At the University of North Texas (UNT), the ELEVAR program is helping students with intellectual and developmental
disabilities build healthy habits that support long-term success—both in life and in the workplace. By recognizing health as
a foundation for employment, UNT ELEVAR is preparing students to enter their communities with confidence,
independence, and practical skills.

An Evidence-Based Approach to Well-Being

To support student success, UNT ELEVAR adopted the HealthMatters™ Program, a nationally recognized,
evidence-based health promotion curriculum. Backed by more than 20 years of research, HealthMatters™ has shown
positive outcomes in areas such as cardiovascular fitness, nutrition knowledge, self-confidence, and overall life
satisfaction. UNT introduced HealthMatters™ in fall 2025 after students expressed interest in learning how to improve
their health in ways that fit naturally into their daily routines—at home, at school, at work, and in the community.

Turning Knowledge into Action

HealthMatters™ at UNT is designed around active participation. Students not only talk about healthy habits—they practice
them. Over the course of the program, students explore topics such as:
 -Making healthy food choices
 -Managing energy levels and sleep
 -Staying hydrated
 -Understanding the relationship between medication and exercise
 -Using fitness centers safely
 -Building self-advocacy skills

Students apply what they learn by working out in on- and off-campus recreation facilities, learning proper equipment
hygiene, preparing healthy snacks and smoothies, and participating in social activities like casual basketball games.
These experiences reinforce that staying healthy can be enjoyable, social, and achievable—an important message for
young adults preparing to enter the workforce.

Strong Partnerships, Shared Impact

The success of HealthMatters™ at UNT is rooted in collaboration. The program brings together experts and educators
from across the university and the community, including Denton County Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, the Texas
Council for Developmental Disabilities, and multiple UNT departments. Chandani Kothari, a Family and Community Health
Agent with Denton County AgriLife Extension Service, shared that working with UNT ELEVAR students has been
especially rewarding. “Students are making healthier choices every day,” Kothari noted. “They are setting personal health
goals that align with their career and employment goals, and they’re excited about what comes next.” Erin Fogarty, who
holds a joint appointment with the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities and Texas A&M AgriLife Extension,
emphasized the connection between health and employment readiness. “Developing health management skills is
essential for earning and maintaining competitive employment,” Fogarty said. “We’re seeing students gain the knowledge
and habits that support long-term success.” Doctoral Special Education candidate, Alex Candelaria, notes students
consistently show high levels of engagement and enjoyment in HealthMatters™ sessions—a strong indicator of
meaningful learning and lasting impact.

Preparing for the Future

Through HealthMatters™, UNT ELEVAR is helping students develop the physical, social, and emotional tools needed to
thrive beyond graduation. By focusing on health as a cornerstone of independence and employment, the program
demonstrates how inclusive education, community partnerships, and evidence-based practices can work together to create
lasting change.
UNT ELEVAR is grateful to its partners for their shared commitment to building healthier futures—for students, for
communities, and for the workforce.