Liberty Harper, Director of Operations at EnVie Fitness for Women, a breakthrough concept in the women’s fitness industry, will be one of the guest speakers at the University of Akron’s first ever “Women’s Fitness Week,” which will be held March 1-6, 2015.

The event will include wellness seminars, fitness workshops, and self-defense training among other activities, and a panel of speakers who will share each of their success stories and how they continue to empower women every day.

“As a woman and a mom, I strive to motivate and encourage women to lead their best lives in the healthiest and most positive ways possible,” Harper said. “I hope my experiences will inspire and empower others to work towards their health and fitness goals, as well as their career goals.”

Harper stared in the women’s fitness business at age 18, in 1998, when Curves was not yet in California and her parents bought a franchise that she operated in San Diego. They bought another franchise a year later, then sold them both in 2000. She then started Liberty Fitness and grew the chain to 60 locations in 18 states before selling it to a private equity firm in 2004. Liberty Fitness would come to be ranked as one of Entrepreneur magazine’s Top 50 Franchises of 2005.

In October of last year, she joined EnVie Fitness for Women as Director of Operations. In her new position, Harper oversees the operations and development of programming for all corporate and franchised studios, as well as be responsible for the training of new franchisees. She also directs the development of financial goals and sales targets of all of EnVie’s global regions.

“As our responsibilities and activities on a daily basis continue to increase, it is imperative that the importance of women’s fitness is made well known,” Harper added. “I applaud the University of Akron for their efforts in raising awareness about the topic and thank them for presenting me this wonderful opportunity.”

About EnVie Fitness for Women
Founded in Australia in 2012, EnVie Fitness for Women is a breakthrough concept in the women’s fitness industry, offering an exceptional experience tailor-made to meet today’s female needs and interests. Anchored by an all-star team of fitness and franchise industry professionals with more than 100 combined years of experience, EnVie has opened seven studios throughout Australia and, as of 2014, is expanding throughout the U.S.