CWO

Equity, Innovation and Wellness: Redefining Health Care at CU Boulder

Valerie Padilla — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 16:31:41 +0000

Equity, Innovation and Wellness: Redefining Health Care at CU Boulder Valerie Padilla Thu, 03/06/2025 - 09:31

At the University of Colorado Boulder, Medical Services is transforming campus health care in ways that go beyond expectations. By combining cutting-edge technology, innovative programs, and an unshakable commitment to inclusivity, the team ensures that every student receives timely, personalized, and high-quality care. From reimagining diagnostics to championing holistic wellness, CU Boulder is raising the bar for student health and well-being.

A Commitment to Equity: HEI Leader Status

In 2024, the Wardenburg health center was named a Top Performer in the Human Rights Campaign Healthcare Equality Index (HEI). The HEI is a national benchmark for LGBTQ+ inclusivity, assessing healthcare facilities' policies and practices related to equity and inclusion for LGBTQ+ patients, visitors, and employees.  This recognition underscores the team’s commitment to creating an environment where every individual, regardless of identity or experience, feels respected and supported. By prioritizing inclusive practices, the team ensures equitable, affirming care for all.

Learn more about LGBTQ+ care at CU.

Innovations in Diagnostic and Laboratory Services

Radiology and Laboratory Services y are leveraging technology to transform the diagnostic process, ensuring quicker, more precise results and a better student experience.

Radiology Advancements

Radiology has implemented state-of-the-art digital x-ray systems, reducing radiation exposure and enabling faster, safer imaging. Upgraded ultrasound software provides more detailed readings, cutting turnaround times from 5–7 business days to just 24–48 hours. These advancements minimize stress for students, ensuring they receive timely diagnoses and swift access to treatment.

Laboratory Excellence

The Lab has made significant strides through a strategic partnership with LabCorp, streamlining phlebotomy and reference lab services. This collaboration has reduced turnaround times for test results and cut costs. Additionally, the lab has expanded its in-house testing capabilities, reducing the need to send samples to external labs. This expansion not only decreases costs but also expedites result delivery, allowing students to receive faster diagnoses and treatment.

Patient-Centered Tools

Medical Services has transformed access to care by integrating patient-centered innovations like geofencing technology, text reminders, and streamlined scheduling via the patient portal. These tools make it easier for patients to manage their health care while ensuring their time and needs are prioritized.

Geofencing, a location-based technology, detects when patients arrive within a specific area around the clinic. This allows for an automated check-in process and reduces the need for traditional front desk interactions. Since its implementation, geofencing has decreased check-in times by 25%, helping appointments run on schedule.

Scheduling enhancements to the patient portal have further empowered patients to manage their health care with ease. Over the past few years, the proportion of provider appointments scheduled online by patients has risen from 26 to 55 percent, showcasing the effectiveness of these tools in simplifying scheduling, follow-ups, and communication with providers.

Enhancing Patient Safety: Medication Error-Free for 137 Days

This year, the clinic achieved a remarkable 137-day streak without a single medication error—three times longer than previous records. This milestone reflects the team’s focus on process improvements, automation, and targeted training. Their efforts demonstrate an ongoing commitment to student safety and well-being.

Bridging Gaps in Care

The Referral team plays a vital role in connecting students to specialized services. In 2023, more than 3,000 patients received referrals to external providers, who are part of the clinic’s referral network. This network is strategically chosen to reduce wait times for certain specialties by as much as five weeks. Referral Coordinator Andrea Wittenburg’s dedication exemplifies the department’s patient-first approach, making life-changing care more accessible.

Expanding Holistic Wellness on Campus

As part of Health and Wellness Services, Medical Services understands that health encompasses more than physical care—it also involves mental and, emotional,well-being. This holistic philosophy drives programs that engage students and staff across campus.

Physical Therapy and Recovery

Physical Therapy appointments surged by 14% last year, with first-time visits up 32%. Treatments like blood flow restriction therapy are transforming recovery outcomes for post-operative and injured students. Additionally, the team collaborates with the FitWell Suite to educate future personal trainers and campus staff on pain science and musculoskeletal health.

Massage Therapy Internships

Last year, the Massage Therapy team launched an internship program that mentored 12 interns and provided affordable massage therapy to CU students and staff. Feedback overwhelmingly affirmed the program’s value, with 98% of surveyed participants planning to return.

Nutrition Education and Services

Nutrition Services is redefining student access to nutrition care through innovative practices and expanded availability. By transitioning to 60-minute appointments for all visits, the team has enhanced the depth and quality of consultations, resulting in improved outcomes and higher follow-up rates. Increased appointment options, including more flexible scheduling across days, times, and modalities, have further reduced barriers to care. Beyond appointments, the registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) team has engaged the campus community with guest lectures and presentations, educating students on the vital role of nutrition in overall wellness and reshaping how they approach their health.

Collaboration and Community Care

Medical Services extends its impact beyond the clinic through strategic partnerships and outreach programs:

Flu vaccine clinics: In collaboration with WorkWell, the Pharmacy team administered 357 flu vaccines to staff and faculty via pop-up events across campus, increasing accessibility and convenience.

Acupuncture and mindfulness: Integrated group acupuncture sessions, mindfulness workshops and community massage partnerships to support cost-effective holistic wellness for students and staff alike.

Student education: Partnerships with CU Anschutz and Regis University provided hands-on clinical training for doctoral students in physical therapy, fostering the next generation of health professionals.

These initiatives highlight the department’s commitment to blending innovation, education, and accessibility to meet the evolving needs of the campus community.

A Vision for the Future

CU Boulder’s Medical Services department is more than just a health care provider—it is a cornerstone of student success. With over 40,000 patient visits annually, the team remains steadfast in its mission to advance equity, innovation, and holistic wellness. By embracing cutting-edge practices and expanding partnerships, Medical Services is shaping a healthier, more inclusive campus for years to come.

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Behind the Scenes of Well-Being: CU Boulder Administrative Services

Valerie Padilla — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 20:05:34 +0000

Behind the Scenes of Well-Being: CU Boulder Administrative Services Valerie Padilla Wed, 03/05/2025 - 13:05

At the University of Colorado Boulder, the Administrative Services teams within Health and Wellness have spent the past academic year transforming how students and staff engage with health care and wellness resources. Through innovative digital upgrades, strategic process improvements, and collaborative initiatives, they’ve tackled barriers to access and enhanced the overall experience for the campus community. These accomplishments reflect a forward-thinking approach, ensuring that CU Boulder remains a leader in providing accessible and inclusive health services.

Enhancing Digital Accessibility and Patient Experience

The team made notable updates to the Health Center website, including adding appointment and after-hours care links and revamping the home page for easier navigation. Service pages now include timely updates, such as flu shot availability, and wellness resources for faculty and staff were introduced to broaden the site’s relevance.

Regular reviews of Patient Experience Survey data helped identify areas for improvement, ensuring the website remains user-focused and intuitive. These updates demonstrate the team's dedication to improving access to information and care.

Breaking Down Barriers to Access

To connect with the campus community, Administrative Services participated in on-campus tabling events, providing new and incoming students with direct access to resources and information. These face-to-face interactions helped raise awareness about available services.

The Facilities team also improved physical accessibility at the Wardenburg Health Center by evaluating ADA signage and updating navigation to meet compliance standards. These changes ensure a more inclusive and navigable environment for all visitors.

Record-High Insurance Enrollment

The Anthem Gold Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) had record enrollment of 7,100 students in fall 2023—the highest level since 2019. This comprehensive health insurance option offers affordable access to medical and mental health, as well as preventive care services to meet the diverse needs of CU students. The achievement reflects the team’s successful outreach efforts and commitment to student health.

Streamlining Billing and Coding Operations for Better Health Care Access

Efficient billing and coding processes are essential to ensuring students can focus on their health rather than the complexities of insurance or billing. Over the 2023-24 academic year, Administrative Services implemented key improvements that not only reduced barriers but also created a more transparent, accessible, and student-centered system. These enhancements have delivered significant benefits for patients and the university, strengthening the future of health care services on campus.

For example, a 19% increase in revenue from third-party insurance billing was achieved through enhanced processes, allowing the university to more effectively collect payments from insurance companies. This additional revenue supports the delivery of high-quality health care and resources without increasing costs for students.

The Patient Access Coordinator team also simplified how students’ insurance information is collected and processed, reducing delays and frustrations. By streamlining these steps, students can now access timely care more easily.

Another game-changer was merging the Student Insurance Team with the Billing & Coding Team, which resulted in reduced call transfers and confusion. The new, cross-trained team can now handle inquiries more efficiently, offering students a smoother and faster experience when navigating health insurance and billing questions.

Looking Ahead

The achievements from Administrative Services reflect more than operational success—they represent a deeper commitment to the well-being of the CU Boulder community. By breaking down barriers, embracing innovation, and improving access to essential resources, these teams are setting new standards for health care on campus. As they continue to refine processes and explore new opportunities, their work ensures a future where every student and staff member can thrive. With a focus on collaboration and continuous improvement, the Administrative Services team is driving lasting change that will benefit the campus for years to come.

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A Year of Inclusion: How Disability Services is Shaping CU Boulder’s Future

Valerie Padilla — Mon, 17 Feb 2025 19:49:34 +0000

A Year of Inclusion: How Disability Services is Shaping CU Boulder’s Future Valerie Padilla Mon, 02/17/2025 - 12:49

At the University of Colorado Boulder, Disability Services is transforming the campus into a more inclusive, supportive environment. Through innovative programs, strategic improvements, and collaborative efforts, the team is redefining what accessibility and empowerment look like for students with disabilities. Here’s a look at how Disability Services has made an impact over the past year.

Creating Space for Connection and Success

This year, Disability Services launched Access+, a first-of-its-kind student center dedicated to enhancing the experience of students with disabilities at CU Boulder. Officially opened in September 2024, the space fosters community, provides essential resources, and offers a haven where students can thrive both academically and socially.

Access+ is more than just a physical space; it’s a cornerstone for connection and empowerment. With flexible seating, sensory-friendly lighting, and tools like fidget toys and study aids, the center meets diverse needs. Hosting more than 17 events in its first two months, it has become a hub for community and support. Disability Services also collaborates with other Health and Wellness teams to offer recurring programs like Wellness Wednesdays, meditation sessions, and movie screenings.

By creating a dedicated space for connection, advocacy, and support, Access+ embodies Disability Services’ mission to empower students with disabilities. It fills a vital gap on campus and sets a new standard for inclusivity and accessibility at CU Boulder.

Highlighting Disability as Diversity: The Annual Disability Symposium

For the second year in a row, Disability Services supported the College of Arts and Sciences to host the Disability Symposium, a six-day event showcasing the experiences of individuals with disabilities on campus. With a 119% increase in participation, the 2024 symposium attracted 398 attendees, including students, faculty, and staff.

This year’s keynote speaker, renowned scientist Temple Grandin, shared insights on navigating life as a person with autism and her global impact on animal agriculture. The event also featured workshops on universal design, self-advocacy, and navigating higher education systems with a disability. Survey feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with 85% of respondents strongly agreeing that the symposium should continue.

A key aspect of the symposium’s success lies in its organization. While Disability Services plays a vital role, the event is led by the College of Arts and Sciences and a diverse committee. This ensures disability representation extends beyond compliance-driven offices, fostering a broader cultural shift across campus and emphasizing shared responsibility in celebrating disability as diversity.

Increasing Efficiency at the Student Testing Center

The Student Testing Center saw a major upgrade this year with the installation of cameras, enhancing efficiency and capacity. A single proctor can now oversee up to five testing rooms and 32 students simultaneously, compared to five proctors previously needed.

The improvements have streamlined operations, enabling last-minute requests and expanded testing accommodations like extended exam times and distraction-reduced environments. With 14 testing rooms accommodating up to 112 students at once, the Testing Center is poised for continued growth and operational excellence.

Streamlining Housing, Dining, and Parking Accommodations

Disability Services revamped its Housing, Dining, and Parking Accommodations process, improving response times and communication. From mid-August to October 2024, the team handled 650 requests—a 25% increase over the previous year’s total. Despite this surge, the team has maintained a 10-business-day turnaround for processing, ensuring students receive timely support.

The streamlined process reflects Disability Services’ commitment to continuous improvement, helping students overcome barriers and thrive in their campus environments.

Looking Ahead

From the vibrant programming at Access+ to record participation in the Disability Symposium, Disability Services is breaking down barriers and fostering a culture of accessibility. Through strategic upgrades, innovative spaces, and intentional partnerships, the team ensures all students have the tools and support they need to succeed at CU Boulder.

With these accomplishments and a clear vision for the future, Disability Services is transforming CU Boulder into a model of inclusion, collaboration, and community.

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CU Boulder’s FSAP Advances Employee Well-Being with Innovative Support

Valerie Padilla — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 18:06:36 +0000

CU Boulder’s FSAP Advances Employee Well-Being with Innovative Support Valerie Padilla Thu, 01/30/2025 - 11:06

The University of Colorado Boulder’s Faculty and Staff Assistance Program (FSAP) is contributing to employee well-being by addressing mental health challenges, fostering inclusivity, and driving systemic change. Through new initiatives and collaborative efforts, FSAP continues to expand access to vital resources and reshape workplace culture to support CU Boulder’s diverse faculty and staff.

Cultivating Belonging: CU Cultural Collective

In June 2024, FSAP counselor Carla Eugene, MS, LPC spearheaded the launch of the CU Cultural Collective (CCC), a bold initiative aimed at enhancing connection and belonging for faculty and staff of color. Recognizing that traditional mental health services often underserve racially marginalized groups, the CCC fosters engagement through culturally responsive programming. Supported by the DEI Impact Grant from the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Office, this initiative empowers BIPOC employees and advances a healthier, more inclusive campus environment.

Since its launch, the CCC has hosted events that bring BIPOC faculty and staff together for community-building and resource sharing. Featuring a distinguished panel of speakers, these gatherings provide opportunities to discuss challenges, celebrate achievements, and explore strategies for personal and professional empowerment. The CCC also organizes monthly Colorful Women Coffee Chats, creating a welcoming space for women of color to network, engage in uplifting dialogues, and learn stress management techniques tailored to their unique experiences. With tiered funding from the grant, FSAP is working to make this transformative program a permanent part of CU Boulder’s health and wellness offerings.

Expanding Access: A Year of Growth for FSAP

In the 2024 fiscal year, FSAP achieved significant milestones in increasing access to mental health care for CU employees. By providing an impressive 2,604 counseling sessions—a 5% increase over the previous year—and engaging 1,668 participants in workshops and presentations (a 27% rise), FSAP delivered nearly $400,000 worth of services at no cost to faculty and staff.

This success reflects FSAP’s growing reputation as a trusted campus resource. Anecdotal evidence shows that positive exposure to FSAP increases referrals from campus leaders, underscoring its role in strengthening the university’s well-being infrastructure. This upward trend highlights a commitment to addressing the unique challenges of employees in academia, from burnout to work-life balance.

Innovations in Accessibility: Digital Transformation

In partnership with the Digital Accessibility Office (DAO) and Student Affairs Marketing and Communications team, FSAP completed a comprehensive audit of its digital platforms. By implementing all recommended improvements, FSAP has ensured its services are accessible to employees with disabilities, creating a more inclusive and user-friendly experience for all. These updates mark a critical step in making mental health resources available to everyone in the CU Boulder community.

Empowering Women of Color: The Return of the Colorful Women Group

In its second year, the Colorful Women Group continued to make a profound impact on BIPOC faculty and staff at CU Boulder. Providing a safe, supportive space for dialogue, connection, and empowerment, the group fosters community through meaningful discussions on topics such as race, gender, stress management, and professional growth.

One participant shared, “The 'Colorful Women' group is the first space at CU Boulder where I felt safe to show up as my full self. My emotional and mental health greatly benefited from the conversations and connections I made here.”

Survey results reinforce the group’s success:

94.1% of participants agreed their initial goals for attending the group were achieved.

82.3% reported learning healthy ways to cope with stress as women of color.

94.1% agreed that their overall well-being improved by participating in the group.

The overwhelmingly positive feedback highlights the Colorful Women Group’s ability to foster resilience, belonging, and a greater sense of community for underrepresented voices on campus. By offering this space, FSAP demonstrates its commitment to creating inclusive programs that help faculty and staff thrive.

Changing the Conversation on Burnout

FSAP’s insights have been part of a university-wide shift in how CU Boulder approaches burnout. Drawing on data and research, FSAP has helped reframe burnout as a systemic issue influenced by workplace culture, resources, and structure rather than just an individual challenge. This holistic understanding informs strategies to create healthier work environments across campus.

Collaborating with departments to implement changes such as clearer expectations, fairer practices, and stronger workplace connections, FSAP empowers employees and workplaces to become engines for mental health and well-being. National studies show that supportive work environments improve job satisfaction and retention, and CU Boulder is embracing these findings to build a culture of well-being and resilience.

A Vision for the Future

FSAP’s accomplishments reflect its unwavering commitment to supporting CU Boulder’s faculty and staff. From enhancing digital accessibility to launching innovative programs like the CU Cultural Collective, FSAP is shaping a workplace where every employee feels valued, respected, and empowered. With its data-driven strategies and forward-thinking approach, FSAP is setting the standard for fostering mental health and well-being in academia.

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Building a Thriving Campus: CU Boulder’s Health Promotion Office

Valerie Padilla — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 17:40:54 +0000

Building a Thriving Campus: CU Boulder’s Health Promotion Office Valerie Padilla Wed, 01/29/2025 - 10:40

Embedded throughout the University of Colorado Boulder, the Health Promotion office is redefining how a university can foster student, faculty, and staff well-being. By focusing on accessibility, equity, education, collaboration, peer support, and innovation, the team has built a foundation for a healthier, more connected campus. Here’s how their efforts over the past year have transformed the CU Boulder community.

Enhancing Accessibility to Resources

The Health Promotion office works to reduce barriers to wellness resources for students, staff and faculty. Through their Buff Boxes initiative, more than 1,600 resource kits were delivered directly to students, equipping them with tools for managing illness, stress, sexual health and harm reduction. Additionally, the team distributed nearly 5,000 fentanyl test strips and more than 3,400 doses of naloxone, providing life-saving tools to address the opioid crisis on campus through targeted outreach to high-risk populations and reducing stigma related to accessing these resources.

The team also launched the Campus Well-Being Systems Map, an innovative and interactive tool that centralizes information about wellness services and programs from over 50 departments across campus. This resource simplifies navigation of health services for students, staff, and faculty while offering administrators a strategic lens to address gaps and duplication in wellness initiatives.

Promoting Education and Awareness

Education is a key tenant of Health Promotion’s mission. Over the past year, the team provided 138 presentations, reaching more than 6,700 participants on topics such as mental health, substance use, and harm reduction. These presentations don’t just provide information—they equip attendees with practical strategies to improve their own well-being and support others.

Health Promotion is a leader in early intervention among universities, offering an extensive continuum of mandated and voluntary early intervention options, including programs like Buffs Discuss Substance Use and Sidewalk Talks. These programs have a measurable impact. Post-event evaluation indicates that 93% of participants were able to identify useful resources, and 97% planned to follow through on their wellness goals after the conversations. In addition, 99% of participants reported that reflecting on their substance use would influence their future experiences.

The team’s educational efforts also extend to large-scale trainings, where 96.5% of attendees reported gaining new knowledge and 98.3% found the sessions engaging and relevant. By incorporating participant feedback into future programming, Health Promotion ensures that its educational initiatives remain effective, responsive, and impactful.

Building Community and Collaboration

Health Promotion’s initiatives demonstrate that well-being is a shared responsibility. Their Late Night Programming collaboration, in partnership with the Center for Student Involvement and Fraternity and Sorority Life, provided fun and educational alternatives to late-night parties. More than 22 events attracted more than 1,200 students, often highlighting information about stress management, alcohol and other drug harm reduction, and self-care. Community-building efforts also included the Take Care Street Fair, a lively event during Parent and Family Weekend that drew more than 1,000 attendees and highlighted departments across CU. Featuring activities like painting pumpkins for self-care, peer-to-peer brief coaching conversations, and health trivia, the fair underscored the variety of resources available to support CU’s diverse population.

Fostering Peer-to-Peer Support

The office’s peer-led initiatives create a sense of trust and relatability. Sidewalk Talks, which provided more than 360 casual wellness conversations, achieved a remarkable 97% satisfaction rate. Students valued the approachable format, which allowed them to reflect, set goals, and access resources in a low-pressure setting.

The Health Promotion peer educators have also emerged as a cornerstone of CU Boulder’s wellness efforts. These student leaders delivered outreach at events, late-night programs, and trainings, ensuring that thousands of students received critical health and wellness information.

Additionally, the CU Collegiate Recovery Community (CRC) is also part of Health Promotion and offers community and peer connections for those in or seeking recovery. The CRC is ranked as a top 10 Collegiate Recovery Program in the nation. It offers recovery meetings, social events, on-campus sober housing, and the recovery friendly workplace initiative.

A Vision for the Future

CU Boulder’s Health Promotion office is shaping a healthier, more connected future for its community. Through innovation, collaboration, and a relentless commitment to accessibility, the team is ensuring that every student, staff and faculty member has the tools and support they need to thrive.

Looking ahead, the office plans to expand initiatives like the Campus Well-Being Systems Map, create tools for campus policymakers to consider health impacts, and deepen their collaborations across campus. With their continued dedication, CU Boulder is well on its way to becoming a national leader in campus health and wellness.

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Redefining Campus Mental Health: How CAPS is Transforming Care at CU Boulder

Valerie Padilla — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 17:34:40 +0000

Redefining Campus Mental Health: How CAPS is Transforming Care at CU Boulder Valerie Padilla Wed, 01/29/2025 - 10:34

At the University of Colorado Boulder, Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) is pioneering new approaches to campus mental health, reshaping how students access and experience support. With a focus on accessibility, innovation, and inclusivity, CAPS is setting a standard for mental health care in higher education.

Expanding Access to Care

In its mission to create an equitable mental health care environment, CAPS has launched initiatives designed to meet the needs of underserved populations. Among these is the Multicultural Care Track, tailored to students who hold historically marginalized identities or those navigating challenges like being under-insured. The program provides personalized, long-term care, ensuring students receive affordable and culturally responsive support that might otherwise be inaccessible off campus.

The impact is clear: between 2022 and 2023, utilization of these services surged by 110%, underscoring the program’s success in addressing systemic inequities. By prioritizing inclusivity, CAPS is fostering a more welcoming and supportive environment for all students.

Tackling Emerging Challenges with Innovation

In 2023, CAPS introduced a series of innovative programs targeting specific student needs:

Problem Gambling Programming

Addressing the rise of legalized sports betting, CAPS launched a groundbreaking initiative to support students grappling with gambling addiction. With only 5% of U.S. college campuses equipped to handle this issue, CAPS leads the charge by integrating screening tools, hosting outreach events, and partnering with CU’s Collegiate Recovery Community. This comprehensive approach provides critical resources for a growing yet under-addressed concern.

Acudetox Pilot Program

Combining evidence-based practices and holistic care, CAPS debuted Acudetox, a program aimed at reducing anxiety, improving sleep, and helping students manage trauma. Available in multiple locations across Health & Wellness, Acudetox has quickly gained popularity and reflects a growing demand for alternative mental health strategies.

Graduate Student Resilience Workshops

Recognizing the unique pressures faced by graduate students, CAPS launched a workshop series called “Rebound: Cultivating a Practice of Emotional Resilience.” Thise three-day program has proven transformative—one in four participants pursued additional CAPS services, highlighting its lasting impact.

Collaboration Drives Comprehensive Care

CAPS extends its reach through strategic partnerships across campus, creating a seamless network of support for CU Boulder students:

Psychiatric Consultation Services

Working with CU Athletics, Wardenburg Health Center, and Sexual and Reproductive Health units, CAPS has streamlined psychiatric consultations. This collaborative approach allows students to access high quality psychiatric care without extra appointments, breaking down barriers to essential resources.

Crisis Co-Responder Program

In partnership with the CU Police Department, CAPS introduced a mental health clinician into crisis response calls. The co-responder’s presence on mental health police calls has reduced hospitalizations by 50%, ensuring timely and compassionate care during critical moments.

Investing in the Next Generation of Mental Health Professionals

As a nationally recognized training site, CAPS is shaping the future of mental health care by training emerging professionals. Every year, 14 clinicians-in-training join CAPS across five distinct programs, providing additional capacity to serve students and offer more expanded services.

The Human Impact

At its heart, CAPS is about people. Whether helping a student overcome cultural stigma to access therapy, supporting athletes through collaborative psychiatric care, or guiding graduate students in resilience workshops, CAPS makes a profound difference every day.

This impact is measurable: more than 80% of students who considered leaving CU Boulder reported that attending a session with CAPS influenced their decision to stay. By providing timely, compassionate, and effective support, CAPS is not just redefining mental health care at CU Boulder—it’s setting an example for universities nationwide.

For more information about CAPS and its services, visit their website. If you’re a student in need of support, CAPS is here to help.

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CU Boulder awarded Gold Level Recognition from the American Heart Association for promoting a healthy work culture

Emily Sampl — Thu, 21 Nov 2024 16:21:02 +0000

CU Boulder awarded Gold Level Recognition from the American Heart Association for promoting a healthy work culture Emily Sampl Thu, 11/21/2024 - 09:21

Boulder, November 21, 2024 — The American Heart Association, a global force for longer, healthier lives for all, has awarded CU Boulder Gold level recognition in the 2024 Well-being Works Better™ Scorecard, representing a notable commitment to the health of its workforce and community.

Built on the Association’s 100-year history of saving and improving lives, the Scorecard brings together emerging research and input from leading experts to help employers create a healthy and effective work environment. Organizations can earn a recognition level of Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum based on their adherence to the Association’s science-backed recommendations. Gold level practices include areas such as health equity, burnout prevention, compensation and benefits and more.

The commitment from CU leadership to prioritize faculty and staff well-being spans multiple departments and units across schools and colleges on campus. A few highlights from the Scorecard include recognition of CU Boulder’s policies related to physical and mental health, access to benefits and utilization of employee programs. It is estimated that around 30% of CU Boulder employees are using services and/or attending programs and events offered through Health and Wellness.

“The well-being of faculty and staff is foundational to student success. Educators and support staff who feel supported, balanced and engaged are more likely to create positive learning environments, model resilience and show up fully for their students. The Scorecard gives us an in-depth look at our well-being strategy with valuable insights to help us best support our workforce and foster a campus-wide strategy” said Chief Wellness Officer Dr. Jessica Doty.

“We’re proud to recognize organizations like University of Colorado Boulder that have made bold moves to build workplaces where everyone can thrive,” said American Heart Association CEO Nancy Brown. “By completing the Well-being Works Better Scorecard, these leaders have shown an incredible dedication to the health of their businesses and communities, and their contributions are helping us bring to fruition a world of longer, healthier lives for all.”

The American Heart Association’s Well-being Works Better is a curated solution for fostering and evolving a healthy work culture while supporting employees’ health—mind, heart and body. The Well-being Works Better Scorecard helps leaders assess their health and well-being strategy based on leading best practices. On completion, organizations receive access to a results dashboard with exclusive industry benchmarking data and resources for continued learning and improvement.

Visit heart.org/workforce to learn more and view the full list of recognized employers.

2024 Well-being Works Better™ Scorecard recognizes standouts in employee health and well-being.

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Four Hard Truths Worth Embracing

Valerie Padilla — Wed, 16 Oct 2024 14:42:39 +0000

Four Hard Truths Worth Embracing Valerie Padilla Wed, 10/16/2024 - 08:42

Discover four essential truths about leadership and personal growth that can transform how you approach success, challenges, and making a lasting impact.

Leadership isn’t given, it’s earned.

Leadership isn’t determined by a single moment or title change. It’s developed gradually through consistent actions and decisions. It’s about the small, everyday choices that accumulate over time to create a lasting impact. Embracing patience and perseverance is crucial – but instead of focusing on the long road ahead, look at this way: Every day presents opportunities to lead, regardless of where you sit on an org chart.

Leadership is an inclusive quality that everyone can embody. Each person has the potential to influence and inspire those around them, fostering a culture of mutual respect and collaboration. By recognizing and seizing daily opportunities to lead, individuals can contribute to a more positive and productive environment. Leadership is a shared responsibility, and when embraced by all, it can drive meaningful change. When everybody leads, everybody wins.

Learn how CU Boulder drives positive change through the shared leadership model.

Progress is better than perfection.

Perfectionism is surprisingly counterproductive. Studies show that striving for flawlessness doesn't equate to a superior outcome or better performance. In fact, it often hinders productivity, as individuals fixated on perfection tend to spend excessive time on minute details, reducing overall efficiency. The relentless pursuit of perfection also leads to chronic stress, anxiety, and a persistent sense of inadequacy. Researchers have found that individuals with perfectionist tendencies are less resilient, making them more susceptible to psychological distress when faced with failure or setbacks.

While there are instances where perfection is crucial—patient care, air traffic control, nuclear power plant operations, automobile repair, etc... Being able to determine when it's needed, versus when it’s not, is the first step to reclaiming your sanity. Instead of focusing on perfect outcomes, prioritize getting things done. Embrace mistakes as valuable learning opportunities and challenge negative thoughts with self-reflection and compassion. By shifting to a mindset of progress over perfection, you can foster a healthier, more productive approach to both personal and professional endeavors.

Three tips to help you overcome the pressure to be perfect.

Everyone needs feedback.

Feedback can spark uneasy feelings, often because we focus on the process instead of the intended outcome—growth. By shifting our mindset from seeing feedback as fear-inducing to viewing it as a beneficial and constructive process, we can transform its impact.

Constructive criticism, whether from mentors, peers, or a significant other, offers invaluable insights into opportunities for growth that might otherwise go unnoticed. It encourages individuals to look forward, envision their future capabilities, and take actionable steps towards their goals. It’s worth noting that how or when we receive feedback isn’t entirely in our control, but what we do with that feedback is.

Organizations also thrive when they cultivate a culture of feedback. Encouraging open and honest communication within teams leads to higher employee engagement, improved performance, and increased job satisfaction. When employees feel their voices are heard and their contributions are valued, they’re more likely to take ownership of their work and strive for excellence.

Success is subjective.

Success is often portrayed as a universal concept defined by wealth, status, and societal approval. But the truth is that it’s highly subjective and personal. There is no universal benchmark for success. What brings fulfillment and joy to one person might not resonate with another. Success should be measured by individual values and aspirations, not someone else’s standards.

Embracing this autonomy allows us to pursue paths that genuinely make us happy, whether that's through creative endeavors, entrepreneurial ventures, or making a positive impact in our communities. These paths might involve trial and error, but each step brings you closer to what truly matters to you. Celebrate your achievements, big and small, and remember that your happiness is the ultimate measure of success. By embracing the subjective nature of success, you empower yourself to create a more authentic and meaningful life.

Learn how CU Boulder can help support employees on their path to success.

Discover four essential truths about leadership and personal growth that can transform how you approach success, challenges, and making a lasting impact.

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Everyone Matters: Nurturing Employee Well-Being and Job Satisfaction

Anonymous — Wed, 25 Sep 2024 18:01:51 +0000

Everyone Matters: Nurturing Employee Well-Being and Job Satisfaction Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 09/25/2024 - 12:01

We often equate being productive with long hours, constant busyness, and high output. However, this "more is better" mindset overlooks the core elements of a fulfilling work life—job satisfaction, collaboration, and creativity. Fortunately, a growing body of research reveals that shifting our focus from sheer productivity to a more human-centered approach can unlock greater success and happiness for both employees and businesses.

Nurturing Employee Well-Being: The Key to Lasting Success

The challenges of burnout and mental health concerns are real, but they also highlight a tremendous opportunity for improvement. When companies recognize the importance of employee well-being, they unlock a pathway to not only healthier teams but also stronger performance. Studies suggest that fostering a work environment that values mental health can lead to more engaged employees, reduced turnover, and a positive ripple effect throughout the organization. By prioritizing well-being, we can create a thriving workforce that is more resilient, productive, and capable of sustaining long-term success.

See how CU Boulder is embracing employee well-being.

Sparking Creativity and Innovation

When employees are encouraged to balance productivity with creativity, remarkable things happen. Businesses that create space for new ideas and innovative thinking can achieve greater success than those that focus solely on efficiency. In fact, companies that prioritize creativity achieve 1.5 times greater revenue growth and market share than their competitors. By fostering an environment where creativity can flourish, teams are empowered to explore bold ideas, take risks, and contribute to innovation—ultimately driving growth and adaptability in an ever-evolving market.

Did you know about the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Initiative at CU Boulder?

Celebrating Individuality: The Power of Strengths-Based Leadership

Every employee brings unique strengths and talents to the table, and when those individual contributions are recognized and celebrated, the impact is profound. According to Gallup, companies that adopt a strengths-based management approach are 17% more productive and 21% more profitable. When employees feel valued for their unique abilities, they become more engaged, motivated, and committed to their roles. This positive work culture not only boosts morale but also drives higher performance and propels organizational growth.

CU Boulder helps faculty and staff identify their strengths with the CliftonStrengths Introduction seminar.

Embracing a Human-Centric Model for Sustainable Success

The industrial-era model of productivity no longer serves the complex and dynamic needs of today’s workforce. Instead, businesses that shift towards a human-centric model—one that values well-being, creativity, and individuality—are positioned to achieve sustainable success. With the support of CU Boulder's Human Resources team, we’ve transformed these concepts into actionable steps by pinpointing key behaviors.

By fostering a positive employee experience, companies can build a workplace where employees not only excel but also find joy and fulfillment in their work. This holistic approach to productivity creates a win-win scenario: happier employees and stronger organizational outcomes.

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