Wellness Ambassador: Virginia Ellis

Image
Virginia Ellis on a bike holding a puppy.

Virginia Ellis: First time taking our new puppy to a mountain bike event. This was after I raced at the Tour of the White Mountains race in Pinetop-Lakeside, AZ.

Photo courtesy Virginia Ellis

I actively promote physical and social wellness with my coworkers by sharing fruit, hydration drinks, and healthy snacks.  I invite others to take the stairs and/or walk across the building so we can increase our steps.  I also remind our staff about annual preventative health screenings.  Last year, I was able to find used standing desk converters at low prices.  I was also able to obtain a couple of desks at no charge for those who did not have funds for one.

For mental wellness, I encourage others to attend stress management workshops along with watching spiritual and emotional wellness videos.

I have been attending various events and workshops to help support my personal and professional development as a Wellness Ambassador.  This includes CPR training, QPR (Question. Persuade. Refer.) Suicide Prevention training, Personal Finance, and listening to Total Wellness podcasts.  I am a member of the Red Shoe Society. We volunteer and help the families who are staying at the Ronald McDonald House. I am also a member of the Tucson Cancer Conquerors.  TCC offers Get Fit classes, and we support local cancer survivors by hosting potlucks and coffee meet-ups.

Kai Glahn recognized Virginia for Committing to Excellence: "Virginia is the most enthusiastic person I know! She is always happy to share resources and find ways to help others."