Hi, my name is Jon Weldy and I am a Kinesiology graduate with a background in group fitness instruction, youth engagement, and personal training. I am very grateful to have participated in the IPALS program, which promoted physical activity and life skills in youth in the Champaign-Urbana area. In addition, I was involved in research into programming youth physical activity interventions to promote a healthier lifestyle and positive youth development. Since graduation, I have enrolled in a respiratory therapy program and will continue developing my skills and passion for helping people in the medical field. I was selected for a clinical cohort at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago and will complete all of my clinical rotations at this facility. I am excited for my career in pediatric respiratory therapy, and am very thankful for everything UIUC has done to prepare me for this field!
Hi, my name is Kathleen Hensing, and I am a 2025 graduate of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and a current student in the Masters in the Science of Nursing program at Rush University. My research focus within the Pedagogical Kinesiology Lab pertains to Self-Determination Theory (SDT) and its impacts when used in adaptive sport and physical activity
Hi! My name is Maximo Iglesia, and I am a 2026 graduate of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where I earned my degree in Chemistry with plans to pursue medical school. As a member of the Pedagogical Kinesiology Laboratory, I contributed to qualitative research examining how symbolism influences motivation and performance within competitive sporting environments. I also analyzed and organized qualitative data to support studies exploring teaching philosophies, mentorship, and the experiences that shape effective teaching practices and meaningful learning environments. Collaborating on these projects strengthened my skills in qualitative data analysis, critical thinking, collaboration, and scientific communication, culminating in contributions to research presented at the 2026 AIESEP World Congress. Following graduation, I will continue pursuing my goal of becoming a physician while building on the research and mentorship experiences I gained in the PKL. I am incredibly grateful for the mentorship, opportunities, and supportive community the PKL has provided, all of which have helped prepare me for the next chapter of my journey