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

  • June: Summer Fun Fest
  • August: Ice Cream Social
  • September/October/November: Mindfulness Movement with Yoga
  • October: Homecoming Week
  • November: Gratitude Tree
  • December: Co-sponsored staff luncheon with Staff Council

Spring

  • January: Healthy Week – Healthy start to 2025
  • February: Random Acts of Kindness Week – Candygrams
  • February: Souper Bowl Lunch
  • March: March Madness Bracket
  • April: Staff Appreciation Day
  • May: Biking Event
  • Summer: Iowa Tours

2024-2025 Members
  • Betsy Justis
  • Chris Annicella
  • Delaney Thoma
  • Dorian Argon-Jacques
  • Elizabeth Holm
  • Kai Clemons
  • Lisa Bunn
  • Meredith Caskey
  • Michelle Hayes
  • Patricia Martin
  • Renae Miller

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.