On October 27, we held the Inaugural Department of Medicine Awards Ceremony, which highlighted the incredible faculty and staff providing outstanding patient care, advancing research, educating future generations, and supporting our department's many missions. We received almost 400 nominations. Even more meaningful than the number of nominations was the stories shared of colleagues going above and beyond, supporting one another and making a difference in ways both large and small. This is one of the ways we hope to build a culture where everyone feels seen, appreciated, and valued for the contributions they make.

Let's keep gratitude going as we enter National Gratitude Month. November invites us to pause, reflect, and practice gratitude in small but meaningful ways. Taking a moment each day to notice what we appreciate can help us stay grounded, mindful, and connected to the people and moments that matter most.  WashU Medicine’s Move into Mindfulness programs are designed to help reduce stress, increase focus, and develop practical coping skills. Beginner and advanced classes are offered year-round at no cost to WashU employees. Visit their webpage to explore programs, events, and the mindfulness library.

Rakhee Bhayani, MD
Vice Chair for Wellness and Engagement

DOM Faculty Awardees
Carol Green/WashU Medicine

DOM StaffAwardees
Carol Green/WashU Medicine

November is National Family Caregivers Month, a time to recognize and honor the millions of people who provide care, support, and love to family members and friends every day.

Caregivers are the quiet strength behind so many lives. They help with appointments, medications, meals, transportation, and countless other tasks, often while balancing work, school, and their own responsibilities. Their compassion, patience, and dedication make an immeasurable difference.

WashU has multiple resources to help employees with caregiving including:

Just a reminder that Benefits Open Enrollment runs November 2 - November 13, 2026.  Open enrollment is your opportunity to review your WashU health and insurance benefits and make any changes to your elections so you’re enrolled in the plans that are best for you and your family in 2027. We encourage you to take time before open enrollment begins to learn about the changes and how they may affect you.  Visit the Open Enrollment website to enroll or make changes.

Please email Jennifer Mosher if you have questions or suggestions for future issues 
or would like to join the Well-Being Council.