Nature is a powerful remedy

Green, natural spaces have made the shortlist for years. Urban parks grant city dwellers a breath of fresh air, while hospital gardens help patients experience tranquility and respite. According to the National Institutes of Health, the beauty of the great outdoors is owed to how little nature demands from humans. It doesn't require our direct attention, so it allows us to recover from mental fatigue and restore our attention and energy.

The designers responsible for crafting Lynn University's future Snyder Center for Health and Wellness (pictured above, bottom-right) understood the power of nature. It's part of the reason the building perches at the edge of a lake, steps away from the Christine E. Lynn Park and encircled in lush green lawns. The location near the center of campus is also intentional—and so is its planned outdoor area.

The Holloway Family Foundation recently gifted $150,000 to realize plans for the outdoor fitness area.

"We were very glad the outside fitness area was available to support," said foundation Director John Holloway. "Personal health is the true cornerstone to having longer, more fruitful lives."

The Snyder Center brings all wellness efforts—mental, physical and social—into one space near the Christine E. Lynn University Center. Its location makes building healthy habits a practical reality, as students pass the facility each day on their way to and from classes, sports and social activities.

"Besides enjoying fitness activities from its beautiful location, we're hopeful that students will be able to easily observe others [as they pursue their fitness goals] and be motivated to become involved," said Holloway.

When looking at universities for Holloway's son Maxwel to attend, the family was grateful to discover Lynn.

"Through the initial virtual tour, we discovered the academic programs and the intentional smaller, personalized campus experience," said Holloway. "We appreciated the emphasis on international diversity and the Boca Raton location, which is close to us in central Florida."

As Maxwel pursued his studies at Lynn, the family's appreciation for the tight-knit community continued to grow, as did their support.

"We very much try to encourage an unanimous agreement on pledges," Holloway said. “We will not approve pledges without a 4:1 majority." The foundation approved its commitment to the Snyder Center's outdoor fitness area in late 2020 and is looking forward to seeing the building open.