NYC Gazette

Columbia University Irving Medical Center (CUIMC) held its second annual Well-Being Fair on February 11 at the Alumni Auditorium and Schaefer Awards Gallery in the Black Building. The event aimed to promote heart health and general well-being among faculty and staff while fostering community connectedness. It was organized by several CUIMC and Columbia offices, including CUIMC HR, CUIMC Events, the Well-Being Office, the Office of Work/Life, and CUIMC leadership.

The fair featured a range of activities focused on well-being, heart health, and relaxation. These included Zumba classes, reiki sessions, awareness through movement exercises, acupuncture treatments, chair massages, aromatherapy experiences, hands-only CPR training sessions, pet therapy interactions, and NARCAN instruction. Additionally, attendees could access free health screenings and information on heart-healthy nutrition tips. Participants received giveaway bags containing CUIMC-branded items, a gratitude note signed by university leadership, and healthy snacks.

Neil McClure, chief human resources officer at CUIMC stated: “Providing resources to encourage our employees to look after their physical and mental well-being is a top priority for CUIMC leadership.” He added that the fair served as an opportunity for employees to familiarize themselves with available campus resources while emphasizing workplace community connections.

Ashley Boyce from CUIMC HR highlighted the role of volunteers in making the event successful: “I truly enjoyed this year’s fair and all that it had to offer,” she said. Boyce appreciated working with volunteers who adapted flexibly throughout the day to ensure a seamless experience. She expressed anticipation for future events: “I look forward to what next year will bring.”