Sarah Patterson - A Champion of Employee Well-Being

Streamlining Nutritional Counseling Services: Sarah recognized an opportunity to improve employee access to nutritional counseling services, and through collaboration with UVA Nutrition Counseling Center she streamlined the process for billing Hoos Well, ensuring that employees receive these valuable services without any financial burden.

 Under her guidance, the program has evolved from a single annual visit to a comprehensive coaching package, allowing for one initial visit and four follow-up sessions. Additionally, Sarah worked diligently to add prenatal/postpartum nutrition counseling as a specialized offering, further addressing employees’ unique needs during these crucial life stages.

Community Engagement and Wellness Promotion: Sarah’s impact extends far beyond the walls of UVA Human Resources. She actively engages with the community by setting up Hoos Well information tables at various events, including the annual UVA Staff Appreciation Breakfast, UVA Health System Week, and Open Enrollment. Her willingness to work extended hours, including night shifts, demonstrates her unwavering commitment to reaching as many individuals as possible.

Benefits & Well-Being Expos: Sarah’s role in managing the UVA Benefits & Well-Being Expos has been instrumental in promoting wellness. Her ability to adapt and pivot, even during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic, ensured that employees continued to receive valuable information and resources. These events have been successful due to her dedication and collaboration with various UVA departments and units.

Creating Lactation Rooms: One of Sarah’s early and remarkable achievements was her role in creating lactation rooms across Grounds. Her efforts ensured nursing mothers have a comfortable and private space to meet their needs. This initiative reflects her commitment to employee well-being and showcases her ability to bring about tangible changes that directly benefit our community.

Why Sarah’s Work Should Matter to You: Sarah’s contributions to employee well-being are not limited to a specific department or team. They resonate across the entire UVA community. By prioritizing the health and wellness of our employees, Sarah directly contributes to a healthier, happier, and more engaged workforce. This has a ripple effect, leading to increased productivity, improved work-life balance, and, ultimately, a stronger and more vibrant UVA community.

In the words of Napoleon Hill, “It is literally true that you can succeed best and quickest by helping others to succeed.” Sarah Patterson embodies this philosophy. Her strength, time, and dedication contribute significantly to the well-being of the UVA community.

Sarah Patterson is a well-being champion who empowers others to thrive. We are fortunate to have her as a vital part of the UVA HR team. Thank you, Sarah, for your dedication to improving lives and promoting wellness.