University named Governor's Fitness Award recipient

Grand Valley was one of two West Michigan organizations to be named a finalist for a Governor’s Fitness Award for its commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles for students, faculty and staff members.

The university received a diamond level award in the Very Large Workplace category. Gentex in Zeeland was the other West Michigan organization named of the seven finalists in that category; DTE Energy was the overall award winner.

Workplace and individual awards will be presented April 24 in Detroit. Award winners will also be recognized that day in Lansing during a legislative session and have an opportunity to meet lawmakers.

Lindsey DesArmo, health and wellness specialist, said criteria for the award included workplace policies, established wellness programs and employee incentives for health programs.

The Governor’s Fitness Awards is an annual event hosted by the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness, Health and Sports and the Michigan Fitness Foundation.

DesArmo said it was an honor to be recognized with companies that set the standard for employee wellness.

About 40 percent of faculty and staff members participate in the Healthy Choices program, which offers incentives for tracking fitness activities and undergoing a health-risk assessment.

In February, the American Heart Association named Grand Valley a Platinum-Level Fit Friendly Company, recognizing the university’s efforts to develop programming to raise awareness of healthy eating and being physically active.

Grand Valley offers a comprehensive health and wellness program, including a Farmers Market, group exercise classes, stress management courses and an employee assistance program. Details are online at www.gvsu.edu/healthwellness.