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.

This month, Staff Council’s Wellness Hero spotlight shines on Mandy McClenahan, Blood Drive Coordinator & Donor Recruitment at the DeGowin Blood Center. Mandy’s journey is a testament to the power of balance, consistency, and community in personal wellness.

How long have you been at the University of Iowa? Mandy joined the University of Iowa three years ago after returning to Iowa, where she grew up, from Georgia. She previously worked in volunteer management for the Red Cross, and her passion for blood donation and community service made DeGowin Blood Center a natural fit.

What inspired you to prioritize wellness? Mandy’s wellness journey began about 20 years ago, sparked by the birth of her daughter and a desire for self-care. She started with regular gym visits and soon challenged her family to join her in running a marathon. Completing the Twin Cities Marathon in 2006 with her brother set the stage for a lifelong commitment to fitness. Family tradition and a competitive spirit keep her motivated, with half marathons now her preferred challenge. A diagnosis of high blood pressure at age 38 further reinforced the importance of prioritizing health through activity and nutrition. 

What does wellness mean to you? For Mandy, wellness is all about balance—physical activity, nutrition, sleep, and emotional health. She emphasizes that each aspect is interconnected, and maintaining equilibrium is key to feeling her best. 

What habits or routines help you sustain wellness? Sleep has become Mandy’s top priority in recent years, transforming her energy and mental clarity. She schedules exercise immediately after work, favoring swimming and running, and notes the direct impact on her blood pressure and stress levels. Nutrition is also important, and she’s noticed her tastes have shifted over time, making healthier choices easier. 

Favorite wellness ritual? Training for events keeps Mandy motivated, especially during Iowa’s cold winters. She finds a unique sense of accomplishment in long runs, which provide both physical challenge and meditative time. Running is her hardest—and most rewarding—activity, while swimming offers a different kind of enjoyment. 

How do you encourage wellness among colleagues? Mandy shares community event information at monthly staff meetings, from 5Ks to open water swims, and actively invites coworkers to join her. She’s helped colleagues start weightlifting routines and regularly discusses her own activities to spark interest. Mandy recently recruited an 8 member team from the DeGowin Blood Center for the current 10-week wellness challenge and in the future hopes to get more people involved in local races. 

How has the University of Iowa supported your wellness journey? Access to world-class recreational facilities, including the pool and club locker rooms, makes it easy for Mandy to fit exercise into her day. She appreciates the variety of spaces available for staff and the affordability of memberships. Even the walk from her parking spot adds daily activity, and her job’s physical nature keeps her moving. 

Resources that have helped along the way? Mandy relies on family for advice and motivation, maintaining a group chat with siblings and nephews who share her passion for running. She also uses specific training programs, like Hansen’s Half Marathon Training, to structure her workouts. 

Final thoughts Mandy describes herself as an “instigator,” always encouraging others to get involved. She believes wellness is infectious—when people see her enthusiasm, they’re more likely to pay attention to their own health. Her advice: find activities that are fun and bring you joy, whether it’s running, swimming, or something else entirely. 

Congratulations to Mandy McClenahan, our Wellness Hero, for inspiring her colleagues and making wellness a team effort!