Heat, humidity and even class times were not enough to prevent hundreds of students, faculty and alumna from attending the groundbreaking ceremony for the Jack and Jo Willa Morton Fitness Center.
The 10,000 sq. ft. facility, the first of its kind at Wesleyan, is scheduled to open next year and will provide cardio, weight training and aerobics.
"This new facility is emblematic of the resurgence of this university and of this neighborhood," said Roy Brooks, Tarrant County commissioner and Texas Wesleyan board member.
Audience members clapped and nodded as Brooks said that the new structure was more than just a fitness center.
"It is a ray of hope for this campus and this neighborhood," he said. "It is a validation of the decision made a generation ago by the administration and the trustees of this university to stand with the people of Polytechnic Heights."
Jack Morton, to whom the center is dedicated, grew up in the Poly neighborhood and attended Polytechnic High School. While studying business at Texas Wesleyan, Jack met future wife Jo Willa, who was studying economics and physical education.
"We are honored and enthusiastic about this project," Morton said. "And the good health and camaraderie that we hope it brings back to this campus."
Wesleyan affiliates were not the only familiar names in attendance. Congressman Michael C. Burgess spoke about the long-term benefits the center will offer.
"Prevention and participation are going to be the two keys to good health for the next generation of North-Texans coming up after us," he said.
Mark Veasey, Texas House Representative, said he began his dedication to physical fitness as a student at Texas Wesleyan in the ‘90s.
"Most of our young people, by the time they graduate from 12 years in a private or public school system will have been inundated with so much Chik-fil-A and McDonalds and fried food," he said, "that starting a good workout regiment in college with a state-of-the-art fitness center can lead to a lifelong commitment to physical fitness."
Heath Scott, president of the Student Government Association, said that the more the university offers its students, the more successful it will be. Retention rates will rise and campus spirit will intensify.
Morton, accompanied by other donors and Texas Wesleyan administrators, broke the first ground with gold shovels as the large crowd cheered.
"The event drew a lot of the students out," said Angel Maldonado, junior mass communications major. "More than I thought."
Be the first to comment on this article!