Wellness in Action

Wellness Ambassador: Paul Tumarkin

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Paul Tumarkin

Paul Tumarkin
Assistant Director, Marketing & Communications Tech Launch Arizona

Why did you decide to become a Wellness Ambassador?
Wellness has always been a priority in my life, ever since middle school. I've continued to focus on mental, physical and spiritual wellness, and want to bring that appreciation to the workplace.

In your role as Wellness Ambassador, what do you do to help cultivate a culture of wellness to your unit/department?
More than anything, I want to create a culture of connectedness, where people feel connected with and trusting enough of one another to maximize the effectiveness of our work together. That depth of connectedness has to come from experiencing life outside of our work tasks -- it needs to come from interacting with one another in other contexts to learn to appreciate one another as a complete person, not just a title or job function.

What is an activity, resource, or workshop you helped implement?
While it is only in its infancy, I'm working to implement a program of regularly scheduled group hikes for our staff. The goal is to get people together outside of the office environment and experience Tucson's natural beauty together. So far I have organized one hike, but it was very successful and all the participants are looking forward to our next group adventure.

What inspires you when it comes to health and wellness?
I consider myself a meditator, and I'm inspired by the ideas of mindfulness and of appreciating and living in the present moment. I think that that kind of awareness has helped me to appreciate taking care of myself and sharing myself openly with others without fear. I think that being "well" comes from being open and honest and not hiding from others. We tend to hide so much because we're taught that it's "unprofessional," and in my experience, that's been 100% untrue. Being 100% open has only positively impacted my work, and I strive to show that to others and help them cultivate the same openness.

What else would you like to say about being a Wellness Ambassador?
It doesn't need to be a huge lift! We do what we can and bring to the role what we're able. And if we bring things that WE feel are important and enjoyable, it makes it easy!

 

Wellness Ambassador: Amy Ramirez

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Amy Ramirez - Campus Health Services

Amy Ramirez
Support Staff
Campus Health Services

Why did you decide to become a Wellness Ambassador?
I heard about this group from my supervisor, she thought I would be a good representative for The Campus Health Service. I am a part of UACares and a UA4Food Ambassador so I believe this program is a good fit for someone like me. I like to learn new ways of bringing the CHS and UA community together. 

In your role as Wellness Ambassador, what do you do to help cultivate a culture of wellness to your unit/department?
My role as a Wellness Ambassador is to bring ideas and ways to promote healthy living. There are many resources, opportunities and wellness initiatives for employees from Life and Work Connection. I provide this information to the CHS employees about services and/or information that may of interest to them. 

What is an activity, resource, or workshop you helped implement?
I have provided resources that are available to the CHS staff. I send out emails to all staff monthly pertaining to resources, tools, and education to support their total health: physical, mental, emotional, financial, and social. One example is the Adult & Elder Caregiving, I myself didn't know this resource was as easy to get from the Life & Work Connection website.

Recently, I set up a game/puzzle area in our lounge for staff to use on their break and/or lunch time. The puzzles have been a huge success! When they walk through the lounge to go to the restroom or while at lunch, they can add a piece or several. These puzzles are being put together by multiple staff throughout the week.  

What inspires you when it comes to health and wellness?
I want to live a long and healthy life for myself and my family. It's a way for me to stay motivated to be heathy and I can set goals to achieve. 

What else would you like to say about being a Wellness Ambassador?
Serving as a Wellness Ambassador has enhanced my skills and brought them to another level.  

Wellness Ambassador: Angelica Gomez

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Angelica Gomez

Angelica Gomez
Doctor & Patient, Curricular Affairs
College of Medicine

Why did you decide to become a Wellness Ambassador?
One of the greatest things is to feel comfortable in your own skin. Wellness achieves this. Any group that promotes that is definitely worth joining.

In your role as Wellness Ambassador, what do you do to help cultivate a culture of wellness to your unit/department?
In my office, I use incandescent lighting and plants to ease the office setting. Those who visit or drop by say they enjoy it as it feels peaceful and relaxing.

What is an activity, resource, or workshop you helped implement?
The pandemic has reduced many group activities, however, we are planning on having an ice cream social.

What inspires you when it comes to health and wellness?
I appreciate the balance that health and wellness provide. It makes the unsmooth times in life less daunting.