UNM Health Celebrates Health Care Workers Week

“I am so humbled and honored to work with such a diverse group of learners, educators, providers, collaborators, researchers, innovators,” said Doug Ziedonis, MD, MPH, Executive Vice President of UNM Health Sciences and CEO of the UNM Health System. 

“Health Care Workers Week gives us an opportunity to thank our entire team throughout our organization.  Thank you to all who provide care to our patients and families.”

Health Care Workers Week will include a packed schedule full of both in-person and virtual events, fun and food for all health care workers across the UNM Health System to enjoy.

UNM Hospital

Teams working at UNM Hospital will have an opportunity this week to take a break, have fun and enjoy themselves by participating in the themed daily events. Some of the activities include a silent disco, crazy sock day, a staff talent show, and a show-off-your-pet contest.

“Our health care workers are truly extraordinary people, which makes me so proud and thankful to work with this team,” said Kate Becker, UNM Hospital CEO. “This is a special time of year when our amazing staff get a few moments in their day to relax, unwind and enjoy some fun activities at the hospital.”

“Health Care Workers Week is my favorite time of year,” said Jessica Mickey, Employee Engagement Specialist at UNM Hospital. “Our team members work tirelessly throughout the year to bring care and compassion to our patients and community. It’s my honor to be able to celebrate them and show them some extra love during this time.”

One of the standout events is the 3rd Annual Mental Health Awareness Fair on May 9 at UNM Hospital, which is a part of Mental Health Awareness month.

More than 20 booths will be set up with resources aimed at promoting mental well-being and fostering a supportive community environment. Staff will also be able to enjoy fun activities like pet therapy, giveaways, snacks, and music.

This event serves as a testament to UNM Hospital’s commitment to support the mental health and well-being of health care workers.

UNM Sandoval Regional Medical Center

At UNM Sandoval Regional Medical Center – A Campus of UNM Hospital (SRMC), week-long events include fun treats for staff, a well-being day on-site with art activities and a “Chillin’ and Grillin’” event to end the week.

“Day in and day out they dedicate their passion and skills to our patients and their families. Through unprecedented challenges, they continue to rise to the occasion. I hear from patients all the time who are so moved and grateful for the care they receive at our hospital from our team. It’s an honor to celebrate them all this week for the work they do all year long.”

UNM Medical Group

“Health Care Workers’ Week is a great time to show our appreciation for the service our hardworking Medical Group teammates provide every day,” explained Dr. Gary Mlady, Interim President and CEO of the UNM Medical Group, Inc.

“I am so proud to be part of such an incredible group of professionals who make it their mission to ensure the health, safety, and wellbeing of all New Mexicans.”

UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center

Just like their UNM Health counterparts, the UNM Cancer Center staff will join the festivities over at the UNM Hospital campus.

“We are grateful to all the health care workers at our Center and grateful for all that they do to care for our patients, support research collaborations, train the next generation of oncology health care professionals, and reach out to the communities and the people of New Mexico,” said Dr. Yolanda Sanchez, Director & CEO of the UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center. 

Time to Celebrate

All UNM Health staff are encouraged to participate in events near them and to have a great time celebrating with their fellow team members.

Every year, Health Care Workers Week proves to be a time of celebration and reflection, honoring the service and accomplishments of all UNM Health staff.