Jessica Hershberger, senior Heart Walk director, presents Nerissa Morris, vice president of human resources, with the American Heart Association’s Fit-Friendly Gold Award.

For the sixth year in a row, the University of Miami has been named a Fit-Friendly Worksite by the American Heart Association. “We recognize employers who go above and beyond when it comes to their employees’ health,” said Jessica Hershberger, senior Heart Walk director with the Miami Heart Walk. “We want to reward organizations for their progressive leadership and concern for their staff.”

The Fit-Friendly Gold Award honors the University for its continued progress in promoting workplace wellness programs and facilities. “Receiving this award gives us something to strive for each year,” said Nerissa Morris, vice president of human resources. “It challenges us to continue to raise the bar on our wellness programs.”

The University’s wellness programs include an annual Week of Well-Being; wellness centers on the Coral Gables and Miller School of Medicine campuses; a wellness incentives program in which employees can earn up to $300 cash; Walking ’Canes, Be Smoke Free, and Weight Watchers at Work programs; and free preventive care benefits for faculty and staff who are on a UM health care plan.