A cornerstone of the UVA SON Strategic Plan is the Healthy Work Environment (HWE) initiative. Formally established in 2011, this initiative identified statements of exactly what a Healthy Work Environment meant to faculty and staff. Our “compiled wisdom” was organized into five areas—Respect & Appreciation, Communication, Workload, Physical Environment, and Interpersonal Relationships—and that became our Working Statement (requires NetBadge login). This dedication to creating and sustaining a healthy community is part of what makes this a unique place to work and learn.

Work/Life Balance: All of us—staff, faculty, and students—can benefit from a healthier work/life balance. UVA offers lots of great resources to help us thrive; we hope this list helps you discover and connect with resources. 

School of Nursing

• Compassionate Care Initiative: Cultivating resilience and compassion in healthcare through innovative educational and experiential programs. CCI’s vision is to have safe and high-functioning healthcare environments with healthy and happy healthcare professionals, where heart and humanity are valued and embodied. In addition to FREE, public drop-in yoga, meditation, and t’ai chi sessions held in the Maria “Tussi” Kluge Resiliency Room and the CSC/Compassionate Care Classroom, the website offers links to print, guided relaxation practices (including audio), and other resources to promote self-care and resilience (for everyone!). 
• Resiliency/Meditation space (sponsored by CCI): Fully equipped for yoga and meditation, the Maria “Tussi” Kluge Resiliency Room (McLeod 2025) and the CSC/Compassionate Care Classroom (McLeod 2010), are quiet spaces where students, faculty and staff can take a break in their day to relax, reflect, and/or stretch, when the space is not being used by a class or a drop-in.

School of Medicine

• Wellness/Engagement Lunchtime Sessions: Free 1-hour sessions (registration required, lunch included!) on a variety of topics (including work/life balance, parenting, and eldercare) offered to all UVa community members. 
• Mindfulness Center: Offers a range of general and healthcare-specific mindfulness training.  

UVA

• Staff Senate: Check out the UVA Staff Senate comprehensive resource list.

Help Build a Healthy Community: The SON Healthy Community initiative continues to develop and grow. A healthy work environment belongs to us all; your input is valued and needed!

We welcome your participation and feedback.

Share a suggestion:  If you have resources, suggestions or feedback to share with the committee, please contact us.