How long have you worked at UC Davis?

2 years.

What does Wellness mean to you?

As a Primary Care Clinical Pharmacist there are many aspects of wellness that are important including incorporating a healthy diet, maintaining an exercise routine, and practicing mindfulness through meditation or completing acts of kindness daily. I have come to learn that is important to take care of yourself, so you are able to help and take care of your loved ones around you! 

Why did you become a wellness ambassador?

Knowing how important it is to take care of yourself, I wanted to promote healthy behaviors and habits related to wellness with my pharmacy family. 

How long have you been a wellness ambassador?

A year and a half.

What has been the most rewarding or positive part about your experience thus far?

Having the opportunity to apply for mini grants as a wellness ambassador to plan a health and well-being activity within our team has been very rewarding and much enjoyed by our pharmacy team. Last year we conducted a painting activity which allowed our team to bring out their creative side. 

What are some challenges you face as a wellness ambassador, especially through the pandemic?

It has been challenging to promote healthy habits on a daily basis when our team is spread out amongst the UCD Primary Care Clinics. We do have a monthly in person meeting where I have asked for 5 minutes on the agenda to complete a wellness activity ranging from meditation to dance parties. 

What is one piece of advice you would like to share with new wellness ambassadors?

I would recommend conducting a poll to survey your team members to see what areas of interest they have regarding wellness. As we know it can vary from individual to individual, but it is still important to tailor activities that can be shared by the majority.

Staff and Faculty Health and Well-being aims to build an environment that makes the healthier choice the easier one, while providing staff and faculty with the required support to make UC Davis the healthiest community. How do you feel you have contributed to our mission?

I currently serve as co-chair to our Department of Pharmacy Wellness Committee. With a group of like-minded pharmacy individuals who are also interested in promoting an environment that makes healthier choices we offer opportunities throughout the year to participate in a department wide wellness challenge ranging from tracking your exercise activities to completing acts of kindness. We also encourage pharmacy staff to support our local community by signing up and participating in events such as the Donut Dash.

What is your favorite thing to do in your spare time?

I enjoy spending time with my husband and traveling to visit National Parks, most recently Zion National Park in Utah!