Health, Fitness & Recreation Center ("FitRec")
- Location: Palos Hills, IL
- Opened: Spring 2014
- Term: 2013–Present
- Size: 113,000 SF
- Cost: $34 M
CENTERS at Moraine Valley Community College
Overview
The $34 million FitRec opened in 2014 to support the college’s athletic program, physical education department, and campus recreation department. MVCC retained CENTERS to manage the entire facility and develop a new Department of Campus Recreation. To keep the center’s student and employee user fees as reasonable as possible, MVCC opted to supplement student activity fee revenue with a robust community membership program that would support a significant portion of the building’s debt. The membership program has created strong linkages between the college and the community with over 5,000 community members and a comprehensive KidRec program that support family membership year-round. In addition, a student development model was enacted to provide transferable skills and to develop experiences to help better prepare students for their next job. CENTERS also expanded the college’s annual 5k event increasing participation by 1,000% and it now provides thousands of dollars in scholarship funds for current students. This blend of community, students, and faculty/staff has truly been a win/win for the college.
Facility Facts
- 113,000 GSF
- 3-Court gymnasium
- Indoor track
- 10,000 SF Weight and Fitness
- 4 Group Fitness studios
- 4-lane indoor pool with whirlpool
- 9,000 SF KidRec
- Private consultation, assessment, and personal training room
- Massage Therapy Suite
- Rush Physical Therapy Suite
- Locker rooms
- Family Locker Room
- Steam Rooms
- Cafe
- Pro Shop
Mike Schneider, Director
Mr. Schneider joined the Centers team in 2007 as the Director of Campus Recreation at the University of New Haven. In 2013 he transitioned to his current role as the Director for MVCC to open the Health, Fitness, and Recreation Center. Mr. Schneider led the development of the comprehensive business plan for the new facility and department, and was responsible for implementing the new operating plan and the hiring professional staff. Under his leadership, the site employs up to 100 students from the college, generates significant revenues through community memberships and comprehensive programs and services. Previously, Mr. Schneider led the development of the campus recreation department and opened the David A. Beckerman Recreation Center for CENTERS at the University of New Haven. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin – Madison and Master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. Mr. Schneider is highly active in NIRSA as a conference speaker and supports CENTERS by leading committees and working on advisory projects.
