Dr. Mary Ann Devine

Dr. Mary Ann Devine, is a professor at Kent State University in the Recreation, Park and Tourism Management program and directs the Disability Studies and Community Inclusion minor/graduate Certificate. Her research interests are in the area of inclusion of individuals with disabilities in leisure and physical activity contexts as they relate to healthy active living for individuals with disabilities. She has conducted numerous studies examining aspects of the inclusion process such as social acceptance, social construction of disability, attitudinal barriers and best practices. Findings from Devine’s research have been used in more than 20 countries to increase the inclusion of people with disabilities in community life. In 2008, Devine was the recipient of the Gonzaga Da Gama researcher of the year award by the National Institute on Recreation Inclusion/National Recreation and Park Association. The American Association for Persons with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities selected Devine as a research delegate for their International Research and Exchange program in 2017. Currently Devine is leading a research project using virtual reality to examine the barriers and facilitators to health promoting physical activity for individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities.