LEXINGTON, Ky. — The University of Kentucky is seeking employees to serve as Well-Being Champions in a bid to strengthen workplace wellness efforts across campus, according to a university announcement. Applications are being accepted through July 10 for the 2026-27 fiscal year.

The Well-Being Champions program is designed to empower passionate employees to champion individual and collective well-being efforts at the college and unit level. The initiative combines a university-wide approach with customized solutions and support tailored to specific departments and areas. Current champions number around 60, according to the university.

"By empowering employees to support their colleagues locally, we're strengthening a culture where well-being is part of everyday experience," said Jody Ensman, UK Human Resources manager of employee well-being.

Being a champion requires a one-year commitment with a modest time investment of two to four hours per month. Champions help implement the CATS cornerstones: communicate, activate, transform and support employees. The HR Health and Wellness office provides online training and one-on-one consultation to equip new champions with necessary skills and knowledge.

All faculty and staff members are encouraged to apply, though supervisor approval is required to ensure participation aligns with applicants' primary work responsibilities. The application process is self-nomination, and a committee will review submissions to select new champions.

Kaleb Grey, an associate department administrator in Emergency Medicine, highlighted the impact of the role. "I became a Well-Being Champion because I wanted to help nurture the culture our department has worked so hard to create, one where taking care of ourselves and each other is viewed as a priority, not an afterthought," Grey said.

Ella Muchovic, a department administrator in Emergency Medicine, noted the positive effects on her team. "It has strengthened team engagement and created opportunities for meaningful connection beyond our day-to-day work," she said. "One of the biggest successes has been our Wellness Bingos. These activities have encouraged healthier habits, sparked conversations about well-being and fostered a supportive environment where team members motivate one another."

Champions receive branded gear and funding for department-specific well-being offerings. They also network with other champions from around the university and receive mid-year meetings with updates and mini-trainings. After their year-long commitment, champions have the opportunity to renew.

For more information about becoming a champion, employees can visit the UK HR Health and Wellness website or contact wellness specialist Kendyl Redding at Kendyl.Redding@uky.edu.