September 2024 BWI Spotlight

We joined the BWI program to help build a culture of wellness at work and connect with innovators across campus. Being part of this community allows us to deliver impactful wellness activities and learn about great programs.

Being a BWI allows us to connect with faculty and staff outside our usual roles, building a stronger sense of community. Working alongside a creative and passionate BWI team makes the experience fun and fulfilling. It adds a unique and rewarding layer to our time on campus, enhancing the overall experience.

One highlight from our recent initiatives was the pickleball program, which featured a 2- hour learn-to-play session led by a professional instructor, followed by six summer meet-ups for open play at Lincoln Tower Park. This program, funded by a BWI grant, provided a structured introduction to pickleball and regular opportunities for active engagement. Additionally, we expanded our MY SPACE program, which stands for (M)aking (Y)our Space: Supportive, Personal, Accessible, Communal, and Empowering. The MY SPACE: Wellness Hour includes sessions focusing on various aspects of wellness, from physical activity to relaxation, supporting a well-rounded approach to well-being.

Finding time for wellness activities amidst competing priorities is made easier through our collaborative approach. With a team of three BWIs and plans to welcome a new member this fall, we leverage our collective creativity and diverse perspectives to develop innovative wellness programs. Collaborating as a team enables us to explore new ideas and integrate them effectively into our schedule. This planning process not only fosters creative solutions but also ensures that we can execute engaging and impactful wellness initiatives while managing our other professional responsibilities.

To effectively engage our colleagues we address scheduling and accessibility upfront. By providing a comprehensive wellness schedule at the start of each term, we allow faculty and staff to preview activities and plan their participation in advance. Additionally, we work to meet people where they are by integrating wellness initiatives into existing events. For instance, next month we will host our BWI Open House & Help Desk before the term's all-faculty-and-staff meeting, offering an opportunity for attendees to meet us and learn about wellness offerings in a convenient location.

Our leadership has been highly supportive of wellness initiatives and our role as BWIs. A great example is the 14th annual Hit the Road with the Buckeyes walking challenge, where school and college leadership actively participated. The friendly competition sparked increased engagement and motivated many team members to push themselves, resulting in personal best records and a strong sense of camaraderie among participants.

Leadership sets the tone for the entire school. When leaders prioritize wellness, it creates a supportive environment where faculty and staff feel encouraged to do the same. This not only enhances overall well-being but also fosters a culture of balance, productivity, and community, making our wellness initiatives more impactful and meaningful.

Our leaders actively model wellness behavior by participating in our programs and setting a positive example. They engage in wellness challenges, like Hit the Road with the Buckeyes, attend wellness events, and often promote our activities during meetings.

We have gained valuable insights into wellness best practices and have seen firsthand the positive impact our programs have on our colleagues. Professionally, the program has enhanced our creativity and ability to engage others in wellness, making our work environment more supportive and fulfilling.

As BWIs, our vision is to foster a campus-wide culture where wellness is integrated seamlessly into every aspect of university life. By promoting the 10 dimensions of wellness through innovative programs, we can empower every Buckeye to lead a balanced, fulfilling life and create a supportive community that thrives on collective health and wellness.

Stay passionate about the impact wellness can have, and don't let resistance from others diminish your enthusiasm. Remember that creating a culture of wellness is a journey, and your commitment can inspire others, even if they don't immediately see the value. Keep advocating for wellness with positivity and persistence, knowing that your efforts can make a lasting difference.