Better Me

2009 Winner of the Wealth of Health Award

Better Me at RIT

Employee health is very important to Rochester Institute of Technology. The Better Me wellness program is provided for all employees and they are encouraged to explore and learn more about healthy lifestyles. The program is guided by the Better Me Committee, representing a variety of services available within the University. See out brochure for more info, Program Brochure.

There are many benefits to investing in an employee wellness program. We recognize that by providing employees with resources to maintain their good health, and by educating employees about making personal choices that promote good health, we can help to:

enhance your quality of life,
improve your effectiveness at work and at home,
reduce unintended absences due to illness or chronic health problems,
slow the increasing cost of health care, and
demonstrate our commitment to all employees.

RIT has quickly become a leader in employee wellness - offering a strong core of wellness opportunities to our employees. For instance, RIT boasts a state-of-the-art fitness facility as well as personal training, a wide variety of fitness and wellness classes, Weight Watchers, and services through Excellus BlueCross BlueShield and the Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

Small Changes Make a Big Difference

Here are some simple—and small—steps you can take toward better health and wellness:

Step it up. Track your steps and add 2,000 steps to your daily routine. Wear a pedometer to keep track. Take the stairs instead of the elevator and walk to places close to home instead of driving.
Make calories count. Bypass sugary sodas and reach for low fat or fat free milk instead. Milk offers more nutrients per penny than almost any other beverage option in the supermarket—providing key vitamins and minerals like calcium and vitamin D. Studies even suggest that milk drinkers tend to have healthier diets and are likely to be leaner than people who drink little or no milk. While companies have tried to duplicate milk’s benefits in manufactured beverages, none are as wholesome and naturally nutritious as milk.
Rise and dine. Don’t skip breakfast to cut calories or time. Studies show that people who eat breakfast are most likely to maintain a healthy weight.
Pat yourself on the back. Reward yourself for making small changes—it can motivate you to make even more.
Set the stage for success. Create an environment that supports healthy behaviors. Stock the pantry and refrigerator with healthy foods, and keep them in front, so you’ll reach for them first. Keep a pair of walking shoes in your office so you can take that walk at lunch—or even better—recruit a co-worker to walk with you. You’re much more likely to succeed with a buddy.