FARMINGTON – University of Maine at Farmington has received the Well Workplace Gold Award from the Wellness Councils of America for its commitment to the promotion and education of health and healthy behaviors to its employees.

UMF and the University of Maine at Augusta are the only universities within the Maine system to receive the Gold Award. This is the first year UMF applied.

Laura Gardner, director of human resources, co-chairs the Wellness Committee along with Jewel Jones, assistant professor of rehabilitation services. When learning of their achievement Gardner said, “We were thrilled.” Gardner said UMF “will apply again and increase the program and assessment.”

UMF’s Wellness Committee was implemented in 2000 to provide advocacy and leadership for a healthy work improvement. “Healthy individuals lead to reduced absenteeism, more productivity and a happier workplace environment,” Gardner said.

Over the past few years the committee has evaluated its wellness plan, adding free programs for the faculty and staff to encourage healthier lifestyles. The committee has a partnership with Score Health, which provides weekly free health screenings by consultant Nate Morse. Morse makes a personal connection with people, educating them on how to take charge of their health through diet, exercise and blood pressure.

The committee’s Smart Steps program provides pedometers to the faculty and staff and encourages the participants to increase the number of steps they take each day. This usually results in a friendly competition between the staff and turns walking more into a changed habit, Gardner says.

UMF President Theodora Kalikow initiates “presidential walks” in which the staff follows her around for a nice walk outside during lunchtime.

One of the benchmarks the committee had to meet for the award was CEO support. Kalikow has been supportive of the committee, initiating her own program. Seven benchmarks in all had to be met. A few include creating a cohesive wellness team and creating supportive environment.

To celebrate National Employee Health and Fitness Day, May 17, UMF held an Employee Wellness Day. The event drew about 80 participants. The event started with a rainy walk through Flint Woods to clear brush through the path. In the afternoon staff had healthy treats made by Aramark and learned how to cook healthier meals at home on a budget.

The staff has become much closer throughout the programs. Jennifer Eriksen, director of public relations said, “It really does create some comradery through coworkers. It really brings people together.”