Wellness and Work-Life Blog

Introduces common causes for everyday aches and pains, along with simple solutions for promoting pain-free living. Taught by certified health and life coach Dr. Abby Horton. Additional resources: Hinge Health

Briefly introduce yourself and share a bit about your background.  As Associate Director of Transportation Services (Transit), I, James Knickrehm, oversee the daily operations for The University of Alabama’s transportation programs, Crimson Ride and Crimson Concierge. My dedicated staff and I work closely with all UA stakeholders to safely transport all campus riders efficiently and…

We’re excited to introduce the newest group of WellBAMA Ambassadors! These faculty and staff members were selected through an application process this summer and will serve a two-year term from August 2025 to July 2027. Ambassadors were chosen based on their interest in promoting wellness, their involvement on campus, and their desire to encourage a…

I’m Dr. Abby Grammer Horton—nurse educator, researcher, and passionate advocate for wellness and the nursing profession. As an Assistant Professor at The University of Alabama’s Capstone College of Nursing, I have the privilege of teaching and mentoring students in both undergraduate and graduate programs. I also serve as President of the Alabama State Nurses Association,…

Between June 2nd and June 20th, UA employees had the opportunity to focus on their physical activity and sleep habits with the Summer Steps and Solid Sleep MoveSpring challenge. 283 people signed up within the MoveSpring app in hopes to move more during the day and sleep better at night! The Challenge: Participants were encouraged…

Briefly introduce yourself and share a bit about your background. My husband retired in December 2022 and we moved to Tuscaloosa. I, Tamara Alexander, continued working at “the other UofA (University of Arizona) until May 2023 and started working at UA in June 2023. We have a daughter in Washington DC and a son and…

How to plan, prepare, and care for challenges related to aging. Topics covered include care giving fatigue, aging-related health concerns, and aging-related stress.

Whether you’re a cat person, a dog person, a bird person, or choose to find companionship with another animal, you know how much a pet can make you smile and laugh. You also know that other people love talking about their pets and sharing pictures. Enter the Legendary Pet Contest! In efforts to encourage connection…

Looking for a new way to make a positive impact at The University of Alabama? Consider applying to become a WellBAMA Ambassador—a unique leadership opportunity for faculty and staff who are passionate about wellness and creating a healthier workplace. What Is a WellBAMA Ambassador? WellBAMA Ambassadors serve as wellness champions within their departments, helping connect…

Briefly introduce yourself and share a bit about your background. Hi! My name is Taylor Patronas and I currently serve as the Coordinator for University Programs. I’m a 2x graduate of UA and have been in Tuscaloosa since 2015. I enjoy being outdoors, coffee and my cats! Describe the starting point of your journey and…

Looking for a simple way to boost your energy, reduce stress, and enjoy a break in your day? Our Mid-Morning Walking Group is the perfect midweek pick-me-up. We meet every Wednesday between 10–11 AM in the front of steps at Gorgas Library, and you’re welcome to join anytime during that hour. Whether you walk for…

At the core of every thriving workplace is a culture of kindness.  At UA, we’re proud to see that spirit shine brightly.  This semester, the response to Kindness Champions has been nothing short of inspiring.  From small gestures that made someone’s day to extraordinary effort that lifted an entire team, these nominations remind us that…

Briefly introduce yourself and share a bit about your background.  I am the Compliance Operations Director in the Office of Compliance, Ethics, and Regulatory Affairs (CERA), and I have been at UA for almost 16 years. My primary responsibilities include managing the University’s compliance and ethics training programs, coordinating communications for CERA, and providing oversight…

Wednesday, May 21st, is World Meditation Day and whether you have a regular meditation routine or you’ve never meditated in your life, we encourage you to take 5 minutes to breathe and recharge. What even is meditation? You may be surprised to learn that meditation is not just about sitting on the floor, breathing, and…

Discover practical tips, nutritional guidance, and strategies to confidently navigate the physical and emotional changes of perimenopause. Taught by Suzanne Henson, Registered Dietitian at University Medical Center.

Briefly introduce yourself and share a bit about your background.  A Tuscaloosa native, I have two degrees from the University of Alabama and am the Director of Alabama Heritage magazine. My husband and I have five adult children and a sassy beagle named Belle. Describe the starting point of your journey and the factors that…

Identify your top core values and discuss how you can bring out your strengths and help others do the same.

Briefly introduce yourself and share a bit about your background.  I’ve been happily married for 43 years and am proud to have two grown sons named Christopher and Kyle, both of whom are married to wonderful women named Beth and Emma. At home, I share my life with two beloved dogs, Thor and Mindy, while…

Preparing you for continued health after 40. Topics covered include recommended medical visits, testing, vaccinations, tailored nutrition and exercise for those 40 years and older. All ages are welcome! It is never too early to plan for continued health.

On a Friday night in early April, UA faculty and staff members, their families, students, and the larger community lined up on the start line outside Bryant-Denny Stadium. The Crimson Couch to 5K brought almost 400 runners and walkers to the Walk of Champions to test their physical and mental limits and support others in…