Deana Lowry, who arrived at Stetson in May 2021, has been named the new director of Wellness & Recreation. Previously, she was an assistant director. 

Since joining the Wellness & Recreation team, Lowry has excelled in her role, providing leadership to the Hollis Center student staff team, along with assisting in a variety of other areas. They include aquatics, group fitness, building operation, fitness equipment and more. 

Lynn Schoenberg, associate vice president for Campus Life & Student Success and dean of Students, applauded her efforts. 

“During her time with us, she has been known as someone who is passionate, energetic, student focused, creative and a great problem solver,” commented Schoenberg. 

“Deana’s passion and enthusiasm for wellness and recreation is contagious and evident to anyone who has worked with her, including our students. We are very excited about this next journey with Deana as director of Wellness & Recreation!”

Lowry’s professional career ranges from work in and around recreation centers and private gyms to a 40,000-student-body campus with multiple facilities. Prior to Stetson, she worked at Penn State University in campus recreation for eight years. There, she provided professional development to student employees and oversaw the operations of the facility’s day-to-day use. She also spent time working for fitness centers outside of higher education. And, as an undergraduate at the University of Toledo, she was a four-year campus recreation student employee. 

At Toledo, Lowry received a bachelor of science in Exercise Science from Toledo, followed by a master’s degree in Human Resources and Employment Relations from Penn State. 

Now, Lowry is “beyond thrilled” about her new opportunity.

“As I reflect on my journey to this position, I am filled with extreme gratitude, due in part to the support that I have received from the Stetson community,” she said. “As we continue to honor the past, I am excited about the future that lies ahead, and our continued work to build upon the strong foundation that has been laid with teamwork, determination and a shared enthusiasm for the work that we do for Stetson University.”