If there’s one guiding principle within Thompson Health’s small but mighty Associate Wellness Department, it’s this: Wellness looks different for everyone.
For Thompson’s employees – known as associates – that means programming that fits diverse needs. As Wellness Coordinator Kristen Seyfried puts it, “We put a lot of thought and care into creating wellness opportunities that support associates across different roles, shifts, and locations and try to meet people where they are.”
This made it all the more validating when Thompson, an affiliate of University of Rochester Medicine, was recently named a 2026 Healthiest Employers® winner for its “commitment to employee well-being and exceptional corporate health and wellness programming.”
The awards program was established in 2009 by Springbuk, a health intelligence platform for employers. It “recognizes people-first organizations taking a more proactive approach to employee health,” and is considered the nation’s leading corporate well-being award.
According to Seyfried, wellness is a collaborative effort at Thompson, with various departments demonstrating a shared commitment to associate well-being.
The Healthiest Employers recognition came after she and fellow Wellness Coordinator Amanda Reynolds completed a comprehensive assessment earlier this year. Springbuk then evaluated Thompson in six key areas of organizational health and wellness, including strategy, culture, and outcomes.
Among the programs Thompson detailed in its assessment were pet therapy, an on-site community supported agriculture program, mental health first aid training, an on-site fitness center accessible to associates, a Zen relaxation room open 24/7, free yoga and reiki classes, and access to success coaches.
Reynolds said the efforts make an impact.
“It is especially meaningful to hear stories from associates of how our programming has inspired their journey to better health,” she said, noting participants in Thompson’s “Let's Go Chasing Waterfalls” summer challenge frequently shared how much fun they had completing hikes and exploring nature with family and friends.
“It was rewarding to hear how a simple wellness initiative encouraged people to spend time outdoors, be active, and create meaningful memories with loved ones,” Reynolds said.
The Healthiest Employers recognition comes on the heels of other workplace wellness awards for Thompson within the past 18 months. These have included the Gold Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health from Mental Health America (MHA), the Silver Well Workplace Award from the Wellness Alliance, and American Heart Association Gold-level recognition as measured by its Workforce Well-being Scorecard.
Thompson Health Vice President of Associate Services/Wellness Jennifer DeVault said it’s gratifying for the health system to be once again singled out for fostering a workplace culture that prioritizes health, wellness, and work-life balance.
“While the recognition is an honor, having a wide variety of health and wellness initiatives for our associates is what matters most,” she said, “and we are grateful to all within our organization who make that possible.”
For information on the award, visit www.healthiestemployers.com
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