NC State University has received gold-level recognition from the American Heart Association for a second consecutive year for its commitment to fostering employee wellness.

The American Heart Association’s Well-being Works Better Scorecard program recognizes employers’ efforts to promote and sustain a healthy work culture. Participants complete a survey and receive a score based on the practices they have implemented to build a culture of health and well-being for their workforce. Employers who receive gold-level recognition earn a score between 183 and 216.

NC State improved its score in 2025, earning 202 points. In 2024, the university scored 184 points.

The gold tier is the second-highest recognition level. The highest level is platinum, requiring a score between 217 and 230.

Kelly Vance, the wellness, child care and perks senior program specialist in University Human Resources, led the efforts that resulted in the American Heart Association recognizing NC State in 2024 and 2025.

“NC State’s recognition demonstrates just how dedicated the university is to fostering employee health and well-being,” Vance said. “I think employee wellness is an important initiative, and we should continue demonstrating our work to support our employees.”

Among the things that Vance highlighted in the survey that resulted in this year’s recognition was the launch of two free wellness programs. UHR was not offering those programs when Vance completed the survey that resulted in last year’s recognition.

Employee Wellness Wednesdays is a collaboration between HR Wellness and the Wellness and Recreation Center. Employees can take various fitness classes, including yoga, cardio dance and strength training. 

Flourish Fridays offers instructor-led virtual wellness activities. The program will resume offering activities during the 2025-26 school year.

“I think those programs helped boost our score,” Vance said.

The effort to cultivate a culture of wellness at NC State is based on the university’s wellness strategy. That strategy includes six elements of wellness: purpose, physical, financial, emotional, social and community.

Britt Moose, director of Benefits, Employee Wellness and Work Life in UHR, said departments have promoted the strategy well, and the recognition from the American Heart Association is a testament to their efforts, too.

“Departments have definitely stepped up and are exhibiting best practices for financial well-being, physical activity and nutrition, and they are taking advantage of the university’s wellness resources,” Moose said. “It’s a wonderful recognition from the American Heart Association, and it highlights the overall effort of the university to make sure everyone is well.”