Woodruff Physical Education Center

Opened in 1983, the Woodruff Physical Education Center, or WoodPEC as it’s affectionately known, pulsates with the energy of Emory University. This $20 million marvel stands as a testament to George W. Woodruff, the Atlanta engineer, businessman, and philanthropist. His pivotal role in transferring the $105 million Emily and Ernest Woodruff Fund to Emory cemented his legacy here. The WoodPEC isn’t just a gym. It’s a hub for Emory Recreation & Wellness and Intercollegiate Athletics. Inside these walls, athletes train, students unwind, and history unfolds. The WoodPEC has hosted NCAA championships, the Georgia State Special Olympics, even a presidential address by Bill Clinton. Imagine the echoes of cheering crowds during the 1996 Olympic training sessions held right here. Picture President Carter engaging the community in his annual Town Hall meetings within this very building. The WoodPEC houses the Madeline Jude Brown Aquatic Center, a 50-meter Olympic-sized pool. Divers launch from 1-meter and 3-meter platforms, while swimmers glide through waters ranging from 4.5 to 14 feet deep. Scale the climbing wall, its textured surface mimicking real stone. Challenge yourself with its corners and overhangs. Upstairs, the auxiliary courts beckon basketball and volleyball players. The fitness floor hums with activity. Free weights clang, cardio machines whir, and athletes push their limits on strength-training equipment. The main arena transforms to accommodate basketball, volleyball, badminton, and even fencing. Outside, Candler Fields at Kaminsky Park provide space for varsity, club, and intramural sports. When not reserved, these fields become a haven for Emory students and WoodPEC members. The WoodPEC is more than bricks and mortar. It’s a living testament to George W. Woodruff’s generosity. It’s a vibrant center of activity for the Emory community. It’s a place where athletic dreams are realized and personal wellness journeys begin.