Mind, body and spirit—all in one location in the heart of campus. That dream will become reality later this year when the 20,000-square-foot Snyder Center for Health and Wellness debuts, thanks to a generous gift from namesakes Stephen and Jamie Snyder. The center will provide comprehensive fitness, health, counseling and wellness services to Lynn University students.
After COVID-19 closed Lynn’s campus and halted construction, plans for the wellness hub are underway for a Fall 2022 opening. Notably, the expansive Snyder Center will quadruple Lynn’s fitness footprint, including a state-of-the-art, 8,700-square-foot fitness center for students at large with brand-new equipment, a cycling studio and a dedicated room for active lifestyle classes; a 2,700-square-foot space for athletes; and a 2,300-square-foot outdoor space.
Dean of Students Theresa Gallo-Crichfield says the Snyder Center will also address students’ physical and mental well-being, which is especially vital in these times. A nurse practitioner will be available by appointment, and the center will offer checkups, first aid and vaccinations, over-the-counter medications, nutrition classes and group and individual counseling support.
“The need for mental health was at an all-time high before 2020, and the pandemic has only worsened it,” Gallo-Crichfield said. “Many students, including those thousands of miles from home, are coming back to campus increasingly anxious and with more health concerns. The Snyder Center’s location will help us reach as many students as possible.”
In January, Lynn appointed Debra Futterman executive director for student health and wellness. An accomplished mental health leader, Futterman served the past 10 years as director for Student Counseling Services for Henderson Behavioral Health, where she provided leadership and oversight to Nova Southeastern University, Broward College and the University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Regional Medical Campus.
“Debra brings a wealth of experience to Lynn, most notably building the Nova Southeastern counseling center program from the ground up,” Gallo-Crichfield added. “We are excited for her to build a comprehensive wellness program that supports students in every aspect of their life.”
Rounding out “mind, body and spirit,” the Snyder Center will also include the Landgren Chapel.
“We are eternally grateful to our donors who brought the Snyder Center to fruition,” said Senior Vice President for Development Gregory J. Malfitano ’73, ’75. “Their generosity will make a difference in the lives of Lynn students for generations to come.”
