Howard Alum Chequan Lewis Takes Helm as CEO of Crunch Fitness

Crunch Fitness has appointed Howard University alumnus Chequan Lewis as its next chief executive officer, marking another significant milestone for HBCU leadership in corporate America as the fitness giant continues its global expansion. The appointment places a Howard graduate at the helm of one of the world's largest fitness franchise systems.

The company announced Lewis's appointment on June 30, with the executive stepping into the top role after joining Crunch Fitness as president in January 2024. He succeeds Jim Rowley, who served as CEO since 2019 and will now transition to executive chairman. Lewis now assumes full responsibility for leading the fitness company's domestic and international growth strategy.

From Howard to Harvard: A Distinguished Path

A 2005 Howard University graduate, Lewis earned bachelor's degrees in political science and economics before obtaining his law degree from Harvard Law School. His career trajectory demonstrates the versatility and leadership development fostered at HBCUs, transitioning from corporate law at Baker Botts to executive operations in major consumer brands.

Before joining Crunch Fitness, Lewis served as chief operating officer at Pizza Hut U.S., where he also became the brand's first chief equity officer.

From Courtroom to Boardroom

Lewis has been candid about his decision to leave legal practice for business leadership. During a podcast interview, he explained his transition: “The reality was I still had this fire burning from my time at McMaster-Carr to not be a lawyer on the outside of the business, but in the heart of the action.”

The new CEO has credited his family with shaping the work ethic and sense of purpose that have guided his career, values often instilled and reinforced through the HBCU experience at institutions like Howard University.

Vision for Growth

Looking ahead, Lewis outlined his strategic priorities for leading Crunch Fitness through its next phase of expansion. In the company's announcement, he emphasized continuity and disciplined growth while maintaining the brand's core values.

“As we enter this next chapter, our focus remains clear: to support our franchise network, invest in innovation, and grow the Crunch community in a disciplined way while staying true to the culture, values, and 'No Judgments, No Limits' experience that define this brand.”

As Lewis takes the reins at Crunch Fitness, his appointment adds to the growing roster of HBCU graduates leading major national consumer brands, further cementing Howard University's reputation as a premier institution for developing business leaders who shape industries and drive corporate success across America.

Originally reported by Black Enterprise.