Dr. Peter Diffenderfer, Sidney graduate Class of 1968, took off running and hasn't stopped. His career has been distinct and extensive. Pete received a B.S. in Recreation from SUNY Cortland, his M.S. in Recreation and Parks and a PhD in Leisure Studies and Services, both from the University of Oregon. His career began with his position as director and instructor at the Centre for Leisure Studies at Acadia University in Canada.
To quote a former colleague, "Dr. Diffenderfer has risen through the academic ranks to the pinnacle position of full professor and has also served in administrative roles as department chair and dean." Additionally, Pete has held positions in a variety of businesses, including as marketing Director (Biotech), commercial products manager (agriculture), director of development (fitness products) and managing director (renewable energy).
Pete is the author of numerous reports and published articles covering business, sports, leisure and recreation and tourism, including the economic impacts of Major League Baseball, evaluations of community festivals and attraction and destination development and management. He has traveled extensively, giving presentations on topics such as "Cultivating Global Leadership through Cultural Exchange" and "Sports Marketing Principles" in Hong Kong, and leading college students in an adventure travel/study program in Australia and New Zealand.
Dr. Diffenderfer has served as a consultant and chaired numerous committees, councils and boards throughout his career. Pete has also contributed to his world and fellow man in ways that exceed expectations. While a graduate student, Pete mentored teenage boys as a Big Brother volunteer. For several years, he taught Sunday school and served as a youth leader and volunteer coach. He operated his Oregon-based rafting business and donated trips to raise funds for outreach ministry. Pete also voluntarily provided river experiences to members of a church from Harlem and other high school youth. He continues to participate in multiple service projects sponsored by his church and Bushnell University.
The exemplary testament to Dr. Pete Diffenderfer's character came in 2004 when Pete donated one of his kidneys to a friend in need. Pete and his wife, Connie, then left their jobs, friends and home in eastern Oregon to move back to Eugene to care for this friend and his wife until their passing.
At 73, Dr. Diffenderfer continues to teach full-time as a professor in the School of Business, Leadership and Technology at Bushnell University. Colleague Dr. Neal states, "He is constantly seeking ways to add value to others through his teaching, professional involvement, service and personal relationships."
We are proud to recognize Dr. Peter Diffenderfer as a Wall of Fame honoree.