Today@Dal

During November, we'll be highlighting the departments who were nominated for Dalhousie’s Healthy Workplace Award. Information Technology Services took home the prize this year, but all of the nominees showcased impressive efforts in building and supporting a healthy workplace. This week we’ll learn about the University Secretariat and the Faculty of Management.

The University Secretariat was created in 2005 when the Senate Office and the Board of Governors’ Office merged. The director, Susan Brousseau, is credited with introducing a healthy and active workplace, with runners, cyclists, walkers, swimmers and yogis encouraged to make time in their busy schedules for physical activity.

Although the University Secretariat is small in number, with six team members, they are committed to supporting the United Way each year. In 2010, the team was responsible for creating the Henry Hicks’ Got Talent 2010 event, raising more than $300 for United Way and showcasing some great talent.

In addition to the many events held throughout the year, including birthday parties, baby showers, and recognition of staff milestones, such as completing a first marathon, the Secretariat Hasty Retreat has become an annual event that takes place on a summer afternoon. The team participates in a ‘sporting event,’ with a trophy awarded to the member with the highest score.

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The Faculty of Management team believes that a healthier workplace means healthy and happy employees. For this reason, it introduced lunchtime fitness classes in January 2012 led by acclaimed contemporary dancer, choreographer and teacher, Gwen Noah. The classes are offered at a subsidized rate for participants (open to the Faculty and beyond) and were organized by fellow employee, Martine Durier-Copp, who sits on the board of Gwen Noah Dance.

“We have the opportunity to get a much needed break from work, and I return to my desk feeling energized and refreshed,” said one team member. “Since attending these classes, I see and feel a difference. I feel stronger, less stressed, more productive and sleep better,” adds another.

The classes have been an overwhelming success, providing fitness, toning, stretching and alignment. The benefits for employees extend far beyond the body, and also include improving staff members’ minds, energy and creativity.

To get some healthy workplace ideas for your department or unit, visit Healthy Dalhousie’s website.