Dr. Megan Gandy (she/they) is the Principal Investigator of Play Higher ©, an innovative virtual reality initiative that expands behavioral health career access and promotes digital equity among rural K-12 (secondary school) students. Funded through the US Department of Labor and multiple state-level initiatives, Play Higher has emerged as a national model for integrating immersive technology into behavioral health education and workforce development.

Play Higher reimagines career exploration through immersive play, using virtual reality to spark curiosity, elevate ambition, and bridge the gap between underserved students and high-impact careers. By turning career pathways into engaging, hands-on experiences, Play Higher empowers the next generation to rise—academically, professionally, and collectively to build stronger, more vibrant communities. Dr. Gandy’s work explores how emerging technologies like VR can bridge gaps in access, enhance workforce development for health and social service professionals, and promote equitable outcomes for underserved populations.