Campus News
May 30th, 2023
Garrett College workplace recognized by MHB
College cited for 5th straight year for promoting culture of health
Garrett College has been recognized for the fifth straight year by a Maryland state agency for its efforts in promoting a workplace culture of health.
Maryland Healthiest Businesses (MHB), an office within the Maryland State Department of Health, recently announced its 2023 "Healthiest Maryland Businesses". The College was recognized at the Pacesetter Level, which MHB defines as businesses with multi-strategy, regularly evaluated approaches for establishing worksite wellness practices.
Janis Bush, Garrett College's director of human resources, said the College has emphasized making wellness activities fun.
The College sponsored a "Souper Bowl" during Super Bowl week where employees and students could showcase their creativity by designing and painting a snack bowl. GC also sponsored a holiday door decorating activity, multiple lunch buffets featuring healthy entrees, collaboration of photos in celebration of National Pet Day, and adult coloring posters throughout the campus that promoted socialization and relaxation.
"It's great to have so many options to encourage overall wellness," said Bush. "We strive to encourage each other to be happier and healthier. By helping create this culture, we can see that more employees are aware of the importance of their overall wellbeing on their health."
Bush noted that the College's facilities – including the Community Aquatic & Recreation Complex (CARC) and newly completed Mosser Road Heritage Trail – provide unique opportunities for fitness activities. Meanwhile, CARC Director Steve Putnam said employee usage of the CARC is dramatically expanding.
"During the past year, we have seen an increase in the number of employees that are taking advantage of the free employee membership at the CARC," said Putnam. "These members are also recording higher usage numbers versus previous years.
"It's been good to see some new faces in the pool, in the gym, and taking group fitness classes," added Putnam.
The College has also added "Wellness Wednesdays" for College employees. Every other Wednesday, employees have the opportunity to participate in a half-hour virtual meeting to engage in casual conversations with fellow employees.
"At times there are themes, but for the most part conversation gets started and just goes its own course," said Benjamin Morris, the College's CBIZ-provided wellness coordinator.
"We started this virtual get-together during the pandemic," explained Morris. "However, we felt it made good sense to keep it going. The conversations are inspiring and leave everyone feeling a bit better when the call is over."
Dr. Richard Midcap, Garrett College's president, said he "appreciates seeing the emphasis we've put on establishing a workplace culture of health recognized at the state level for five consecutive years."
"Janis, Benjamin, and Steve have provided really inspiring leadership in establishing and maintaining a workplace culture of health," said Midcap. "We're committed to emphasizing the value of a healthy workplace."
