Elaine McManus | SOM Institute for Global Health & Infectious Disease
Wellness Champion Elaine McManus works as a staffing coordinator in the School of Medicine where she recruited a wellness committee of six other fun, wellness-focused coworkers. Together they promote and support wellness and team-building with their many wellness programs for the SOM Institute for Global Health & Infectious Disease.
The committee’s efforts have been especially welcome after the burnout experienced during the pandemic. The activities not only improve wellbeing but also strengthen camaraderie and help teams work across other buildings and remotely get to know each other better.
Last year, the committee planned a variety of events focused on stress relief, physical activity and overall connection. Activities included a therapy dog visit with employees, a mindfulness webinar and many opportunities to be active, including walks to the Ackland Art Museum and lunch spots, rock climbing at the Rams Head climbing wall and participating in the spring Miles for Wellness Challenge.
Bringing people together has been greatly beneficial for improving the team’s overall morale and work satisfaction. In-person and virtual events and programs included a group outing to a UNC baseball game (tickets are free for employees), group volunteer days at the Carolina Community Garden and Habitat for Humanity, a rainbow food potluck for Pride month as well as a very successful virtual monthly book club named “Infectious Pages” and games such as Hate it or Heart it and St. Patrick’s Day Jeopardy.
Thank you, Elaine, for all you continue to do to lead wellness at the Institute for Global Health & Infectious Disease.
More about Wellness Champions
The mission of the Wellness Champion program is to foster a greater culture of health throughout Carolina by engaging and empowering Wellness Champions in every school and division. Learn more about the Wellness Champions program and how you can get involved:
- Visit the Wellness Champions page of the HR at UNC website.
- Sign up by Friday, Aug. 11, to be a Wellness Champion this fall