Pete and Diane Pappas of Centreville recently made a major financial donation to Chesapeake College to name the Yoga Studio in the Health Professions and Athletics Center (HPAC). They chose to name the room for their daughter, Irene Pappas, who is a professional yoga instructor and Chesapeake alum.

For more information about the HPAC or gifts to Chesapeake College, please contact Vice President for Institutional Advancement Lucie Hughes at [email protected].

Citing a desire to honor their daughter while serving the Mid-Shore, the Pappas’ said they believe area residents benefit from Chesapeake’s programs and facilities.

“I’m sure many of the health professionals and first responders working on the Shore have studied at Chesapeake College. We’re so blessed to be able to celebrate here today and give back to the Chesapeake College community,” Mr. Pappas said at the recent ceremony to dedicate the Irene Anthi Pappas Yoga Studio.

“When I came to school here (at Chesapeake College) I was lost and needed direction. I started general education classes and was able to transfer to the Art Institute of Washington,” Irene Pappas said. “During that time I found yoga.  I would love to inspire people to find themselves through yoga.”

Diane Pappas, elaborated on the importance of yoga in her daughter’s life.

“Yoga has had an incredible impact on Irene’s life. That’s why she is a yoga instructor – she wants to help others and show them the positive affects yoga can have on their bodies and minds,” Mrs. Pappas said. “At Chesapeake College, we see that same commitment to helping people improve their lives. We feel that all we local residents must support this fine institution for all it has done for our families and continues to do.”

Opened in August 2015, the HPAC houses Chesapeake’s health simulation labs, classrooms, fitness center, training room and gymnasium. The Pappas Studio features a wooden dance floor, a bank of windows, ballet barre, and a wall of floor-to-ceiling mirrors. The studio is used for yoga, dance and fitness classes,

“This a beautiful building and I love the yoga studio,’ said Irene Pappas. “As a former Chesapeake student, I can imagine how much these new facilities enhance the student experience. It would be wonderful to teach yoga classes in this room.”

CUTLINE: Pete Pappas, Diane Pappas, and Irene Pappas celebrate the recent dedication of the Irene Anthi Pappas Yoga Studio.