The IHRSA Institute announced that Annie Fältman is the recipient of The John McCarthy Merit Scholarship and Kelli Mokeler is the recipient of The Curt & Jane Beusman Scholarship.

Annie Fältman is the owner and CEO of 360 Träningscenter in Skellefteå, Sweden while Kelli Mokeler is director of personal training for Cedardale Health & Fitness in Haverhill, MA.

The John McCarthy Merit Scholarship, named for IHRSA’s first executive director, and The Curt & Jane Beusman Scholarship, named for two of IHRSA’s most passionate founders, are awarded to individuals who demonstrate a passion for, and absolute commitment to, the health club industry’s future and leadership skills in club operations, sales or service.

Each scholarship, valued at more than $3,000, includes a full registration to The Institute, program materials and handouts, social and networking events, lodging, meals and a travel stipend. The IHRSA Institute will take place July 31-August 3, 2018, at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Kenan-Flagler Business School.

Fältman, who began her career as a physiotherapist, was drawn to the health club industry after determining that prevention was where she wanted to focus her attention. Today, as owner and CEO of 360 Träningscenter, a club group in Sweden with four locations and close to 4,000 members.

As director of personal training for Cedardale Health & Fitness, Mokeler’s role took an unexpected turn in March 2017 when a devastating fire forced the club to shut down operations. Mokeler’s focus on the member experience, coupled with a strong ability to adapt to change, led her to quickly set up a temporary personal training operation. Two months later, Mokeler transitioned clients and staff to a new location and has since grown personal training revenue.

The scholarship recipients were selected by a judging panel of experienced and dedicated industry professionals. The panel included:

  • Richard Beusman, president, Saw Mill Sports Management, Inc.
  • Rick Caro, president, Management Vision, Inc.
  • Bill McBride, president & CEO, Active Wellness & BMC3
  • Michele Melkerson-Granryd, general manager, Castle Hill Fitness 360
  • Bud Rockhill, owner, CW Strategic Advisors