Collaboration brings new fitness equipment and hands-on research to Harper College, strengthening ties between industry and education
Rosemont and Palatine, ILLINOIS—[October 22, 2025]—Life Fitness / Hammer Strength, a global leader in commercial fitness, and Harper College, a premier community college in the Chicago suburbs, have announced a multi-year innovation partnership that includes the latest fitness equipment, an immersive learning environment, and research opportunities for members of the Harper community.
State-of-the-Art Equipment
Harper College’s Foglia Foundation Health and Recreation Center, managed by CENTERS, is now outfitted with more than 50 new products, including a full suite of cardio equipment and Insignia Series selectorized strength equipment with the Life Fitness Connect System. Members can also work out with various strength accessories, including dumbbells, kettlebells, medicine balls, plyometric boxes, and more. Additionally, members will have free access to digital fitness resources, including the Connect App and Trainer Connect, where they can track their progress, receive coaching and guidance, follow personalized training plans, and exercise with on-demand instructor-led workouts.
Real-World Testing & Learning
As part of the agreement, Harper College has provided Life Fitness / Hammer Strength with space for a new Performance Insights Lab. The lab will be managed by Life Fitness / Hammer Strength team members. It will serve as an extension of the company’s new Nieto-Jones Innovation Center, which is located less than two miles from the college. The center is designed to foster innovation and further drive new product development.
Harper students, faculty and staff will have opportunities to participate in field testing, product development, biomechanics studies and exerciser feedback programs. The partnership includes joint initiatives with the kinesiology, engineering, business and marketing departments for interactive, real-world experiences and direct engagement with Life Fitness / Hammer Strength cross-functional teams.
Industry & Community Collaboration
“This partnership exemplifies Harper College’s commitment to connecting industry innovation with community impact,” said Dr. Avis Proctor, president of Harper College. “Together with Life Fitness / Hammer Strength, we are expanding opportunities for our students to engage in hands-on learning and research while promoting health, wellness and fitness for our entire community.”
“As we planned our new Nieto-Jones Innovation Center, we looked for a strategic partnership that would not only expand our innovation network but also allow us to further engage with our new business community and deepen our local impact,” said Dan Wille, Chief Product Officer, Life Fitness / Hammer Strength. “Harper College has proven to be an excellent partner. Together, we’ll be creating new possibilities for their students, their faculty, Health and Recreation Center members, and the greater Harper community.”
“Our role at CENTERS is to help Harper maximize the value of its partnerships,” said Julie Bearden, Director of CENTERS at Harper College. “This collaboration with Life Fitness / Hammer Strength enhances the CENTERS’ capabilities and ensures that the investment translates into long-term success.”
By combining industry-leading expertise with a commitment to student success and community well-being, the Life Fitness / Hammer Strength and Harper College partnership is poised to deliver lasting benefits on campus, in the gym, and beyond.
About the Partners
About Harper College
Harper College is one of the nation’s premier community colleges, serving approximately 26,500 students annually in Chicago’s northwest suburbs. The college’s academic programs prepare students for rewarding careers and for transfer to four-year universities. Harper offers associate degree and certification programs, advanced career programs, workforce training, professional development, continuing education classes, accelerated degree options for adults and developmental education programs. For more information, visit harpercollege.edu.
About Life Fitness / Hammer Strength
Life Fitness / Hammer Strength has been inspiring the world to work out for more than 55 years. The company manufactures and sells strength and cardiovascular equipment through its iconic Life Fitness and Hammer Strength brands. For more information, visit www.lifefitness.com.
About CENTERS
CENTERS is a nationally recognized management firm that specializes in the operation of campus life centers for colleges, universities, and nonprofit institutions. The firm’s portfolio includes recreation and wellness centers, arenas, student centers, sports complexes, event and conference services, performing arts venues, student housing, and more. CENTERS delivers mission-aligned, student-focused operations that enhance campus engagement and support institutional priorities. CENTERS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Brailsford & Dunlavey, Inc. Learn more at www.centersusa.com.