3 Takeaways from the Health and Wellness Summit

The 8th annual Health and Wellness Summit, held Nov. 12 and 13, drew a record number of registrations and attendees, with nearly 2,000 people participating. The summit reaffirmed CU Boulder’s commitment to faculty and staff well-being, offering two days of connection, learning, and engagement. Under the leadership of Jess Doty, Associate Vice Chancellor for Employee Health and Well-being, and in partnership with Student Life, the event highlighted a dynamic range of experiences, including resources for employees, insightful presentations, and wellness activities.

Inspirational keynotes inspired the day—Dr. Jean Twenge and Rebecca Reynolds took center stage over breakfast and lunch. Dr. Twenge returned to campus to share her latest research on Gen Z’s mental health and supporting a multi-generational workforce; insights that continue to guide campus support strategies for both our employees and our students. Reynolds offered a compelling perspective on change, calling it “a distinct phenomenon taking place all the time,” and encouraging attendees to embrace it with openness and resilience.

“The Health and Wellness Summit is not a conclusion, but a catalyst for further action,” said Senior Vice Chancellor for Operations Janel L. Forde. “Real transformation begins when we carry the Summit’s insights into our departments, offices and daily lives. At CU Boulder, well-being isn’t just a program, but a shared commitment, where every person plays a vital role in helping our community thrive and belong.” 

New department, new energy for faculty, staff wellness

The Health and Wellness Summit marked the official launch of the new Employee Health & Well-Being (EHWB) department. EHWB reflects CU Boulder’s commitment to dedicating resources to helping faculty and staff nurture their well-being, enabling them to thrive in both their professional and personal pursuits. 

“EHWB offers programs and resources that strengthen the emotional, physical, and mental well-being of our faculty and staff, helping create a community where people feel supported, connected, and able to do their best work,” said Associate Vice Chancellor for Employee Health & Well-Being Jess Doty. “We are eager to expand engagement opportunities that bring our well-being services to life in meaningful ways.”

Engage in your well-being

Speaking of new engagement opportunities, the Employee Health & Well-Being department invites everyone to explore two exciting new initiatives, the Well-being Innovators Network (WIN) and the upcoming Gratitude Challenge. 

  • WIN is a collaborative effort designed to empower faculty and staff to champion wellness within their units and across the campus. Well-being Innovators serve as liaisons, promote campus wellness resources, and model work-life harmony within their departments. Faculty and staff can apply to become WIN innovators. Learn more about the Well-being Innovators Network (WIN) on the EHWB website.
  • WorkWell, an outreach program of EHWB, invites faculty and staff to participate in the Gratitude Challenge, running from Nov. 17 to Dec. 14. Practicing gratitude can lead to long-term positive changes in the brain, improving overall mental health. Simple practices, such as keeping a gratitude journal, can enhance mood and strengthen social bonds by cultivating gratitude. You can join the challenge via the Wellable app or by completing the daily and weekly exercises outside of the app. The practice of showing gratitude has a positive impact on your attitude, health, and overall well-being. Discover more and cultivate a daily practice of gratitude with this latest challenge! 

Join the conversation

Got big ideas for the department of Employee Health & Well-Being? EHWB wants your input! Share your ideas to help shape the future of faculty and staff well-being at CU Boulder.