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. This month we are proud to spotlight Tara Rausch, a recent Wellness Hero award recipient whose dedication to physical and mental well-being extends beyond herself and into her leadership, family life, and workplace culture. Tara has been with the University of Iowa for nine years and works as a Nurse Manager in the Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Therapy unit.
Tara defines wellness as something much broader than physical fitness alone. To her, wellness means caring for the whole person—both body and mind. “Do you wake up each day with a sense of happiness?” she asks. “Are you fueling your body with good nutrition and hydration? Do you have the energy to do the things you want and need to do?” Tara believes mental wellness plays a critical role in physical health, sharing that when mental wellness is neglected, physical wellness often suffers as a result.
A long-time advocate for healthy living, Tara says her passion for wellness has only grown as she has stepped into leadership roles. As a nursing leader, she strives to lead by example, both for her staff and for her children. “I want to show my kids and my team what it means to be physically and mentally well,” she explains, hoping her own habits inspire others to prioritize their well-being as well.
Tara’s daily routine reflects her holistic approach to wellness. Each morning starts with a nourishing breakfast (her favorite: avocado on sourdough) and a cup of high-quality coffee to fuel her day. Whenever possible, she makes time for daily walks with her family, embracing movement, connection, and fresh air. Within her leadership team, outdoor walks are also a weekly priority, offering time for exercise, vitamin D, and mental reset.
Nutrition plays a central role in Tara’s wellness philosophy. She prioritizes a well-balanced diet made from whole, quality foods and prepares most of her meals herself. Just as important is what she leaves behind at the end of the day, work email notifications. Tara intentionally disconnects after work and avoids phone use before bedtime, a habit she credits with significantly improving her sleep.
Tara Rausch exemplifies what it means to lead with wellness at the forefront. Through mindful habits, intentional boundaries, and a commitment to supporting others, she continues to make a positive impact on her team, her family, and the broader University of Iowa community.