2021 James V. Murfin Award Recipients

The James V. Murfin Award recognizes individuals who significant and lasting contributions career to improve and strengthen the 100-year partnership between the National Park Service and cooperating associations. The award was inaugurated in 1988 and is named for the servicewide cooperating association coordinator who worked diligently for more than a decade to encourage excellence and innovation to strengthen this historic partnership. Recipients embody the NPS mission:

“The National Park Service preserves unimpaired the natural and cultural resources and values of the National Park System for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations. The Park Service cooperates with partners to extend the benefits of natural and cultural resource conservation and outdoor recreation throughout this country and the world.”

The recipients of the 2021 James V. Murfin Award are James E. Cook and Lyman Hafen.

Jim Cook

Courtesy of Jim Cook

James E. Cook

Western National Parks Association (WNPA) partners with 71 park sites across multiple regions

During his 11-year tenure as CEO of WNPA, a key focus for Jim Cook was aligning WNPA goals with those of the National Park Service especially in connecting youth and new audiences with the national parks. Western National Parks Association (WNPA) partners is one of largest NPS partners, partnering with over 71 NPS sites. With Jim’s leadership, WNPA funded several outreach projects with under-served young people living in urban areas. He demonstrated passion for embracing the principles of Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in all aspects of WNPA including its workforce, Board of Directors, product lines, and community outreach projects.

In addition, Jim has taken a strong leadership role in the cooperating association community through his active involvement with the Public Lands Alliance and by his collaboration with other cooperating associations. In particular, Jim fostered an ever-deepening relationship with Eastern National to collaborate through successes and challenges. The end result is more efficient and effective business practices and stronger, more resilient partnerships.

Jim’s nearly 40-year career in conservation and arts management, began with three summer seasons as a National Park Service ranger in Glacier National Park. As WNPA chief executive officer, Jim continued his passion for protecting special places. During Jim’s tenure, the mission of WNPA to advance education, interpretation, and research expanded to include community engagement—in recognition of the importance of reaching new audiences. He loves when young people of all ages have “aha!” moments while experiencing a place or activity when the proverbial light bulb goes off, connections are made, and life-long passions and interests are created. National parks have prompted many such instances for Jim and he wants all Americans to feel the same.

Lyman Hafen

Courtesy of Lyman Hafen

Lyman Hafen

Zion Forever Project, Zion National Park

Raised near Zion National Park in Utah, Lyman developed an early passion for conserving public lands. In 1988, Lyman joined the board of what is now the Zion Forever Project. Through his decade-long leadership on the board Zion Forever became the official partner of Zion National Park, Cedar Breaks National Monument, and Pipe Spring National Monument. In 1998 he took on the role of executive director.

Lyman’s tenure has extended across five superintendents at Zion National Park and his servant leadership and commitment to collaboration have established the Zion Forever Project as a shared stewardship model that inspires partnerships across the globe. As current Superintendent Jeff Bradybaugh attests, “Lyman Hafen has been a catalyst for conservation, collaboration, and community engagement not only in Utah but across the Colorado Plateau and nationally through his leadership and service.... Lyman's work has advanced the conservation of cultural and natural resources across our public lands in his own unique, homespun style.”

In addition to his leadership at Zion, Lyman was selected as president of the Public Lands Alliance (formerly APPL) in 2012. Where he earned praise for his leadership and tenacity during the government shutdown of 2013. Lyman helped lead to ensure the national park and cooperating association community was heard during that challenging time. Now in his 25th year of service, Lyman finds innovative ways to strengthen the connection between park lands and the individuals who cherish them. He helped create programs and organizations designed to support the park and its visitors. Additionally, Lyman, has authored more than twenty books and hundreds of articles about national parks and public lands.