Lionel University | May 1, 2025

At Lionel University, we believe greatness is earned—and through education, it becomes legend. That’s why we’re proud to introduce the Miguel Aguilar Memorial Scholarship, honoring one of the most inspiring figures in the fitness industry whose life embodied the power of transformation.

Miguel Aguilar, founder and CEO of Self Made Training Facility (SMTF), went from surviving the streets to building a national fitness empire. His journey wasn’t defined by privilege or luck—it was built through grit, resilience, and relentless purpose. Now, through our partnership with SMTF, his legacy will empower a new generation of trainers to follow in his footsteps—with the education, tools, and support they need to change lives, starting with their own.

A Story That Reflects the Lionel Spirit

Miguel Aguilar’s life mirrored the values we instill in every Lionel student:

  • Overcoming adversity

  • Pursuing purpose

  • Leading with impact

Homeless at 16 and raised in the face of addiction and instability, Miguel found hope through fitness. From a garage startup to a national network of elite-level training facilities, he disrupted an entire industry by giving power back to the trainer—and control back to the individual.

As he often said: “I wasn’t given anything—I built it. I am SELF MADE.”

That same spirit fuels the work we do at Lionel University every day. Our goal is to equip aspiring fitness professionals with the knowledge, credentials, and confidence to take control of their futures—and turn their passion into a career.

Why Lionel University Is Proud to Partner with SMTF

Self Made Training Facility has reimagined what it means to be a personal trainer. It offers fitness professionals not only top-tier equipment and clientele, but also the freedom to run their own business.

By combining SMTF’s high-performance platform with Lionel University’s accredited Exercise Science programs, we’ve created a full-circle ecosystem where students can:

  • Earn a degree or certificate in personal training

  • Gain real-world experience at SMTF locations

  • Receive mentorship from industry leaders

  • Launch their careers with confidence and credibility

This partnership bridges the gap between education and opportunity—and the Miguel Aguilar Memorial Scholarship is its centerpiece.

About the Miguel Aguilar Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to students who reflect Miguel’s self-made mindset. It’s for those who’ve faced hardship, but still press forward. Who want to help others through fitness. Who are ready to lead.

Award recipients receive:

  • Full or partial tuition toward a Lionel University program

  • Access to SMTF facilities for hands-on training and internship

  • Mentorship from SMTF business leaders

  • Marketing, branding, and business startup support

This is more than financial assistance—it’s a launchpad for students ready to own their journey and shape their legacy.

A Legacy That Lives On

As Lionel students train to become the next generation of fitness professionals, they’re stepping into a movement that Miguel started—but that they will carry forward.

With leaders like a retired U.S. Marine and now SMTF executive, the Self Made mission continues to expand nationally and globally. And with each new scholarship recipient, Miguel’s legacy becomes more than a memory—it becomes action, growth, and impact.

Be the Next Self Made Story

If you’re ready to turn your past into purpose and your potential into power, Lionel University and the Miguel Aguilar Memorial Scholarship are here to help you begin.

Applications are now open. Your story is waiting to be written—and we’re here to help you make it legendary.

Apply Now for the Miguel Aguilar Memorial Scholarship
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Discover Self Made Training Facility

Media Contact
Lionel University
📧 info@lionel.edu | 📞 (800) 650-4772
🌐 www.lionel.edu

Self Made Training Facility
📍 42265 Winchester Rd, Temecula, CA 92592
📞 (888) 640-0005
🌐 www.selfmadetrainingfacility.com