ASU Employee Wellness screenings, classes make new year healthier

At the beginning of the new year, many Sun Devils renew their focus on health and wellness. Arizona State University benefits-eligible employees may improve their health at little or no cost this new year. Whether committing to a new healthy path or continuing to be healthy and active, there is something for everyone.

Classes and screenings address physical, mental and emotional health. Classes are held during lunch on all campuses, and morning mini health screenings offer immediate results. View and sign up for classes. Sign up to receive monthly email updates about wellness on your campus.

Three ASU employees took advantage of these benefits and made healthier choices that positively impacted their lives.

Health education can change your life

For Joe Beuther, a Parking and Transit Services office specialist, attending a screening was a wake-up call. Four years ago, Joe was unhealthy and unhappy. After attending a mini health screening, Joe lost more than 100 pounds and has a new outlook on life. Beuther attributes what he calls a “miracle” to getting healthy in all aspects of his life.

“I’ll never be 21 years old again, but I can do things now that I couldn’t do four years ago,” Beuther said. “The encouragement and support of the wellness office had a positive impact on my life, and I’m much easier to be around these days.” 

Liz Badalamenti, ASU Employee Wellness program manager, said Beuther’s numbers keep getting better.

“The screenings are an easy way to regularly track your health and wellness so you know when adjustments are needed,” Badalamenti said.

Tom Dobrick, Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering HR specialist, first participated in a regularly scheduled mini health screening three years ago and improved over time. He was impressed with the compassionate, educated staff members.

“The first screening I attended was easy to schedule, available on campus, well-organized and took a minimal amount of time,” he said. “I encourage even those who think they’re healthy to take advantage of this service.”

Employees like Delia Saenz, psychology associate professor, participate in screenings and classes as part of her healthy lifestyle.

“Attending the screenings and various classes supports my healthy lifestyle. I’ve learned skills for stress management, organizational skills and received motivation to stay on track,” she said. “I appreciate that the program is free, high-quality, conveniently located and there’s ongoing support.”

Saenz also participates in the Health Impact Program. The incentive-based program rewards benefits-eligible employees with as much as $200 when they participate in screenings or classes.

Classes include healthy eating, physical fitness and mental health. Whether cooking in or eating out, healthy eating can be fun and affordable. Employee fitness classes are abundant and diverse, and more classes are available at Sun Devil Fitness Centers. Mental and emotional health are all part of a healthy lifestyle.

A full listing of screenings and classes for ASU employees is available on ASU Events.