8:30 to 9:00 am– Reception, Service Pin Distribution, Keller Lobby
9 to 10 am – Keynote with Dr. Martin Bertin, Keller Auditorium for 5-20 invitees, Lowe Auditorium and WebEx for UConn and UConn Health Workforce

UConn Health is proud to announce that we will be hosting a keynote speech by Dr. Mark Bertin, a board-certified Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrician, Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at New York Medical College, and a Windward Teacher Training Institute faculty member. Dr. Bertin is an expert in promoting well-being, resiliency, self-care, and mindfulness, and his speech promises to be an inspiring and engaging experience for all attendees.

In celebration of our incredible workforce who make UConn Health shine, the session will occur in person with our 5-20 years of service recipients and virtually across our UConn Health and UConn campuses. This is a momentous occasion that you won't want to miss!

Dr. Bertin's speech is especially relevant today as we all work to prioritize our mental and physical health. By attending this keynote, you'll gain valuable insights into promoting well-being, building resiliency, practicing self-care, and cultivating mindfulness in your own life.

Following the keynote, UConn Health Vice President of Human Resources and UConn Interim Chief Human Resources Officer Lakeesha Brown will host a fireside chat with Dr. Bertin, providing a unique opportunity to reflect upon the themes of resilience and mindfulness.  

We encourage you to join us for this special event and celebrate our workforce's achievements. Register now to secure your spot and be part of an unforgettable learning and growth experience.

5-20 Years of Service Honorees will be sent an Evite to their UConn Health email with RSVP on September 1. See who is celebrating a Years of Service Milestone.

Join via WebEx

About Dr. Bertin
Dr. Mark Bertin, a board-certified developmental behavioral pediatrician, studied at Cornell University and the UCLA School of Medicine before completing general pediatric training at Oakland Children’s Hospital in California.  After several years in general pediatrics, he completed a fellowship in neurodevelopmental behavioral pediatrics at the Children’s Evaluation and Rehabilitation Center (Rose Kennedy Center) at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York.

Dr. Bertin is an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at New York Medical College, is on the faculty of the Windward Teacher Training Institute, and from 2003 to 2010 was Director of Developmental Behavioral Pediatrics at the Westchester Institute for Human Development, working in their foster care program.

Dr. Bertin also leads mindfulness classes, having attended trainings at Jon Kabat Zinn’s Center for Mindfulness, among many others.

PM Activities

*** Rescheduled to Thur 9/21 10 am due to weather  ***

12:00 to 12:30 pm
In-Person -  Lower Campus Lake
Virtual via WebEx

Imagine a practice that could help you reduce stress and find calm and peace right here at work or in your home. The research-based practice of forest bathing, or Shinrin-yoku as it is known in Japan, is just that practice. By slowing down and using all our senses, we will cultivate a connection with nature with many health benefits, including the reduction of stress hormones, reduced blood pressure and heart rate, and an increase in cognitive functioning, creativity, and overall happiness. If you feel called by the trees, plants, stones, water, wildlife, or any part of nature, this experience is for you!

For those attending in person, please wear clothing that is appropriate for the weather conditions. This session will take place unless we have thunder/lightning storms or it is downpouring. Please bring your raincoat and water-resistant shoes if it is a damp day. If attending virtually, it is helpful to step outside, have a window available to look out, or bring a few items in from outside (pinecones, stones, leaves, etc.).

Please watch these short videos on forest bathing:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mxLbmMwlI4U

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MyZb2BS04y0

Register In-Person

Join via WebEx

About Beth Reel

Beth Reel Coaching, LLC​​ Offers life coaching, mindful outdoor experiences, shamanic practices, mindful eating programs, meditation, and yoga. Some of Beth's certifications include a certified professional coach (CPC), Kripalu School of Mindful Outdoor Leadership, Mindful Outdoor Guide, and Certified Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guide. She focuses on helping women find their path and purpose through transforming their relationship with the Earth, self, and Spirit. Beth holds a B.A. in Psychology University of Saint Joseph and additional professional training through the University of California, San Diego, Center for Mindfulness, and Cornell Civic Ecology Lab.

12:00 to 12:45 pm
In-Person -  UConn Recreation (2060) Hillside Road, Unit 1273, Storrs, CT 06269

Gentle Yoga is a slow-paced, relaxing practice that will include a variety of postures, breathing, and meditation techniques. This class is a perfect way to reset and refocus, concentrating on physical health and mental well-being.

Register Here

** Canceled ***
Meet at the Tower Mezzanine Lobby by the Piano

Curious about all the artwork you pass by every day at work? Come and join our curator, Andre Rochester, for a captivating journey through the exciting artistic works that grace our institution's corridors and spaces. Together, we will explore a diverse collection of artworks, ranging from vibrant paintings and sculptures to thought-provoking installations. As you walk the halls, you'll encounter pieces that inspire, engage, and contribute to the healing and uplifting atmosphere of UConn Health.  

About Andre Rochester

Rochester is UConn Health’s third art curator. His involvement in the Greater Hartford arts community includes serving on the boards of the Windsor Art Center and Connecticut Arts Alliance; as program manager of the 224 EcoSpace, a hub for entrepreneurs in the creative field; and as program manager of the Artist of Color Accelerate fellowship. He is also part of the 2022-23 National Leaders of Color Fellowship, a program for art leaders across the country, with one representative from each state.

PM Activities

12:00 to 12:40 pm
In-Person - Center Courtyard

Are you ready to witness the ultimate culinary battle? We are excited to announce that our own Morrison Executive Chef, Kalet Garcia, and Registered Dietician Allision Mitchell are teaming up with an employee and our very own CEO, Dr. Bruce Liang, for an epic food competition on campus! We're assembling a panel of eager employees to cast their votes for the winning dish. Come and cheer on your colleagues in this epic kitchen showdown. Plus, you'll also get to learn easy and nutritious tips from our chef and nutritionist.

Get the Competition Recipe Here

Executive Chef Kalet Garcia
Kalet has been working in the food service industry for over 20 years. His career started with the Hilton family, Cruises, and Big Caterings. Kalet attended the Institute of Banca & Comercio in Caguas, Puerto Rico, and is currently a member of the ACF Chapter in CT. He has refined his culinary techniques by competing around the USA at different ACF professional competitions, winning a couple of medals and first place. Kalet was selected to be a member of the Culinary Olympics in 2008. Kalet never runs out of ideas, paying attention to mother nature and using seasonal produce in his dishes. He and his team make almost everything from scratch, from bread, cheeses, dessert, bacon, dressing, sushi, and pizza, to liquid nitrogen ice creams.

Allison Mitchell MS, RD, CDN
Allison is a Registered Dietitian with 15 years of experience in the acute care setting with Morrison Healthcare. Over the last 12 years, she has worked as a Clinical Nutrition Manager, supporting several hospitals throughout MA and CT. She obtained her BS in nutrition at Framingham State University and her MS in nutrition at Northeastern University. Currently, she is the Clinical Nutrition Manager overseeing the inpatient and outpatient dietitian teams here at UConn. Allison has a passion for medical nutrition therapy, helping patients improve their nutrition status while in the hospital, as well as preparing healthy meals at home and baking with her kids.

12:15 to 12:45 pm
In-Person -  Mirror Lake, Storrs

Join us for a meditative walk through the woods designed to facilitate a deep connection with nature. In our modern world, we often feel disconnected and many of us are longing to venture outside to reconnect to our hearts and true selves through time spent in the more-than-human world.

Part forest bathing (Shinrin-yoku), part meditation, and part nature connection, the health benefits of spending time with the living Earth are well documented and include:

• lower stress and cortisol (stress hormone) levels
• improved mood
• relaxation
• greater sense of connection with yourself and nature

If you feel called by the trees, plants, stones, water, wildlife, or any part of nature, this experience is for you!

Register

About Beth Reel

Beth Reel Coaching, LLC​​ Offers life coaching, mindful outdoor experiences, shamanic practices, mindful eating programs, meditation, and yoga. Some of Beth's certifications include a certified professional coach (CPC), Kripalu School of Mindful Outdoor Leadership, Mindful Outdoor Guide, and Certified Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guide. She focuses on helping women find their path and purpose through transforming their relationship with the Earth, self, and Spirit. Beth holds a B.A. in Psychology University of Saint Joseph and additional professional training through the University of California, San Diego, Center for Mindfulness, and Cornell Civic Ecology Lab.

12:30 to 1:00 pm
In-Person -  William Benton Museum of Art, Storrs

Join the Curator of Education at the William Benton Museum of Art for a group tour and the chance to have independent time to explore the Benton.

First come, first served; spots are limited.

Register

12:00 to 12:30 pm
In-Person - University Tower Mezzanine Lawn
Virtual via WebEx
Rain location: Wellness Center

Are you ready to have a blast while getting fit? Look no further than Jazzercise! This innovative workout combines dance-based cardio with strength training, all set to the latest hit music. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned fitness enthusiast, Jazzercise is designed for all levels and ages.

In just 30 minutes, you'll experience a high-energy workout that will leave you feeling stronger, happier, and more energized for the rest of your day. Say goodbye to boring workouts and hello to the fun and excitement of Jazzercise!

Register for In-Person

Join via WebEx

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12 to 1 pm
In-Person: Keller Audidorium
Virtual via WebEx

We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Thomas H. Lee, Press Ganey's Chief Medical Officer, will be a lead speaker for our upcoming Employee Appreciation Week. In line with this week's theme of well-being, Dr. Lee will speak on an issue plaguing the healthcare industry - caregiver burnout, engagement, resilience, activation, and grit.

It is alarming to know that more than half of U.S. physicians and 40 percent of nurses experience one or more symptoms of burnout. This crisis poses a significant threat to our health systems, impacting not only the well-being of the caregiving workforce but also that of their patients.

During this engaging 60-minute talk, our healthcare professionals will learn how to identify, diagnose, address, and overcome caregiver burnout on a personal level. Dr. Lee will also provide an actionable plan for creating a resilient work culture that empowers caregivers and gives them the support they need to fulfill the patient promise with every care experience, every day.

We encourage all our healthcare professionals to attend this talk and learn from Dr. Lee's expertise. Let's work together to build a healthy and resilient work culture that benefits both the caregivers and the patients.

for participants who cannot join the live session:

Register to Participate on WebEx

About Dr. Thomas H. Lee

Dr. Thomas Lee joined Press Ganey as chief medical officer in 2013, bringing more than three
decades of experience in health care performance improvement as a practicing physician, a leader in provider organizations, researcher and health policy expert.

As CMO, Tom is responsible for developing clinical and operational strategies to help providers across the nation measure and improve the patient experience, with an overarching goal of reducing the suffering of patients as they undergo care, and improving the value of that
care. In addition to his role with Press Ganey, Tom, an internist and cardiologist, continues to
practice primary care at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston.

Tom frequently lectures on the patient experience and strategies for improving the value of health care, and has authored more than 300 academic articles and five books, Chaos and Organization in Health Care, Eugene Braunwald and the Rise of Modern Medicine, An Epidemic of Empathy in Healthcare, The Good Doctor, and the forthcoming Healthcare’s Path Forward.

Tom holds a bachelor’s degree in history and science from Harvard College, a medical degree
from Cornell University Medical College and a master’s degree in epidemiology from the Harvard School of Public Health.

12:00 to 12:45 pm
In-Person - UConn Recreation 2060 Hillside Road, Unit 1273, Storrs, CT 06269

Gentle Yoga is a slow-paced, relaxing practice that will include a variety of postures, breathing, and meditation techniques. This class is a perfect way to reset and refocus, concentrating on physical health and mental well-being.

Register Here

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Hey, UConn and UConn Health community! World Gratitude Day is today, and this year it's extra special for us as we are celebrating employee appreciation week! We know there's a holiday for everything, but this one is special. It's a day where we take a moment to appreciate and acknowledge the hard work of our workforce.

So, let's take a break from our busy schedules and spread some positivity! In honor of this day and our Seasons of Gratitude initiative, we challenge our community to send out 1,000 messages of gratitude to our fellow colleagues by sending eRecognition. Let's show our colleagues that we value and appreciate their contributions to our organization. Remember, expressing gratitude not only benefits the receiver but also supports our own health and well-being. So, let's make this World Gratitude Day a day to remember by spreading kindness and appreciation throughout our community.

Send a Gratitude eRecognition

8:30 am to 4:00 pm
Wellness Center

Come check out The Wellness Center Open House! Step into a welcoming and inclusive space designed to nurture your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. This is a great opportunity to check out our state-of-the-art fitness space and classes. Experience firsthand the center's commitment to promoting a balanced and vibrant lifestyle for all members of the UConn Health community. Throughout the day, we'll be giving away FREE memberships to the wellness center. Plus, we'll be serving fresh smoothies and showcasing class offerings! 

AM Activities

10:00 to 10:30 pm
In-Person -  Lower Campus Lake
Virtual via WebEx

Imagine a practice that could help you reduce stress and find calm and peace right here at work or in your home. The research-based practice of forest bathing, or Shinrin-yoku as it is known in Japan, is just that practice. By slowing down and using all our senses, we will cultivate a connection with nature with many health benefits, including the reduction of stress hormones, reduced blood pressure and heart rate, and an increase in cognitive functioning, creativity, and overall happiness. If you feel called by the trees, plants, stones, water, wildlife, or any part of nature, this experience is for you!

For those attending in person, please wear clothing that is appropriate for the weather conditions. This session will take place unless we have thunder/lightning storms or it is downpouring. Please bring your raincoat and water-resistant shoes if it is a damp day. If attending virtually, it is helpful to step outside, have a window available to look out, or bring a few items in from outside (pinecones, stones, leaves, etc.).

Please watch these short videos on forest bathing:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mxLbmMwlI4U

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MyZb2BS04y0

Register In-Person

Join via WebEx

About Beth Reel

Beth Reel Coaching, LLC​​ Offers life coaching, mindful outdoor experiences, shamanic practices, mindful eating programs, meditation, and yoga. Some of Beth's certifications include a certified professional coach (CPC), Kripalu School of Mindful Outdoor Leadership, Mindful Outdoor Guide, and Certified Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guide. She focuses on helping women find their path and purpose through transforming their relationship with the Earth, self, and Spirit. Beth holds a B.A. in Psychology University of Saint Joseph and additional professional training through the University of California, San Diego, Center for Mindfulness, and Cornell Civic Ecology Lab.

PM Activities

12:00 to 12:30 pm
In Person: Center Courtyard
Virtual via WebEx
Rain Location: University Tower Mezzanine

Looking for a natural way to reduce stress and promote healing? Look no further than Debbie Shea's Himalayan bowl and Chinese gong therapy program! With over 25 years of experience studying various methods of energetic healing modalities, Debbie has developed a unique and effective approach to promoting relaxation and wellness.

As a classically trained musician, Debbie deeply understands the power of sound to calm the mind and soothe the soul. Her Himalayan bowl and Chinese gong therapy program uses the gentle vibrations of these ancient instruments to help release tension, balance energy and promote healing from within.

Don't let stress and anxiety hold you back any longer -  experience the transformative power of sound for yourself!

Debbie’s practice is located at her home in Bolton, CT. Debbie holds a Bachelor of Music Education from Hartt School of Music, University of Hartford. She is a Usui Reiki Master and a Celtic Reiki Master. Services offered include energetic sound therapy, shamanic healing, Reiki sessions, and grief work. She has developed instrumental music to help with grief that can be found on streaming services under “Journey for Grief” by Debbie Shea.

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** Canceled ***
In Person: Meet in Tower Mazzanine Lobby, by the Piano

Curious about all the artwork you pass by every day at work? Come and join our curator, Andre Rochester for a captivating journey through the exciting artistic works that grace our institution's corridors and spaces. Together, we will explore a diverse collection of artworks, ranging from vibrant paintings and sculptures to thought-provoking installations. As you walk the halls, you'll encounter pieces that inspire, engage, and contribute to the healing and uplifting atmosphere of UCONN Health.   

About Andre Rochester

Rochester is UConn Health’s third art curator. His involvement in the Greater Hartford arts community includes serving on the boards of the Windsor Art Center and Connecticut Arts Alliance; as program manager of the 224 EcoSpace, a hub for entrepreneurs in the creative field; and as program manager of the Artist of Color Accelerate fellowship. He is also part of the 2022-23 National Leaders of Color Fellowship, a program for art leaders across the country, with one representative from each state.

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12:30 to 1:00 pm
In Person: William Benton Museum of Art, Storrs

Join the Curator of Education at the William Benton Museum of Art for a group tour and the chance to have independent time to explore the Benton.

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4 to 6 pm
In Person: UConn Dairy Bar, 17 Manter Rd Unit 4263, Storrs

Stop by the UConn Dairy Bar to get a taste of the winning sundae of Employee Appreciation Week and the official 2023 Employee Ice Cream Sundae Contest!

A limited quantity of Employee sundaes will be available on a first-come, first-served basis to employees who come to the UConn Dairy Bar with their UConn or UConn Health ID.

See you at the Dairy Bar!

All employees, proudly displaying their UConn Health ID Badges, are invited to enjoy complimentary offerings from various food trucks. In addition, our community off-sites can enjoy a catered lunch delivered to you. Here are our Food Truck offerings:

Bear's BBQ pulled pork or chicken topping on their famous mac and cheese

Craftbird - Chicken Sandwiches; lower campus

Nardelli's turkey and veggie grinders or plant-based Italian combo wrap with chips, a pickle, and a cup of their famous "Buckeyes"

Los Mariachi’s on Wheels street tacos and burritos – steak, chicken, pork, or vegetarian

Silver Sands and New Haven Pizza Trucks pizza, including gluten-free and vegan options

Tommy’s Place and Market Italian Pasta with Salad, and Sausage, and Peppers; upper level and Munson Rd.

The Whey Station Grilled Cheese

Meriano's Bakery Truck cannolis

Kona Ice flavored shaved ice

Grandpa's Kettle Korn bagged kettle corn

The Kakery cupcakes, including gluten-free and vegan

Morrison Catering Service will provide hydration stations. Everyone is encouraged to BYORB - bring your own filled reusable bottle or container in appreciation of sustainability