BOSTON—June 25, 2019—The IHRSA Institute has been a foundation for developing business leaders in the health club industry for more than 30 years. IHRSA is pleased to announce the recipients of two scholarships to attend the 2019 event this summer:

  • Maureen Eggers, Health & Fitness Manager for Washington Athletic Club in Seattle, WA, is the recipient of The John McCarthy Scholarship.
  • Jason Stokes, General Manager and Managing Partner of Sportsplex-New Windsor in New Windsor, NY, is the recipient of The Curt & Jane Beusman Scholarship.

The John McCarthy 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 August 6-9, 2019, at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Kenan-Flagler Business School.

As Health & Fitness Manager for Washington Athletic Club, Maureen Eggers is responsible for overseeing staffing, service, and operations in three areas of the 5-star private club. Maureen has played a key role in the planning, design, and operation of the WAC’s first off-site corporate fitness space, as well as the WAC’s brand new women-only strength training studio. Maureen is passionate about her professional growth and leading a team that is committed to providing an exceptional member experience.

Jason Stokes joined the Sportsplex-New Windsor staff as the junior tennis coordinator in 2011. His desire to learn more about the day-to-day club operation led him on the path to becoming General Manager and Managing Partner of the club in 2017. Since that time the club has seen a surge in new memberships, something Jason attributes to his hands-on approach, a focus on customer service, and a commitment to hiring a management team that fit the vision and culture he and his business partner developed.

A judging panel of highly experienced and dedicated industry professionals helped to select the scholarship recipients. The panel included:

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

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 Scholarship and The Curt & Jane Beusman Scholarship and how to make scholarship donations are encouraged to visit The Institute scholarships website.

For more information about The IHRSA Institute, or to register, visit The Institute website.

The IHRSA Institute is sponsored by American Council on Exercise, ASF Payment Solutions, Gympass, and Myzone.