By Kaylee Alivo

Bri Swope, an associate professor of instruction in the Department of Health and Human Physiology in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, has been honored with the Visionary Volunteer Award for her dedication to the Iowa Disability Film Festival. The award— which honors community members who have given their time and energy to support FilmScene’s mission—recognizes Swope’s dedication to expanding access and awareness through film. 

As a key organizer, Swope has played an essential role in shaping the festival into a platform for disability representation. Her work aligns closely with her role in the department, where she teaches therapeutic recreation and child life, preparing students to use recreation, leisure, and play to enhance the well-being and quality of life for people with disabilities and illnesses.

The festival serves as an extension of these efforts, demonstrating how media can be a powerful tool for advocacy and inclusion. 

To engage students in these conversations, Swope has incorporated the festival into her courses, Inclusive Recreation and Therapeutic Recreation: Clientele, as an optional assignment. By attending, students connect classroom discussions to the lived experiences shared on screen, engage with panelists and community agencies, and witness firsthand how storytelling can drive awareness and social change. 

“The impact of this festival goes beyond the screen,” Swope said. “It’s about building community, sparking conversation, and ensuring that these stories reach the audiences who need to hear them.”

The Iowa Disability Film Festival showcases films created by and about individuals with disabilities, providing a space for authentic storytelling and meaningful discussions. Thanks to Swope’s leadership, the festival continues to grow while prioritizing accessibility, increasing student involvement, and bridging the gap between education and advocacy. 

This year’s Iowa Disability Film Festival will take place March 27-29, 2025 at FilmScene, bringing together filmmakers, advocates, and community members to celebrate the power of storytelling in driving change.