The SoWell committee is a group dedicated to promoting social and wellness activities for staff and faculty. It focuses on building community through events that encourage connection, relaxation, and well-being. All COE faculty and staff, whether they are working onsite or remotely, are encouraged to participate in its events. COE faculty and staff are welcome to join the committee at any time.

Monthly Meetings

The committee meets monthly—both on Zoom and in person—to plan upcoming activities, review past events, and discuss new ideas. Events it has organized include events to welcome the new school year, mindful movement sessions, seasonal festivities like a fall fun fest, creative contests, and initiatives such as a gratitude tree. It also explores budget-saving strategies and considers partnerships for events like college-wide recognition luncheons and group outings, such as biking or art museum tours.

Performance Guidelines

The SoWell Committee plans and promotes social and wellness events and activities to create a culture of physical and emotional health for our faculty and staff. It uses the following as guidance and key performance measures:

  • Workplace engagement of faculty and staff (from Working at Iowa survey)
  • Faculty retention (excluding retirements)
  • Staff retention (excluding retirements)
  • Be Mindful of those working from home and think about ways to include everyone

Events List

Fall

  • August: Ice Cream Social, Fantasy Football
  • September: Snack Attack
  • October: Door Decorating Contest, Homecoming Week Big Eat Potluck, Homecoming Week Black and Gold Day
  • November: Gratitude Tree
  • December: Staff Lunch with Staff Council

Spring

  • January: Snack Attack, National Fun at Work Day
  • February: Candy Grams, Kindness Treats, Souper Bowl Lunch with Dessert Competition and Game Winner Picks
  • March: March Madness NCAA Tournament
  • April: SoWell Well
  • May: Fun Fest

2026-2027Members
  • Dorian Aragon
  • Lisa Bunn
  • Paige Carlson
  • Meredith Caskey
  • Kai Clemons
  • Kate Fox
  • Elizabeth Holm
  • Betsy Justis
  • Sarah Lobb
  • Karla Madrigal
  • Patricia Martin
  • Renae Miller
  • Rachel Wallace

 

 

SoWell Committee Suggestion Box

Contact us at sowell-committee@uiowa.edu or use the convenient form below. 

If you wish to be responded to, please include your email address. Otherwise, your communication will be anonymous. Your suggestion will be sent to the committee's chair.