Abstracts for Fall Oral Presentation Session 1A

December 3rd, 2025 | 10:00am - 10:45am | SUB 316
Moderated by Eddie Hill

• 10:00 a.m. - Logan Sprague - An evaluation of recreation desires among adults with disabilities

  Mentor: Eddie Hill
  College: Dr. Ezekiel R. Dumke College of Health Professions
  Department: Health, Physical Education & Recreation
  Abstract:  The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of the student experience of the Outdoor Professional Conference 2025 by AORE. “The Outdoor Professional Conference (OPC) is the gathering for professionals from across the industry who facilitate participant-facing outdoor recreation.” (AORE n.d). The organization conducted a general post-conference survey.  Historically a large percentage of conference participants have been students, and their experiences have not been separated from the general feedback. “These venues are essential for applying academic coursework and advancing or strengthening skills in professional settings.” (Merianos et. al, 2022, p. 1) A questionnaire was developed using Google forms to measure the student experience of AORE OPC 2025.  The participants were sent the questionnaire via an email sent out by AORE. The questionnaire included questions about content and learning experience, speakers and presenters, networking and social experience, logistics and overall experience, and demographics. The questionnaire included qualitative and quantitative responses. Qualitative responses were analyzed using the Braun and Clarke six-step framework. Quantitative responses were analyzed using frequencies and averages. Data has not yet been finalized.  

• 10:15 a.m. - Ashlyn Lang - Client Satisfaction and Outcomes of the School of Addiction Recovery's Approach to Treating Substance Abuse

  Mentor: Eddie Hill
  College: Dr. Ezekiel R. Dumke College of Health Professions
  Department: Health, Physical Education & Recreation
  Abstract:  The purpose of this study is to determine client satisfaction and impacts of SOAR's approach to treating substance abuse. Due to such substantial numbers of drug abuse, there have been a large number of addiction recovery programs developed in order to help individuals learn self-discipline in the hopes of achieving life-long sobriety. Data gathered will be beneficial to the School of Addiction Recovery in that it will provide a better understanding of the needs of clients in recovery. Data could also be used to improve other Recreation Therapy Programs by communicating what clients need in order to feel satisfied within a substance abuse program, as well as what impacts result from those treatments. Twelve participants will be randomly chosen while attending SOAR to answer survey questions in person. This data will be analyzed using Braun and Clarke's (2006) six-phase approach and the help of AI to generate codes and themes. Data is currently in the process of being collected and will later be analyzed.

• 10:30 a.m. - Tyler Tanner - Youth Character Development Through NICA

  Mentor: Eddie Hill
  College: Dr. Ezekiel R. Dumke College of Health Professions
  Department: Outdoor & Community Recreation Education
  Abstract:  The purpose of this project is to analyze the character building potential of youth participation in NICA (National Interscholastic Cycling Association) training and races. NICA's programs emphasize inclusivity, with leagues spanning diverse regions from urban to rural areas, and focus on developing lifelong cyclists while fostering community and character. Qualitative data will be collected through 10-12 NICA participant interviews. The data will then be analyzed for themes using Braun and Clark's 6 step method of data analysis, with the help from AI. No conclusions have been made at this time data is still being gathered.