Chance Flemming

Community-Academic Scholar: Chance Flemming (he/him)

Project: Chance worked with Prof. Laura Rice, Urbana Park District, Champaign Park District, and The Center for Integrated Wellness to implement a disability training program to provide education to fitness staff members working at the community partner's fitness facilities. Learn more about the project.

Mentor reflection: Prof. Rice was very impressed with Chance's level of confidence in his work on the project this summer. "Chance did a great job jumping into the project, really engaging with the community, and presenting his ideas to a group of community partners," Rice said. "I hope that Chance has gained a better understanding of the needs of individuals with disabilities and how a program like this can help support engagement in wellness activities."

Do you have a personal story or path that led to your interest in this research project?
As an individual with a disability I had an immediate interest in this project, striving for accessibility in every realm of life I believe is an incredibly important topic.

How has participating in this program helped you toward your goals?
Participating in this program has helped me prepare for my professional and career goals. All of the different seminars, as well as being embedded into a full-blown research team has taught me many skills I believe will be useful when I continue in my education and professional path.

What was the most meaningful part of this experience? 
The most meaningful part of this experience has been all of the seminars on different professional topics, the diversity of topics discussed I believed was incredibly impactful and taught me a lot about professional and career skills.

What advice do you have for future scholars or to those who are interested in applying for the program? 
Take advantage of the experience because you can learn a lot.