The Big Ten Network and the University of Illinois tell the story of how one man changed the world for people with disabilities in The Game Changer, a new 30-minute documentary premiering September 22nd. It will air at 8 p.m. CDT or immediately following the Illinois vs. Maryland women’s soccer game, which may move the broadcast earlier or later on BTN.
The program tells the story of Tim Nugent, known by many as the “Father of Accessibility,” who founded the first comprehensive program for college students with physical disabilities at the University of Illinois. Prior to the start of that program, people with disabilities were not expected to go to school, find employment or play sports. Those with spinal cord injuries were not expected to live more than a few years. Nugent, a World War II veteran returned from the war and never stopped fighting for the rights of the disabled. Rare film from the University Archives shows how Nugent changed the public’s perception of disability. Current Team USA Paralympic Athletes and Illinois students reflect on how he paved the way for their success. The documentary was produced by Tim Hartin, Kaitlin Southworth and Alison Davis Wood.
