For the third straight year, the Island Hospital Employee Wellness Committee has been chosen as a Zo8 Award winner by the Washington State Health Care Authority. The Zo8 award is given to Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) organizations for their achievement in building and growing a sustainable wellness program. Employee Wellness organizes a number of activities for IH staff including a seasonal farm stand, wellness challenges and exercise classes.

In addition, IH Employee Wellness was recognized as one of five honorable mention recipients for the coveted Golden Apple Award at the Healthy Worksite Summit this past March. The Golden Apple Awards recognizes outstanding employee health promotion programs among public and private employers in Washington State.

The Employee Wellness Committee has been under the leadership of Suzie DuPuis RD since its inception in 2006. In June 2019, DuPuis will be retire after 32 years of service at Island Hospital. DuPuis was instrumental in establishing the seasonal farm stand at Island Hospital along with providing numerous opportunities for employees to develop healthier lifestyles. Barb LeDuc, Community Relations Coordinator, who has served on the committee for the past eight years, will transition into DuPuis’ chairman role on the committee.

Pictured above are Employee Wellness members (back row, left to right) Mary Beth Robinson RD, Carolyn Pape, Sarah Stewart (former employee), and Melissa Reed; and (front row) Barb LeDuc and Suzie DuPuis RD. Not pictured are: Allison Carson, Kate Edwards, Sean McManus, Brad Ogden, Dennis Richards and Angie Sage.