Natasha A. Spassiani, MSc, is from Toronto where she received both her BSc (Hons) and MSc degrees in Kinesiology and Health Sciences at York University. Natasha has a breath of expertise from exercise physiology to sport psychology. She has experience working as an adaptive fitness instructor for children with developmental delays and youth who struggle with weight and movement.  Natasha is currently a Doctoral Student in Disability Studies and Human Development and works as a Graduate Assistant on the Disability and Rehabilitation Research Project. Her research interests consist of health promotion for individuals with intellectual disabilities and how physical activity, exercise and sport can be used to help facilitate independent life skills in persons with intellectual disabilities.

Leigh Zisko, BA, is a graduate assistant for the Disability and Rehabilitation Research Project (DRRP).  She is currently working towards a Masters in Public Health through the School of Public Health, as well as a certificate in Management and Leadership in the Non-Profit Disability Organization through the Department of Disability and Human Development. Before moving to Chicago to begin her graduate studies, Leigh worked as a direct care provider for individuals with disabilities, as a Special Olympics coordinator, and as a case manager for the Arc of Hawaii. Her research interests include obesity prevention and reduction, coping mechanisms and stress reduction for individuals with disabilities, and access to physical activity opportunities for individuals with disabilities on a global scale.