UMD News Releases

DULUTH, MN – In April 2014, the University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD) was recognized as an American Heart Association’s Fit-Friendly Company. UMD was also recognized for Worksite Innovation, having achieved all criteria for the gold-level award as well as for developing and implementing innovative programs.

The Fit-Friendly Worksites program is a catalyst for positive change. Worksites throughout the nation can be part of the initiative by making the health and wellness of their employees a priority. This award recognizes that UMD has set a high standard as a healthy campus community with concern for the health of the staff, and continued progression and success with implementing a system that focuses on good health.

“We are extremely honored and excited to be recognized by the American Heart Association’s My Heart. My Life initiative as a Gold Level Fit-Friendly Worksite,” said Rachel Gilbertson, UMD's lifestyle Health Coach. “Physical activity and employee wellness are very important priorities here at UMD, and we encourage all of our employees to participate in practices that enhance their well-being at work and at home.”

There are many programs in place to help employees stay active and healthy. UMD offers a variety of wellness workshops that focus on nutrition education, healthy eating, financial health, parenting, healthy cooking demonstrations and disease management. UMD's Recreational Sports and Outdoor Program offers special employee-only group fitness classes, and a new program, Mindfulness in Motion, is available for participants to work on reducing stress by being more present in their lives. The Wellness Program encourages staff and faculty with medical insurance through the University to partake in annual health risk assessments and initiatives to earn Wellness Points to improve their health and reduce their health care premiums.

Visit the UMD Wellness website for more information on programs.