Dr. Nancy Spencer

Biography

Nancy Spencer is a Professor and Vice Dean in the Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation at the University of Alberta. She holds a PhD in Physical Education from the University of Alberta (2008), an MA in Physical Education (1999), and a BA in Arts (1996). Passionate about working with undergraduate and graduate students, her academic career has been shaped by her own experiences as a student which led her to focus on adapted physical activity and sociolinguistics. Spencer's research primarily engages with children and youth with disabilities, utilizing qualitative methodologies to understand their experiences. She is committed to fostering meaningful connections through play, sport, and recreation, particularly for marginalized communities. Her current projects include exploring social inclusion in sport, the challenges of physical activity for children with pulmonary arterial hypertension, and re-envisioning inclusion for children on the autism spectrum. In her teaching, Spencer supervises graduate students and covers topics related to adapted physical activity and leisure in diverse populations, demonstrating her commitment to inclusivity in sport and recreational activities.

Research Interests