How the University of Illinois Became the First Accessible College Campus | Larry Labiak

After World War II, veterans with spinal cord injuries were largely denied access to higher education. That changed when Tim Nugent fought to create the first wheelchair accessible college campus in the world at the University of Illinois. In this clip from Episode 4 of the Chicago Grit podcast, Larry Labiak recounts the incredible history of the rehabilitation education program at U of I. From converting old army barracks into accessible dorms to inventing the first lift equipped transit bus, Larry explains how these early pioneers laid the groundwork for accessibility standards across the country and changed the future of education for people with disabilities forever. Watch the full interview with the Architect of Access here:    • Larry Labiak: The Architect of Access | Ch...   About Chicago Grit: "Chicago Grit" is a series from the Chicago Adaptive Sports Foundation (CAS) that shares the real, unfiltered stories of our athletes, coaches, and community. We go beyond the highlight reels to explore the resilience, struggle, and triumphs that define us. About the Chicago Adaptive Sports Foundation (CAS): CAS provides the equipment, opportunities, and support system that allow athletes with disabilities to forge their own paths. Our mission is to humanize, inspire, and build a stronger, more inclusive community through adaptive sports. GET INVOLVED & SUPPORT OUR MISSION: ► Donate: Help us fund equipment, registration fees, and mentorship for the next generation of athletes. https://www.chicagoadaptivesports.com... ► Learn More & Volunteer: Find out about our programs for athletes and volunteers. https://www.chicagoadaptivesports.com #ChicagoGrit #DisabilityHistory #UniversityOfIllinois #TimNugent #Accessibility #WheelchairLife #Illini #AdaptiveSports #DisabilityAdvocacy