Fostering Progress Through Relationship Capital and Connected Connectors at the University of Delaware

Innovators Series

Presenter: Beth Finkle

SESSION DETAILS

About the Session

Most people don't typically think of an academic institution as being innovative; traditionally, colleges and universities are full of hierarchy and outdated systems. We've broken the mold at University of Delaware. We have learned to effectively do cross-sectional work to create meaningful interactions and cultivate a sense of belonging and wellbeing (in spite of our top-down structure). Through our connected connectors efforts, we have actually built capacity within others and the institution. This session will describe the journey University of Delaware has been on, key successes, setbacks and lessons learned that you can leverage to support you on your people-focused journey.

Learning Objectives

1. Identify key steps taken contributing to organizational success at the University of Delaware.

2. Describe the main challenges and pitfalls to avoid.

3. Apply primary lessons from the University of Delaware’s journey to support your organization.

About the Presenter(s)

Beth Finkle

MPH, CHES, TWCC, Mental Health First Aid

Director, Employee Health and Wellbeing

University of Delaware

Experienced Director with 16 years demonstrated history in designing environments to promote lasting health and wellbeing. Throughout her career, Beth has worked in a variety of employer settings including hospitals, health insurance companies, national sports teams, manufacturing sites and most recently Higher Education at the University of Delaware. Her superpower is people, with a flair for simplicity and she loves working on complex people scenarios. She is a demonstrated leader in organizational health initiatives, employee experience design, program planning and professional development creation.

Along with her Public Health education and training, and extensive worksite health promotion background, Beth also holds several recognized field certificates such as Certified Health Education Specialist through NCHEC, Restorative Practice Consultant from the IIRP and Thriving Workplace Wellbeing Consultant through SALVEO Partners.

When Beth entered the field of public health, she knew there were endless ways to help people live better lives – if she was willing to collaborate with others, stay curious and continue to learn. Her passion has always been relationships and creating connections so communities can comprehensively support the individuals who support them.