Wellness Ambassador of the Month
Juviya McDonald of Center for Professional Practice of Nursing

How long have you worked at UC Davis?

I have worked at UC Davis for 7 1/2 years.

What does Wellness mean to you?

Wellness means long life.

Why did you become a wellness ambassador?

I met a wellness ambassador who encouraged me to do this for myself and my department, but what made me take the steps to become a wellness ambassador was my frustration with myself after loosing over 50 lbs. during the shutdown. Those unhealthy tempting sweets, food and beverages weren't in the office environment. Since coming back, these things have made their way back into the work environment. Sugar is a challenge for me as well as others. I want to find ways to bring about a health and wellness culture to the CPPN department.

How long have you been a wellness ambassador?

I have been a wellness ambassador since September 3, 2021, so about 1 1/2 years. I still have my welcome email; I'm humbled.

What has been the most rewarding or positive part about your experience thus far?

The most positive part of my experience so far is my manager's support of having a mediation/relaxation area for our staff to go to for 10 to 15 minutes to reset and my coworkers support of my ideal for a rock painting activity. I am excited and can't wait to sit down, plan the dates [for different wellness activities], and take photos to share with the health and wellness community here at UC Davis Health.

What are some challenges you face as a wellness ambassador, especially through the pandemic this past year?

I haven't been a wellness ambassador very long. Organizing time is the challenge I would say I face as a wellness ambassador. I need to schedule time during my work day to plan and meet with others, but whatever challenges arise, we will get through it together as a department.

What is one piece of advice you would like to share with new wellness ambassadors?

To the new wellness ambassadors, I would say to find similarities with your coworkers to bring everyone together and engage in activities that will promote health and wellness. For example, many of my coworkers garden. I listened and asked questions for a long time. Now, I am growing a container garden grocery store. I love growing things and container gardening has become my health and wellness lifestyle. There is a wealth of gifts and talented individuals in my department.

Staff and Faculty Health and Well-being aims to build an environment that makes the healthier choice the easier one, while providing staff and faculty with the required support to make UC Davis the healthiest community. How do you feel you have contributed to our mission?

I am just getting started, but I feel I've contributed to the mission by starting the conversations with my coworkers and management to consider doing activities that will promote a healthier work environment, having wellness conversations, and having a wellness mindset to take actions towards being a healthier department overall. It's a process.

What is your favorite thing to do in your spare time?

I enjoy container gardening, spending time with my grandchildren, gardening, reading, photography, video recording, and making hand crafted jewelry.