April 19, 2005 issue

When I was hired at EMU three years ago, it was because a friend saw an ad for a wellness coordinator position at Eastern and thought of me. I was perfectly content in the wellness field at DiamlerChrysler, but knew I loved the college atmosphere.

Here, I get support from the faculty, staff and students and just love the collaborative nature. People have different opinions and no one is an island.

My job involves health education for students and coordinating employee wellness and implementing programs to advance that goal. If employees are healthy, they come to work, like their job, work better with students and improve the students' lives.

As part of employee wellness, we offer a variety of programs. During the Employee Wellness Fair, I see many people come out. They are from different departments and interested in different parts of the fair, but everyone enjoys it.

I also consult with employees about wellness and apply solutions on a personal basis. The best advice is to be realistic.

The top health concern at EMU is the lack of physical activity. I try to be a good example and believe in the positive approach. The key to wellness is moderation. Wellness isn't about saying no, but managing your yes. The two biggest elements in wellness are balance and choice — both self-directed.

We beat the University of Michigan in the Great Smokeout last year since we had a greater percentage of smokers quit for 24 hours than they did and, just recently, EMU received a Healthy Workplace Award from the county.

Each day is fun and different. I have been blessed to be here among very energetic people whose spirit fires me up to work harder.

 

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