Thursday, October 07, 2010

Innovative programs, superb faculty and community outreach helped the University of North Carolina Wilmington Recreational Therapy program earn the prestigious 2010 American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA) Excellence in Education Award. ATRA is the largest national membership organization representing the interests and needs of recreational therapists.

The UNC Wilmington Recreational Therapy program, part of the Department of Health and Human Sciences, distinguishes itself as a national program of excellence with hands-on student learning opportunities like the annual Accessible Recreation Day and the Adaptive Water Sports Day, which provide individuals with various disabilities the opportunity to participate in a variety of athletic events including adapted tennis, accessible golf, water skiing and much more.

The program hosts a variety of workshops and lectures, focusing on strengthening those who are suffering from various injuries and illnesses. In addition to preparing quality recreational therapists, UNCW has made a significant change to the program curriculum over the last ten years by increasing the number of professors with tenure and increasing the number of credit hours required for students.

The recreational therapy profession is dedicated to assisting individuals with various disabilities during the rehabilitation process while using recreation as a therapeutic method.

Media Contact:
Joy Davis, marketing and communications, 910.632.3903 or davisjc@uncw.edu