VCU news

By Amelia Heymann

For its commitment to faculty and staff well-being, Virginia Commonwealth University was recognized recently by the American Heart Association and by Sports Backers, which promotes active lifestyles in the Richmond area.

The American Heart Association awarded VCU a national silver-level designation on its 2022 Workforce Well-being Scorecard, which highlights institutions for their commitment to employee health. The scorecard evaluates factors such as mental health policies, organizational well-being strategies to address burnout, and health equity measures to assess an institution’s culture of health. In 2022, 381 organizations completed the scorecard, and 32% received a silver designation.

VCU also has once again been recognized as an Active RVA-Certified Workplace. Sponsored by Sports Backers, the program honors employers and schools in the Richmond area that have innovative initiatives promoting physical activity. VCU is one of 31 employers in the area receiving the award.

The two recent designations highlight the commitment of VCU Human Resources to making the university an employer that embraces work-life balance and a holistic view of well-being. Its RamStrong initiative is a comprehensive resource for physical, emotional, financial, occupational, intellectual, environmental, social and spiritual well-being.

“VCU's RamStrong program offers a multitude of resources for all eight dimensions of well-being, including live and on-demand programs focusing on specific topics and always-available resources and support,” said Cindi Phares, VCU HR’s program manager for employee recognition and well-being.

One of VCU Human Resources efforts for overall employee health and welfare is the program RamStrong. It is a comprehensive resource for physical, emotional, financial, occupational, intellectual, environmental, social and spiritual well being.

Some of the services offered by RamStrong include:

• TimelyCare offers 24/7 access to virtual care for emotional and mental health support.
• RecWell (Recreation and Well-being) prioritizes interaction and learning through activity, with programs ranging from group exercise to training certifications.
• Employee Health Services has locations on the Monroe Park and MCV campuses that address health needs and provide clinical guidance.

For more about the services VCU offers to faculty and staff, please visit ramstrong.vcu.edu/.