Vanderbilt University

08/29/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 08/29/2024 08:14

Health, Wellbeing and Belonging launches pilot Wellbeing Champion Program; full program to launch this fall

Health, Wellbeing and Belonging within the People, Culture and Belonging division will launch its Wellbeing Champion Program this fall.

"We believe that when our employees thrive, our entire organization thrives," said Pam Jones, associate vice chancellor for health, wellbeing and belonging. "We're committed to nurturing a culture where health, wellbeing and belonging are core values."

What is the Wellbeing Champion Program?

The Wellbeing Champion Program is a new employee initiative to foster a healthier, more inclusive and engaging work environment. Comprised of employee volunteers from across the university, Wellbeing Champions will act as ambassadors for the COE Health, Wellbeing and Belonging by promoting awareness, education and engagement.

Amy Silvers will serve as the Wellbeing Champion Program Manager, providing training, information and education to equip Champions with the knowledge and tools needed to support their peers effectively. As a public health nurse, Amy understands the critical role that workplace wellbeing plays on overall health.

"The Wellbeing Champion Program is about more than just physical fitness, it's about fostering a greater culture of workplace wellbeing across the university," said Silvers. "A culture centered around employee social, emotional, physical and financial wellbeing is essential for preventing burnout, reducing stress and creating a positive inclusive atmosphere where everyone can thrive."

Pilot Program: A Sneak Peek

A pilot Wellbeing Champion Program is currently in progress with a select group of 20 employee volunteers, across 13 divisions and schools, who are passionate about individual and workplace wellbeing. Their feedback and experiences will help refine the program to ensure it's as impactful and engaging as possible.

Jeremy Crantek, Facilities

Ashley Eimers, Facilities

Jennifer Ellison, SOM: Basic Sciences

Lindsey Ganson, Vice Chancellor for Administration

Charity Hasty, School of Engineering

James T. Keen, Arts Libraries & Global Engagement

Miriam Leibowitz, Public Safety

Ally Mason, Development and Alumni Relations

Adam Morgan, Information Technology

Morgan Morris, Student Affairs: Dean of Students

Tanish Newell, Facilities

Allie Noote, School of Nursing

Patricia Parker, People, Culture and Belonging

Darlene Pope, SOM: Basic Sciences

Maria Portelli, Business Services

Kallea Reeves, Public Safety

Donna A. Smith, Communications

RC Stabile, SOM: Basic Sciences

Emily Svennevik, Business Services

Lori Ungurait, Facilities

Looking Ahead

More information is available on the Health, Wellbeing and Belonging website and within illuminate, People Culture and Belonging's monthly newsletter.