OIO Human Performance Lab
10/30/2026
The OIO Human Performance Lab represents a shared investment in Bluffton students and the academic programs preparing them for careers in exercise science, health and physical education, strength and conditioning, pre-physical therapy, pre-occupational therapy, sports medicine and related fields.
Bluffton’s OIO Human Performance Lab prepares students for future careers
Bluffton University has unveiled its OIO Human Performance Lab, a renovated learning space designed to provide students with hands-on experiences that connect classroom instruction with professional practice. Made possible through the generosity of alumni, community partners and friends of the university, the lab supports Bluffton’s commitment to experiential learning and career preparation.
The OIO Human Performance Lab represents a shared investment in Bluffton students and the academic programs preparing them for careers in exercise science, health and physical education, strength and conditioning, pre-physical therapy, pre-occupational therapy, sports medicine and related fields. The updated space provides an environment where students can apply their knowledge, develop practical skills, and gain experience that reflects the expectations of their future professions.
“A Bluffton education is about more than what students learn in a classroom. It is about giving them opportunities to practice, collaborate, problem-solve and begin to see themselves as professionals,” said Dr. Mary Robinson, vice president and dean of academic affairs. “The OIO Human Performance Lab makes that approach a reality, giving students meaningful opportunities to apply their knowledge and develop the skills they will need in their future careers. We are grateful to the alumni, community partners and friends who helped make this investment in our students possible.”
The lab emphasizes Bluffton’s hands-on approach to education, giving students opportunities to move beyond textbooks and classroom discussions to practice evaluating situations, solving problems, and applying concepts in a professional setting. Technology and collaborative learning spaces further connect theory with practice, helping students develop the knowledge and skills needed to enter their chosen fields.
For Hannah Wood, a senior pre-physical therapy major, the lab provides a valuable opportunity to experience the type of work she hopes to pursue after graduation. In one class activity, students received a case study and used the lab to evaluate the situation and develop an exercise plan, applying classroom concepts in an environment that reflects clinical practice.
“Instead of simply learning about different techniques and patient care, we are able to put those concepts into practice in an environment that resembles a real clinical setting,” Wood said. “These opportunities allow me to see how what I am learning now will translate into caring for patients in the future and help better prepare me for my career as a physical therapist.”
The development of the OIO Human Performance Lab reflects the contributions of many individuals and organizations who shared a vision for the future of Bluffton’s academic programs.
The lab also supports the continued development of Bluffton’s Strength and Conditioning program, including its pursuit of national accreditation. This work helps align the curriculum with recommendations from professional organizations, employers and leaders in the field, further strengthening students’ preparation for careers in the profession.
“Our pursuit of CASCE accreditation reflects our commitment to preparing students who are confident, skilled, and ready for the careers they are pursuing,” said Amanda Beard, assistant professor and chair of health, fitness and sport science.
“With more than 300 hours of field experience alongside certified Strength and Conditioning Specialists (CSCS) built into our curriculum, the OIO Human Performance Lab lets students practice essential skills, receive feedback and apply what they learn in athletic performance, health and wellness. It’s rewarding to see students develop a sense of pride and ownership in the lab. They enjoy being here and are invested in their learning.”
The OIO Human Performance Lab is one example of how alumni, donors and community partners help create meaningful educational opportunities at Bluffton University. Through investments in learning spaces, technology and academic programs, the university continues to equip students with the practical experience and strong foundation they need to pursue their professional goals.
Driven by its peace-church tradition and a focus on developing students for life as well as vocation, Bluffton has spent 125 years learning, experiencing and bettering the world together.
Located on a 65-acre residential campus in northwest Ohio and lined with abundant natural beauty, Bluffton University offers more than 90 majors, minors and programs for undergraduate students. Bluffton also offers graduate programs in business administration (MBA), dietetics (MND), education (MAEd) and social work (MSW).
Founded in 1899 and affiliated with Mennonite Church USA, Bluffton graduates are prepared for life; 94 percent are employed, in graduate school or completing voluntary service within six months of graduation.