Success Story: Statistics Department
The Statistics Department is the newest
Certified Healthy Department at GVSU. Kay Hart, Office Coordinator, spoke on behalf of the department on how they created a fun, active, and empowering atmosphere encouraging each other to make healthy choices on a daily basis.
The Statistics Department was very excited to receive their Healthy Department Certification and proudly display their certificate on the wall. Employees utilize GVSU's Campus Recreation services and facility, as well as the Health and Wellness faculty/staff programs, including the Team Up to Be Active Challenge and
faculty/staff fitness classes. They also enjoy walking or running outside during their lunch breaks and before or after work.
Kay states, "Our department focuses on balance." For example, faculty seminars within their department include healthy snack options like a protein, fruits, and vegetables with the traditional cookie to ensure choices. Even with the occasional sweets, Kay’s co-workers motivate each other and hold each other accountable to their goals.
The Statistics Department also creates fun ways to be active outside of work. One way is by holding a golf outing in August. This event provides a team-building atmosphere and is a great way to kick-start the new school year. Another activity includes gathering for an outdoor picnic at a park. These are fun ways to energize the group mentally and physically. Kay's advice to her fellow faculty and staff members striving for a healthier lifestyle is "Start small." Kay says "Start to eat healthier, then once you feel comfortable add in moderate exercise. Keep building, don't throw yourself in all at once. It takes time!"
