There are approximately 8 million Americans who have an intellectual and/or developmental disability (IDD), and the number of these individuals attending U.S. colleges has significantly increased in the past five years. This increase is largely due to 340 and counting inclusive postsecondary education (IPSE) programs at universities and colleges across the U.S. that are designed to create and expand inclusive higher education experiences for individuals with IDD. This learning program will describe the methods, results, and practical implications of a NIRSA-funded research study that aimed to better understand the attitudes and perspectives of campus recreation staff, as well as the presence or absence of best practices for inclusive service delivery that shape the overall cultural context of campus recreation departments in regard to disability inclusion.

Join the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Recreation and Wellness (RecWell) leadership team to learn about the development and outcomes of the UBelong Initiative. UBelong evolved from a committee formed in response to national and local social injustices, tragedies, and conversations, to an embedded initiative creating a sense of wellbeing, community and belonging through collaborative partnerships and programs. Hear from RecWell leadership how challenging times and conditions spurred self-reflection, education, and intentional action. Dr. George Brown (AVP and Director), Lisa Stephenson (Associate Director for Programs + Wellness), Ben Kohler (Fitness / Wellness Director) and Olivia Wicker (Brand Strategy + Communications Director) will share their experiences and perspectives on creating conditions for students to bring their authentic selves into recreation and wellness spaces and forge the links between equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging (EDI-B) and the undeniable relationship to health and wellbeing.

The University of Minnesota Twin Cities Recreation and Wellness (RecWell) Department presents "Embrace the Challenge, Foster Systemic Change: A Journey Towards Inclusive Wellbeing." ​​Along with our live webinar, read this publication to learn about the development and outcomes of the UBelong Initiative. UBelong evolved from a committee formed in response to national and local social injustices, tragedies, and conversations, to an embedded initiative creating a sense of wellbeing, community, and belonging through collaborative partnerships and programs. Explore lessons learned and discover how their guiding principles might serve your own institution.