Events

Large Turnout for Making Strides Event

Posted on October 19, 2016October 21, 2016 by Carolyn Pennington

Survivors tent sponsored by UConn Health.
Survivors Tent sponsored by UConn Health.
Speaking during the event was a Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center patient.
Members of Team UConn Health Husky Heroes.

UConn spirit and pride was evident with the largest team turn out ever for the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Hartford event on Sunday, Oct. 16at Bushnell Park. Team UConn Health Husky Heroes proudly joined 5,500 walkers to help raise over $280,000 to support the American Cancer Society in the fight against breast cancer. The team was comprised of patients, caregivers, friends, staff and families. It was a beautiful autumn day and UConn Health once again had the honor of sponsoring the Survivor Tent which offered survivors delicious food, tips and advice, special goody bags, and a space to interact with other survivors. One of the speakers at the event was a Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center patient whose story for the opening ceremony was impactful and moving. She was able to share the experience with her family and caregivers, providing inspiration and hope to all participants. Thank you to all who raised funds, volunteered their time in so many different ways, and continue to support important events like Making Strides.

Fall Festival 2016 Photo Gallery

Posted on October 7, 2016October 12, 2016 by Tina Encarnacion

The fall festival features favorite autumn eats and the annual Pumpkin Palooza decorating contest. Photos by Janine Gelineau.

Congratulations to our Pumpkin Palooza winners!

1st place

Department of Immunology — “Be Wise and Immunize”

Deborah Daversa, Sally Hatzenbuhler, Karen Morris, and Kimberly Young

2nd place

Health Marketing and Communications — “Emoji-Palooza”

Tina Encarnacion, Sheryl Rosen, and Kristin Wallace

3rd place

The Graduate Office — “Coffee and Donuts”

Carrie Berlepsch, Tracy Dieli, Barbara Kream, Dorothy Linnhoff, Lynn Puddington, and Stephanie Rauch

Successful Survivors Day at UConn Health

Posted on September 28, 2016September 29, 2016 by Carolyn Pennington

From left, Dr. Susan Tannenbaum, division chief of hematology oncology, and Abigail O'Brien, senior director of development at the UConn Foundation and breast cancer survivor, spoke during the event.

The 19th annual Survivors Day event was held Sunday, Sept. 18 in the new Academic Rotunda at UConn Health. Abigail O’Brien, senior director of development for the UConn Foundation and a breast cancer survivor, kicked off the morning by inspiring guests to celebrate and “live life like you’re dying.” She introduced Dr. Susan Tannenbaum, division chief of hematology oncology in the Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center. Dr. Tannenbaum reminded the audience to reflect on not only the patients as survivors but the caregivers as survivors who are strong and resilient and are in the fight together with patients. Close to 200 survivors with their caregivers, family, faculty and support staff enjoyed brunch before creating beautiful drawings of a butterfly – a symbol of endurance, change, hope and life. The art piece was made possible by CT Art School in South Windsor, which had six instructors on staff to help narrate and assist with the drawing. Attendees also got a chance to paint portions of a mural that will later be displayed in the cancer center. The event ended with nearly each survivor receiving a basket or gift card compliments of the generous UConn community.

UConn Health 2016 Commencement Preview

Posted on May 5, 2016May 5, 2016 by Carolyn Pennington

Charles Osgood will be the 2016 UConn Health Commencement speaker.

It’s been 45 years since UConn Health’s first commencement. On Monday, May 9, the Class of 2016 graduates and will add 82 physicians and 35 dentists to the roster of those with M.D. and D.M.D. degrees earned at UConn Health. The total now numbers 3,398 physicians and 1,620 dentists.

The ceremony also recognizes graduates from multiple UConn Health-based programs such as Biomedical Science, Dental Science, Clinical and Translational Research and Public Health.

This year’s commencement speaker is Emmy award-winning newsman Charles Osgood. His daily program, “The Osgood File,” has been broadcast on the CBS Radio Network since 1971. He’s also been anchor of the two-time Daytime Emmy Award- winning “CBS News Sunday Morning” since 1994. His stories typically focus on those who have demonstrated heroism, innovation, humanism, and determination in their lives. Osgood will be awarded the degree of Doctorate of Humane Letters during the ceremony.

The three student speakers this year are medical student Alex Hennessey, dental student Jeffrey Pan, and graduate student Daniel Ray.

Marc Lalande, founding chair of the Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences at UConn Health, will receive the Board of Directors Faculty Recognition Award.

Commencement will kick off at 1 p.m. in the Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts in Storrs. For more information, including directions, go to the Student Affairs & Activities website.

Photo Gallery: Health, Safety and Environment Fair

Posted on April 8, 2016April 11, 2016 by Tina Encarnacion

The 2016 Health, Safety and Environment Fair was a huge success with hundreds of UConn Health employees stopping by the Food Court to learn more about being healthier, safer, and environmentally aware. They also got a chance to play some games, meet Jonathan the Husky mascot, and take photos with the 2016 NCAA Women’s Basketball trophy.

Open house tours were held for employees and the public in the days leading up to the opening of the new hospital.

Help Support the 7th Annual White Coat Gala

Posted on March 3, 2016March 3, 2016 by Carolyn Pennington

We are pleased to announce the 7th Annual White Coat Gala to benefit UConn Health on April 16, 2016 at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford. This very special event brings together our entire community—grateful patients, friends, donors, faculty, and staff—to celebrate UConn and raise funds to support our mission. Proceeds will benefit our Bioscience Connecticut projects and the Carole and Ray Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center. Read more on UConn Today.

This year’s recipients of the Carole and Ray Neag Medal of Honor for contributions to medicine are:

Bess Economos, co-founder of the Lea’s Foundation for Leukemia Research; and
Pramod K. Srivastava, PhD, MD, director of the Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center.

The evening also will feature UConn student-athlete Ryan Radue, a patient at the Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Interested in attending or helping? There are several ways you can get involved:

BUY Tickets and shop the ONLINE auction: Register online at foundation.uconn.edu/whitecoatgala or call (860) 486-7169.
SPONSOR STUDENTS: Sponsor a table for our medical, dental, and MPH students. A portion of your donation will be directed toward scholarships. Contact Abbie O’Brien at (860) 679-4524 or aobrien@foundation.uconn.edu.
Donate Auction Items: Please contact Emily Auger at eauger@foundation.uconn.edu if you would like to support UConn Health through a donation. Welcome items include golf foursomes, sports tickets, theater tickets, spa/salon services, vacation homes, artwork, and restaurant gift certificates.
Volunteer: Help make the gala a reality. Contact Jess Sokol at (860) 486-2607 or jsokol@foundation.uconn.edu.

We are grateful to our many supporters, including founding title sponsors Richard and Jane Lublin and top sponsors Stanley Black & Decker, Carole and Ray Neag, Robert and Renee Samuels, Shipman & Goodwin, TIAA-CREF, ConnectiCare, and The Creative Mile. Media sponsorship is generously provided by WFSB Channel 3.

So You DO Want to Be in Pictures!

Posted on February 24, 2016February 25, 2016 by Carolyn Pennington

Photographer Janine Gelineau takes the portrait of UConn Health employee Amy Chmielewski during last Friday's casting call. — Photographer Janine Gelineau takes the portrait of UConn Health employee Amy Chmielewski during last Friday’s casting call. (Photo by Frank Barton)

From left, videographers Frank Barton and Ethan Giorgetti interview UConn Health employee Jean Menze. (Photo by Janine Gelineau) — From left, Frank Barton, Ethan Giorgetti and Carolyn Pennington do a videotaped interview with UConn Health employee Jean Menze. (Photo by Janine Gelineau)

When we posted our casting call announcement a few weeks ago we never expected to see so many talented and dynamic employees on audition day last Friday.

Seventy-five people from all corners of the campus showed up – from nurses in the NICU to IT specialists from Munson. They each had their portrait taken and then “performed” in a short video where they told us what they do and why they like doing it – especially at UConn Health. The heart-felt answers were truly inspiring and the energy and enthusiasm contagious.

Some of these truly talented folks will be chosen as extras for a television commercial being filmed on campus March 9, 10 and 11. Others will be seen on our website, flyers, brochures and promotional/educational videos we produce throughout the year. Thanks again to all those who took time from their busy day to take part. For those who couldn’t make it – we’ll catch you next time!

UConn Health January 2016 Programs, Events

Posted on December 16, 2015April 30, 2018 by Chris DeFrancesco

Here is a list of UConn Health programs scheduled for January and early February 2016. This information will be updated with any additions or other schedule changes. (Updated 1/19)

Bladder Cancer Support Group
Saturday, Jan. 2, 2 to 3 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
Patients, family members and caregivers (not limited to UConn Health patients) are invited to join others whose lives have been touched by bladder cancer. This support group, established in partnership with the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network, usually meets on the first Saturday of the month and is the only group of its kind in New England. Call 888-901-BCAN for more information.

Nutrition for a Healthy Heart
Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2 to 4 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion
The UConn Health’s Healthy Nutrition program invites you on a journey to a lower blood pressure, reduced cholesterol and healthier weight. (This workshop usually is offered on the first Wednesday of the month.) Registration fee is $30. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.

Free IVF Information Session
Thursday, Jan. 7, 6 to 8:30 p.m., Cell and Genome Sciences Building, 400 Farmington Ave.
Specialists with the Center for Advanced Reproductive Services lead an informational session about current treatments for infertility, specifically in vitro fertilization (IVF). Each program includes an in-depth explanation of the IVF process, discussion of some of the emotional issues surrounding IVF, and discussion of options for financial planning. Registration is required: ~~860-679-4580~~ 844-467-3483 or www.uconnfertility.com.

Free Hospital Maternity Tours
Saturday, Jan. 9, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m., UConn Health, Main Lobby
A representative will guide you through labor and delivery, postpartum, and the nursery at John Dempsey Hospital. Children and grandparents are welcome. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.

New 6-week “Ready to Lose” Weight Management Program Starts
Tuesday, Jan. 12, 5 to 6 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 2^nd floor east
The introductory session is followed by five weekly sessions through Tuesday, Feb. 16, that include a weigh-in, discussion of progress, and a timely nutrition topic such as eating out strategies, cooking light and right, emotional eating, exercise and activity, and smart shopping. Registration fee is $70, $50 for past participants. Call 800-535-6232 for more information.

Celiac Disease Nutrition Class
Monday, Jan. 18, 8 to 9 a.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion
A registered dietitian leads a discussion for those with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity. This program now is scheduled to meet the third Monday of the month. Fee is $20. Call 800-535-6232 or 860-679-7692 to register or for more information.

Breast-feeding Class
Wednesday, Jan. 20, 7 to 9 p.m.,UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
A certified lactation consultant leads a discussion of topics including the benefits of breast-feeding, how to get started, and how the rest of the family can help the breast-feeding mother as well as how to continue breast-feeding and working. Fee is $25 per couple. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.

(Updated phone number 1/8)
Free IVF Information Session
Thursday, Jan. 21, 6 to 8:30 p.m., Cell and Genome Sciences Building, 400 Farmington Ave.
Specialists with the Center for Advanced Reproductive Services lead an informational session about current treatments for infertility, specifically in vitro fertilization (IVF). Each program includes an in-depth explanation of the IVF process, discussion of some of the emotional issues surrounding IVF, and discussion of options for financial planning. Registration is required: ~~860-679-4580~~ 844-467-3483 or www.uconnfertility.com.

Infertility Peer Support Group
Thursday, Jan. 21, 7 p.m., Center for Advanced Reproductive Services, 2 Batterson Park Road, Farmington.
The Greater Hartford chapter of RESOLVE, a national nonprofit resource for those facing the challenges of infertility, offers support, information and confidential, informal, peer-led discussions on the third Thursday of the month. To learn more or to check for weather-related cancellation, call 860-523-8337.

Childbirth Preparation Class
Saturday, Jan. 23, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
This one-day class covers anatomy and physiology of pregnancy and labor, emotions of pregnancy, nutrition, fetal growth and development, comfort measures for labor, working with unexpected events in labor, cesarean delivery, and practice of relaxation and breathing techniques for labor. Class size is limited to eight couples. Remember to bring two pillows and wear comfortable clothing. Light snack is provided. Fee is $100. Call 800-535-6232 or 860-679-7692 to register or for more information.

Free Workshop: “Things to Consider Before Joining a Research Study”
Monday, Jan. 25, 5 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
The UConn Health Human Subjects Protection Office offers an educational session about the rights and responsibilities of participants in research projects on the last Monday of the month. Registration is required: 860-679-8802 or cagganello@uchc.edu.

(Canceled 1/19)
~~Stroke Survivor Group~~
~~Wednesday, Jan. 27, noon to 1 p.m.~~, UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 3^rd floor
The UConn Health Stroke Center invites stroke survivors, families and caregivers to a monthly group meeting to discuss topics such as prevention, coping methods, support systems, rehabilitation tips, resources, and promoting independence. The Stroke Survivor Group generally meets on the fourth Wednesday of the month. Call 860-679-4846 for more information.

Nutrition for a Healthy Heart
Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2 to 4 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion
The UConn Health’s Healthy Nutrition program invites you on a journey to a lower blood pressure, reduced cholesterol and healthier weight. This workshop usually is offered on the first Wednesday of the month. Registration fee is $30. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.

(Updated phone number 1/8)
Free IVF Information Session
Thursday, Feb. 4, 6 to 8:30 p.m., Cell and Genome Sciences Building, 400 Farmington Ave.
Specialists with the Center for Advanced Reproductive Services lead an informational session about current treatments for infertility, specifically in vitro fertilization (IVF). Each program includes an in-depth explanation of the IVF process, discussion of some of the emotional issues surrounding IVF, and discussion of options for financial planning. Registration is required: ~~860-679-4580~~ 844-467-3483 or www.uconnfertility.com.

Bladder Cancer Support Group
Saturday, Feb. 6, 2 to 3 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
Patients, family members and caregivers (not limited to UConn Health patients) are invited to join others whose lives have been touched by bladder cancer. This support group, established in partnership with the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network, usually meets on the first Saturday of the month and is the only group of its kind in New England. Call 888-901-BCAN for more information.

Breast-feeding Class
Thursday, Feb. 11, 7 to 9 p.m.,UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
A certified lactation consultant leads a discussion of topics including the benefits of breast-feeding, how to get started, and how the rest of the family can help the breast-feeding mother as well as how to continue breast-feeding and working. Fee is $25 per couple. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.

(Added 1/19)
Free Lifestyle Medicine Program: “Lowering Your Cholesterol”
Friday, Feb. 12, noon to 1 p.m., YMCA East Side Branch Community Room, 81 South Elm St., Wallingford
Physician assistant Bradley Biskup from UConn Health’s Lifestyle Medicine Program offers ways to lower cholesterol without medication and discusses power foods that fight cholesterol, supplements, and the impact of exercise. Call the YMCA, 203-269-4497, for more information.

Free Cosmetology Services for Cancer Survivors
Monday, Feb. 15, 1 to 3 p.m., UConn Health, Outpatient Pavilion, 4^th floor
“Look Good…Feel Better” is a free program to help improve the self-image and self-esteem of women experiencing appearance-related side effects from cancer treatment. During this hands-on workshop, a trained volunteer certified cosmetologist will offer self-help instruction and education on hairstyling and coping with hair loss, skin care, makeup and nail care. Wigs, turbans and scarves will also be discussed. Classes are offered every other month and are not limited to UConn Health patients. Registration is required: call 800-227-2345 with your name, program date, phone number, and skin color. Kits are available in Light, Medium, Dark and Extra Dark.

Directions to UConn Health are available at www.uchc.edu/directions/index.html.

UConn Health Honors Its Own

Posted on December 10, 2015December 10, 2015 by Chris DeFrancesco

This fall, UConn Health’s recognition program, supported by the Human Resources Department, hosted a variety of successful events including the Dr. Peter J. Deckers Employee Appreciation Award and the annual celebration of employee years of service. These recognition events serve to highlight the excellence faculty and staff exemplify, every day, across UConn Health.

The sixth annual Dr. Peter J. Deckers Employee Appreciation Award, one of the highest employee award honors, was presented to Susan Garthwait, administrative program coordinator. The award goes to an employee consistently demonstrates passion and commitment, going above and beyond to help meet the goals of the UConn Health.

“Susan has served UConn Health for decades,” John Dempsey Hospital CEO Anne Diamond wrote in her nomination. “Her dedication to improving patient safety and employee engagement through her always positive and creative touch is a true asset to our organization. Susan’s out of the box approach, coupled with her enthusiasm, reaches all levels of the organization in a positive way. Additionally, Susan’s work is being circulated and recognized nationally as a best practice by our High Reliability consulting group, HPI.”

UConn Health’s High Reliability consultant, Steve Kreiser, says, “Susan’s dedicated efforts in the production of the Friday Flyer newsletter has helped to message our mission of safety, quality and satisfaction across the organization, helping to reduce complacency and raise risk awareness.”

The three other finalists for the Deckers Award were:

Qi Cheng, IT project manager, Strategic Projects and Clinical Systems
Elaine Chojnowski, executive staff assistant, Dean of School of Dental Medicine
Greg Sznaj, budget director, Budget and Data Analytics

Donald Carr celebrates 30 years of service at UConn Health. (Photo by Eric Sullivan)

“I’m delighted and honored to be presented with an award in Dr. Deckers’ name,” Garthwait says.

Milestone Years of Service

Earlier this fall, 862 employees celebrated their years of service milestones at the annual Employee Recognition Dinner and Open House. At the Employee Recognition Dinner Oct. 14, 153 employees and guests enjoyed a full evening at the Farmington Club including a cocktail hour, dinner and an awards ceremony where employees who reached milestones of 25, 30, 35 and 40 years of service were recognized with their UConn Health pin by senior leadership. The following week, honorees were recognized at a breakfast open house in the Onyiuke Dining room where senior leadership presented service pins to the 5-, 10-, 15- and 20-year employees.

–Alexandra Crean

Memory Loss: What’s Normal and What’s Not

Posted on October 28, 2015 by Christine Kaminski

We all on occasion forget where we put our car keys or the name of a person we recently met. But as we age, we begin to wonder if these lapses in memory are normal “forgetfulness” or signs of a memory disorder.

UConn Health’s Discovery Series program will explore memory loss in depth on Tuesday, November 10, at 7 p.m. and provide information about:

The differences between normal forgetfulness and more serious memory problems
Diagnosis, treatment and prognosis
Caring for someone with a memory disorder

If you think you are having memory problems, or people close to you express concern about your memory, contact your physician. At UConn Heath, The James E.C. Walker, M.D., Memory Assessment Program provides a full range of services for patients who are concerned about memory related difficulties and for those who have already been diagnosed with a memory disorder.

According to the National Institute on Aging there are ways to keep your memory sharp:

Plan tasks, make “to do” lists, and use memory aids like notes and calendars.
Develop interests or hobbies and stay involved in activities that can help both the mind and body.
Engage in physical activity and exercise.
Limit alcohol use.
Find activities, such as exercise or a hobby, to relieve feelings of stress, anxiety, or depression.

The Discovery Series is free and open to the public. To register, call 800-535-6232 or visit discoveryseries.uchc.edu. The program is held in the Main Building, Keller Auditorium, 263 Farmington Avenue, Farmington. For directions, visit uchc.edu.