Fitness Executive’s Philanthropy Touches Education and Healthcare in Southern California
Anthony Geisler’s impact on Southern California extends well beyond his well-known success in the fitness industry. The founder of Xponential Fitness was honored this month with the 2024 Miracle Maker Award, recognizing his long-standing support for families facing medical crises. His recent educational initiative is transforming learning opportunities for hundreds of students.
The Miracle Maker Award, presented at Miracles for Kids’ 20th-anniversary gala on October 12, acknowledges Geisler’s contributions to programs that help families avoid financial devastation while caring for critically ill children. The celebration at the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach, featuring GRAMMY winner Babyface, raised funds for the organization’s comprehensive support services.
“It’s a privilege to be named this year’s Miracle Maker, and I look forward to continuing to support Miracles for Kids’ essential mission to empower families with critically ill children to focus on what matters most—their kids’ health,” Geisler said at the ceremony.
In the education sector, Geisler’s philanthropy recently culminated in opening an innovative learning complex at The Pegasus School in Huntington Beach. The Geisler Family Wings building, unveiled in August, represents a major advancement in educational facilities, featuring technology-enhanced spaces designed to support modern learning approaches.
The project nearly doubles the school’s library capacity. It introduces several innovative features: dedicated areas for small group instruction, specialized learning spaces, and a “Launch Pad” room equipped with a performance stage and 120-inch digital display wall. These additions reflect current trends in educational design, emphasizing flexible spaces that support diverse learning styles.
The inspiration for the educational complex came from personal experience. “We sought a school that could nurture her talents and provide a supportive, enriching education,” Geisler explained, describing his family’s connection to Pegasus through their eldest daughter’s enrollment. “Our family is proud to contribute to a space where children can grow, learn, and explore their potential. This is more than just a building—it’s a commitment to the future of our children and the community.”
The facility’s design prioritizes student engagement and collaborative learning. “We envision the Geisler Family Wings building as a hub of inspiration and growth, reflecting our commitment to nurturing individual talents and fostering a lifelong love of learning,” Geisler said of the project, which serves students from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade.
Geisler’s philanthropic work also includes sustained support for the Navy SEAL Foundation, demonstrating a commitment to various community needs. While he maintains an active role in the business world, including recent ventures in fitness technology, his community involvement has created tangible impacts across multiple sectors.
Such sustained philanthropy proves crucial for organizations like Miracles for Kids. The organization’s programs help families navigate the complex challenges of caring for critically ill children, providing support that prevents bankruptcy, homelessness, and hunger during medical crises. The annual gala, in which Geisler received his award, directly funds these essential services.