Students and faculty from the College of Technology are sharing their love for gaming with kids undergoing treatment at Nemours Children’s Hospital—and are finding more opportunities to connect with children facing health challenges.

The initiative began when Robert Passarelli, chair of Animation & 3D and Game Design and Development, sought ways to enhance face-to-face experiences for students and faculty. He brainstormed with Scott Shaw, Nemours gaming and technology specialist and former Game Design chair at Wilmington University. Shaw is now an adjunct at WilmU.

Nemours introduced gaming to decrease boredom and anxiety in young patients. For the first visit, Passarelli was joined by Jordan Altiery, a student from WilmU’s eSports team, and two adjuncts, Adam Campbell and Jeremy Bregermann. They soon learned there are multiple ways to interact with children.

“It’s not just video games. There’s a full music room, an art room, and a craft room. It’s a fun place where kids can get away from the challenges they are facing,” Passarelli says.

He is currently in discussions with Nemours on ways to expand the program, such as providing transportation for WilmU students to Nemours. The goal is a monthly two-hour visit to the children’s hospital.

“It’s an activity where students and faculty can help kids and get to know one another at the same time,” Passarelli says. “It’s outreach at its best.”

— Eileen Smith Dallabrida