News - Robert Florio

Robert Florio, quadriplegic student, aims to design accessible video games

After a diving accident into a swimming pool broke his spinal cord, 14-year-old Robert Florio became paralyzed. Since his injury on June 20, 1996, Robert has found creating art to be therapeutic. For example, he paints with a special brush placed in his mouth.

Today Robert Florio, 25, is on track to graduate this fall from The Art Institute of Pittsburgh Online Division, with a Bachelor's Degree in Game Art and Design.

His career ambition is to create accessible video games for people with disabilities such as himself.

Robert Florio Video

Robert Florio in the news

Gaming Technology Student Aspires to Ease Accessibility for Disabled
AOL.com
June 13, 2007

Games as Therapy for Walter Reed's Wounded
The Washington Post
May 27, 2007

Video: Once a Gamer, Always a Gamer
washingtonpost.com
May 27, 2007

The Art Institute of Pittsburgh Online Division Paraplegic Student Aims To Design Accessible Video Games
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
May 9, 2007

Disabled Gamers want more than 'fluffy' choices (PDF 62KB)
Chicago Tribune
April 10, 2007

The Art Institute of Pittsburgh Online Division Student to Judge GDC
Accessibility Game Design Competition
GameDeveloper.com
March 2, 2007

About The Art Institute of Pittsburgh Online Division

The Art Institute of Pittsburgh Online Division, is a part of The Art Institutes system of schools with 36 locations throughout North America. Founded in 1921, The Art Institute of Pittsburgh supports our online programs with more than 85 years of excellence.

The Art Institute of Pittsburgh Online Division was launched in 2000. With 15 academic online programs, The Art Institute of Pittsburgh Online Division is the leader in online creative arts education.