The American University community has endless ways to utilize the new, state-of-the-art Alan and Amy Meltzer Center for Athletic Performance and Sports Center Annex. On January 16, students, faculty, staff, alumni, and neighbors gathered for an open house to explore the facility’s vast potential firsthand.

Located at the heart of campus, the Meltzer Center is the cornerstone of a more than $100 million investment in student thriving. It serves as a unique crossroads where AU’s commitments to student support, sustainability, and athletic excellence converge—allowing students to sleep, study, and sweat all under one roof.

“Tonight is a historic night for American University,” President Jon Alger said. “You are here witnessing and being part of that history.”

Here are some snapshots from the gathering.  

Student Hangout

Audrey Bekerman, SIS/BA ’29, was among the first students to try out the sleep pods at the grand opening of the Well-Being Corner.

Once seated, the student finds the futuristic capsule turns dark and plays calming music.  “That’s really nice,” said Bekerman, adding that the pods offer a perfect retreat when she is short on time or seeking a private space to nap.

Located on the first floor of the Sports Center Annex, the new student sanctuary is operated by the Center for Well-Being. The multifaceted retreat features a yoga studio, massage chairs and tables, and a board game corner, alongside private alcoves where students can gather or steal a quiet moment.  

Osezua Abulu, SIS/BA ’29, said that the building has already emerged as a favorite “third place” for students. “I’m going to be in here for sure,” Abulu said.

Amorette Walker, SPA/BA ’29, praised the space as a meaningful investment in student mental health. “I really like the thought process and the design of the building [to be] more of a calm and welcoming space.”

Pristine and Green

The Meltzer Center stands as AU’s first net-zero and LEED Platinum-certified building. This distinction recognizes the building’s comprehensive approach to sustainability, including the use of onsite renewable energy, advanced water conservation, and eco-friendly materials. The facility utilizes 1,334 photovoltaic solar panels and 85 geothermal wells to produce 100 percent of its annual energy consumption.

Water efficiency is equally prioritized: drought-tolerant landscaping has slashed outdoor water use by 94 percent, while high-efficiency indoor fixtures reduce consumption by 37 percent compared to traditional alternatives. Additionally, the nearly 19,000-square-foot green roof features bioretention basins designed to capture rainwater and minimize site runoff.

“It's a milestone project that demonstrates American University's ongoing commitment to sustainability by celebrating wellness and athletics in a space designed to be as good for the people who inhabit it as it is for the planet," said Megan Litke, director of sustainability.

Championship Facilities

The Meltzer Center represents the first new athletics and recreational construction on campus in more than 30 years. JM Caparro, vice president and director of athletics and recreation, called it “a game-changer for our student-athletes.”

The facility features upgraded locker rooms, a new suite of office spaces for AU coaches and staff, and a dedicated production studio for ESPN+ broadcasts.

The new Meltzer-Danielson Wrestling Training Center spans 6,000 square feet—doubling the size of the team’s previous wrestling room. The building houses state-of-the-art strength, conditioning ,and sports medicine rooms designed to support the performance needs of all 16 of AU’s programs.

“It’s a tremendous difference,” said Alex Lee, assistant athletic director for athletic performance, who began using the space earlier in the week. “This [gives] us more flexibility. We can have two teams in here at once.”

Field hockey striker Sydney Huddleston, Kogod/BSBA ’29, praised the training and weight rooms and the fuel stations. “It’s awesome to have facilities this nice to facilitate great training and rehabilitation,” she said.

A Good Omen

The crowning moment of the open house came when AU wrestling dominated LIU with a 38–7 victory before a raucous home crowd. The match served as the Meltzer Center’s competitive debut, delivering an atmosphere that resonated with the team and fans alike.  

“[It] felt like a big-time event in a big-time environment,” said head coach Jason Borrelli after the match. “I’ve been all over the country over the years. I don’t know that I’ve been to a place that was any better, in terms of the environmental feel.”

For those who missed the celebration, the Meltzer is open from 6 a.m. to midnight daily.