Looking to leverage this week’s heart-ful holiday, a hospital system in Missouri created a series of humorous online Valentine’s cards promoting heart health: an invitation to “get our hearts pumping – with 30 minutes of cardio”; a poetic reminder that “Roses are red, violets are blue, let’s exercise and eat healthy, too”; and many more. These Valentines are about more than candy and flowers: they share messages about wellness and self-care. In the same spirit, MCC’s Wellness Council’s Valentine’s wish for the College community is an invitation to greater health and balance this week and all weeks—and their gift is a full calendar of programs.
In fall, the Council organized a host of popular and successful programs, including the Emotional Wellness Fair, Financial Wellness Seminars, MCC Knitting Circle, the Hydration Challenge, Visits from MCC Therapy Dog Gretta, the White House Healthy Campus Challenge, and an MCC Family Open Swim Party.
Already this spring, the Council has hosted an MCC Family Ice Skating Party at the Iceplex that drew over 100 participants. And, there’s more to come! Some highlights:
March 8: Estate and Medicaid Planning Seminar
March 27-April 7: 10 Days of Real Food Challenge
April 5: National Walking Day
April 22: Rochester Heart Walk and Run
May 31: MCC’s 2nd Annual Field Day
Plus, look for yoga, more visits from Gretta, and … well, that’s up to you.
On Monday January 30, a short survey was e-mailed to all employees on behalf of the MCC Wellness Council requesting input to assist in planning programs and activities that best meet your needs and interests. The survey remains open until February 20. Your responses will drive future programming: let the Council know what you need to keep you active and engaged.
Thanks to your participation in MCC’s Wellness activities, the College has been recognized with the American Heart Association Fit-Friendly Gold designation, as an American Diabetes Association Corporate Health Champion, and as a White House Healthy Campus. More importantly, many of you have made individual commitments to health that have been supported by your colleagues and friends. So, don’t stop now: the best Valentine gift you can give yourself is wellness.
Want to learn more? Visit the MyMCC Fit & Friendly Channel or MCC Wellness Council Facebook Page. The MCC Wellness Council Blackboard Organization will also be available soon. Or you can always reach out to one of the members of the Council:
Julianna Frisch, Chair
Kelley Bennett, Counseling Center and Services for Students with Disabilities
Suzanne Bureau, Human Resources
Alisa Camp. Visual and Performing Arts
Ambika Howell, Student Services, DCC
Meg LeBeau, Facilities
Katie Nicholas, Athletics
Dolores Pasto-Ziobro, Internal Audit
Tanya Rich, Hospitality
Penny Sales, Health and Physical Education
Lori Scipioni, Public Safety
Eileen Scorgie, Administrative Services
Cynthia Childs, Excellus (external)
Gary Jones and Marc Natale, The American Heart Association (external)
And, remember, eat that leftover dark chocolate (in moderation): it might actually do your heart some good. Happy Valentine’s Day!
If there are activities you do to keep yourself healthy and active, please share on the blog.
Anne M. Kress
Office of the President
02/15/2017 |