Wellness Ambassador of the Month
Michelle Harris, IT Business Operations

How long have you worked at UC Davis?

I have worked at UC Davis for 11 Years. 

Why did you become a wellness ambassador?

I was encouraged to reach out by Supervisor at the time. As a HR Business Partner a large part of my role is Employee Engagement.

How long have you been a wellness ambassador?

I have been a Wellness Ambassador for 4 years.

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

I believe the most rewarding experience thus far has been seeing the enthusiasm and pure responses from those that have participated. One example of an event we've hosted is Love on Loan, where the SPCA comes out with animals for staff to snuggle up with and destress. The smiles and laughter in the room were truly inspiring to witness at work.

What are some challenges you face as a wellness ambassador?

One challenge I face as a Wellness Ambassador is making the time to participate as well. We have sent out monthly themed calendars for different Challenges and I don't always practice what I preach. One goal for myself this year when we role out our next Wellness Program in January is to be an active participant, not just a facilitator.

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

One piece of advise I'd like to give is to recruit ally's within your unit. I am truly in awe of my team and the commitment everyone has made to our IT Wellness Program. It truly takes a village to facilitate ideas and encourage participation.

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?

My team contributes to the Well-Being mission in many ways. We create new and challenging options for IT Staff at the Alhambra Cannery to account for our distance from the Hospital. We are currently working on new Monthly Challenges that can be completed by those in office or teleworking. We send weekly reminder emails full of resources and upcoming events to help keep everyone in the know. Additionally, we understand the value in Healthy choices for our minds, bodies, and souls and will continue to find new and exciting ways to engage the IT community.

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

In my spare time I like to try new restaurants or recipes at home. I am a foody at heart and enjoy trying all new types of cuisine. There is nothing I won't eat and am always excited to try new things.