by Jill Clendening
A chance to win tickets to a Predators hockey game, updates on recent successes, a free meal, live music, patient stories and a Vanderbilt Health logo T-shirt for all attendees are just part of what’s in store at the employee appreciation event — Celebrate the Difference WE Make Every Day! — being held on March 7 and 8.
The event is designed to show appreciation for the many contributions of the Medical Center’s employees.
“We are looking forward to seeing everyone at this event, with a full agenda of wonderful entertainment planned,” said Marilyn Dubree, MSN, RN, Executive Chief Nursing Officer and co-chair of the event with Paul Sternberg, MD, Chief Medical Officer for the Vanderbilt Medical Group and VUMC’s Chief Patient Experience Officer.
“Remember, this is a paid event for all staff and there are three event times, so everyone should be able to find a session that works well with their schedule.”
The event is at the climate-controlled Vanderbilt University Indoor Multipurpose Facility, part of the Vanderbilt Recreation and Wellness Center at 2700 Children’s Way. Immediately following the program, attendees can enjoy a catered meal, with vegan options, with their colleagues.
During the event, employees will learn about current progress and future goals during the State of the Medical Center address from Jeff Balser, MD, PhD, President and CEO of VUMC and Dean of Vanderbilt University School of Medicine. Attendees will also hear inspiring stories from patients and colleagues, as well as enjoy live music from the high-energy band 30Vice.
On Thursday, March 7, the first session is at 10:30 a.m., with doors opening at 10 a.m., and the second session is at 4:30 p.m., with doors opening at 4 p.m. On Friday, March 8, there is one session at 10:30 a.m., with doors opening at 10 a.m. Employees should be in their seats no later than 10 minutes before the program starts.
“This is our opportunity to gather as a community to celebrate teamwork and our collective impact on others,” said C. Wright Pinson, MBA, MD, Deputy CEO and Chief Health System Officer of VUMC and Celebrate executive sponsor. “We have several surprise guests and unique activities planned this year, so we hope to see everyone there.”
Employees who work at the main 21st Avenue campus should park in their designated location. There will be complimentary parking in the 25th Avenue Garage (1400 25th Avenue South) for off-campus employees (including employees who work at 3401 West End, 3322 West End, 2525 West End, or Crystal Terrace). Carpooling is highly recommended. Off-campus employees who have already requested a shuttle to the event should watch their email for a response. Those requests are being evaluated by VUMC Parking and Transportation.
The “Celebrate Express” shuttle will deliver employees who work on campus to the Vanderbilt University Indoor Multipurpose Facility.
Pickups start an hour before each session and will run every five minutes from the Children’s Hospital shuttle shelter on Children’s Way and the Medical Center North Round Wing area. Return service is also provided after the event.
For more information about Celebrate, including parking and shuttle information, please visit www.Celebrate2019.com.