerable populations through adventure therapy programs exemplifies his dedication to applying research to real-world challenges and enhancing the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs (NATSAP) Practice Research Network database. His efforts have directly contributed to the well-being of countless individuals and communities, showcasing his commitment to social impact.

Play for Peace Support

For co-authoring research on Play for Peace in Guatemala and bringing his UNH students for a site visit to Costa Rica, Dr. Gass and his family have been supporters of Play for Peace since its inception over 25 years ago. His long-standing support and involvement with our organization underscore his belief in our mission and the power of compassionate play to create positive change.

Looking Ahead

At Play for Peace, we believe in the transformative power of compassionate play and its ability to unite communities. Dr. Gass’s expertise will be instrumental in advancing our mission and expanding our impact. As the Director of Research and Funds, he will lead efforts to deepen our understanding of the benefits of play and secure the resources needed to support our programs globally.

Please join us in welcoming Dr. Michael Gass to the Play for Peace family. We look forward to his innovative contributions to our team and the positive impact his work will have on communities worldwide.

We will continue to live with laughter, choose compassion, and practice peace.