The Howard W. Johnson Athletic Center
Named after MIT's 12th President, The Howard W. Johnson Athletic Center served as the hub of the MIT athletic complex for many years, and is still one of the most heavily used venues on site. The facility features an ice rink, a six-lane indoor track with a mondo rubber running surface and four tennis courts. The track facility is also equipped with a large indoor field used for large-scale events, as well as a small weight training center.
The building was completed and dedicated in 1988. Numerous regional and national competitions have taken place within Johnson's walls. In 2004, the Johnson Athletic Center served as the host venue for the National Collegiate Gymnastics Championships.
Howard Wesley Johnson started many new academic programs during his presidental tenure (1966-71), including the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Porgram. At MIT, Johnson is regarded as the father of the Institute's Independent Activities Period (IAP).