Recreational Therapy

Alumni Highlights

Graduates of the Recreational Therapy program at ASU build careers that change lives and strengthen communities. They apply their expertise in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, outdoor programs, and community organizations, using recreation as a powerful tool for healing, growth, and connection. Alumni empower individuals to rediscover play, support recovery, and foster inclusion, while also finding deep meaning and fulfillment in their own professional journeys.

Check out how our alumni put their degrees into action. Their stories showcase the lasting impact they have improving the quality of life for people of all abilities.

Lisa Perez

MA, ACC, NBC-HWC

Year Graduated:

Current Employment: Vital Transformations, LLC Leadership & Wellbeing Coaching Work. Live. Be-Well.

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Elena Messenger

MS, CPRP, CTRS

Year Graduated: 2006

Current Employment: Recreation Centers Program Manager, Marine Corps Community Services, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina

My degree made it possible for me to change the lives of others for the better while absolutely changing and fulfilling my own, doing what I love.

Jessica Voss

CTRS

Year Graduated: 2013

Current Employment: Founder and Executive Director, EmpoweRanch

My degree gave me the ability and expertise to empower my community through outdoor therapeutic recreation.

Azer Sevillano

Year Graduated: 2015

Current Employment: Recreational Therapist, Mohave Rehab Coordinator, Arizona State Hospital

My degree in Recreation Therapy gave me the opportunity to not only support others in their healing, but also helped me rediscover purpose, resilience, and the power of connection through meaningful experiences.

Lauren Grattop

CTRS

Year Graduated: 2022

Current Employment: Vintage Silver Center