Boston—June 8, 2018—For over 30 years, The IHRSA Institute has been a foundation for developing business leaders. Many of the most successful people in the fitness industry include The IHRSA Institute on their resumes. IHRSA is pleased to highlight two attendees from different sides of the world who will be joining the ranks of the impressive alumni as scholarship recipients:

  • Annie Fältman, owner and CEO of 360 Träningscenter in Skellefteå, Sweden, is the recipient of The John McCarthy Merit Scholarship.
  • Kelli Mokeler, director of personal training for Cedardale Health & Fitness in Haverhill, MA, is the recipient of The Curt & Jane Beusman Scholarship.

The John McCarthy Merit Scholarship, named for IHRSA’s first executive director, and The Curt & Jane Beusman Scholarship, named for two of IHRSA’s most passionate founders, are awarded to individuals who demonstrate a passion for, and absolute commitment to, the health club industry's future and leadership skills in club operations, sales, or service.

Each scholarship, valued at more than $3,000, includes a full registration to The Institute, program materials and handouts, social and networking events, lodging, meals, and a travel stipend. The IHRSA Institute will take place July 31-August 3, 2018, at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Kenan-Flagler Business School.

Annie Fältman, who began her career as a physiotherapist, was drawn to the health club industry after determining that prevention was where she wanted to focus her attention. Today, as owner and CEO of 360 Träningscenter—a club group in Sweden with four locations and close to 4,000 members—Fältman is living her passion for making it possible for people to live a healthier lifestyle.

As director of personal training for Cedardale Health & Fitness, Kelli Mokeler’s role took an unexpected turn in March 2017 when a devastating fire forced the club to shut down operations. Mokeler’s focus on the member experience, coupled with a strong ability to adapt to change, led her to quickly set up a temporary personal training operation. Two months later, Mokeler transitioned clients and staff to a new location and has since grown personal training revenue.

The scholarship recipients were selected by a judging panel of highly experienced and dedicated industry professionals. The panel included:

  • Richard Beusman, president, Saw Mill Sports Management, Inc.
  • Rick Caro, president, Management Vision, Inc.
  • Bill McBride, president & CEO, Active Wellness & BMC3
  • Michele Melkerson-Granryd, general manager, Castle Hill Fitness 360
  • Bud Rockhill, owner, CW Strategic Advisors

The IHRSA Awards Program seeks to "recognize, celebrate, and inspire." For more information about IHRSA's annual industry awards and scholarships, please visit the program's website.

About IHRSA

The International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association (IHRSA) is a not-for-profit trade association representing health and fitness facilities, gyms, spas, sports clubs, and suppliers worldwide. IHRSA and its members are dedicated to making the world healthier through regular exercise and activity promotion. IHRSA's events provide a vast array of speakers on business and corporate culture, instructional sessions on all aspects of succeeding in the health club industry, social events to mix and mingle with peers, and the most spectacular trade shows in the industry.

About The IHRSA Institute

Featuring a faculty of industry experts and UNC professors, The IHRSA Institute provides a strong base for anyone working in the fitness industry. The curriculum includes classes on subjects such as Strategic Planning; Industry Trends & Benchmarking; Financial Management; Employee Hiring, Training & Retention; Social Media & Digital Strategies; Member Retention, Experience & Engagement; and more. Over 80 attendees, faculty and sponsor personnel are expected to attend this premier event for learning and networking for club professionals.

Those interested in learning more about The John McCarthy Merit Scholarship and The Curt & Jane Beusman Scholarship and how scholarship donations can be made are encouraged to visit the scholarship site. For more information about The IHRSA Institute, and to register by June 15 for the best rate, visit The Institute website.

The IHRSA Institute is sponsored by Aktiv Solutions, American Council on Exercise, Myzone, Perfect Gym Solutions S.A., and Power Systems.