The University of Iowa has long made the health and well being of its students and employees a priority. Now that commitment has paid off.

The UI was among nine recipients June 18 of the Healthy Iowa Award given each year by the Iowa Department of Public Health and the Healthiest State Initiative. The award recognizes the outstanding achievements of schools, businesses, individuals, colleges, and universities in Iowa. UI received the award in the university category.

“It’s a testament to the university’s commitment to health and wellness,” says Trisha Welter, senior behavioral health consultant in Student Health and Wellness. “We have dietitians and health coaches that meet with employees and students one-on-one to discuss healthy eating strategies that  will help them accomplish their goals.

“We also offer incentive programs to employees and students,” she adds.

The Healthiest State Initiative is a privately led, public effort to engage Iowans and their communities throughout the state. It was started in 2011 by Gov. Terry Branstad.

Last year, the UI offered reimbursement for registration fees to employees who formed  Live Healthy Iowa teams. More than 1,000 faculty and staff participated in the effort, logging more than 43,691 hours of activity. 

“We’re encouraging physical activity and the use of our health resources,” says Welter.

The UI Campus Recreation and Wellness Center offers students and employees a wide variety of exercise and recreational facilities, including a climbing wall, swimming pools, a diving well, basketball and volleyball courts, an indoor track, saunas, free weights, and various cardio machines. 

Located at the north entrance of the CRWC is the Power Café, which serves smoothies, sandwiches, and wraps for pre- or post-workout fuel. The café’s menu is also a part of the UChoose program. 

​
UChoose criteria

• Less than 10% calories from saturated fat
• Zero trans fat
• Low calories
  < 700 for meals
  < 525 for entrees
  < 175 for sides/snacks
• Low sodium
  < 800mg for meals
  < 600mg for entrees
  < 200mg for sides/snacks
• Beverages
  < 40 calories per container
  < 140mg sodium

The UChoose program helps customers identify healthy menu options by placing the UChoose apple logo next to select items. The Healthy Campus Nutrition Advisory Group developed the criteria for the program active across campus so menus in both market places, Campus Cafés, and C-Stores feature UChoose apple icons. 

In August, a tobacco-free policy will take effect at the UI to expand on the campus’ smoke-free policy.

Welter says all of these efforts are aimed at creating a lasting change in the habits and lifestyles of people in the community.

“It’s about creating a culture of health,” she says.  

The UI is also certified as a Blue Zone worksite, which means the Blue Zones Project has identified the university as a place where people are encouraged to and can easily make healthy lifestyle choices. Some Iowa City businesses listed as Blue Zone work sites include the Bread Garden Market and local restaurants Nodo and Oasis Falafel.

Welter is happy with the progress that has been made but reiterates the importance of involving even more of the community in this cultural shift. 

“Ultimately, we want to maintain our effective programs and make a healthy lifestyle more appealing to a wider audience,” she says.