LIFE@OSU

Stacie Mauch: From IMPACT to ink.

Stacie Mauch always wanted a tattoo and it made sense to have one that honors her new educational path and her passion. It’s a graphic that represents the determination of those with disabilities and identifies the college’s IMPACT program, Individualized Movement and Physical Activity for Children Today, a motor skills fitness program for children with special needs. “The IMPACT program has changed my course of study and my life,” says the mother of three teenagers. She started college in 1983 then her life took the twists and turns of marriage, kids and work. She returned and graduated in 2007 with a degree in exercise and sport science then at the encouragement of associate dean Jeff McCubbin, jumped into the Physical Education Teacher Education program, combining an endorsement in adapted physical education.

“Everything really clicked for me when I found the IMPACT program…my goals are so clear now,” says Stacie. “Encouraging kids to be physically active, especially helping kids with special needs is simply where my heart is…and it’s made a huge IMPACT on my life!” She wears the tattoo with pride and is quick to tell those who ask that “Growth and development through movement is what it’s all about!”