Franklin College announced the renovation of its Fitness Center, Feb. 12. This new project will be funded by donors John and Amber Elwood. 

Amber Elwood recently retired from a 24-year teaching career. She received her Bachelor’s in elementary education at Franklin College in 1999. Her husband, John, is the CEO of his rapidly growing business, Elwood Staffing.

The Fitness Center renovation will turn the upper level gymnasium into a recreational facility according to a press release from the college. The lower level, which is currently being used as storage, will turn into an office and locker room area for the women’s lacrosse team and the men’s and women’s soccer teams. 

Amber Elwood said in the press release that she and her husband John are excited to donate to the institution that gave her so much. When the renovation is complete, the building will be renamed the “Elwood Fitness Center.”

“Our goal is to support the vibrant and innovative educational experience at Franklin for future generations of Grizzlies,” Elwood said.

The update will not only preserve the building, which was built in the early 1900s, but also provide a modern space for students to practice and partake in recreational activities.

“Future generations of Grizzlies will benefit from the vision and philanthropy of the Elwood family,” President Kerry Prather said in a statement.