Although the wellness program's mission and organization still is being fine-tuned by Espinoza, Dusselier and an advisory committee, Espinoza said the program will be more than aerobics and other kinds of fitness classes. Wellness also can include research, education and assistance in such areas as stress management, nutrition, dental care, smoking cessation or cholesterol testing. Espinoza, who researched wellness programs at other schools before she opened the search for a wellness director at ISU, said wellness programs are not a standard benefit at all schools yet. Dusselier's job is to build relationships between Iowa State and existing programs in Ames and Des Moines. She also will work with ISU's health and dental insurance carriers to provide helpful education materials to employees.
Wellness is more about balance in one's life.
Balance helps make us all happier and more productive. Former ISU employee Lisa Safaenili developed the first proposal for a wellness program following 1993 employee survey results that indicated 45 percent of respondents were overweight and 33 percent had high cholesterol. While the program is a test, Espinoza said utilization is a benchmark for its success. For more information or to make an appointment with Dusselier, call 4-3240.