Contact Information

About

On September 1, 1999, the 123,000 square foot, Ray Meyer Fitness and Recreation Center opened its doors to the DePaul community. 

For the first time in the history of the university, a comprehensive schedule of fitness and recreation activities could be offered, including:  group fitness classes, fitness services, wellness classes, instructional programs, outdoor adventures, team challenge, intramural sports, club sports, and special events.  The facility exceeded performance expectations for the first year of the business plan, and CENTERS' staff has developed a successful, seamless integration with DePaul's campus culture. Thirteen full-time staff supervise over 200 part-time and DePaul student employees.

The CENTERS staff is committed to the development of "out of the classroom" learning experiences for student employees and participants.  All of the policies and procedures for the delivery of a comprehensive campus recreation program, membership services, and facility management were created for DePaul's unique operation. 

"Changing the way you do business is always risky, but when CENTERS introduced their on-site staff to the University, I could not believe how perfectly each one of them fit our campus culture. DePaul's uniqueness and our values will be preserved and that's important - it's our highest priority."
- Jim Doyle
  Vice President for Student Affairs

Mission:

The mission of Campus Recreation is to enhance the quality of life of the DePaul community by encouraging active and balanced lifestyles and to facilitate student learning through participation in Campus Recreation programs, services, and facilities.

To accomplish this mission, the department will:

• Offer high quality programs and services that are diverse, innovative, and comprehensive;
• Maintain progressive and well managed facilities in a safe and enjoyable environment;
• Provide experiential learning and foster the development of leadership, social, and management skills through employment and participation opportunities;
• Effectively and ethically manage human, financial, and physical resources.

Groundbreaking:

May 1, 1998

Opening:

Sep 1, 1999

Dedication:

Sep 30, 1999

Architect:

Antunovich, Chicago, IL

Gymnasium Area

Four-court wood gym floors for basketball, volleyball, badminton. The gym accommodates intramural sports, club sports, informal recreation, team challenge program, and some physical education classes. The space features maple wood floors, wireless scoreboards, divider curtains and retractable basketball baskets.

Fitness Areas

There are five studios in the facility: four multi-purpose studios and a spin studio. The studios accommodate group fitness classes, instructional programs, club sports, informal recreation, and physical education classes.

Racquetball Courts

Three courts are provided on the first floor with a back glass wall; all three courts convert to wallyball.

Locker Rooms

The men's, women's, and family locker rooms are located on the first floor. Yearly rental and daily lockers are available. Pool access is gained through the locker rooms.

Equipment Issue

Members can check out a variety of equipment, including basketballs, racquetball racquets, volleyballs, foosballs, and shuffleboard equipment. Items for sale include racquetballs, swim goggles, and apparel. Outdoor equipment can also be rented, including bikes, tents, coolers, lanterns, backpacks, bags sets, croquet, and bocce ball sets.

Track

A 1/8th mile jogging track is on the fourth floor. Additional cardio pieces and stretching areas are provided in the infield of the track.

Meeting Room

Two meeting rooms are available in the facility: room 135 (accommodates babysitting from 9-noon Monday through Saturday), and room 312. These rooms are available for reservation when they are not being used for trainings, meetings, and classes.

Wellness Center

The Wellness Suite includes some office space, wellness resources, a private fitness assessment area, and a massage room.