Dr. Melissa Roti is a Professor and Director of Exercise Science with an interest in physical activity, leisure, and play in fostering well-being. She focuses on lifestyle medicine pillars of physical activity, nutrition and stress management as keys to preventive health. She promotes inclusion through access to alternative forms of and spaces for physical activity. Her First Year Journey course is designed to help students rediscover the power of active leisure as a transformative tool for sparking creativity, enhancing overall health and fostering meaningful connections. She has introduced her students to the RIDE Center to give them hands-on experience with creating as a form of play.