champions place news
The Perfect Pairing: Champions Place + GSU OT
july 2025
You know how some things just "go together" - like a hamburger, fries and a coke? That's the best way to describe the relationship between Champions Place and Georgia State University's Department of Occupational Therapy. The partnership has blossomed in so many ways. The moment we met Karen McWathers, a Clinical Assistant Professor for the program at GSU, we knew something special was about to happen. It all started when the students from their Community-Based Practice class coordinated fun events for the residents, like Pizza Making and a Halloween party. **Add a sentence that talks about impact and hearing it through the quotes below.
“At Champion’s Place, GSU has found a unique opportunity. Our students truly love Champion's Place. I've been telling students from the first time I walked in that Champion's Place is something special. You can feel it in the air! The residents at Champions Place have taught students invaluable lessons and skills which they will carry forwards into their future careers.”
— Karen McWaters, Clinical Assistant Professor - Department Of Occupational Therapy
“I enjoy the in-person events because I don't have a lot of friends who have disabilities and the Titan family makes me feel included. I also enjoy the fellowship and being able to engage in activities that are wheelchair friendly.”
— Britt Ivey
"I had the chance to volunteer at Champions Place during our Community-Based Practice class last fall, and I knew right away it was a place I wanted to stay connected to. That experience made a lasting, positive impact on me, so this summer I started working as a caregiver—and it’s already been such an amazing experience"
— Lauren Thiede, GSU OT Student (Works as caregiver and volunteered at Champions Place in GSU Community Based Practice class held at Champions Place)
“I always enjoy in-person events because it means I get to be with my friends that I wouldn’t maybe otherwise see. I think gathering together and spending quality time together is important!”
— Adam Laarhoven
One of the most special components to our in-person events is that they attract members of our Titan Family from a little farther than the direct Atlanta area.
One Titan, Drew Daniels, drove over an hour to be there!
“I usually can’t make it to the scrimmages because I live far away, so the special in-person events are crucial because they allow me to see my friends. I loved being at the Titan Game Day because I got to use my communication skills and engage in competition during the games.”
— Drew Daniels
Because of your support, we’re able to continue hosting events that provide opportunities for our Titans to have fun with their friends