The Wayne County Community Foundation approved a grant to the University of Akron Wayne College from the John Kaylor Memorial Fund to purchase new fitness equipment. The equipment will be used to support learning outcomes of students enrolled in the exercise science technology program and includes a Life Fitness Integrity Treadmill, platforms, risers, Magnus ABS carts, a flat Olympic bench and a leg curl/extension machine.
EST is a two-year associate degree that prepares students to be physical trainers and wellness coaches. Graduates may work in a commercial, community, corporate or clinical setting or go on to earn a bachelors degree in exercise science or sports studies.
The WCCF is a not-for-profit charitable community organization established in 1978 to accept contributions, create and administer funds, and make grants for the benefit of the people of the greater Wayne County area. Since 1978 the foundation has awarded more than $63.5 million in the form of grants and scholarships from its 395 separate funds.
Dr. John Roncone, associate professor and program coordinator of sport science and wellness education at Wayne College, said the equipment purchased with the WCCF grant will greatly improve student learning and will benefit the overall wellness of the entire Wayne campus community.
When not being used by EST students in a classroom setting, the new equipment will be available for general campus use by other students as well as faculty and staff, he said. Having the latest fitness equipment available prepares our students for real-world practice and provides everyone else the opportunity to engage in regular physical activity, which is important to overall health and wellness.
UA Wayne College is a regional branch of the University of Akron and prepares students for careers in business, industry and public service. The college awards associate and bachelors degrees in addition to a Master of Social Work and many certificate programs.
