At the University of Iowa, fostering a culture of health and well-being is more than a mission—it's a movement. Through the liveWELL program, the university celebrates faculty and staff who go above and beyond to inspire wellness in the workplace. These individuals, known as Wellness Heroes, are nominated by their peers for modeling healthy behaviors, encouraging others to prioritize well-being, and helping build supportive, health-conscious environments across campus. Whether organizing wellness activities, promoting mental health resources, or simply leading by example, Wellness Heroes play a vital role in making the university a healthier, more connected community.
Lets find out more about Abby Goldberg, a May 2025 Wellness Hero award winner and this month’s featured spotlight!
Name: Abby Goldberg
Job Role at the University: Career Program Specialist with UI REACH Program
How long you have been at the University: August 2024
How do you define “wellness”? - Wellness has many domains, physical, spiritual, or mental. More than anything it’s a state of feeling good.
For Abby Goldberg, wellness isn’t just about hitting the gym or eating right. It’s about creating a workplace where people feel supported, valued, and connected.
Abby, a Career Program Specialist with UI REACH, focuses most on emotional and mental wellness. “It’s a scale,” she says. “You can’t always hit every aspect of well-being at once, but you can find balance where you can.”
That balance often starts with simple interactions. Abby knows how quickly one tough moment can shape an entire day or workplace environment. “Since I spend most of my time at work, I knew it was important to make it a positive environment—for me and for everyone else.”
Her strategy? Energy and connection. Known for her upbeat personality, she embraces being the spark in the office. “Sometimes I fake it till I make it,” she admits, “but over time, my coworkers started returning that positivity. Now, if I’m having an off day, they step up for me too.”
Abby also takes the initiative to build community through creative activities in the office. What started as decorating for coworkers’ birthdays grew into larger office traditions, from surprise candy drops to office duck hunts, floral workshops, and catered meals, the events keep coworkers engaged and connected. “You can feel increased positivity and togetherness in the office,” Abby says. “There’s a real sense of camaraderie.”
Her favorite part? The ripple effect. “People come into my office just to talk, share a laugh, or take a break. That connection makes a huge difference.”
Abby believes workplace wellness doesn’t have to be complicated. “It can be as simple as saying hello, keeping your door open, or leaving candy on a desk,” she says. “Just knowing someone’s in your corner can make someone’s day.” Her message is clear: wellness at work is about more than policies or programs—it’s about people. By intentionally fostering positivity, connection, and kindness, Abby has helped turn her workplace into a community.
