The WashU School of Medicine Department of Anesthesiology fosters connections at HR engagement events
WashU’s employee engagement team collaborates with local sporting teams and theaters each year across the St. Louis area to help foster connection, community and engagement. Colleagues, family and friends can purchase tickets to various shows ranging from the Fabulous Fox and MUNY to St. Louis Blues, Cardinals and CITY games. One department that has really embraced these WashU-sponsored events is the School of Medicine’s Department of Anesthesiology.
Our team firmly believes that cultivating community and teamwork outside of the work environment is crucial for enhancing morale and building stronger interpersonal relationships. Engaging in shared experiences like these helps us build a more cohesive and supportive work environment, ultimately enhancing our collective well-being and productivity.
Erin Herrera, associate vice chair of well-being and assistant director of CRNA activities
The Anesthesiology department ordered a large quantity of tickets for the June 23 CITY2 game against Sporting KC II, and the enthusiasm for the event was evident within the department. With an initial purchase of 250 tickets, offered free to department members, all tickets were claimed within seven minutes. With such high interest, the department purchased an additional 300 tickets, all of which were quickly distributed. The tickets purchased not only helped build stronger connections outside of the office but also played a large part in CITY2 breaking the MLS Next Pro record!
The positive energy and excitement among Anesthesiology colleagues were unmistakable during the match, as they enjoyed the shared experience and the opportunity to connect outside of work. Melissa Prewitt, a nurse practitioner in the department, recounted her memorable experience:
We had the best time at the recent CITY2 game! I love how WashU and the Department of Anesthesiology provide opportunities to involve my family in work-related events. I was also randomly selected to be a benchwarmer during warm-ups, so my oldest son and I got to go on the field with other colleagues and sit in the player benches. It was a fun way to see the field and stadium from a different perspective. I’m so thankful for this experience!
Melissa Prewitt, nurse practitioner
Herrera noted the department received overwhelmingly positive feedback after the game, with many employees sharing sentiments similar to Prewitt’s experience. The engagement with local organizations and the opportunities provided by WashU were particularly highlighted as valuable benefits. Employees expressed how much they appreciated the chance to relax and interact with each other in a setting outside of work. The Anesthesiology team’s participation in the CITY2 game strengthened internal relationships and underscored the importance of such initiatives in fostering a connected and supportive work environment.
Our employee engagement team hosts several events throughout the year for WashU employees to enjoy similar experiences. The Culture and Community Hub has more information about all the WashU Signature Events employees can attend with family, friends and colleagues.
