Shenandoah University Cuts Ribbon On Wilkins Health & Fitness Suite
New space, named for the Wilkins family, provides state-of-the-art resources for students in health-related programs
Shenandoah University marked the completion of a new educational space for students in various health-related programs with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, Oct. 24. During the celebration, the university announced the facility would be named in honor of the Wilkins family, which has steadfastly supported Shenandoah for over six decades.
The Wilkins Health & Fitness Suite, located on the garden level of the Pruitt Health & Life Sciences Building on SU’s main campus in Winchester, Virginia, will support students in exercise science, nursing, athletic training and other health and wellness programs, providing them with the classroom space and state-of-the-art resources necessary to prepare them to become leaders in their fields.
The space features biomechanics, exercise physiology, strength and conditioning, and nutrition labs designed to enhance Shenandoah’s exercise science and performing arts medicine programs by providing hands-on education in movement analysis, physiological assessments and nutrition. The Wilkins Health & Fitness Suite is also the new home for the Shenandoah Performing Arts Rehab Center (SPARC+), which allows students in athletic training, physical therapy, occupational therapy and related programs in the School of Health Professions to conduct clinical research while providing rehabilitation services and wellness screenings for Shenandoah Conservatory and esports students.
The Wilkins Health & Fitness Suite will be a game changer for our students, expanding our ability to offer hands-on, cutting-edge experiences that will not only enhance their education but also prepare them to excel in graduate programs and their future careers. Thanks to the incredible generosity of the Wilkins family, we are able to continue our tradition of innovation and leadership in health professions education.”
Shenandoah University Provost Karen Abraham, Ph.D.
The Wilkins family has been integral to the success and growth of Shenandoah University, beginning in 1960 when James R. Wilkins, Sr., helped establish majors in the health professions. In recent years, the James R. Wilkins Charitable Trust has made donations to help create the university’s Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program, the James R. Wilkins, Jr. Athletics & Events Center, and the All-Steinway Initiative.
The late James R. Wilkins, Sr. served on Shenandoah University’s Board of Trustees for nearly 40 years, including a significant tenure as its chairperson, and his children, James R. “Jimmy” Wilkins, Jr. and Donna Wilkins Downing, and grandson, James R. “Richie” Wilkins, III, have carried on that legacy of leadership, service and philanthropy. Jimmy Wilkins served on SU’s Board of Trustees for over 30 years, Downing has served on various university committees, and Richie Wilkins currently serves on the Board of Trustees.
I’m so thankful for the generosity of our donors, like the Wilkins family, who make what we do here at Shenandoah possible. The Wilkins family has a long history of supporting Shenandoah and the health professions. In 1960, in partnership with the Winchester Memorial Hospital, James R. Wilkins, Sr. helped establish majors in the health professions, addressing a critical nursing shortage in the local community. Over 60 years later, their commitment to SU and the health professions continues. It is truly extraordinary.”
Shenandoah University President Tracy Fitzsimmons, Ph.D.
