Now is the time to take care of your most important project–YOU!
Weight Watchers at Work is holding an informational session TODAY, Monday, Jan. 23, at 12:30 p.m. in the Olmsted Center Drake Room (upper level). All interested faculty and staff are encouraged to attend.

During this meeting, a Weight Watchers instructor will go over the program and answer questions. If 15 or more employees join that day, Weight Watchers will complete everyone’s registration and collect payments, and meetings will begin the following Monday at 12:30 p.m., with weigh-ins beginning at 12:15 p.m.

The cost is $132.60 for a 12-week renewable series, which is a 15 percent savings. You may pay the full amount up front or split into three payments. Series fees are due at the informational session. You may pay with cash, credit or debit card, or check(s) made out to Weight Watchers.

If you are already a Monthly Pass or Online member, your membership can be transferred by calling 866-204-2885 and telling the operator that you are joining an At Work Meeting Series. You will need to pre-pay for the series and get an eTools voucher prior to calling.

Weekly meetings include a confidential weigh-in prior to the meeting, followed by a 30-minute class. Weight Watchers’ unique mix of face-to-face interaction with a trained leader, group support, accountability, digital tools, and the convenience of meetings in the workplace have helped participants lose as much as eight times as much weight as those who try to lose weight on their own. If you are interested in more information, please contact Linda Feiden at linda.feiden@drake.edu.

—Linda Feiden, Human Resources

Three new Bulldogs joined Drake in December: Carly Grenfell, Athletics; Aneisha Parrish White, Public Safety; and Amelia Klatt, University Advancement.

As we announced in August 2016, Drake is partnering with the company Royal Recognition, Inc. in celebration of our faculty and staff as they reach many milestones in their years of service to the University. With this collaboration, we now have access to a platform that automates service anniversary and retiree gifts. This allows all employees celebrating their 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, and 35+ year anniversaries, and retirees to choose their gift of choice from an expansive online catalog.

Employees receive an e-card on or about their service anniversary or retiree date with information on how to select their gift, which is then mailed to their home. Employees with 20, 25, 30, 35+ year anniversaries and retirees will still be recognized at our annual anniversary and retiree event in the spring.

This online platform has taken the place of the former award system and was effective with all service anniversaries and retirements on or after Sept. 5, 2016. So far the response from employees has been extremely positive. An employee who recently celebrated a service anniversary said “The service anniversary gifts look great, and I was impressed with the wide selection of items.”

We look forward to what the future has in store for our organization and all of our dedicated employees. For more information, contact Human Resources at drakehr@drake.edu.

—Laura Schwarz, Human Resources

As part of the Drake Employee Wellness & Engagement initiative, a biometric screening and wellness (health risk) assessment is offered once a year to those participating in Drake’s Medical Benefit Plan. The screening includes a full cholesterol profile, blood glucose, blood pressure, height/weight, waist circumference, body composition, and a consultation with a health care professional.

In 2016, 98 percent of those enrolled in the Wellness Plan participated, and 89 percent of those enrolled in Drake’s Medical Plan participated in a biometric screening and assessment. That is compared to 97 percent and 82 percent, respectively, in 2015.

Our top three biometric risks (from the biometric screening):

Our top three modifiable risks (from the wellness assessment):

LDL, Blood Glucose, Sleep and Exercise were also listed in the top ten.

Knowing your numbers is important, but giving you the tools and resources to improve those numbers and reach your goals is where change happens. Beside wellness programs and classes, there are many valuable resources available for faculty and staff.

Fitness Facilities
Being active can help reduce a number of the risks listed above. The Bell Center may be the answer. Facilities include a fitness room, gym, pool, racquetball courts, fitness studio, indoor track, and locker rooms. The Roger Knapp Tennis Center is also open to employees and features six indoor and six outdoor courts. Group exercise classes are offered throughout the year by certified instructors and include Yoga, Pilates, Bootcamp, and Zumba. The Intramural program includes sports such as basketball, racquetball, and volleyball. And a Faculty and Staff Golf League is available during the summer months.

Nutrition Coach
What and how much you eat can directly impact your numbers, but you don’t have to starve yourself to succeed. Contact Lucas Flaherty, Sodexo dietitian, for a one-on-one appointment to get your questions answered and develop a nutritional plan.

Health Coach
You may want to make positive changes in your health and wellness but don’t have the resources or guidance to succeed. A health coach can be your partner in taking charge of your health, recognizing bad choices, and helping you to make better choices that are sustainable. If that sounds like you, we have certified health coaches available on campus. Contact Nora Stelter or Wendy Mobley-Bukstein for more information or an appointment.

Medication Therapy Management
If you are on multiple prescription medications, you may benefit from Medication Therapy Management. A member of the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences can give you a comprehensive review of all your medications. Contact Nora Stelter or Wendy Mobley-Bukstein for more information.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
To discuss issues affecting your day-to-day health and productivity, including stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, substance abuse, and legal and financial concerns, the Employee Assistance Program at Employee & Family Resources is a valuable resource. Contact them at www.efr.org/myeap or (800) 327-4692.

Wayne Gretzky (Hall of Fame hockey player) said “You miss 100 percent of the shots you never take.” Is it time to take a shot at making a change in your life for the better? Feel free to contact Linda Feiden (linda.feiden@drake.edu or 271-1880) for more information.

—Linda Feiden, Human Resources

Human Resources has developed the BUILD program to provide opportunities to connect with colleagues from across campus and pursue professional and skill-building opportunities.  Just in January and February alone, HR has provided a variety of topics, including a session focusing on presentation skills, “Presenting with Presence;” technology skills, “Did U Know: Information Technology Services;” fitness-focused skills, “Get Up Stand Up;” and nutrition, “Healthy4U – Small Changes, Big Impact.” The complete listing of sessions is on blueView’s Employee tab, along with a registration form.  (Registration is preferred, but not required.)

—Debra Wiley, Human Resources

Faculty/Staff Fitness Assessments
Recreational Services will be conducting fitness assessments for interested faculty and staff in January. A fitness assessment is a valuable tool for evaluating your health and fitness, including cardiovascular, strength endurance, and flexibility. Tests include the YMCA Step Test, push-ups, curl-ups (sit-ups), and sit-and-reach test. A body composition is included with this assessment as well. For more information please contact Linda Feiden, assistant director wellness & engagement, at linda.feiden@drake.edu or 271-1880.

Weight Watchers at Work
Weight Watchers at Work’s unique mix of face to face interaction with a trained leader, group support, accountability, digital tools, and the convenience of meetings in the workplace has been a winning combination for many. Weekly meetings include a confidential weigh-in followed by a 30-minute class. Class dates, times, and locations TBD. If interested in more information please contact Linda Feiden.

Get Up: Stand Up* 
Feb. 8, 10–11 a.m., Olmsted 310/311
How much time do you spend sitting at your desk, commuting, and relaxing at home? Excessive sitting is directly related to heart disease, Type II Diabetes, and various cancers. Learn how to get moving throughout the day to boost your physical and emotional health. You will identify health risks associated with a sedentary lifestyle, learn ways to ‘accidentally’ exercise throughout the day, and set S.M.A.R.T. goals and strategies to increase physical activity. Join Traci Stumbo, EFR, for this “moving” presentation!

Healthy4U – Small Changes, Big Impact (Part 3) *
Feb. 15, 10–11 a.m., Olmsted 312/313
If you have ever tried to read a food nutrition label, determine how big a serving of meat really is, or wondered how to eat healthy at a restaurant, this class is for you.  Dietitian Lucas Flaherty along with Ellen Lowe will cover exercise and protein + water in the third class of this four-part series. Attendance at prior Healthy4U sessions is not required.

Club Ped 10,000 Step Program
Feb. 13–April 23
Walking is one of the easiest ways to get active and stay active. This 10-week program is designed to help you get moving. The ultimate goal is 10,000 steps a day and Club Ped can get you there! Be on the lookout for more information in OnCampus soon!

Couch to 5K
Feb. 20–April 23
If you would like an extra challenge this spring, then the Couch to 5K (also known as C25K) may be for you. This program is designed to take almost anyone from the couch to completing a 5K (3.1 miles) with an easy-to-follow, nine-week program. Our goal is to form a team and complete the Drake Relays 5K Road Race in April. Join Ellen Lowe and Linda Feiden on this journey!

CPR/AED/First Aid Course
Feb. 28 and March 1, 1–3 p.m., Olmsted 310
This FREE instructor-led course will teach you how to respond to first aid, breathing, and cardiac emergencies. Includes hands on practice of lifesaving skills and certification for those who successfully complete the course. The four-hour course is taught over two days by Chris Nickell, director, environmental health & safety. Minimum of four and maximum of 10 per class. Please email Linda Feiden to register.

Profile Weight Loss Plan by Sanford Health
March 7, 10–11 a.m., Olmsted 310/311
Whether you are just beginning your weight loss journey or have been struggling for years, Profile may be able to help you meet your goals. A weight loss coach will help you develop a plan to not only lose weight, but also incorporate positive nutrition, activity, and lifestyle behaviors, enabling you to maintain a healthy lifestyle. In addition, you will be given a scale that electronically transmits your weight to your Profile coach from the privacy of your home! If interested in learning more, please contact Linda Feiden to attend this presentation.

Chair Massages
Step away from your work and take a 10 or 20-minute vacation with a relaxing chair massage from licensed massage therapist Anne Boal.

• Feb. 28: Cline Hall Room 127, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
• March 1: Aliber Hall Room 204, 2–4 p.m.
• April 12: Olmsted Center, Drake Room, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
• April 13: Cowles Library Collier Heritage Room, 2–4 p.m.

Cost is $10 for 10 minutes (correct change cash or check). One name will be drawn from each month’s event, and that person will receive a free 10-minute chair massage! Please contact Linda Feiden for more information.

Healthy4U – Small Changes, Big Impact (Part 4) *
April 11, 10–11 a.m., Olmsted 312/313
If you have ever tried to read a food nutrition label, determine how big a serving of meat really is, or wondered how to eat healthy at a restaurant, this class is for you. Dietitian Lucas Flaherty will cover labels, menu planning, grocery shopping, and dining out in the final class of this four-part series. Attendance at prior Healthy4U sessions is not required.

Other Wellness Offerings

• Bone density testing, health coaching, Rx reviews, and blood pressure checks by the CPHS
• 1-on-1 nutritional sessions with Lucas Flaherty (Sodexo Dietitian)
• Healthy BINGO this spring or summer

Wellness Screenings
Details about the 2017 wellness screenings and online assessment will be announced in early 2017.

* denotes a class pre-approved for BUILD credit. More information can be found in blueView.

For more information on any of these programs please contact Linda Feiden at linda.feiden@drake.edu.

—Linda Feiden, Human Resources

Nine new staff members joined the Drake family in November:

Lutricia Hemping, Public Safety
David Rudzik, Facilities Planning & Management
Thomas Borror, Facilities Planning & Management
Sean Ingrassia, Athletics
Blake Boldon, Athletics
Matthew Probasco, Finance & Administration
Nate Reagen, President’s Office
Stephanie Dana, Drake International
Jasey Rebarcak, Head Start

Recreational Services will conduct fitness assessments for interested faculty and staff the following dates and times in the Bell Center Fitness Testing Room:

• Jan. 9, 3–5p.m.
• Jan. 11, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
• Jan. 12, 8–10 a.m.

A fitness assessment is a valuable tool for evaluating your overall health and fitness, including your cardiovascular, strength endurance, and flexibility. Tests include the YMCA Step Test, push-ups, curl-ups (sit-ups), and a sit-and-reach test. A body composition is included as well. The entire assessment takes approximately 30 minutes.

For more information please email Linda Feiden at linda.feiden@drake.edu.

—Linda Feiden, Human Resources

Weight Watchers’ unique mix of face-to-face interaction with a trained leader, group support, accountability, digital tools, and the convenience of meetings in the workplace have been a winning combination for many of your co-workers at Drake. It is time to bring it back!

The cost is normally $156 for the 12-week or $186 for the 17-week renewable series, but Weight Watchers is holding a special limited time offer. From Jan. 1 through Jan. 31, anyone who joins a Weight Watchers at Work series will receive a 15 percent discount off the regular price. A minimum of 15 participants is required to hold 12-week series and 20 for the 17-week a program.

Weekly meetings include a confidential weigh-in followed by a 30-minute class. Class dates, times, and locations TBD.

If you are interested in attending a Weight Watchers at Work series, please contact Linda Feiden at linda.feiden@drake.edu.

—Linda Feiden, Human Resources

If there’s one thing we share in common in this world, it is stress. While there is no such thing as eliminating all stress, there are ways you can minimize and manage stress to increase satisfaction and improve productivity in the workplace. Johanna Dunlevy will guide participants to identify stress and the best ways to respond when under pressure. You’ll also learn the difference between stress and burn out, identify ways to respond to stressors to avoid burnout, and discover the stress management techniques that you respond to best.

Join us Dec. 8 from 9 to 11 a.m. in Olmsted Center, Rooms 310-311, for this informative presentation!

Participants will earn two BUILD (Bulldogs United in Learning Drake) credits.

Pre-registration is not required, but recommended. The registration form for this class is accessible through the blueView Employee tab, in the Learning and Development Channel under Human Resources, or by clicking here. Please email debra.wiley@drake.edu for more information.

—Linda Feiden, Human Resources