Epic Experience Survey Returns

Oct. 1-Nov. 16 | UVA Health HIT is committed to providing reliable, secure technology that empowers clinicians with better tools, trustworthy information, and innovative solutions that improve patient care. Achieving that goal requires direct input from the people who use Epic every day. Last year, nearly 1,740 clinicians participated in the survey, contributing to multiple initiatives designed to improve the Epic experience, including:     

• Creation and expansion of clinician-led governance structures and design committees that help prioritize and accelerate Epic enhancements.     
• Growth of AI-enabled documentation tools, including DAX, to help reduce documentation burden and improve efficiency.     
• Improved interoperability that brings outside records, labs, notes, and imaging into Epic to support continuity of care.     
• Expansion of Super User, Power User, and Epic personalization support programs.     
• Infrastructure enhancements that improved Epic performance by increasing bandwidth for more than 1,000 workstations.     

Learn more on Connect and watch your email for the survey link starting Oct. 1. 

Patient Care

Pap Smear Turnaround Times Delayed 

UVA Health Cytology Lab’s turnaround times for Pap smear testing are expected to exceed 30 days through January 2027, with the goal of returning to fewer than 30 days in the new year. Delays stem from a nationwide shortage of trained cytologists to review Pap smear specimens.  

Reference labs are dealing with the same personnel shortages, so they are not a viable alternative. Average turnaround time for HPV testing is seven days, so clinicians are encouraged to utilize primary HPV screening when appropriate, per American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommendations.   

UVA Health lab leadership is pursuing multiple pathways to mitigate delays and increase staffing. Your support and patience during this time are greatly appreciated. 

Operations

Radiation Safety: Your Dosimeter Only Works If You Read It 

If you're one of the 1,400+ UVA Health team members who wears a radiation dosimeter, here's a quick reminder: wearing your badge is only half the job. The other half is uploading your exposure data on schedule — and right now, too many readings are going in late or not at all.  

Here's why it matters: Your dosimeter tracks radiation exposure over time, but it is only accurate if the data is reported. Timely reporting is how Radiation Safety confirms every worker stays within safe exposure limits — and it's required under UVA Policy SEC-009 and Virginia Department of Health regulation 12VAC5-481. 

• The good news: Reporting takes seconds. Tonight, Sept. 30, your dosimeter will try to automatically upload at 11:59 p.m. For this to occur, it needs to be within 40 feet of the Instalink device. If this does not occur, you will need to push the button on the side of your dosimeter when you are near the Instalink device on the first of the month. 

What to do: 

• Check the due date on your badge. 
• Find your nearest Instalink station. 
• Tap your badge — you're done. 

Questions about your reporting cadence or the process? Visit the Dosimetry KnowledgeLink page. 

Leadership

Town Hall Replay: Check Out the Speed-Watcher's Guide 

If you missed the Sept. 23 town hall, here's your chance to catch up! Visit KnowledgeLink to find time code stamps for discussion topics and the embedded town hall video. Check out the video to see leaders discussing the strategic plan refresh, insights on the engagement and ASPIRE value surveys, and more. Watch. 

Human Resources

Point Cards Are Now Digital Recognition Points 

Available now | The employee recognition program — formerly known as Point Cards — now is called Recognition Points. While the program itself remains the same, recognition points now will be managed digitally through an online platform, the UVA Health Recognition Points website, providing managers and team members with greater flexibility and convenience when distributing and redeeming rewards. 

This change applies to team members in University Medical Center, UVA School of Medicine, UVA School of Nursing, and Claude Moore Health Sciences Library. Morrison and Environmental Services team members will continue to use physical point cards. 

• Visit the HR website for FAQs, job aids, and additional information about using the new platform.  
• Visit the Recognition Points website to check out the variety of rewards available. 

Questions? Contact your manager or email AskHR@virginia.edu. 

2026 Annual Retraining

Deadline: Wednesday, Sept. 30 | All UVA Health team members hired on or before April 1, 2026 — who provide patient care, receive training, or participate in healthcare education and research within or for the benefit of UVA Health University Medical Center, regardless of their employer — are required to take the training. Visit the 2026 Annual Retraining web page for more information. 

UVA Discounts 

Did you know employment at UVA means you have access to both local and national discounts for UVA faculty and staff? Check out the UVA Discount page to find savings on hotels, restaurants, retail, entertainment, services, and much more.   

• Help Wanted: UVA HR is looking to expand its local discounts and would love your help. Do you know a local business that might be interested in being featured on our discount page? If so, please have them email askhr@virginia.edu with the following information: company name, address, phone number, website, contact name and phone number, and discount they are willing to offer UVA faculty and staff. 

Transition of UVA Life and Disability Programs to MetLife 

Friday, Jan. 1 | UVA is transitioning the administration of its life insurance, disability, and leave programs to MetLife, effective Jan. 1, 2027. The transition will consolidate services currently administered by multiple vendors into a single benefits and leave administration platform. The change follows a comprehensive review of UVA's life, disability, and leave programs and is intended to improve service, technology, and employee support. Read more about how this change could affect you. Questions? Email the HR Solution Center. 

Happenings

New Site: UVA Research News 

This new site from the Office of the Vice President for Research shines a light on the discoveries, breakthroughs, and big ideas happening across Grounds. Read stories, watch videos, and browse featured collections. 

Exhibit Showcasing The Arc Studio Artists 

Through Friday, Oct. 2 | University Hospital Cafeteria | An exhibit from the talented artists of The Arc Studio is closing soon. Stop by and check it out! Read more on Connect about the collaboration in a previous showing. 

2026 Give Where You Live Campaign 

Through Friday, Dec. 18 | UVA is partnering with United Way of Greater Charlottesville to launch Give Where You Live, a program providing UVA employees the opportunity to support nonprofit organizations that strengthen our local community. Employees can choose from approximately 100 local nonprofits and make donations via payroll deduction or credit/debit cards, and every dollar donated will benefit their chosen organizations. Visit the 2026 Give Where You Live website for more information. Questions? Email localgiving@virginia.edu. 

Food Sampling and Demonstration 

University Hospital, Main Cafeteria | 11 a.m.-1:45 p.m. | Stop by and sample delicious food:   

• Thursday, Oct. 1 | Kiwi Kuisine   
• Thursday, Oct. 8 | Zenjoy   
• Tuesday, Oct. 13 | Hem and Her   
• Tuesday, Oct. 20 | Cville Candy   
• Tuesday, Oct. 27 | The Donut Kitchen   
• Tuesday, Nov. 3 | Snowing in Space   
• Tuesday, Nov. 10 | Good Phyte 

UVA Comprehensive Cancer Center’s Michael J. Weber Symposium 

Friday, Oct. 2 | 8 a.m.-2:15 p.m. | Pinn Hall Auditorium | Honoring the late scientist and UVA Comprehensive Cancer Center Director, this symposium will convene internationally renowned researchers and clinicians to present their latest findings. This year’s theme is “Cancer Metastasis,” with scheduled presenters including Carey K. Anders, MD, Duke University; Adrienne Boire, MD, PhD, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center; Yibin Kang, PhD, Princeton University; Ahmedin Jemal, DVM, PhD, American Cancer Society; and Danny R. Welch, PhD, University of Kansas. Registration is free and includes breakfast and lunch. Learn more and register. 

World Mental Health Day: Art and Wellness Pop-Up Event 

Friday, Oct. 2 | noon-1:30 p.m. | The Fralin Museum of Art, 155 Rugby Rd. | Celebrate World Mental Health Day at The Fralin Museum of Art during its fourth annual Free Art and Wellness event featuring lunch (while supplies last), gallery coloring, therapy dogs, and wellness giveaways to help you slow down, connect, and recharge. Free parking at Culbreth Garage when you check in at the front desk with your license plate information. Brought to you by UVA FEAP, Hoos Well, and The Fralin.

Amplifying Your Research Impact: A Strategic Communications Workshop 

Tuesday, Oct. 6 | 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | Contemplative Commons, Studio 1B | Office of the Vice President for Research presents a one-day workshop for UVA researchers who want to communicate their work more effectively. Through faculty panels, journalist perspectives, and hands-on media training — you will learn how to reach the public, communicate your work clearly, make more effective funding pitches, and build a cohesive academic brand. Space is limited. Learn more and register. 

Trauma-Sensitive Human Trafficking Training for Healthcare Workers 

Tuesday, Oct. 6 | 3:30-5 p.m. | The Graduate Hotel, Charlottesville | This interdisciplinary continuing education program is designed to enhance healthcare professionals' ability to recognize and respond to individuals who may be experiencing human trafficking. This program is Intended for physicians, physician assistants, nurses, social workers, psychologists, trainees, and other healthcare professionals committed to improving care for vulnerable populations. Learn more and register.

Medical Center Hour 

Now in its 55th season, Medical Center Hour is UVA Health's public forum on medicine and society, produced by UVA School of Medicine’s Center for Health Humanities and Ethics. Watch previous Medical Center Hour recordings. Upcoming schedule: 

• Listening for What Matters Most: Questions That Change End-of-Life Care | Thursday, Oct. 8 | noon-1 p.m. | Leonard Sandridge Auditorium | In-person only | Death doula Diane Button, founding partner of the Bay Area End-of-Life Doula Alliance, introduces practical tools and questions she has used with hundreds of patients at the end of life. Lunch provided for the first 60 audience members. Co-presented with the Haney Compassionate Care Collaborative and the Compassionate Care Initiative. 
• The Lost Art of Dying: Global Perspectives | Friday, Oct. 9 | 12:15-1:15 p.m. | Educational Resource Center, 2nd floor; Zoom (meeting ID: 916 6068 9804; passcode: 18191819) | Internist Lydia Dugdale, MD, MAR, Director, Center for Clinical Medical Ethics, Columbia University's Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, offers perspectives on end-of-life care from her celebrated book, “The Lost Art of Dying,” and her understanding of global practices. What can we learn about caring for the dying from other geographic and cultural settings, including under-resourced regions of the world? This Medicine Grand Rounds/Medical Center Hour is co-presented with the Center for Global Health Equity. 
• Microplastics in Our Bodies: What Are They Doing and What Can We Do? | Wednesday, Oct. 14 | noon-1 p.m. | Leonard Sandridge Auditorium and Zoom | Not only are plastics everywhere in our environment — they're in our bodies, too, and likely affecting our health. John McNeil, MD; Bryan Berger, PhD; and medical student Nadia Sadanandan examine the problems posed by plastics, offer ways we can reduce our exposure, and invite clinicians-in-training to think critically about the systems in which they work. Co-presented with UVA Office for Sustainability. 

Fall 2026 Mental Health and Wellness Festival 

Thursday, Oct. 8 | 4-6 p.m. | Courtyard between MR5 and MR6 | Bringing together UVA Health students, team members, and trainees — as well as community organizations — for engagement and resource sharing focused on holistic mental health and wellness. Participate in wellness workshops and enjoy food, music, movement, drumming, and the wellness practice of grounding. Sponsored by UVA Health Office of Community Engagement and Health Outcomes, UVA School of Medicine Office of Medical Sciences Outreach, and UVA School of Nursing Office of Community Health and Wellbeing. World Mental Health Day is Oct. 10. 

Arts on the Hill Presents Auksalaq, a Telematic Opera 

Monday, Oct. 12 | 5:30-6:30 p.m. | Hosted by UVA President Scott Beardsley and Claire Dufournet Beardsley, in partnership with the UVA Arts team, under the leadership of Jody Kielbasa, Vice Provost for the Arts and Executive Director of the Virginia Film Festival. All UVA faculty, staff, and students are invited to enter the lottery for tickets. Details.

2026 EDS and Hypermobility Disorders PT/OT Symposium 

Friday, Oct. 23 | 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Sandridge Auditorium | This half-day continuing education program is designed to enhance rehabilitation professionals’ knowledge and practical skills in caring for individuals with Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS), hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD), and related complex conditions. The program will feature expert presentations on evidence-based rehabilitation approaches, common clinical challenges, and the impact on treatment planning of comorbidities such as dysautonomia, chronic pain, fatigue, and activity intolerance. The program is intended for physiatrists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, therapy assistants, students, and other rehabilitation professionals seeking practical tools to improve care for patients with hypermobility-related disorders. Learn more and register. 

UVA Health Fall 2026 Prescription Drug Take Back Day 

Saturday, Oct. 24 | 10 a.m.–2 p.m. | Outside Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center | In support of National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, UVA Health is offering a safe way for community members to dispose of unwanted or unused prescription medications. Drive up or walk up to drop off medications with our team. No questions asked! (No sharp instruments or sharps containers — we cannot accept them at this time.) UVA Health team members interested in volunteering for Prescription Drug Take Back Day, please sign up in advance (free designated parking). Sponsored by UVA Health Pharmacy; UVA Health Department of Anesthesiology’s Pain Management Center; UVA Office of Pain Management and Opioid Stewardship; and UVA Police. Download, print, and share the flyer to help spread the word. Learn more. Not able to drop by Drug Take Back Day? UVA Health Pharmacy offers convenient locations year-round to dispose of unwanted or unused medications. 

Accepting Applications: Charles L. Brown Award 

Deadline: Thursday, Dec. 3 | 5 p.m. | The Charles L. Brown Award for Patient Care Quality is UVA Health’s annual award for a care team who has worked to move our quality and patient safety efforts forward. Sponsored by the Department of Quality and Performance Improvement, this award offers a $10,000 prize to a team or teams to recognize excellence in patient care. To receive an application or for questions, contact Jeff Lucas, Director, Performance Improvement, at 434.243.1755. 

Appreciation

Join Socktober 2026! 

Oct. 1.-Nov. 2 | Stepping up to meet our 10-year strategic plan goal of cultivating healthy communities and belonging for all — UVA Health will kick off its annual Socktober initiative. This year's goal at University Medical Center: collecting 20,000 new pairs for unhoused individuals. Team members can drop off new pairs of socks in Socktober bins at:  

• Cafe at 500 Fontaine  
• Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center  
• Food and Nutrition Services ("0" level, University Hospital)  
• Good Grain Cafe, Orthopedic Center at Ivy Road  
• OR Cafe Lounge  
• University Hospital Cafeteria   
• Wahoo West Café   

Read more on Connect about the newest challenges! Help spread the word! Print and hang, or share electronically, a fun sock tracker and horizontal and vertical graphics. Questions? Contact Jennifer Snyder, Director of Retail. 

Thank you to everyone who organizes and participates in this annual event. 

Previous Updates

Monday, Sept. 28

Transplant and Medicine Units Return to Home Locations

Thursday, Oct. 1 | 6 a.m.-noon | Transplant and Medicine inpatient units will return to their home locations to better align our space with each service's needs. Transplant inpatient beds currently located on 3 East will move to 5 South, and Medicine inpatients currently on 5 South will move to 3 East.   

• Transplant on 5 South will open with capacity for 28 beds.  
• 3 East initially will open at 19 beds while patient rooms undergo deep cleaning; capacity will expand to 25 beds on Oct. 5, and to 26 beds on Oct. 6.  
• Questions? Contact Rebecca Lewis, Administrator, Operational Readiness, at 434.882.2427.  

Thank you for your flexibility as we complete this transition. You will be updated on any changes to the timeline or bed capacity as this project progresses. 

Patient Care

Pap Smear Turnaround Times Delayed 

UVA Health Cytology Lab’s turnaround times for Pap smear testing are expected to exceed 30 days through January 2027, with the goal of returning to fewer than 30 days in the new year. Delays stem from a nationwide shortage of trained cytologists to review Pap smear specimens. 

Reference labs are dealing with the same personnel shortages, so they are not a viable alternative. Average turnaround time for HPV testing is seven days, so clinicians are encouraged to utilize primary HPV screening when appropriate, per American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommendations.  

UVA Health lab leadership is pursuing multiple pathways to mitigate delays and increase staffing. Your support and patience during this time are greatly appreciated.

Epic Experience Survey Returns 

Oct. 1-Nov. 16 | UVA Health HIT is committed to providing reliable, secure technology that empowers clinicians with better tools, trustworthy information, and innovative solutions that improve patient care. Achieving that goal requires direct input from the people who use Epic every day. Last year, nearly 1,740 clinicians participated in the survey, contributing to multiple initiatives designed to improve the Epic experience, including:    

• Creation and expansion of clinician-led governance structures and design committees that help prioritize and accelerate Epic enhancements.    
• Growth of AI-enabled documentation tools, including DAX, to help reduce documentation burden and improve efficiency.    
• Improved interoperability that brings outside records, labs, notes, and imaging into Epic to support continuity of care.    
• Expansion of Super User, Power User, and Epic personalization support programs.    
• Infrastructure enhancements that improved Epic performance by increasing bandwidth for more than 1,000 workstations.    

Learn more on Connect and watch your email for the survey link starting Oct. 1. 

Operations

USB Device Blocking Underway for UVA School of Medicine, Clinical Department Devices, and Surgical Services 

To strengthen our cyberdefenses, UVA Health is blocking the use of USB storage devices (e.g., “thumb” drives and other external storage drives) on all UVA Health-issued personal computers (PCs). The latest implementation phase began Sept. 14 and includes University Medical Center-managed devices in clinical departments, surgical services, operating rooms, labs, and UVA Health HIT-managed computers in UVA School of Medicine. (Academic-managed PCs are not affected.) See Connect for a detailed schedule.     

If you’re wondering if USB storage devices are blocked on your PC, HIT has deployed a desktop tray icon to indicate your computer's status: 1) blocked, 2) exception granted, or 3) policy not yet implemented. See the FAQs on Connect for more. As a reminder, instead of USB devices, team members should use their Microsoft OneDrive cloud storage account for secure data storage and sharing. This change does not affect USB-connected mice, keyboards, phone chargers, or similar accessories. 

Leadership

Town Hall Replay: Check Out the Speed-Watcher's Guide 

If you missed the Sept. 23 town hall, here's your chance to catch up! Visit KnowledgeLink to find time code stamps for discussion topics and the embedded town hall video. Check out the video to see leaders discussing the strategic plan refresh, and insights on the engagement and ASPIRE value surveys, and more. Watch.

UVA Strategic Planning: Share Your Insights and Voice 

As part of the University's Strategic Planning process, several strategic conversation workshops have been scheduled around Grounds. We have worked with the planning committee to host a session at Fontaine Research Park, so it is convenient for UVA Health team members to join the dialogue. Sign up to share your insights and voice as part of this process:  

• Tuesday, Sept. 29 | 7-8 a.m. | 560 Ray C. Hunt Drive, Room 221  

If you’re interested in providing feedback, virtual sessions will be added to the schedule in a couple of weeks. Additional dates and times at other locations around Grounds are available via the sign-up link above. 

Human Resources

2026 Annual Retraining 

Deadline: Wednesday, Sept. 30 | All UVA Health team members hired on or before April 1, 2026 — who provide patient care, receive training, or participate in healthcare education and research within or for the benefit of UVA Health University Medical Center, regardless of their employer — are required to take the training. Visit the 2026 Annual Retraining web page for more information. 

Open Enrollment: Benefits and Wellbeing Expo 

Enrollment period: Oct. 5-16 | Please note that if no action is taken, most benefits will carry over, BUT action is needed to maintain your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Dependent Care Account. More information and benefits counselors will be available at: 

Benefits and Wellbeing Expo: 

• Tuesday, Oct. 6 | 7 a.m.-3 p.m. | Education Resource Center 
  • UVA Health flu shots (team members only) | 8 a.m.-2 p.m. 
• Wednesday, Oct. 7 | 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. | Contemplative Commons 
• Thursday, Oct. 8 | 10:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m. | University Hospital, main cafeteria (night shift) 

Open Enrollment 2027 details. 

Transition of UVA Life and Disability Programs to MetLife 

Friday, Jan. 1 | UVA is transitioning the administration of its life insurance, disability, and leave programs to MetLife, effective Jan. 1, 2027. The transition will consolidate services currently administered by multiple vendors into a single benefits and leave administration platform. The change follows a comprehensive review of UVA's life, disability, and leave programs and is intended to improve service, technology, and employee support. Read more about how this change could affect you. Questions? Email the HR Solution Center. 

Happenings

Donations Needed: Geri-Cart 

University Medical Center Emergency Department (ED) had approximately 77,000 patient visits in 2025, with more than 20,000 of those patients being age 65 or older. Last year, a task force was formed with a focused initiative to improve outcomes and care for geriatric ED patients. One of the goals of this task force is to create a Geri-Cart to provide comfort and sensory items for elderly patients, especially those with dementia. Current needs are highest for baby dolls, teddy bears, and fidget items. View the Amazon wish list or contribute with a monetary donation (“Geriatric Resource Cart, 70322”). Questions? Email Dina Hood. Thank you to all who have donated — this cart continues to be hugely successful. Your donations have improved the care and hospital experience of this patient population. 

Physicians and APPs: Get a New Provider Headshot 

McKim Hall | Ground Floor, Room G045 | No appointment necessary. Bring a white coat if you have one; if not, one will be provided. Photos taken in 10 minutes or less.      

• Tuesday, Sept. 29 | 9 a.m.-noon 
• Wednesday, Oct. 7 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Northridge Building 2955 (conference/break room on the second floor) 
• Wednesday, Oct. 14 | 7:30-10:30 a.m. 
• Monday, Oct. 19 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 
• Tuesday, Oct. 27 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 

The Kevin Hines Story: Transforming Crisis Into Resilience, Hope, and Advocacy for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention 

Tuesday, Sept. 29 | noon-1 p.m. | Zoom | Suicide survivor, mental health advocate, global speaker, best-selling author, and award-winning filmmaker Kevin Hines shares his inspiring story of hope, survival, celebration of life, and the lessons he has learned about resilience, recovery, and the lifesaving power of human connection. Part of Hoos Well and FEAP’s Thrive Together webinar series. Learn more.

UVA Comprehensive Cancer Center’s Michael J. Weber Symposium 

Friday, Oct. 2 | 8 a.m.-2:15 p.m. | Pinn Hall Auditorium | Honoring the late scientist and UVA Comprehensive Cancer Center Director, this symposium will convene internationally renowned researchers and clinicians to present their latest findings. This year’s theme is “Cancer Metastasis,” with scheduled presenters including Carey K. Anders, MD, Duke University; Adrienne Boire, MD, PhD, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center; Yibin Kang, PhD, Princeton University; Ahmedin Jemal, DVM, PhD, American Cancer Society; and Danny R. Welch, PhD, University of Kansas. Registration is free and includes breakfast and lunch. Learn more and register. 

World Mental Health Day: Art and Wellness Pop-Up Event 

Friday, Oct. 2 | noon-1:30 p.m. | The Fralin Museum of Art, 155 Rugby Rd. | Celebrate World Mental Health Day at The Fralin Museum of Art during its fourth annual Free Art and Wellness event featuring lunch (while supplies last), gallery coloring, therapy dogs, and wellness giveaways to help you slow down, connect, and recharge. Free parking at Culbreth Garage when you check in at the front desk with your license plate information. Brought to you by UVA FEAP, Hoos Well, and The Fralin. 

Diane Button: Author and End-of-Life Doula 

Thursday, Oct. 8 | noon-1 p.m. | Leonard Sandridge Auditorium | Diane Button, an end-of-life doula, will present “Listening for What Matters Most: The Questions That Change Care,” which introduces practical tools and questions she has used with hundreds of patients at the end of life. Lunch provided to the first 60 attendees. Co-sponsored by Haney Compassionate Care Collaborative, Compassionate Care Initiative, and Medical Center Hour.

Nominate: Leonard W. Sandridge Outstanding Contributor Award 

Deadline: Friday, Oct. 16 | This award recognizes outstanding University staff and team members whose service and contribution exceed the overall mission and values of the University. Service contributions to the University can be in the form of service to students, other customers of the University, patients, management, fellow employees, or the University community. Details. Nominate.   

Making Rounds: A Conversation With Dr. Sharon Hostler 

Wednesday, Oct. 21 | noon-1 p.m. | Historical Collections and Services Reading Room (basement level of Claude Moore Health Sciences Library) and Zoom | Join Sharon Hostler, MD, for a fireside-style conversation about her memoir, “Making Rounds: Love, Loss, and Lessons Learned from an Indomitable Woman in Medicine.” In conversation with Dominique Tobbell, PhD, Dr. Hostler will reflect on her journey from medical student to a pioneering leader in academic medicine at UVA. Part of the History of the Health Sciences Fall Lecture series. Registration required for in-person attendees. Box lunch provided after the talk. Space is limited. Details. Register.

2026 Healthcare Education Fair 

Thursday, Oct. 22 | 3:30-6:30 p.m. | University Hospital, Main Cafeteria | Learn more about programs across Virginia offering healthcare degrees and certificates in a wide range of fields. UVA Health team members can meet admissions counselors and other representatives to get the latest information on many pathways — from athletic training, health administration, and nutrition to nursing at all levels, pharmacy, sonography, etc. Get the full list and download a flyer to share. Questions? Read more on Connect and email npgo@uvahealth.org. 

Complete a Bachelor’s Degree on Your Schedule 

Deadline: Sunday, Nov. 1 | With UVA School of Continuing and Professional Studies, you can complete a bachelor’s degree online and on a flexible timeline that works for your busy healthcare career and personal life. This new, asynchronous learning pathway allows you to learn when your schedule allows, supported by a structure that keeps you on track and connected with peers and professors. You will gain desirable skills that enhance your workplace impact, boost your confidence, and open advanced career opportunities.

UVA Medical Device Make-A-Thon 

Nov. 5-8 | Frugal Innovations in Sustainable Healthcare (FISH), a UVA student organization dedicated to developing affordable healthcare devices, will host this inaugural event. The first student-led, medical device make-a-thon of its kind on the East Coast will bring together interdisciplinary student teams to design innovative, low-cost solutions to real clinical challenges. UVA Health clinicians, researchers, faculty, staff, residents, fellows, and nurses are invited to serve as mentors, judge final presentations, or submit clinical problem statements for students to address. Learn more and sign up. 

Appreciation

‘Incredibly Impactful!’: Hundreds of UVA Health Team Members Volunteer at 2026 United Way Day of Caring 

During the 2026 United Way of Greater Charlottesville Day of Caring on Wednesday, Sept. 16, more than 55 UVA Health teams, including 509 team members, took part in a variety of projects at a wide range of locations in and around Charlottesville — supporting everything from camps, churches, community centers, food banks, outdoor recreation areas, schools, and more that, in turn, support community members including children, families, seniors, people with special needs, and more. 

They're among 162 teams participating overall, including 2,300 volunteers in 133 projects this year at Day of Caring. UVA Health served as a Silver Sponsor of this year's event. Read more and see photos. 

Friday, Sept. 25

Town Hall Replay: Check Out the Speed-Watcher's Guide

If you missed the Sept. 23 town hall, here's your chance to catch up! Visit KnowledgeLink to find time code stamps for discussion topics and the embedded town hall video.   

Check out the video to see leaders discussing the strategic plan refresh, insights on the engagement and ASPIRE value surveys, and more. Watch. 

Patient Care

Pap Smear Turnaround Times Delayed 

UVA Health Cytology Lab’s turnaround times for Pap smear testing are expected to exceed 30 days through January 2027, with the goal of returning to fewer than 30 days in the new year. Delays stem from a nationwide shortage of trained cytologists to review Pap smear specimens.

Reference labs are dealing with the same personnel shortages, so they are not a viable alternative. Average turnaround time for HPV testing is seven days, so clinicians are encouraged to utilize primary HPV screening when appropriate, per ACOG recommendations. 

UVA Health lab leadership is pursuing multiple pathways to mitigate delays and increase staffing. Your support and patience during this time are greatly appreciated.  

Operations

Contact Radiology Concierge Team Via Secure Chat 

Unsure who to contact about a radiology diagnostic study or interventional procedure? For years, Radiology has had a centralized phone number — 4-XRAY — that can field questions and point you in the right direction. That same team is also now available in Secure Chat under “UVMC Radiology 4-Xray Concierge Team,” which serves as a great first contact for Radiology service and can be saved to your favorites list. The 4-Xray radiology concierge team, both by phone and Secure Chat, is always available.

Next Stop Better 

Next Stop Better volunteers hit the rainy streets on Sept. 22 and 23 to hand out umbrellas to UVA Health bus, bike, and scooter commuters. We will continue to hand these out to keep our awesome team members dry. The theme of the month is “We’ve got you covered.” Thank you to everyone involved. Keep dry! Sponsored by UVA and UVA Medical Center Parking and Transportation.

E-Bikes and Motorized Scooters 

E-bikes and motorized scooters are prohibited from being brought into University Medical Center or UVA School of Medicine for any reason. Additionally, they may not be charged, stored, or parked in any University Medical Center or UVA School of Medicine buildings as they are a known fire risk. For more information:    

• SEC-043: Riding, Parking, and Storing Motorized Scooters and Electric Power-Assisted Bicycles at the University     
• Bike rack locations      
• Highlighted locations with security camera coverage of bike racks (circled in yellow)

See a Spill? Cover It and Make a Call 

All team members are reminded to cover a spill with the sorbent pads found at the wall-mounted spill kit locations. Mark the spill with the caution sign, if available, and report it to Environmental Services at 434.982.1555. It takes everyone to maintain a safe environment for all. See graphic on right for reference. 

Leadership

UVA Strategic Planning: Share Your Insights and Voice 

As part of the University's Strategic Planning process, several strategic conversation workshops have been scheduled around Grounds. We have worked with the planning committee to host a session at Fontaine Research Park, so it is convenient for UVA Health team members to join the dialogue. Sign up to share your insights and voice as part of this process: 

• Tuesday, Sept. 29 | 7-8 a.m. | 560 Ray C. Hunt Drive, Room 221 

If you’re interested in providing feedback, virtual sessions will be added to the schedule in a couple of weeks. Additional dates and times at other locations around Grounds are available via the sign-up link above. 

UVA Health in the News

Top Story 

• Dr. Anita Clayton is featured in Reuters and newspapers across the nation discussing a medication that could improve sexual function in patients with depression. 

Patient Care 

• Dr. Jess Malpass participates in our weekly NBC29 segment, discussing childhood cancer awareness month. 
• Dr. Bobby Chhabra talks with WUSA (Washington, D.C., TV) about an elbow injury suffered by Commanders’ quarterback Jayden Daniels. 
• Dr. Michael Ibrahim is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing a new heart valve device that UVA Health was the first in the world to implant. 
• Dr. Lynn Dengel talks with Yahoo about women who continue working during breast cancer treatment. 
• Dr. Taison Bell is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing new sepsis treatment guidelines. 
• Dr. Nassima Ait-Daoud Tiouririne is featured locally and on TV stations nationally discussing a state grant to provide addiction treatment for the unhoused. 

Research 

• Dr. Kim Penberthy talks with The New York Times about people who report being contacted by deceased loved ones. 
• Dr. Thomas Platts-Mills talks with the BBC about how allergies can develop later in life. 
• Dr. Marina Weiler is featured in Vice and The Daily Mail discussing her out-of-body experience research.  
• Dr. Chris Holstege is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing products with unlabeled kratom. 
• Dr. Amy Mathers is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing the value of wastewater testing for disease surveillance. 

Community 

• Volunteer Devon Wade talks with NBC29 about his work during the annual United Way Day of Caring event. 

Education 

• Becker’s Hospital Review highlights UVA School of Nursing’s top rankings for its BSN program and as a top nursing school for men. 

Human Resources

2026 Annual Retraining 

Deadline: Wednesday, Sept. 30 | All UVA Health team members hired on or before April 1, 2026 — who provide patient care, receive training, or participate in healthcare education and research within or for the benefit of UVA Health University Medical Center, regardless of their employer — are required to take the training. Visit the 2026 Annual Retraining web page for more information. 

Happenings

Micro Health Breaks Series 

Sept. 28-Dec.15 | Take a 10-minute break with Beth Frackleton, Occupational Health, to refresh your mind and body with this new series of micro health breaks. Whether you're looking to boost your focus with chair yoga, ease stress with meditation, strengthen your body through low-intensity cardio, or explore the transformative power of mindset shifts and self-care, there's something for everyone. These quick, engaging virtual sessions offer benefits like improved flexibility, reduced anxiety, enhanced energy, and a stronger mind-body connection — perfect for fitting wellness into your busy day. Attend one or all sessions. See the schedule and download it to your Outlook calendar.

The Kevin Hines Story: Transforming Crisis Into Resilience, Hope, and Advocacy for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention 

Tuesday, Sept. 29 | noon-1 p.m. | Zoom | Suicide survivor, mental health advocate, global speaker, best-selling author, and award-winning filmmaker Kevin Hines shares his inspiring story of hope, survival, celebration of life, and the lessons he has learned about resilience, recovery, and the lifesaving power of human connection. Part of Hoos Well and FEAP’s Thrive Together webinar series. Learn more. 

Researchers: Shut the Sash Competition 

Oct. 1-31 | UVA Office for Sustainability's Green Labs Program is conducting the 2026 Shut the Sash competition in October. This friendly competition promotes safe, smart, and sustainable practices for use of chemical fume hoods. Labs that register will receive their competition form on Oct. 1 to complete throughout the month. Details.

Join Socktober 2026 

Oct. 1.-Nov. 2 | Stepping up to meet our 10-year strategic plan goal of cultivating healthy communities and belonging for all — UVA Health will kick off its annual Socktober initiative. This year's goal at University Medical Center: collecting 20,000 new pairs for unhoused individuals. Team members can drop off new pairs of socks in Socktober bins at: 

• Cafe at 500 Fontaine 
• Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center 
• Food and Nutrition Services ("0" level, University Hospital) 
• Good Grain Cafe, Orthopedic Center at Ivy Road 
• OR Cafe Lounge 
• University Hospital Cafeteria  
• Wahoo West Café  

Help spread the word! Print and hang, or share electronically, a fun sock tracker and horizontal and vertical graphics. Questions? Contact Jennifer Snyder, Director of Retail.   

World Mental Health Day: Art and Wellness Pop-Up Event 

Friday, Oct. 2 | noon-1:30 p.m. | The Fralin Museum of Art, 155 Rugby Rd. | Celebrate World Mental Health Day at The Fralin Museum of Art during its fourth annual Free Art and Wellness event featuring lunch (while supplies last), gallery coloring, therapy dogs, and wellness giveaways to help you slow down, connect, and recharge. Free parking at Culbreth Garage when you check in at the front desk with your license plate information. Brought to you by UVA FEAP, Hoos Well, and The Fralin. 

Amplifying Your Research Impact: A Strategic Communications Workshop 

Tuesday, Oct. 6 | 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | Contemplative Commons, Studio 1B | Office of the Vice President for Research presents a one-day workshop for UVA researchers who want to communicate their work more effectively. Through faculty panels, journalist perspectives, and hands-on media training — you will learn how to reach the public, communicate your work clearly, make more effective funding pitches, and build a cohesive academic brand. Space is limited. Learn more and register. 

Diane Button: Author and End-of-Life Doula 

Thursday, Oct. 8 | noon-1 p.m. | Leonard Sandridge Auditorium | Diane Button, an end-of-life doula, will present “Listening for What Matters Most: The Questions That Change Care,” which introduces practical tools and questions she has used with hundreds of patients at the end of life. Lunch provided to the first 60 attendees. Co-sponsored by Haney Compassionate Care Collaborative, Compassionate Care Initiative, and Medical Center Hour.

Fall 2026 Mental Health and Wellness Festival 

Thursday, Oct. 8 | 4-6 p.m. | Courtyard between MR5 and MR6 | Bringing together UVA Health students, team members, and trainees — as well as community organizations — for engagement and resource sharing focused on holistic mental health and wellness. Participate in wellness workshops and enjoy food, music, movement, drumming, and the wellness practice of grounding. Sponsored by UVA Health Office of Community Engagement and Health Outcomes, UVA School of Medicine Office of Medical Sciences Outreach, and UVA School of Nursing Office of Community Health and Wellbeing. World Mental Health Day is Oct. 10. 

Claude Moore Health Sciences Library Research Support Expo 2026 

Tuesday, Oct. 13 | 11 a.m.-1 p.m. | MR5, second floor, Biomedical Engineering Atrium | Whether you're a resident, attending, fellow, nurse, support staff member, student, faculty member, or just curious about what the Claude Moore Health Sciences Library can offer, this event is perfect for you. Meet the team, view artifacts on display, enjoy snacks and swag, play games, and participate in a raffle. Questions? Contact Lewis Savarese, Collection Development Librarian. Details.

Introduction to Mindfulness 

Tuesdays, Oct. 13-Nov. 3 | 5:30-7 p.m. | Zoom | For those who are interested in learning about mindfulness with a shorter time commitment. Working in healthcare can be stressful, and mindfulness is a proven method of improving resilience and wellbeing. Offered by UVA Mindfulness Center, in partnership with the Office of Team Wellbeing. Led by Cawood Fitzhugh, NP. Free for UVA Health employees. Register.      

Leading With AI: A Research-Informed Professional Learning Community for UVA Staff 

Thursdays, Oct. 15-Nov. 19 | 9-10 a.m. | Zoom | Join UVA colleagues in sharing resources, thinking critically, and learning directly from UVA School of Data Science faculty members. Learning will include guided readings, videos, facilitated discussions, and hands-on design activities. By the end of the program, you will be able to identify practical AI opportunities within your area of responsibilities and develop roadmaps for implementation. The cost to participate is $350. This is an excellent opportunity to use your UVA education benefit. Learn more and register.

Organizational Leadership Coaching Certificate 

Application deadline: Sunday, Nov. 1 | In this three-month, online program, you will deepen your leadership impact, empowered by essential experiences, certifications, and feedback from International Coaching Federation-certified professional coaches. You’ll gain the education hours required for the Associate Certified Coach (ACC) credential, while honing active listening, ethical practice, and resilience-building skills — enabling you to support your teams, reduce burnout, and lead change. Learn more. Information sessions: 

• Tuesday, Oct. 6 | noon | Zoom | Register 
• Tuesday, Oct. 27 | noon | Zoom | Register 

Appreciation

'A Joy to See Her Smiling Face' | Kudos to Our UVA Health Colleagues 

To best serve our community, UVA Health regularly surveys our patients on their healthcare experience. Below is a selection of feedback praising our team members:      

• “I don't have words for how thankful I am to have finally — finally! — had a provider that actually listened to me. I've never felt so seen and so heard. She was even able to laser pinpoint pain I'd been having in my hips since middle school!” 
• “I love Dr. Nimmigadda! It is a joy to see her smiling face. She's very genuine in her statements. She went out of her way recently to contact me about a test result while she was overseas on vacation! Who does that? Only a very caring health professional would be so loving to do that!” 
• “Dr. Millard is exceptionally wonderful in my experience. Her expertise inspires much confidence, she listens and cares about everything I bring to the appointment, answers all my questions, has helpful suggestions, and is warm and kind, while also being a consummate professional. ... It is so helpful to have a doctor you really trust, rely on, and with whom you feel comfortable.” 

Thank you to our team members for providing outstanding, compassionate, and safe care! 

Wednesday, Sept. 23

UVA Health Town Hall

Wednesday, Sept. 23 | noon-1 p.m. | Sandridge Auditorium or Zoom | Mitchell H. Rosner, MD, MACP, FRCP, Chief Executive Officer, UVA Health, invites you to join a conversation about where our health system is headed — and the role each of us plays in getting there. During this time, Dr. Rosner and other leadership team members will share key information about our 10-year strategic plan, UVA Health ASPIRE values, and other notable updates. 

Patient Care

Epic Experience Survey Returns 

Oct. 1-Nov. 16 | UVA Health HIT is committed to providing reliable, secure technology that empowers clinicians with better tools, trustworthy information, and innovative solutions that improve patient care. Achieving that goal requires direct input from the people who use Epic every day. Last year, nearly 1,740 clinicians participated in the survey, contributing to multiple initiatives designed to improve the Epic experience, including:   

• Creation and expansion of clinician-led governance structures and design committees that help prioritize and accelerate Epic enhancements.   
• Growth of AI-enabled documentation tools, including DAX, to help reduce documentation burden and improve efficiency.   
• Improved interoperability that brings outside records, labs, notes, and imaging into Epic to support continuity of care.   
• Expansion of Super User, Power User, and Epic personalization support programs.   
• Infrastructure enhancements that improved Epic performance by increasing bandwidth for more than 1,000 workstations.   

Learn more on Connect and watch your email for the survey link starting Oct. 1. 

Operations

Flu Gets Nixed in ’26: Team Member Flu Vaccine Compliance 

Compliance deadline: Saturday, Oct. 31 | Influenza (flu) vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and others from the flu and reduce the risk of serious illness and complications. Learn more, including where to get your flu vaccine, on Connect.  

Key dates:  

• Monday, Sept. 21 | Workplace flu vaccines became available. 
• Thursday, Oct. 15 | Exemption request deadline. 
• Saturday, Oct. 31 | Compliance deadline. 

Quick links:   

• Charlottesville-area Employee Health flu vaccine clinics 
• Employee Health: Flu vaccine 2026-27 season  
• UVA Health 2026-27 seasonal flu FAQs  

Thank you for getting your flu vaccine to protect the health of our patients and one another during this flu season.

USB Device Blocking Underway for UVA School of Medicine, Clinical Department Devices, and Surgical Services 

To strengthen our cyberdefenses, UVA Health is blocking the use of USB storage devices (e.g., “thumb” drives and other external storage drives) on all UVA Health-issued personal computers (PCs). The latest implementation phase began Sept. 14 and includes University Medical Center-managed devices in clinical departments, surgical services, operating rooms, labs, and UVA Health HIT-managed computers in UVA School of Medicine. (Academic-managed PCs are not affected.) See Connect for a detailed schedule.    

If you’re wondering if USB storage devices are blocked on your PC, HIT has deployed a desktop tray icon to indicate your computer's status: 1) blocked, 2) exception granted, or 3) policy not yet implemented. See the FAQs on Connect for more. As a reminder, instead of USB devices, team members should use their Microsoft OneDrive cloud storage account for secure data storage and sharing. This change does not affect USB-connected mice, keyboards, phone chargers, or similar accessories. 

Leadership

UVA Strategic Planning: Share Your Insights and Voice 

As part of the University's Strategic Planning process, several strategic conversation workshops have been scheduled around Grounds. We have worked with the planning committee to host a session at Fontaine Research Park, so it is convenient for UVA Health team members to join the dialogue. Sign up to share your insights and voice as part of this process:    

• Tuesday, Sept. 29 | 7-8 a.m. | 560 Ray C. Hunt Drive, Room 221   

If you’re interested in providing feedback, virtual sessions will be added to the schedule in a couple of weeks. Additional dates and times at other locations around Grounds are available via the sign-up link above. 

Human Resources

UVA Discounts 

Did you know employment at UVA means you have access to both local and national discounts for UVA faculty and staff? Check out the UVA Discount page to find savings on hotels, restaurants, retail, entertainment, services, and much more.  

• Help Wanted: UVA HR is looking to expand its local discounts and would love your help. Do you know a local business that might be interested in being featured on our discount page? If so, please have them email askhr@virginia.edu with the following information: company name, address, phone number, website, contact name and phone number, and discount they are willing to offer UVA faculty and staff. 

2026 Annual Retraining 

Deadline: Wednesday, Sept. 30 | All UVA Health team members hired on or before April 1, 2026 — who provide patient care, receive training, or participate in healthcare education and research within or for the benefit of UVA Health University Medical Center, regardless of their employer — are required to take the training. Visit the 2026 Annual Retraining web page for more information. 

Transition of UVA Life and Disability Programs to MetLife 

Friday, Jan. 1 | UVA is transitioning the administration of its life insurance, disability, and leave programs to MetLife, effective Jan. 1, 2027. The transition will consolidate services currently administered by multiple vendors into a single benefits and leave administration platform. The change follows a comprehensive review of UVA's life, disability, and leave programs and is intended to improve service, technology, and employee support. Read more on how this change could affect you. Questions? Email the HR Solution Center. 

Happenings

New Site: UVA Research News 

This new site from the Office of the Vice President for Research shines a light on the discoveries, breakthroughs, and big ideas happening across Grounds. Read stories, watch videos, and browse featured collections. 

Market Square 

Through Sept. 24 | Weekly, Thursdays, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Courtyard at MR5 | Shop for fresh produce, beautiful flowers, unique crafts, and delicious eats from local food trucks! Vendors include It’s Poppin’ Time, Little Manila, Mexican Tacos, Mr. Baker, Miss Day Delights, and Tealicious Cafe. Questions? Contact George Minor, UVA HR, Rewards and Recognition. See photos and read rave reviews on Connect. 

Join 2027 BEE Award Committee 

Call for interest deadline: 8 a.m., Friday, Sept. 25 | UVA Health University Medical Center Nursing Professional Governance Organization’s BEE Award Committee supports meaningful recognition of non-nursing team members — who work with nurses — through the BEE (Being Excellent Everyday) Award. Nominees are University Medical Center team members (excluding physicians) who support patient care. They fill a wide range of roles such as nursing assistants; health unit coordinators; Environmental Services team members; occupational, physical, and respiratory therapists; pharmacists; technicians; transporters; and many others. The BEE Award is presented twice a month.        

If you’re in a non-nursing University Medical Center role, join the BEE Award Committee to review and vote on nominations, spread awareness of the program, and contribute to recognition efforts for non-nursing team members.

The Kevin Hines Story: Transforming Crisis Into Resilience, Hope, and Advocacy for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention 

Tuesday, Sept. 29 | noon-1 p.m. | Zoom | Suicide survivor, mental health advocate, global speaker, best-selling author, and award-winning filmmaker Kevin Hines shares his inspiring story of hope, survival, celebration of life, and the lessons he has learned about resilience, recovery, and the lifesaving power of human connection. Part of Hoos Well and FEAP’s Thrive Together webinar series. Learn more. 

UVA Comprehensive Cancer Center’s Michael J. Weber Symposium 

Friday, Oct. 2 | 8 a.m.-2:15 p.m. | Pinn Hall Auditorium | Honoring the late scientist and UVA Comprehensive Cancer Center Director, this symposium will convene internationally renowned researchers and clinicians to present their latest findings. This year’s theme is “Cancer Metastasis,” with scheduled presenters including Carey K. Anders, MD, Duke University; Adrienne Boire, MD, PhD, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center; Yibin Kang, PhD, Princeton University; Ahmedin Jemal, DVM, PhD, American Cancer Society; and Danny R. Welch, PhD, University of Kansas. Registration is free and includes breakfast and lunch. Learn more and register. 

Fall 2026 Mental Health and Wellness Festival 

Thursday, Oct. 8 | 4-6 p.m. | Courtyard between MR5 and MR6 | Bringing together UVA Health students, team members, and trainees — and community organizations — for engagement and resource sharing focused on holistic mental health and wellness. Participate in wellness workshops and enjoy food, music, movement, drumming, and the wellness practice of grounding. Sponsored by UVA Health Office of Community Engagement and Health Outcomes, UVA School of Medicine Office of Medical Sciences Outreach, and UVA School of Nursing Office of Community Health and Wellbeing. World Mental Health Day is Oct. 10. 

Arts on the Hill Presents Auksalaq, a Telematic Opera 

Monday, Oct. 12 | 5:30-6:30 p.m. | Hosted by UVA President Scott Beardsley and Claire Dufournet Beardsley, in partnership with the UVA Arts team, under the leadership of Jody Kielbasa, Vice Provost for the Arts and Executive Director of the Virginia Film Festival. All UVA faculty, staff, and students are invited to enter the lottery for tickets. Details.

2026 Menopause Is Thriving at UVA 

Friday, Oct. 16 | 7 a.m.-4 p.m. | Omni Hotel, Charlottesville | JoAnn Pinkerton, MD (pictured), and Carrie Sopata, MD, encourage you to join this conference to learn, connect, and explore how we can better support women through every stage of the menopause transition. Please join in advancing thoughtful, evidence-based care and meaningful conversations that help women thrive. Learn more and register. 

UVA’s New, 100% Online Master of Change Management Degree 

Application deadline: Sunday, Nov. 1 | Navigating burnout, technology adoption, and process changes require decision-makers who are equipped with skills to anticipate and address today's unprecedented scope and speed of change. Designed for working adults, UVA’s new online master’s degree in change management fosters human-centered tools and data-driven decision-making needed to build alignment and guide others through challenging transitions. Customization opportunities ensure learning is directly applicable to a variety of industries, including healthcare. Program begins January 2027. Learn more. 

Accepting Applications: Charles L. Brown Award 

Deadline: Thursday, Dec. 3 | 5 p.m. | The Charles L. Brown Award for Patient Care Quality is UVA Health’s annual award for a care team who has worked to move our quality and patient safety efforts forward. Sponsored by the Department of Quality and Performance Improvement, this award offers a $10,000 prize to a team or teams to recognize excellence in patient care. To receive an application or for questions, contact Jeff Lucas, Director, Performance Improvement, at 434.243.1755. 

Appreciation

UVA Health Prince William Medical Center Celebrates Magnet® Designation 

UVA Health Prince William Medical Center is thrilled to announce their third Magnet® designation! They received and celebrated the designation on Friday, Sept. 18, with leaders across UVA Community Health recognizing the teamwork and clinical excellence that went into this effort.  

Developed by American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) — Magnet® is the leading source of successful evidence-based nursing practices and strategies worldwide. Visit Connect to see photos from the celebration. 

Monday, Sept. 21

Transplant and Medicine Units Return to Home Locations

Thursday, Oct. 1 | 6 a.m.-noon | Transplant and Medicine inpatient units will return to their home locations to better align our space with each service's needs. Transplant inpatient beds currently located on 3 East will move to 5 South, and Medicine inpatients currently on 5 South will move to 3 East.  

• Transplant on 5 South will open with capacity for 28 beds. 
• 3 East initially will open at 19 beds while patient rooms undergo deep cleaning; capacity will expand to 25 beds on Oct. 5, and to 26 beds on Oct. 6. 
• Questions? Contact Rebecca Lewis, Administrator, Operational Readiness, at 434.882.2427. 

Thank you for your flexibility as we complete this transition. You will be updated on any changes to the timeline or bed capacity as this project progresses. 

Patient Care

Epic Experience Survey Returns 

Oct. 1-Nov. 16 | UVA Health HIT is committed to providing reliable, secure technology that empowers clinicians with better tools, trustworthy information, and innovative solutions that improve patient care. Achieving that goal requires direct input from the people who use Epic every day. Last year, nearly 1,740 clinicians participated in the survey, contributing to multiple initiatives designed to improve the Epic experience, including:  

• Creation and expansion of clinician-led governance structures and design committees that help prioritize and accelerate Epic enhancements.  
• Growth of AI-enabled documentation tools, including DAX, to help reduce documentation burden and improve efficiency.  
• Improved interoperability that brings outside records, labs, notes, and imaging into Epic to support continuity of care.  
• Expansion of Super User, Power User, and Epic personalization support programs.  
• Infrastructure enhancements that improved Epic performance by increasing bandwidth for more than 1,000 workstations.  

Learn more on Connect and watch your email for the survey link starting Oct. 1. 

Operations

USB Device Blocking Underway for UVA School of Medicine, Clinical Department Devices, and Surgical Services 

To strengthen our cyberdefenses, UVA Health is blocking the use of USB storage devices (e.g., “thumb” drives and other external storage drives) on all UVA Health-issued personal computers (PCs). The latest implementation phase began Sept. 14 and includes University Medical Center-managed devices in clinical departments, surgical services, operating rooms, labs, and UVA Health HIT-managed computers in UVA School of Medicine. (Academic-managed PCs are not affected.) See Connect for a detailed schedule.   

If you’re wondering if USB storage devices are blocked on your PC, HIT has deployed a desktop tray icon to indicate your computer's status: 1) blocked, 2) exception granted, or 3) policy not yet implemented. See the FAQs on Connect for more. As a reminder, instead of USB devices, team members should use their Microsoft OneDrive cloud storage account for secure data storage and sharing. This change does not affect USB-connected mice, keyboards, phone chargers, or similar accessories.

Changes to Call-Out Process for Inpatient Units and ED 

Team members who previously called the Staffing Resource Office (SRO) to report an absence should now instead report the call-out directly to their home unit. When reporting an absence, please follow this call sequence:   

• Shift Manager cell   
• Unit phone   
• SRO Clerk, only if the unit cannot be reached   

Team members must speak directly with someone to report the absence. Leaving a voicemail does not complete the call-out process.     
 
This change gives units earlier awareness of staffing needs, allows coverage planning to begin sooner, and reduces unnecessary handoffs. Managers will share any additional unit-specific information before go-live. All existing attendance and call-out timing expectations remain unchanged.

UVA Health Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation Is Moving 

Wednesday, Sept. 23 | UVA Health Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation is moving to Pantops, with a new location at 590 Peter Jefferson Parkway, Suite 200B, Charlottesville, VA 22911. The new clinic location offers all the same great services, with convenient onsite parking and a larger space to better serve patients. 

Leadership

UVA Health Town Hall 

Wednesday, Sept. 23 | noon-1 p.m. | Sandridge Auditorium or Zoom | Mitchell H. Rosner, MD, MACP, FRCP, Chief Executive Officer, UVA Health, invites you to join a conversation about where our health system is headed — and the role each of us plays in getting there. During this time, Dr. Rosner and other leadership team members will share key information about our 10-year strategic plan, UVA Health ASPIRE values, and other notable updates.

UVA Strategic Planning: Share Your Insights and Voice 

As part of the University's Strategic Planning process, several strategic conversation workshops have been scheduled around Grounds. We have worked with the planning committee to host a session at Fontaine Research Park, so it is convenient for UVA Health team members to join the dialogue. Sign up to share your insights and voice as part of this process:   

• Tuesday, Sept. 29 | 7-8 a.m. | 560 Ray C. Hunt Drive, Room 221  

Please note: the sessions for Sept. 21 and 22 have been canceled. If you’re interested in providing feedback, virtual sessions will be added to the schedule in a couple of weeks. Additional dates and times at other locations around Grounds are available via the sign-up link above. 

Human Resources

2026 Annual Retraining 

Deadline: Wednesday, Sept. 30 | All UVA Health team members hired on or before April 1, 2026 — who provide patient care, receive training, or participate in healthcare education and research within or for the benefit of UVA Health University Medical Center, regardless of their employer — are required to take the training. Visit the 2026 Annual Retraining web page for more information. 

Happenings

Donations Needed: Geri-Cart 

University Medical Center Emergency Department (ED) had approximately 77,000 patient visits in 2025, with more than 20,000 of those patients being age 65 or older. Last year, a task force was formed with a focused initiative to improve outcomes and care for geriatric ED patients. One of the goals of this task force is to create a Geri-Cart to provide comfort and sensory items for elderly patients, especially those with dementia. Current needs are highest for baby dolls, teddy bears, and fidget items. View the Amazon wish list or contribute with a monetary donation (“Geriatric Resource Cart, 70322”). Questions? Email Dina Hood. Thank you to all who have donated — this cart continues to be hugely successful. Your donations have improved the care and hospital experience of this patient population.

2026 APP Week: The Pulse of Progress

This week we’re celebrating Advanced Practice Provider (APP) Week! This special week recognizes the crucial expertise of audiologists, certified nurse midwives, certified registered nurse anesthetists, clinical nurse specialists, genetic counselors, licensed clinical social workers, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants/associates. UVA Health APPs are invited to join onsite and virtual events celebrating “APPs Powering Tomorrow.” (View the recorded virtual events any time.*) See the schedule:   

• Through Friday, Sept. 25 | Step Challenge Start | APP teams, sign up on the Hoos Well app to join a fun way to promote healthy activity and competition!   
• Monday, Sept. 21   
  • *Watch any time | Opening Ceremony with Associate Chief Nursing Officer Bill Lombardi, DNP, RN, AGACNP-BC, CCRN, UVA Health Center for Advanced Practice, and Opening Keynote with Harvard- and Stanford-trained physician-scientist Daniel Kraft, MD, presenting “The Future of Health and Medicine: Where Can Technology Take Us?”   
  • 5 p.m. | Orange Theory Fitness, 1935 Arlington Blvd., Charlottesville   
• Tuesday, Sept. 22   
  • *Watch any time | Presidents Panel | Featuring David Bunnell, American Academy of Physician Associates; Valerie Fuller, American Association of Nurse Practitioners; Jackeline Iseler, National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists; Peter Johnson, American College of Nurse Midwives; Emily Mycyk, American Academy of Anesthesiologist Assistants; and Tracy Young, American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology. See below for more information. 
  • 5:30-7:30 p.m. | Sun Pins at Dairy Market, 946 Grady Ave., Charlottesville | Bring your family for duckpin bowling fun!   
• Wednesday, Sept. 23   
  • 7-9 a.m. | University Medical Center Dining Conference Rooms | Join us for breakfast! APP Council Recognition Committee also will deliver coffee and donuts to Fontaine, Ivy, Riverside, and Zion Crossroads.    
  • *Watch any time | Midweek Keynote | Jones Loflin presents “Powering Tomorrow: Leading Well in a World of Too Much to Do.”   
  • 6-8 p.m. | WildMan Dan Brewery, 279 Avon Rd., Afton | Darts, karaoke, foosball, food, and camaraderie!   
• Thursday, Sept. 24   
  • 5:30 p.m. | Contemplative Sciences Center, 403 Emmet St., Charlottesville | Onsite attendance by invite and RSVP only | UVA Health APP Week Gala and Awards Ceremony presented by the APP Council will honor 86 nominees and award six recipients.    
  • *Watch any time | National APP Week Awards | Presented by Bill Lombardi, and, from Cedars-Sinai: Honore Kotler, DNP, RN, ACNP-BC. Celebrating 263 nominees and six recipients.   
• Friday, Sept. 25  
  • Throughout the day | APP leadership will visit hospital units and clinics to distribute treats and UVA Health swag to team members.   
  • *Watch any time | Closing Ceremony and Host Handoff | Bill Lombardi and Advocate Health present “Passing the Torch to 2027 National AAP Week.”   

Thank you to APPs and all team members supporting our UVA Health mission of transforming health and inspiring hope for all Virginians and beyond!

Donate Blood: September Is National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month 

Tuesday, Sept. 22 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Battle Building, Quayle Center, First Floor | We honor the children currently battling cancer, the families who love them, the clinicians and caregivers treating them, and the researchers working to conquer childhood cancer. Donate! To register, contact Sharon Jones. Swag alert: Donate and receive a $15 e-gift card. Details.   

Open House: Claude Moore Health Sciences Library 

Tuesday, Sept. 22 | noon-2 p.m. | Claude Moore Health Sciences Library | Whether you're a student, clinician, support staff, faculty member, or just curious about what is offered, this event is perfect for you. Meet the team, explore UVA groups and departments, enjoy free treats, and participate in a scavenger hunt. Details. Questions? Contact Tricia Roche, Access Services Manager. 

Embrace Your Menopause Journey 

Tuesdays, Sept. 22-Oct. 20 | noon-1 p.m. | Zoom | Join this inspiring, five-week group where you will learn to see menopause as a powerful new chapter in life. Guided by the expertise of Beth Frackleton, RN, National Board-Certified Health Coach, ACSM Certified PT, and Mary Sherman, LCSW, CEAP, CAPP, this supportive group setting will empower you with:      

• In-depth knowledge and understanding: gain insights into the changes your body is experiencing.   
• Boosted self-efficacy: build confidence in managing your menopausal journey.   
• Lifestyle enhancements: discover practical modifications to enhance your wellbeing.   
• Stress management techniques: learn effective ways to handle stress and maintain balance.   
• Valuable resources: access a wealth of information and support tailored to your needs.   

Learn more and register.

18th Annual Therapeutic Apheresis Academy (TAA) 

Sept. 24-26 | Pinn Hall Conference Center | This multidisciplinary conference is designed for physicians in nephrology, hematology, and pathology/blood banking, and allied health professionals with an interest in therapeutic apheresis. The 2026 program builds on the success of prior TAAs with evidence‑based clinical content, interprofessional education, hands‑on demonstration workshops, and interactive case discussions. Register. Questions? Contact Monica McCommon, UVA Health Continuing Education Program Manager. 

Join 2027 BEE Award Committee 

Call for interest deadline: 8 a.m., Friday, Sept. 25 | UVA Health University Medical Center Nursing Professional Governance Organization’s BEE Award Committee supports meaningful recognition of non-nursing team members — who work with nurses — through the BEE (Being Excellent Everyday) Award. Nominees are University Medical Center team members (excluding physicians) who support patient care. They fill a wide range of roles such as nursing assistants; health unit coordinators; Environmental Services team members; occupational, physical, and respiratory therapists; pharmacists; technicians; transporters; and many others. The BEE Award is presented twice a month.       

If you’re in a non-nursing University Medical Center role, join the BEE Award Committee to review and vote on nominations, spread awareness of the program, and contribute to recognition efforts for non-nursing team members. 

Physicians and APPs: Get a New Provider Headshot 

Tuesday, Sept. 29 | 9 a.m.-noon | McKim Hall | Ground Floor, Room G045 | No appointment necessary. Bring a white coat if you have one; if not, one will be provided. Photos taken in 10 minutes or less.

UVA Comprehensive Cancer Center’s Michael J. Weber Symposium 

Friday, Oct. 2 | 8 a.m.-2:15 p.m. | Pinn Hall Auditorium | Honoring the late scientist and UVA Comprehensive Cancer Center Director, this symposium will convene internationally renowned researchers and clinicians to present their latest findings. This year’s theme is “Cancer Metastasis,” with scheduled presenters including Carey K. Anders, MD, Duke University; Adrienne Boire, MD, PhD, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center; Yibin Kang, PhD, Princeton University; Ahmedin Jemal, DVM, PhD, American Cancer Society; and Danny R. Welch, PhD, University of Kansas. Registration is free and includes breakfast and lunch. Learn more and register. 

Nominate: Leonard W. Sandridge Outstanding Contributor Award 

Deadline: Friday, Oct. 16 | This award recognizes outstanding University staff and team members whose service and contribution exceed the overall mission and values of the University. Service contributions to the University can be in the form of service to students, other customers of the University, patients, management, fellow employees, or the University community. Details. Nominate.  

Complete a Bachelor’s Degree on Your Schedule  

Deadline: Sunday, Nov. 1 | With UVA School of Continuing and Professional Studies, you can complete a bachelor’s degree online and on a flexible timeline that works for your busy healthcare career and personal life. This new, asynchronous learning pathway allows you to learn when your schedule allows, supported by a structure that keeps you on track and connected with peers and professors. You will gain desirable skills that enhance your workplace impact, boost your confidence, and open advanced career opportunities.   

• Information session: Wednesday, Sept. 23 | Register. 

Appreciation

‘Well-Poised to Meet Future Needs’ 

As part of proudly serving as the host organization for National Advanced Practice Provider (APP) Week, UVA Health Center for Advanced Practice (CAP) recently held a Presidents Panel representing several national organizations for APPs. UVA Health APPs talked to the presidents about their work and how the national organizations could support professional growth. Then during the panel, leaders answered questions submitted by APPs onsite at the event, and online from across the country on questions about practice autonomy, legislative advocacy, and the future of their respective APP professions. A recording will be streamed on Tuesday, Sept. 22, during this National APP Week.  

Presidents participating on the panel:  

• David Bunnell, PhD, PA-C, DFAAPA, American Academy of Physician Associates 
• Valerie Fuller, PhD, DNP, AGACNP-BC, FNP-BC, FAAN, FNAP, FAANP, American Association of Nurse Practitioners  
• Peter Johnson, CNM, PhD, FACNM, FAAN, American College of Nurse Midwives  
• Jackeline Iseler, DNP, MSN, RN, ACNS-BC, CNE, FCNS, National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists  
• Emily Mycyk, CAA, American Academy of Anesthesiologist Assistants 
• Tracy Young, MSNA, MBA, CRNA, American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology 

”Having the presidents here to share their perspective on the state of our professions through a national lens solidifies that our APPs are well-poised to meet future needs of our patients and the healthcare system,” says Bill Lombardi, DNP, RN, AGACNP-BC, CCRN, Associate Chief Nursing Officer, UVA Health University Medical Center. “And having the opportunity to be the National APP Week host organization, and sponsor an event like the Presidents Panel, is so rewarding! We’re sharing the incredible work of UVA Health APPs, as well as the value that CAP brings to APPs and the organization.” 

Friday, Sept. 18

Coming Soon: Flu Gets Nixed in ’26

UVA Health is gearing up for influenza (flu) season with our Flu Gets Nixed in ‘26 team member vaccination campaign. Getting a flu vaccine is the best way to prevent flu and its complications — and it helps protect those around us who are most at risk. Thank you for helping keep our patients, colleagues, and community safe this flu season. Here’s what to expect:    

• Monday, Sept. 21: Watch your inbox for a detailed email with everything you need to know about this year’s flu vaccination process and exemption instructions.    
• Monday, Sept. 21: Workplace flu vaccines become available across UVA Health.    
• Thursday, Oct. 15: Deadline for submitting new flu vaccination exemption requests.    
• Saturday, Oct. 31: Deadline for UVA Health team member annual flu vaccine compliance.   

In the meantime, see Connect for guidance from Employee Health about what to do if you become sick with a respiratory virus this season. 

Operations

USB Device Blocking Underway for UVA School of Medicine, Clinical Department Devices, and Surgical Services 

To strengthen our cyberdefenses, UVA Health is blocking the use of USB storage devices (e.g., “thumb” drives and other external storage drives) on all UVA Health-issued personal computers (PCs). The latest implementation phase began Sept. 14 and includes University Medical Center-managed devices in clinical departments, surgical services, operating rooms, labs, and UVA Health HIT-managed computers in UVA School of Medicine. (Academic-managed PCs are not affected.) See Connect for a detailed schedule.  

If you’re wondering if USB storage devices are blocked on your PC, HIT has deployed a desktop tray icon to indicate your computer's status: 1) blocked, 2) exception granted, or 3) policy not yet implemented. See the FAQs on Connect for more. As a reminder, instead of USB devices, team members should use their Microsoft OneDrive cloud storage account for secure data storage and sharing. This change does not affect USB-connected mice, keyboards, phone chargers, or similar accessories.

Changes to Call-Out Process for Inpatient Units and ED 

Beginning Sept. 20, team members who currently call the Staffing Resource Office (SRO) to report an absence will instead report the call-out directly to their home unit.  
 
When reporting an absence, please follow this call sequence:  

• Shift Manager cell  
• Unit phone  
• SRO Clerk, only if the unit cannot be reached  

Team members must speak directly with someone to report the absence. Leaving a voicemail does not complete the call-out process.    
 
This change gives units earlier awareness of staffing needs, allows coverage planning to begin sooner, and reduces unnecessary handoffs. Managers will share any additional unit-specific information before go-live. All existing attendance and call-out timing expectations remain unchanged.

E-Bikes and Motorized Scooters  

E-bikes and motorized scooters are prohibited from being brought into University Medical Center or UVA School of Medicine for any reason. Additionally, they may not be charged, stored, or parked in any University Medical Center or UVA School of Medicine buildings as they are a known fire risk. For more information:   

• SEC-043: Riding, Parking, and Storing Motorized Scooters and Electric Power-Assisted Bicycles at the University    
• Bike rack locations     
• Highlighted locations with security camera coverage of bike racks (circled in yellow)

See a Spill? Cover It and Make a Call  

All team members are reminded to cover a spill with the sorbent pads found at the wall-mounted spill kit locations. Mark the spill with the caution sign, if available, and report it to Environmental Services at 434.982.1555. It takes everyone to maintain a safe environment for all. See graphic on right for reference. 

Leadership

UVA Strategic Planning: Share Your Insights and Voice 

As part of the University's Strategic Planning process, several strategic conversation workshops have been scheduled around Grounds. We have worked with the planning committee to host sessions at the Education Resource Center (ERC) and Fontaine Research Park, so it is convenient for UVA Health team members to join the dialogue. Sign up to share your insights and voice as part of this process:  

• Monday, Sept. 21 | 5-6 p.m. | ERC, Room B  
• Tuesday, Sept. 22 | 7-8 a.m. | ERC, Room B  
• Tuesday, Sept. 29 | 7-8 a.m. | 560 Ray C. Hunt Drive, Room 221  

Additional dates and times at other locations around Grounds are available via the sign-up link above.

UVA Health Town Hall 

Wednesday, Sept. 23 | noon-1 p.m. | Sandridge Auditorium or Zoom | Mitchell H. Rosner, MD, MACP, FRCP, Chief Executive Officer, UVA Health, invites you to join a conversation about where our health system is headed — and the role each of us plays in getting there. During this time, Dr. Rosner and other leadership team members will share key information about our 10-year strategic plan, UVA Health ASPIRE values, and other notable updates. 

UVA Health in the News

Top Story 

• Dr. Amy Mathers is featured on NPR’s Science Friday (aired on 531 affiliates nationally) discussing whether you need to finish your prescribed course of antibiotics. 

Patient Care 

• Dr. Daniel Reed participates in UVA Health’s weekly NBC29 segment, discussing Blood Cancer Awareness month. 
• Dr. Ina Stephens joins the Bendy Bodies podcast to discuss what can happen when doctors misunderstand Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and hypermobility disorders. 
• Prince William Medical Center is highlighted by Becker’s Hospital Review among the U.S. hospitals with the lowest CLABSI rates. 
• Dr. Stephen Lockey talks with Becker’s Hospital Review about when spine surgeons shouldn’t operate. 
• Dr. Anita Clayton talks with Behavioral Health Business about UVA Health’s deprescribing clinic. 
• Dr. Rashard Dacus is featured on a Becker’s Hospital Review list of orthopedic surgeons to know. 

Research 

• Dr. Marina Weiler is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally along with Science Alert and Yahoo discussing her out-of-body experiences research.  
• Dr. Anita Clayton is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing a medication that could improve sexual function in patients with depression. 
• Dr. Jennifer Payne talks with Romper about postpartum depression. 
• Dr. Jeff Saucerman is featured locally and on TV stations nationally discussing the pitfalls and promise of AI tools in biomedical research. 
• Dr. Drew Harris talks with Healio about the rise in engineered stone silicosis among California countertop fabrication workers. 

Community 

• The Culpeper Star-Exponent highlights the inaugural UVA Culpeper Health and Wellness Expo. 

Education 

• Dr. Jeffrey Wilson talks with the American Heart Association for an explainer piece on alpha-gal syndrome. 

Human Resources

UVA Discounts

Did you know employment at UVA means you have access to both local and national discounts for UVA faculty and staff? Check out the UVA Discount page to find savings on hotels, restaurants, retail, entertainment, services, and much more. 

• Help Wanted: UVA HR is looking to expand its local discounts and would love your help. Do you know a local business that might be interested in being featured on our discount page? If so, please have them email askhr@virginia.edu with the following information: company name, address, phone number, website, contact name and phone number, and discount they are willing to offer UVA faculty and staff. 

Transition of UVA Life and Disability Programs to MetLife 

Friday, Jan. 1 | UVA is transitioning the administration of its life insurance, disability, and leave programs to MetLife, effective Jan. 1, 2027. The transition will consolidate services currently administered by multiple vendors into a single benefits and leave administration platform. The change follows a comprehensive review of UVA's life, disability, and leave programs and is intended to improve service, technology, and employee support. Read more on how this change could affect you. Questions? Email the HR Solution Center. 

Happenings

Donate Blood: September Is National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month 

Tuesday, Sept. 22: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Battle Building, Quayle Center, First Floor | We honor the children currently battling cancer, the families who love them, the clinicians and caregivers treating them, and the researchers working to conquer childhood cancer. Donate! To register, contact Sharon Jones. Swag alert: Donate and receive a $15 e-gift card. Details.  

• In the Community: Sickle Cell Awareness Month | Saturday, Sept. 19 | 9 a.m.-2 p.m. | Jefferson School City Center, Carver Recreational Center | While donors of all backgrounds are needed, blood from Black and African American donors is three times more likely to be a direct antigen match for patients with sickle cell disease. To sign up, visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter code “JeffersonSchool.” Hosted by UVA Health Division of Hematology and Oncology. 

Open House: Claude Moore Health Sciences Library 

Tuesday, Sept. 22 | noon-2 p.m. | Claude Moore Health Sciences Library | Whether you're a student, clinician, support staff, faculty member, or just curious about what is offered, this event is perfect for you. Meet the team, explore UVA groups and departments, enjoy free treats, and participate in a scavenger hunt. Details. Questions? Contact Tricia Roche, Access Services Manager. 

Embrace Your Menopause Journey 

Tuesdays, Sept. 22-Oct. 20 | noon-1 p.m. | Zoom | Join this inspiring, five-week group where you will learn to see menopause as a powerful new chapter in life. Guided by the expertise of Beth Frackleton, RN, National Board-Certified Health Coach, ACSM Certified PT, and Mary Sherman, LCSW, CEAP, CAPP, this supportive group setting will empower you with:     

• In-depth knowledge and understanding: gain insights into the changes your body is experiencing.  
• Boosted self-efficacy: build confidence in managing your menopausal journey.  
• Lifestyle enhancements: discover practical modifications to enhance your wellbeing.  
• Stress management techniques: learn effective ways to handle stress and maintain balance.  
• Valuable resources: access a wealth of information and support tailored to your needs.  

Learn more and register.

18th Annual Therapeutic Apheresis Academy (TAA) 

Sept. 24-26 | Pinn Hall Conference Center | This multidisciplinary conference is designed for physicians in nephrology, hematology, and pathology/blood banking, and allied health professionals with an interest in therapeutic apheresis. The 2026 program builds on the success of prior TAAs with evidence‑based clinical content, interprofessional education, hands‑on demonstration workshops, and interactive case discussions. Register. Questions? Contact Monica McCommon, UVA Health Continuing Education Program Manager. 

Researchers: Shut the Sash Competition 

Oct. 1-31 | UVA Office for Sustainability's Green Labs Program is conducting the 2026 Shut the Sash competition in October. This friendly competition promotes safe, smart, and sustainable practices for use of chemical fume hoods. Labs that register will receive their competition form on Oct. 1 to complete throughout the month. Details. 

Amplifying Your Research Impact: A Strategic Communications Workshop 

Tuesday, Oct. 6 | 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | Contemplative Commons, Studio 1B | Office of the Vice President for Research presents a one-day workshop for UVA researchers who want to communicate their work more effectively. Through faculty panels, journalist perspectives, and hands-on media training — you will learn how to reach the public, communicate your work clearly, make more effective funding pitches, and build a cohesive academic brand. Space is limited. Learn more and register. 

Trauma-Sensitive Human Trafficking Training for Healthcare Workers 

Tuesday, Oct. 6 | 3:30-5 p.m. | The Graduate Hotel, Charlottesville | This interdisciplinary continuing education program is designed to enhance healthcare professionals' ability to recognize and respond to individuals who may be experiencing human trafficking. This program is Intended for physicians, physician assistants, nurses, social workers, psychologists, trainees, and other healthcare professionals committed to improving care for vulnerable populations. Learn more and register.

Health Sciences Library Research Support Expo 2026 

Tuesday, Oct. 13 | 11 a.m.-1 p.m. | MR-5, 2nd Floor, BME Atrium | Whether you're a resident, attending, fellow, nurse, support staff member, student, faculty member, or just curious about what the Health Sciences Library can offer, this event is perfect for you. Meet the team, view artifacts on display, enjoy snacks and swag, play games, and participate in a raffle. Questions? Contact Lewis Savarese, Collection Development Librarian. Details. 

Nominate: The Allie Rudolph Award for Exemplary Healing Practices 

Deadline: Saturday, Oct. 31 | This award honors Allie Rudolph, a retired social worker from the Department of Family Medicine, who saw patients and taught residents and students from 1980 to 2006. The spirit of the Allie Rudolph Award is based in the reality that many of the members of UVA Health exhibit healing behaviors every day, often without recognition or appreciation. Honoring those contributions and practices is important in a community of people whose life’s work is healing the sick and caring for those in distress. Learn more. 

Appreciation

'My Angel of the Day' | Kudos to Our UVA Health Colleagues 

To best serve our community, UVA Health regularly surveys our patients on their healthcare experience. Below is a selection of feedback praising our team members:     

• "I arrived alone and was not able to park close to the entrance. It was a long walk on my crutches, but I was determined to make it. I made it about halfway when I looked up and saw an assistant — I think her name was Julie, but forgive me, I'm not positive — was coming toward me with a wheelchair and a sweet smile. She took me through the whole process and up to my appointment. I told her she was my angel of the day.”  
• "Dr. Janowski is an extraordinary physician. She is an expert in terms of knowledge, skill, and empathy, and truly takes the time to explain in detail the diagnosis, management plan, and prognosis. Evey question is explained in detail. Dr. Janowski truly cares about and appreciates that cancer is a highly sensitive diagnosis — she is kind and patient with responses to any questions. Her empathy is genuine, and she made this horrific journey a lot easier. I always felt calmer during this period, the most difficult of my life. Her nurse, Johanna, was exactly the same.” 
• "This was my first time to be hospitalized at UVA Health. The staff and doctors go above and beyond to provide outstanding care. There is absolutely nothing I can fault from this hospitalization. I have been in hospitals in the past with dedicated and competent staff; however, UVA Health employees seem to have an abundance of compassion and empathy for their patients, in addition to their dedication and competence. This is not something that can be forced, so to be on the receiving end of it — when you are not feeling well and in someone else's care — is very comforting. I am grateful to everyone — from the gentleman who cleaned the rooms, to the patient care team, and the nurses to the doctors who provided my care.” 

Thank you to our team members for providing outstanding, compassionate, and safe care! 

Wednesday, Sept. 16

UVA Strategic Planning: Share Your Insights and Voice

As part of the University's Strategic Planning process, several strategic conversation workshops have been scheduled around Grounds. We have worked with the planning committee to host sessions at the Education Resource Center (ERC) and Fontaine Research Park, so it is convenient for UVA Health team members to join the dialogue. Sign up to share your insights and voice as part of this process: 

• Monday, Sept. 21 | 5-6 p.m. | ERC, Room B 
• Tuesday, Sept. 22 | 7-8 a.m. | ERC, Room B 
• Tuesday, Sept. 29 | 7-8 a.m. | 560 Ray C. Hunt Drive, Room 221 

Additional dates and times at other locations around Grounds are available via the sign-up link above. 

Patient Care

Epic Experience Survey Returns Oct. 1 

Oct. 1-Nov. 16 | UVA Health HIT is committed to providing reliable, secure technology that empowers clinicians with better tools, trustworthy information, and innovative solutions that improve patient care. Achieving that goal requires direct input from the people who use Epic every day. Last year, nearly 1,740 clinicians participated in the survey, contributing to multiple initiatives designed to improve the Epic experience, including: 

• Creation and expansion of clinician-led governance structures and design committees that help prioritize and accelerate Epic enhancements. 
• Growth of AI-enabled documentation tools, including DAX, to help reduce documentation burden and improve efficiency. 
• Improved interoperability that brings outside records, labs, notes, and imaging into Epic to support continuity of care. 
• Expansion of Super User, Power User, and Epic personalization support programs. 
• Infrastructure enhancements that improved Epic performance by increasing bandwidth for more than 1,000 workstations. 

Learn more on Connect and watch your email for the survey link starting Oct. 1. 

Operations

Water Main Break: After-Action Review 

On Aug. 24, a water main break on Jefferson Park Avenue caused significant traffic delays that disrupted commutes, patient access, and daily operations across our teams. We know this created real frustration and added stress to an already demanding day, and we want to thank you for your patience and flexibility as you worked through it. 

In response, our Emergency Management team led an after-action review to determine steps to strengthen how we coordinate with the Department of Safety and Security (DSS) and the City of Charlottesville during future events like this one. Leadership recently met to debrief the incident, discussing the complexity of the traffic situation, our dependency on city roads, and the limitations of city infrastructure. 

While work is still needed to evaluate improvements, and some factors are outside our control, the group identified clear opportunities to pursue, including: 

• Develop preplanned traffic and officer-positioning strategies. 
• Establish a scaled emergency response structure. 
• Clarify communication and access protocols. 

As a next step, leaders are committed to assess each of these areas with the aim of completing this work and communicating our plan within the next 60 days. Thank you again for your resilience during this disruption. We're working to make sure we're better prepared next time.

Introducing PolicyTech AI Search: Compliance Hub-Nira Now Available

PolicyTech now includes an AI tool which makes it easier to search the database. Compliance Hub-Nira will be available to all team members with access to University Medical Center’s instance of PolicyTech. Nira is a NAVEX AI-powered assistance tool which allows team members to ask questions in natural language and receive immediate answers based on existing PolicyTech documents. Team members can access the AI search by selecting “Go to Compliance Hub” button in PolicyTech (top right corner). See PolicyTech Tip Sheet: Compliance Hub-Nira for more information. Questions? Contact PolicyTechAdmin@uvahealth.org.

USB Device Blocking Underway for UVA School of Medicine, Clinical Department Devices, and Surgical Services 

To strengthen our cyberdefenses, UVA Health is blocking the use of USB storage devices (e.g., “thumb” drives and other external storage drives) on all UVA Health-issued personal computers (PCs). The latest implementation phase began Sept. 14 and includes University Medical Center managed devices in clinical departments, surgical services, operating rooms, labs, and UVA Health HIT-managed computers in UVA School of Medicine. (Academic-managed PCs are not affected). See Connect for a detailed schedule. 

If you’re wondering if USB storage devices are blocked on your PC, HIT has deployed a desktop tray icon to indicate your computer's status: 1) blocked, 2) exception granted, or 3) policy not yet implemented. See the FAQs on Connect for more. As a reminder, instead of USB devices, team members should use their Microsoft OneDrive cloud storage account for secure data storage and sharing. This change does not affect USB-connected mice, keyboards, phone chargers, or similar accessories.

New Speed, Same Epic Experience 

Launching Epic is about to get faster. UVA Health is moving to locally hosted Hyperspace, reducing launch times from about 15 seconds to as little as three seconds. With Hyperspace installed directly on your computer, you'll experience improved performance and reliability without any changes to how you work in Epic. 

Successful pilots have been completed in several areas across the organization, and a phased enterprisewide rollout began Sept. 15 and will continue through the end of the year. Installation will happen remotely, and your device will restart once the update is complete. Visit Connect for details and FAQs.

Changes to Call-Out Process for Inpatient Units and ED 

Beginning Sept. 20, team members who currently call the Staffing Resource Office (SRO) to report an absence will instead report the call-out directly to their home unit. 
 
When reporting an absence, please follow this call sequence: 

• Shift Manager cell 
• Unit phone 
• SRO Clerk, only if the unit cannot be reached 

Team members must speak directly with someone to report the absence. Leaving a voicemail does not complete the call-out process.   
 
This change gives units earlier awareness of staffing needs, allows coverage planning to begin sooner, and reduces unnecessary handoffs. Managers will share any additional unit-specific information before go-live. All existing attendance and call-out timing expectations remain unchanged.

Coming Soon: Flu Gets Nixed in ’26 

UVA Health is gearing up for influenza (flu) season with our Flu Gets Nixed in ‘26 team member vaccination campaign. Getting a flu vaccine is the best way to prevent flu and its complications — and it helps protect those around us who are most at risk. Thank you for helping keep our patients, colleagues, and community safe this flu season. Here’s what to expect:   

• Monday, Sept. 21: Watch your inbox for a detailed email with everything you need to know about this year’s flu vaccination process and exemption instructions.   
• Monday, Sept. 21: Workplace flu vaccines become available across UVA Health.   
• Thursday, Oct. 15: Deadline for submitting new flu vaccination exemption requests.   
• Saturday, Oct. 31: Deadline for UVA Health team member annual flu vaccine compliance.  

In the meantime, see Connect for guidance from Employee Health about what to do if you become sick with a respiratory virus this season. 

Leadership

UVA Health Town Hall 

Wednesday, Sept. 23 | noon-1 p.m. | Sandridge Auditorium or Zoom | Mitchell H. Rosner, MD, MACP, FRCP, Chief Executive Officer, UVA Health, invites you to join a conversation about where UVA Health is headed — and the role each of us plays in getting there. During this time, UVA Health leadership team members and Dr. Rosner will share key information about our 10-year strategic plan, UVA Health ASPIRE values, and other notable updates. 

Human Resources

2026 Annual Retraining 

Deadline: Wednesday, Sept. 30 | All UVA Health team members hired on or before April 1, 2026 — who provide patient care, receive training, or participate in healthcare education and research within or for the benefit of UVA Health University Medical Center, regardless of their employer — are required to take the training. Visit the 2026 Annual Retraining web page for more information. 

Happenings

Market Square 

Through Sept. 24 | Weekly, Thursdays, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Courtyard at MR5 | Shop for fresh produce, beautiful flowers, unique crafts, and delicious eats from local food trucks! Vendors include It’s Poppin’ Time, Little Manila, Mexican Tacos, Mr. Baker, Miss Day Delights, and Tealicious Cafe. Questions? Contact George Minor, UVA HR, Rewards and Recognition. See photos and read rave reviews on Connect. 

New Site: UVA Research News 

This new site from the Office of the Vice President for Research shines a light on the discoveries, breakthroughs, and big ideas happening across Grounds. Read stories, watch videos, and browse featured collections.

Exhibit Showcasing The Arc Studio Artists 

Through Friday, Oct. 2 | University Hospital Cafeteria | A new exhibit from the talented artists of The Arc Studio is being displayed. Stop by and check it out! Read more on Connect about the collaboration in a previous showing. 

2026 Give Where You Live Campaign 

Sept. 16-Dec. 18 | UVA is partnering with United Way of Greater Charlottesville to launch Give Where You Live, a program providing UVA employees the opportunity to support nonprofit organizations that strengthen our local community. Employees can choose from approximately 100 local nonprofits and make donations via payroll deduction or credit/debit cards, and every dollar donated will benefit their chosen organizations. Visit the 2026 Give Where You Live website for more information. Questions? Email localgiving@virginia.edu. 

Food Sampling and Demonstration 

University Hospital, Main Cafeteria | 11 a.m.-1:45 p.m. | Stop by and sample delicious food:  

• Thursday, Sept. 17 | Countertop Productions  
• Tuesday, Sept. 22 | RVP Bar  
• Thursday, Sept. 24 | Clean Juice  
• Thursday, Oct. 1 | Kiwi Kuisine  
• Thursday, Oct. 8 | Zenjoy  
• Tuesday, Oct. 13 | Hem and Her  
• Tuesday, Oct. 20 | Cville Candy  
• Tuesday, Oct. 27 | The Donut Kitchen  
• Tuesday, Nov. 3 | Snowing in Space  
• Tuesday, Nov. 10 | Good Phyte 

The 3H Book Club: Health, Healing, and Hope 

Thursdays, beginning Sept. 17 | noon-1 p.m. | Register on Zoom to receive the event link | Melody Pannell, D.Min., M.Div., MSW, MACE, Director, Healthcare Leadership Education and Community Wellness; and Kimberley Barker, MLS, Community and Outreach Services, Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, host this new, bi-annual series of gatherings. This fall, each week, they’ll review a chapter of "Flourish: A Visionary New Understanding of Happiness and Wellbeing," by Martin E.P. Seligman — 10 chapters in 10 weeks! The first 20 UVA Health team members to sign up and join the book club will receive a free book. No time this fall? We’ll review another book — "The Meaning of Your Life: Finding Purpose in an Age of Emptiness" — beginning Jan. 14.

Anderson Lecture Featuring Eva Nogales, PhD 

Thursday, Sept. 17 | 4-5 p.m. | Claude Moore Medical Education Building Auditorium | The 2026 Anderson Lecture will be presented by Eva Nogales, PhD, Professor of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Structural Biology, Molecular and Cell Biology Department, UC Berkeley. Her topic is "Structure-Function Studies of Microtubules and Their Associated Proteins." This in-person event is open to all with no advance registration required. Details. 

iCSD 2026: International Conference on Spreading Depolarization 

Sept. 18-22 | Pinn Hall Conference Center | A multidisciplinary, annual meeting focused on the study of mechanisms and treatment of conditions in which spreading depolarization (SD) may represent a novel therapeutic target. SD is a significantly under-recognized, massive wave of brain dysfunction believed to be involved in a wide range of conditions. Learn more. 

2026 APP Week: The Pulse of Progress 

Advanced Practice Provider (APP) Week recognizes the crucial expertise of audiologists, certified nurse midwives, certified registered nurse anesthetists, clinical nurse specialists, genetic counselors, licensed clinical social workers, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants/associates. UVA Health APPs are invited to join onsite and virtual events celebrating “APPs Powering Tomorrow.” (View the recorded virtual events any time.*) See the schedule:  

• Sunday, Sept. 20   
  • Sept. 20-25 | Step Challenge Start | APP teams, sign up on the Hoos Well app to join a fun way to promote healthy activity and competition!  
  • 11 a.m. | King Family Vineyards, 6550 Roseland Farm, Crozet | Family event to watch polo matches starting at noon and 2 p.m.  
• Monday, Sept. 21  
  • *Watch any time | Opening Ceremony with Associate Chief Nursing Officer Bill Lombardi, DNP, RN, AGACNP-BC, CCRN, UVA Health Center for Advanced Practice, and Opening Keynote with Harvard- and Stanford-trained physician-scientist Daniel Kraft, MD, presenting “The Future of Health and Medicine: Where Can Technology Take Us?”  
  • 5 p.m. | Orange Theory Fitness, 1935 Arlington Blvd., Charlottesville  
• Tuesday, Sept. 22  
  • *Watch any time | Presidents Panel | Featuring David Bunnell, American Academy of Physician Associates; Valerie Fuller, American Association of Nurse Practitioners; Jackeline Iseler, National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists; Peter Johnson, American College of Nurse Midwives; Emily Mycyk, American Academy of Anesthesiologist Assistants; and Tracy Young, American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology.  
  • 5:30-7:30 p.m. | Sun Pins at Dairy Market, 946 Grady Ave., Charlottesville | Bring your family for duckpin bowling fun!  
• Wednesday, Sept. 23  
  • 7-9 a.m. | University Medical Center Dining Conference Rooms | Join us for breakfast! APP Council Recognition Committee also will deliver coffee and donuts to Fontaine, Ivy, Riverside, and Zion Crossroads.   
  • *Watch any time | Midweek Keynote | Jones Loflin presents “Powering Tomorrow: Leading Well in a World of Too Much to Do.”  
  • 6-8 p.m. | WildMan Dan Brewery, 279 Avon Rd., Afton | Darts, karaoke, foosball, food, and camaraderie!  
• Thursday, Sept. 24  
  • 5:30 p.m. | Contemplative Sciences Center, 403 Emmet St., Charlottesville | Onsite attendance by invite and RSVP only | UVA Health APP Week Gala and Awards Ceremony presented by the APP Council will honor 86 nominees and award six recipients.   
  • *Watch any time | National APP Week Awards | Presented by Bill Lombardi, and, from Cedars-Sinai: Honore Kotler, DNP, RN, ACNP-BC. Celebrating 263 nominees and six recipients.  
• Friday, Sept. 25 
  • Throughout the day | APP leadership will visit hospital units and clinics to distribute treats and UVA Health swag to team members.  
  • *Watch any time | Closing Ceremony and Host Handoff | Bill Lombardi and Advocate Health present “Passing the Torch to 2027 National AAP Week.”  

Thank you to APPs and all team members supporting our UVA Health mission of transforming health and inspiring hope for all Virginians and beyond!

Donate Blood: September Is National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month 

Tuesday, Sept. 22: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Battle Building, Quayle Center, First Floor | We honor the children currently battling cancer, the families who love them, the clinicians and caregivers treating them, and the researchers working to conquer childhood cancer. Donate! To register, contact Sharon Jones. Swag alert: Donate and receive a $15 e-gift card. Details. 

• In the Community: Sickle Cell Awareness Month | Saturday, Sept. 19 | 9 a.m.-2 p.m. | Jefferson School City Center, Carver Recreational Center | While donors of all backgrounds are needed, blood from Black and African American donors is three times more likely to be a direct antigen match for patients with sickle cell disease. To sign up, visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter code “JeffersonSchool.” Hosted by UVA Health Division of Hematology and Oncology. 

Open House: Claude Moore Health Sciences Library 

Tuesday, Sept. 22 | noon-2 p.m. | Claude Moore Health Sciences Library | Whether you're a student, clinician, support staff, faculty member, or just curious about what is offered, this event is perfect for you. Meet the team, explore UVA groups and departments, enjoy free treats, and participate in a scavenger hunt. Details. Questions? Contact Tricia Roche, Access Services Manager. 

Embrace Your Menopause Journey 

Tuesdays, Sept. 22-Oct. 20 | noon-1 p.m. | Zoom | Join this inspiring, five-week group where you will learn to see menopause as a powerful new chapter in life. Guided by the expertise of Beth Frackleton, RN, National Board-Certified Health Coach, ACSM Certified PT, and Mary Sherman, LCSW, CEAP, CAPP, this supportive group setting will empower you with:    

• In-depth knowledge and understanding: gain insights into the changes your body is experiencing. 
• Boosted self-efficacy: build confidence in managing your menopausal journey. 
• Lifestyle enhancements: discover practical modifications to enhance your wellbeing. 
• Stress management techniques: learn effective ways to handle stress and maintain balance. 
• Valuable resources: access a wealth of information and support tailored to your needs. 

Learn more and register. 

Join 2027 BEE Award Committee 

Call for interest deadline: 8 a.m., Friday, Sept. 25 | UVA Health University Medical Center Nursing Professional Governance Organization’s BEE Award Committee supports meaningful recognition of non-nursing team members — who work with nurses — through the BEE (Being Excellent Everyday) Award. Nominees are University Medical Center team members (excluding physicians) who support patient care. They fill a wide range of roles such as nursing assistants; health unit coordinators; Environmental Services team members; occupational, physical, and respiratory therapists; pharmacists; technicians; transporters; and many others. The BEE Award is presented twice a month.      

If you’re in a non-nursing University Medical Center role, join the BEE Award Committee to review and vote on nominations, spread awareness of the program, and contribute to recognition efforts for non-nursing team members.

UVA Comprehensive Cancer Center’s Michael J. Weber Symposium 

Friday, Oct. 2 | 8 a.m.-2:15 p.m. | Pinn Hall Auditorium | Honoring the late scientist and UVA Comprehensive Cancer Center Director, this symposium will convene internationally renowned researchers and clinicians to present their latest findings. This year’s theme is “Cancer Metastasis,” with scheduled presenters including Carey K. Anders, MD, Duke University; Adrienne Boire, MD, PhD, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center; Yibin Kang, PhD, Princeton University; Ahmedin Jemal, DVM, PhD, American Cancer Society; and Danny R. Welch, PhD, University of Kansas. Registration is free and includes breakfast and lunch. Learn more and register. 

Fall 2026 Mental Health and Wellness Festival 

Thursday, Oct. 8 | 4-6 p.m. | Courtyard between MR5 and MR6 | Bringing together UVA Health students, team members, and trainees — and community organizations — for engagement and resource sharing focused on holistic mental health and wellness. Participate in wellness workshops and enjoy food, music, movement, drumming, and the wellness practice of grounding. Sponsored by UVA Health Office of Community Engagement and Health Outcomes, UVA School of Medicine Office of Medical Sciences Outreach, and UVA School of Nursing Office of Community Health and Wellbeing. World Mental Health Day is Oct. 10. 

2026 Ambulatory Care Pharmacy Summit 

Wednesday, Oct. 14 | 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. | Virginia Guest House Conference Center | Pharmacists, residents, technicians, administrators, and interprofessional partners are invited to submit proposals for podium presentations, panel discussions, and interactive breakout sessions. This region-level, in-person summit will showcase innovative practices, emerging clinical trends, and operational strategies that advance ambulatory care pharmacy services. Learn more and register. Submit an abstract. 

53rd Annual Edward W. Hook, Jr., MD, Recent Advances in Clinical Medicine 

Oct. 21-23 | Virginia Guest House Conference Center | This multidisciplinary, interprofessional, continuing education conference is designed to provide primary care, family medicine, and internal medicine clinicians with the knowledge, skills, and clinical "pearls of wisdom" to practice state-of-the-art generalist medicine. Offered virtually and in-person for up to 22 CME credits for physicians, physician associates, APPs, nurses, and pharmacists. Learn more and register.

2026 EDS and Hypermobility Disorders PT/OT Symposium 

Friday, Oct. 23 | 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Sandridge Auditorium | This half-day continuing education program is designed to enhance rehabilitation professionals’ knowledge and practical skills in caring for individuals with Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS), hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD), and related complex conditions. The program will feature expert presentations on evidence-based rehabilitation approaches, common clinical challenges, and the impact on treatment planning of comorbidities such as dysautonomia, chronic pain, fatigue, and activity intolerance. The program is intended for physiatrists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, therapy assistants, students, and other rehabilitation professionals seeking practical tools to improve care for patients with hypermobility-related disorders. Learn more and register. 

2026 Healthcare Ethics and Moral Distress Consultation Intensive Training Seminar 

Nov. 8-10 | This in-person, three-day program is designed for multidisciplinary practicing healthcare professionals who wish to develop or deepen their healthcare ethics and moral distress consultation knowledge and skills and prepare for the healthcare ethics consultation certification exam. Registration deadline: Oct. 8. Learn more and register. 

Appreciation

Video Series | Research in Motion

Have you been keeping up with this series? Researchers answer three questions: What do you do? What do you love about your research? How will it impact human health? View the latest:   

• Kexin Xu, PhD (pictured) | How epigenetic changes drive cancer growth and treatment resistance, with the goal of identifying new therapies. 
• Don Brown, PhD | Integrating diverse data sources to better understand disease and improve treatment. 
• Kathy Wibberly, PhD | Telehealth solutions that expand access to care for underserved populations. 

Thank you to these researchers — and all our colleagues who advance medical knowledge — for conducting research that shapes the medicine we deliver tomorrow, and how we deliver it. 

Monday, Sept. 14

Changes to Call-Out Process for Inpatient Units and ED

Beginning Sept. 20, team members who currently call the Staffing Resource Office (SRO) to report an absence will instead report the call-out directly to their home unit.   

When reporting an absence, please follow this call sequence:   

• Shift Manager cell   
• Unit phone   
• SRO Clerk, only if the unit cannot be reached   

Team members must speak directly with someone to report the absence. Leaving a voicemail does not complete the call-out process.  

This change gives units earlier awareness of staffing needs, allows coverage planning to begin sooner, and reduces unnecessary handoffs. Managers will share any additional unit-specific information before go-live. All existing attendance and call-out timing expectations remain unchanged. 

Patient Care

Epic Experience Survey Returns Oct. 1 

Oct. 1-Nov. 16 | UVA Health HIT is committed to providing reliable, secure technology that empowers clinicians with better tools, trustworthy information, and innovative solutions that improve patient care. Achieving that goal requires direct input from the people who use Epic every day. Last year, nearly 1,740 clinicians participated in the survey, contributing to multiple initiatives designed to improve the Epic experience, including:   

• Creation and expansion of clinician-led governance structures and design committees that help prioritize and accelerate Epic enhancements.  
• Growth of AI-enabled documentation tools, including DAX, to help reduce documentation burden and improve efficiency.  
• Improved interoperability that brings outside records, labs, notes, and imaging into Epic to support continuity of care.  
• Expansion of Super User, Power User, and Epic personalization support programs. 
• Infrastructure enhancements that improved Epic performance by increasing bandwidth for more than 1,000 workstations. 

Learn more on Connect and watch your email for the survey link starting Oct. 1. 

Operations

Introducing PolicyTech AI Search: Compliance Hub-Nira Now Available 

Begins Tuesday, Sept. 15 | Compliance Hub-Nira will be available to all team members with access to University Medical Center’s instance of PolicyTech. Nira is a NAVEX AI-powered assistance tool which allows team members to ask questions in natural language and receive immediate answers based on existing PolicyTech documents. Team members can access the AI search by selecting “Go to Compliance Hub” button in PolicyTech (top-right corner). See PolicyTech Tip Sheet: Compliance Hub-Nira for more information. Questions? Contact PolicyTechAdmin@uvahealth.org.

Coming Soon: Flu Gets Nixed in ’26 

UVA Health is gearing up for influenza (flu) season with our Flu Gets Nixed in ‘26 team member vaccination campaign. Getting a flu vaccine is the best way to prevent flu and its complications — and it helps protect those around us who are most at risk. Thank you for helping keep our patients, colleagues, and community safe this flu season. Here’s what to expect:   

• Monday, Sept. 21: Watch your inbox for a detailed email with everything you need to know about this year’s flu vaccination process and exemption instructions.   
• Monday, Sept. 21: Workplace flu vaccines become available across UVA Health.   
• Thursday, Oct. 15: Deadline for submitting new flu vaccination exemption requests.   
• Saturday, Oct. 31: Deadline for UVA Health team member annual flu vaccine compliance.  

Leadership

Save the Date: UVA Health Town Hall 

Wednesday, Sept. 23 | noon-1 p.m. | Sandridge Auditorium or Zoom | Mitchell H. Rosner, MD, MACP, FRCP, Chief Executive Officer, UVA Health, invites you to join a conversation about where UVA Health is headed — and the role each of us plays in getting there. During this time, UVA Health leadership team members and Dr. Rosner will share key information about our 10-year strategic plan, UVA Health ASPIRE values, and other notable updates. 

Human Resources

Benefits Wednesday: Meet a Counselor 

Wednesday, Sept. 16 | 7 a.m.-3 p.m. | University Hospital, Dining Conference Room 3 | Ask questions and discuss your benefits with a Human Resources counselor. Walk-ins welcome. See monthly dates. 

Happenings

Donations Needed: Geri-Cart  

University Medical Center Emergency Department (ED) had approximately 77,000 patient visits in 2025, with more than 20,000 of those patients being age 65 or older. Last year, a task force was formed with a focused initiative to improve outcomes and care for geriatric ED patients. One of the goals of this task force is to create a Geri-Cart to provide comfort and sensory items for elderly patients, especially those with dementia. Current needs are highest for baby dolls, teddy bears, and fidget items. View the Amazon wish list or contribute with a monetary donation (“Geriatric Resource Cart, 70322”). Questions? Email Dina Hood. Thank you to all who have donated — this cart continues to be hugely successful. Your donations have improved the care and hospital experience of this patient population. 

Donate Blood: September Is National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month  

Battle Building, Quayle Center, First Floor | We honor the children currently battling cancer, the families who love them, the clinicians and caregivers treating them, and the researchers working to conquer childhood cancer. Donate! To register, contact Sharon Jones. Swag alert: Through Sept. 20, receive an exclusive Hello Kitty mascot clip. Details. Blood drive dates:   

• Tuesday, Sept. 15: 12:30-5:30 p.m.   
• Tuesday, Sept. 22: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.   

In the Community: Sickle Cell Awareness Month | Saturday, Sept. 19 | 9 a.m.-2 p.m. | Jefferson School City Center, Carver Recreational Center | While donors of all backgrounds are needed, blood from Black and African American donors is three times more likely to be a direct antigen match for patients with sickle cell disease. To sign up, visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter code “JeffersonSchool.” Hosted by UVA Health’s Division of Hematology and Oncology. 

ECHO: Clinical Concerns for Emerging Vape Shop Trends 

Tuesday, Sept. 15 | 4-5 p.m. | Discuss emerging and established trends in substances frequently encountered in vape shops and other similar locations. This series highlights clinical resources, best practices, and clinical innovations to more efficiently and broadly care for and educate patients on the risks inherent in using these substances. Flyer. Learn more and register.

Free Mindfulness Courses for Healthcare Employees 

Working in healthcare can be stressful, and mindfulness is a proven method of improving resilience and wellbeing. The UVA Mindfulness Center, in partnership with the Office of Team Wellbeing, is offering two free mindfulness courses this fall:       

• Mindfulness for Healthcare Employees | Wednesdays, Sept. 16-Nov. 4 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | 560 Ray C. Hunt Drive | This course has been taught at UVA for more than 20 years and provides an in-depth experience. Led by Matt Goodman, MD. Register.     
• Introduction to Mindfulness | Tuesdays, Oct. 13-Nov. 3 | 5:30-7 p.m. | Zoom | For those who are interested in learning about mindfulness with a shorter time commitment. Led by Cawood Fitzhugh, NP. Register.     

Both courses address the application of mindfulness in multiple areas, including reducing personal stress and increasing wellbeing, and improving communication with patients and others. Free for UVA Health employees. 

Physicians and APPs: Get a New Provider Headshot 

McKim Hall | Ground Floor, Room G045 | No appointment necessary. Bring a white coat if you have one; if not, one will be provided. Photos taken in 10 minutes or less.     

• Thursday, Sept. 17 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.   
• Monday, Sept. 21 | 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.   
• Tuesday, Sept. 29 | 9 a.m.-noon

Anderson Lecture Featuring Eva Nogales, PhD 

Thursday, Sept. 17 | 4-5 p.m. | Claude Moore Medical Education Building Auditorium | The 2026 Anderson Lecture will be presented by Eva Nogales, PhD, Professor of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Structural Biology, Molecular and Cell Biology Department, UC Berkeley. Her topic is "Structure-Function Studies of Microtubules and Their Associated Proteins." This in-person event is open to all with no advance registration required. Details. 

Embrace Your Menopause Journey 

Tuesdays, Sept. 22-Oct. 20 | noon-1 p.m. | Zoom | Join this inspiring, five-week group where you will learn to see menopause as a powerful new chapter in life. Guided by the expertise of Beth Frackleton, RN, National Board-Certified Health Coach, ACSM Certified PT, and Mary Sherman, LCSW, CEAP, CAPP, this supportive group setting will empower you with:    

• In-depth knowledge and understanding: gain insights into the changes your body is experiencing.    
• Boosted self-efficacy: build confidence in managing your menopausal journey.    
• Lifestyle enhancements: discover practical modifications to enhance your wellbeing.    
• Stress management techniques: learn effective ways to handle stress and maintain balance.    
• Valuable resources: access a wealth of information and support tailored to your needs.     

Learn more and register. 

Open House: Claude Moore Health Sciences Library 

Tuesday, Sept. 22 | noon-2 p.m. | Claude Moore Health Sciences Library | Whether you're a student, clinician, support staff, faculty member, or just curious about what is offered, this event is perfect for you. Meet the team, explore UVA groups and departments, enjoy free treats, and participate in a scavenger hunt. Details. Questions? Contact Tricia Roche, Access Services Manager.

The Kevin Hines Story: Transforming Crisis Into Resilience, Hope, and Advocacy for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention 

Tuesday, Sept. 29 | noon-1 p.m. | Zoom | Suicide survivor, mental health advocate, global speaker, best-selling author, and award-winning filmmaker Kevin Hines shares his inspiring story of hope, survival, celebration of life, and the lessons he has learned about resilience, recovery, and the lifesaving power of human connection. Part of Hoos Well and FEAP’s Thrive Together webinar series. Learn more. 

Complete a Bachelor’s Degree on Your Schedule 

Deadline: Sunday, Nov. 1 | With UVA’s School of Continuing and Professional Studies, you can complete a bachelor’s degree online and on a flexible timeline that works for your busy healthcare career and personal life. This new, asynchronous learning pathway allows you to learn when your schedule allows, supported by a structure that keeps you on track and connected with peers and professors. You will gain desirable skills that enhance your workplace impact, boost your confidence, and open advanced career opportunities.  

• Information session: Wednesday, Sept. 23 | Register. 

UVA Medical Device Make-A-Thon 

Nov. 5-8 | Frugal Innovations in Sustainable Healthcare (FISH), a UVA student organization dedicated to developing affordable healthcare devices, will host this inaugural event. The first student-led, medical device make-a-thon of its kind on the East Coast will bring together interdisciplinary student teams to design innovative, low-cost solutions to real clinical challenges. UVA Health clinicians, researchers, faculty, staff, residents, fellows, and nurses are invited to serve as mentors, judge final presentations, or submit clinical problem statements for students to address. Learn more and sign up. 

Appreciation

Hoos Building Bridges Award 

The Hoos Building Bridges Award recognizes employees and teams who bring people together across schools, departments, and organizations to address longstanding challenges, improve processes, and create lasting impact. The University launched the awards in 2019, building on a vision then-UVA President Jim Ryan outlined in his first Opening Convocation address — a University community of people who, when in doubt, “build a bridge.” 

Five individuals and one team were well-deserved recipients of the 2026 Hoos Building Bridges award and were honored at a reception on Aug. 31 at the Rotunda. Please congratulate these exceptional award winners when you see them! 

Individual winners include: 

• Lauren Armstrong, Assistant Director, UVA School of Medicine Office of Grants and Contracts  
• Cynthia Douglass, Senior Communications and Marketing Specialist and Digital Accessibility Liaison, Human Resources  
• Kerry Hendrix, Nurse Practitioner, Student Health and Wellness  
• Shelly Lovelace, Senior Academic Administration and Policy Officer, Office of the Provost 
• Mikalah Martin, Intermediate Administrative Assistant, Pediatrics 

Team winners include: 

• Wicki Hardwick, Tracy Pettit, Karen Spitzer, Vinny Capaccio, Ginu George, Michael Cole, and Kristen Stanley — Information Technology Services team 

Read more and see photos on Connect. 

Friday, Sept. 11

Sept. 11 Remembrance

From UVA Health senior leadership: “Today, we pause to remember the lives lost and the families, colleagues, and communities forever changed by the events of Sept. 11, 2001, 25 years ago today. 

“For many across our workforce, Sept. 11 is personal. Friends, family members, colleagues, and loved ones may have been directly impacted by that day, and the memories and emotions associated with it continue to resonate. 

“As an academic health system, we are especially mindful of the courage and compassion demonstrated by healthcare professionals and first responders who served others during that difficult time. 

“We also recognize the significant emotional impact this anniversary may have on team members. Support is available through confidential resources, including Chaplaincy Services and UVA Faculty and Employee Assistance Program (FEAP) at feap@virginia.edu or 434.243.2643. Support for UVA Community Health team members is available through AllOne Health by calling 800.451.1834. 

“Today, we honor those we lost and those whose lives were forever changed. We hold space for and remember all who continue to carry the impact of that day, and we extend our compassion and care to one another.” 

Operations

UVA Health Commuter Friday Night Football Transit and Parking Impacts  

Friday, Sept. 11 | The Friday night football game will modify parking and transportation operations. Health system commuters will not be allowed to park at Scott Stadium on Friday. For your planning, please review the modifications below. 

• On Friday, Sept. 11, there will be no transit service from the commuter lots at Scott Stadium (this includes the health system shuttle). Permit holders can park at John Paul Jones Arena (JPJ) Garage, JPJ surface lots, and Fontaine Research Park Garage based on arrival time. See below.  
• JPJ lots will experience no required vacates for the Friday night game.   
• Commuter parking lots at Scott Stadium should have been fully vacated by 1 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 11. Towing enforced.    
• In addition, the lower level of the Bryant Garage at Scott Stadium was closed to permit holder parking on Thursday, Sept. 10, through Friday, Sept. 11. Alternate parking on Thursday is available in the remaining commuter lots.  

There will be no transit service from the Scott Stadium lots on Friday, Sept 11. Modified Purple Line will run continuously from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. Supervisors are asked to notify any team members who do not have access to email.

Construction Impact: Fontaine Research Park 

Saturday, Sept. 12 | 6 a.m.-3 p.m. | A section of Fontaine Research Park’s parking lot will be closed while a new X-ray machine is crane-lifted through the roof. There will be no impact on building exits or sidewalks.

Ambulatory GLOBO Cart Deployment 

Sept. 14-18 | 8 a.m.-5 p.m. | In an effort to expand and enhance language support across our ambulatory clinics, the UVA Health Language Services team, in partnership with GLOBO, will deploy 130 new iPads and carts. This initiative will provide updated iPad software and upgraded equipment, improving access to reliable language services for patients and care teams. GLOBO carts with new iPads will be strategically deployed Sept. 14-18. Language Services team members will deliver the new carts and be available for questions. There are two different cart styles (see picture; orientation cards are located on the front).     

We will deliver and expand GLOBO cart coverage to UVA Health clinics and offices. Also, old equipment will be picked up during this time. Watch the orientation video. Please cascade this information to your team members. Questions? Email RLANGSERVICES@uvahealth.org.

Changes to Call-Out Process for Inpatient Units and ED  

Beginning Sept. 20, team members who currently call the Staffing Resource Office (SRO) to report an absence will instead report the call-out directly to their home unit.  

When reporting an absence, please follow this call sequence:  

• Shift Manager cell  
• Unit phone  
• SRO Clerk, only if the unit cannot be reached  

Team members must speak directly with someone to report the absence. Leaving a voicemail does not complete the call-out process. 

This change gives units earlier awareness of staffing needs, allows coverage planning to begin sooner, and reduces unnecessary handoffs. Managers will share any additional unit-specific information before go-live. All existing attendance and call-out timing expectations remain unchanged.

Coming Soon: Flu Gets Nixed in ’26

UVA Health is gearing up for influenza (flu) season with our Flu Gets Nixed in ‘26 team member vaccination campaign. Getting a flu vaccine is the best way to prevent flu and its complications — and it helps protect those around us who are most at risk. Thank you for helping keep our patients, colleagues, and community safe this flu season. Here’s what to expect:  

• Monday, Sept. 21: Watch your inbox for a detailed email with everything you need to know about this year’s flu vaccination process and exemption instructions.  
• Monday, Sept. 21: Workplace flu vaccines become available across UVA Health.  
• Thursday, Oct. 15: Deadline for submitting new flu vaccination exemption requests.  
• Saturday, Oct. 31: Deadline for UVA Health team member annual flu vaccine compliance. 

E-Bikes and Motorized Scooters 

E-bikes and motorized scooters are prohibited from being brought into University Medical Center or UVA School of Medicine for any reason. Additionally, they may not be charged, stored, or parked in any University Medical Center or UVA School of Medicine buildings as they are a known fire risk. For more information:  

• SEC-043: Riding, Parking, and Storing Motorized Scooters and Electric Power-Assisted Bicycles at the University   
• Bike rack locations    
• Highlighted locations with security camera coverage of bike racks (circled in yellow)

See a Spill? Cover It and Make a Call   

All team members are reminded to cover a spill with the sorbent pads found at the wall-mounted spill kit locations. Mark the spill with the caution sign, if available, and report it to Environmental Services at 434.982.1555. It takes everyone to maintain a safe environment for all. See graphic on right for reference. 

Leadership

Manning Institute on LinkedIn 

Follow UVA Paul and Diane Manning Institute of Biotechnology on LinkedIn to stay up to date on innovative research, progress on the building, upcoming events, and the bold ideas shaping the future of biotechnology. Join the Manning Institute as they accelerate science into medicine — because patients are waiting.

UVA Health in the News

Top Story 

• Dr. Jennifer Payne talks with CBS Sunday Morning and NPR about postpartum depression and postpartum psychosis. 

Patient Care 

• Dr. Kirsten Greene participates in our weekly NBC29 segment, discussing prostate cancer awareness month. 
• Dr. Mitchell Rosner and Dr. Leigh Cantrell are featured across Virginia discussing UVA Health bringing oncology services to Lynchburg. 
• Associate Director for Clinical Administration at UVA Comprehensive Cancer Center and Associate Chief Service Lines – Cancer Services Blake Herring talks with Becker’s Hospital Review about the toughest roles for cancer centers to fill. 
• Dr. Jose Posas, Dr. Rachel Smetana, and Athletic Trainer Keith Thomson are featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing sports concussions. 
• Dr. Anita Clayton joins the Behavioral Health Business podcast to discuss UVA Health’s deprescribing clinic. 
• Dr. JoAnn Pinkerton talks with WVTF (Virginia NPR) about a national shortage of estrogen patches.  
• Becker’s Hospital Review highlights Haymarket Medical Center among the nation’s cleanest hospitals. 

Research 

• Dr. Roger Abounader is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations discussing a potential new way to treat glioblastoma. 
• Dr. James Mahoney and Dr. Daisy Thompson-Lake are featured in Becker’s Hospital Review discussing how focused ultrasound could treat substance-use disorder. 
• Dr. Christopher Kramer writes an article for Medscape on obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.  
• Dr. Cate Varney talks with SmartBrief about discounts for weight-loss medications. 
• Dr. Patricia Shipley talks with Virginia Living about how birdwatching can help improve brain function.  
• Dr. Lynn Dengel talks with WVTF (Virginia NPR) about surgical recovery bras for women who have undergone breast cancer surgery. 

Community 

• The Charlottesville Women’s Four Miler — a fundraiser for UVA Breast Care Center — is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally. 

Education 

• Virginia Living features The Claudius Project, a guide to poisonous mushrooms in Virginia co-produced by the Blue Ridge Poison Center. 

Human Resources

Benefits Wednesday: Meet a Counselor 

Wednesday, Sept. 16 | 7 a.m.-3 p.m. | University Hospital, Dining Conference Room 3 | Ask questions and discuss your benefits with a Human Resources counselor. Walk-ins welcome. See monthly dates. 

Kronos: Timekeeping and Clocking-In 

As a reminder: University Medical Center employees should be at their designated work location and use the most appropriate clock-in method when beginning their shift. This requirement is noted in the Fair Labor Standards Act and Overtime Medical Center HR Policy. Also:    

• Employees who are non-exempt (hourly) should use the clocking device their manager indicates. In most areas, this will be a physical, wall-mounted, clocking station nearest to their place of work.    
• With a manager’s approval, employees can use the "web-punch" feature within the Kronos application — but only while connected to the UVA Health network and at their place of work. 

Happenings

Donate Blood: September Is National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month  

Battle Building, Quayle Center, First Floor | We honor the children currently battling cancer, the families who love them, the clinicians and caregivers treating them, and the researchers working to conquer childhood cancer. Donate! To register, contact Sharon Jones. Swag alert: Through Sept. 20, receive an exclusive Hello Kitty mascot clip. Details. Blood drive dates:  

• Tuesday, Sept. 15: 12:30-5:30 p.m.  
• Tuesday, Sept. 22: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.  

In the community: Sickle Cell Awareness Month | Saturday, Sept. 19 | 9 a.m.-2 p.m. | Jefferson School City Center, Carver Recreational Center | While donors of all backgrounds are needed, blood from Black and African American donors is three times more likely to be a direct antigen match for patients with sickle cell disease. To sign up, visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter code “JeffersonSchool.” Hosted by UVA Health’s Division of Hematology and Oncology. 

ECHO: Clinical Concerns for Emerging Vape Shop Trends 

Tuesday, Sept. 15 | 4-5 p.m. | Discuss emerging and established trends in substances frequently encountered in vape shops and other similar locations. This series highlights clinical resources, best practices, and clinical innovations to more efficiently and broadly care for and educate patients on the risks inherent in using these substances. Flyer. Learn more and register.

Free Mindfulness Courses for Healthcare Employees 

Working in healthcare can be stressful, and mindfulness is a proven method of improving resilience and wellbeing. The UVA Mindfulness Center, in partnership with the Office of Team Wellbeing, is offering two free mindfulness courses this fall:      

• Mindfulness for Healthcare Employees | Wednesdays, Sept. 16-Nov. 4 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | 560 Ray C. Hunt Drive | This course has been taught at UVA for more than 20 years and provides an in-depth experience. Led by Matt Goodman, MD. Register.    
• Introduction to Mindfulness | Tuesdays, Oct. 13-Nov. 3 | 5:30-7 p.m. | Zoom | For those who are interested in learning about mindfulness with a shorter time commitment. Led by Cawood Fitzhugh, NP. Register.    

Both courses address the application of mindfulness in multiple areas, including reducing personal stress and increasing wellbeing, and improving communication with patients and others. Free for UVA Health employees. 

The 3H Book Club: Health, Healing, and Hope 

Thursdays, beginning Sept. 17 | noon-1 p.m. | Register on Zoom to receive the event link | Melody Pannell, D.Min., M.Div., MSW, MACE, Director, Healthcare Leadership Education and Community Wellness; and Kimberley Barker, MLS, Community and Outreach Services, Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, host this new, bi-annual series of gatherings. This fall, each week, they’ll review a chapter of "Flourish: A Visionary New Understanding of Happiness and Wellbeing," by Martin E.P. Seligman — 10 chapters in 10 weeks! The first 20 UVA Health team members to sign up and join the book club will receive a free book. No time this fall? We’ll review another book — "The Meaning of Your Life: Finding Purpose in an Age of Emptiness" — beginning Jan. 14.

iCSD 2026: International Conference on Spreading Depolarization 

Sept. 18-22 | Pinn Hall Conference Center | A multidisciplinary, annual meeting focused on the study of mechanisms and treatment of conditions where spreading depolarization (SD) may represent a novel therapeutic target. SD is a significantly under-recognized, massive wave of brain dysfunction that is believed to be involved in a wide range of conditions. Learn more. 

Embrace Your Menopause Journey 

Tuesdays, Sept. 22-Oct. 20 | noon-1 p.m. | Zoom | Join this inspiring, five-week group where you will learn to see menopause as a powerful new chapter in life. Guided by the expertise of Beth Frackleton, RN, National Board-Certified Health Coach, ACSM Certified PT, and Mary Sherman, LCSW, CEAP, CAPP, this supportive group setting will empower you with:   

• In-depth knowledge and understanding: gain insights into the changes your body is experiencing.   
• Boosted self-efficacy: build confidence in managing your menopausal journey.   
• Lifestyle enhancements: discover practical modifications to enhance your wellbeing.   
• Stress management techniques: learn effective ways to handle stress and maintain balance.   
• Valuable resources: access a wealth of information and support tailored to your needs.    

Learn more and register.

Researchers: Shut the Sash Competition 

Oct. 1-31 | UVA Office for Sustainability's Green Labs Program is conducting the 2026 Shut the Sash competition in October. This friendly competition promotes safe, smart, and sustainable practices for use of chemical fume hoods. Labs that register will receive their competition form on Oct. 1 to complete throughout the month. Details.

Amplifying Your Research Impact: A Strategic Communications Workshop 

Tuesday, Oct. 6 | 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | Contemplative Commons, Studio 1B | Office of the Vice President for Research presents a one-day workshop for UVA researchers who want to communicate their work more effectively. Through faculty panels, journalist perspectives, and hands-on media training — you will learn how to reach the public, communicate your work clearly, make more effective funding pitches, and build a cohesive academic brand. Space is limited. Learn more and register.

Leading With AI: A Research-Informed Professional Learning Community for UVA Staff 

Thursdays, Oct. 15-Nov. 19 | 9-10 a.m. | Zoom | Join UVA colleagues in sharing resources, thinking critically, and learning directly from UVA School of Data Science faculty members. Learning will include guided readings, videos, facilitated discussions, and hands-on design activities. By the end of the program, you will be able to identify practical AI opportunities within your area of responsibilities and develop roadmaps for implementation. The cost to participate is $350. This is an excellent opportunity to use your UVA education benefit. Learn more and register. 

Appreciation

'Truly an Asset to Your Team' | Kudos to Our UVA Health Colleagues 

To best serve our community, UVA Health regularly surveys our patients on their healthcare experience. Below is a selection of feedback praising our team members:    

• "Staff was exceptional. Couldn't have been any better! Provider Sam was very friendly, explained everything, and took time for any questions. Nurse Stacie M. was phenomenal. She is truly an asset to your team. Coming from a fellow nurse, that praise is not given lightly.” 
• "Prior to my discharge on 6 East, I had a visit from the charge nurse. I am grateful for the care I received during my stay. I would like to thank the team on the step-down unit, the admitting nurse, Nkechi — she has excellent clinical skills. I met a nurse by the name of Deb; she demonstrated excellent bedside manners and excellent inpatient education. After being in medical care for over 40 years, I am impressed that we still have excellence in patient care at such a high level. Grateful!” 
• "Great staff. I left my glasses in the exam room and Denise found me at my surgeon’s office to return my glasses. The staff always goes above and beyond to care for us patients.” 

Thank you to our team members for providing outstanding, compassionate, and safe care! 

Wednesday, Sept. 9

Save the Date: UVA Health Town Hall 

Wednesday, Sept. 23 | noon-1 p.m. | Sandridge Auditorium or Zoom | Mitchell H. Rosner, MD, MACP, FRCP, Chief Executive Officer, UVA Health, invites you to join a conversation about where UVA Health is headed — and the role each of us plays in getting there. During this time, UVA Health leadership team members and Dr. Rosner will share key information about our 10-year strategic plan, UVA Health ASPIRE values, and other notable updates. 

Operations

Monthly Update: Clinical and Operational Documents 

Having a working knowledge of policies and other clinical and operational documents relevant to your role and responsibilities at University Medical Center supports quality patient care and regulatory compliance. Learn What’s New in Clinical and Operational Documents. This month’s highlights include:  

• Updates to High Flow Nasal Cannula Therapy Acute Pediatrics Guideline  
• New Formula Dispensed at Discharge SOP  
• New External Ventricular Drain (EVD) SOP  
• New Social Media Health System Policy, and many more.  

Questions? Email PolicyTechAdmin@uvahealth.org.

UVA Health Commuter Friday Night Football Transit and Parking Impacts 

Friday, Sept. 11 | The Friday night football game will modify parking and transportation operations. Health system commuters will not be allowed to park at Scott Stadium on Friday. For your planning, please review the modifications below.   

• On Friday, Sept. 11, there will be no transit service from the commuter lots at Scott Stadium (this includes the health system shuttle). Permit holders can park at John Paul Jones Arena (JPJ) Garage, JPJ surface lots, and Fontaine Research Park Garage based on arrival time. See below. 
• JPJ lots will experience no required vacates for the Friday night game.  
• Commuter parking lots at Scott Stadium must be fully vacated by 1 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 11. Towing enforced.   
• In addition, the lower level of the Bryant Garage at Scott Stadium will be closed to permit holder parking on Thursday, Sept. 10, through Friday, Sept. 11.  Alternate parking on Thursday is available in the remaining commuter lots. 

There will be no transit service from the Scott Stadium lots on Friday, Sept 11. Modified Purple Line will run continuously from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. Supervisors are asked to notify any team members who do not have access to email.

Construction Impact: Fontaine Research Park 

Saturday, Sept. 12 | 6 a.m.-3 p.m. | A section of Fontaine Research Park’s parking lot will be closed while a new X-ray machine is crane-lifted through the roof. There will be no impact on building exits or sidewalks. 

Ambulatory GLOBO Cart Deployment 

Sept. 14-18 | 8 a.m.-5 p.m. | In an effort to expand and enhance language support across our ambulatory clinics, the UVA Health Language Services team, in partnership with GLOBO, will deploy 130 new iPads and carts. This initiative will provide updated iPad software and upgraded equipment, improving access to reliable language services for patients and care teams. GLOBO carts with new iPads will be strategically deployed Sept. 14-18. Language Services team members will deliver the new carts and be available for questions. There are two different cart styles (see picture; orientation cards are located on the front).    

We will deliver and expand GLOBO cart coverage to UVA Health clinics and offices. Also, old equipment will be picked up during this time. Watch the orientation video. Please cascade this information to your team members. Questions? Email RLANGSERVICES@uvahealth.org. 

Changes to Call-Out Process for Inpatient Units and ED 

Beginning Sept. 20, team members who currently call the Staffing Resource Office (SRO) to report an absence will instead report the call-out directly to their home unit. 

When reporting an absence, please follow this call sequence: 

• Shift Manager cell 
• Unit phone 
• SRO Clerk, only if the unit cannot be reached 

Team members must speak directly with someone to report the absence. Leaving a voicemail does not complete the call-out process.

This change gives units earlier awareness of staffing needs, allows coverage planning to begin sooner, and reduces unnecessary handoffs. Managers will share any additional unit-specific information before go-live. All existing attendance and call-out timing expectations remain unchanged.

Coming Soon: Flu Gets Nixed in ’26 

UVA Health is gearing up for influenza (flu) season with our Flu Gets Nixed in ‘26 team member vaccination campaign. Getting a flu vaccine is the best way to prevent flu and its complications — and it helps protect those around us who are most at risk. Thank you for helping keep our patients, colleagues, and community safe this flu season. Here’s what to expect: 

• Monday, Sept. 21: Watch your inbox for a detailed email with everything you need to know about this year’s flu vaccination process and exemption instructions. 
• Monday, Sept. 21: Workplace flu vaccines become available across UVA Health. 
• Thursday, Oct. 15: Deadline for submitting new flu vaccination exemption requests. 
• Saturday, Oct. 31: Deadline for UVA Health team member annual flu vaccine compliance.  

Human Resources

Kronos: Timekeeping and Clocking-In 

As a reminder: University Medical Center employees should be at their designated work location and use the most appropriate clock-in method when beginning their shift. This requirement is noted in the Fair Labor Standards Act and Overtime Medical Center HR Policy. Also:   

• Employees who are non-exempt (hourly) should use the clocking device their manager indicates. In most areas, this will be a physical, wall-mounted, clocking station nearest to their place of work.   
• With a manager’s approval, employees can use the "web-punch" feature within the Kronos application — but only while connected to the UVA Health network and at their place of work. 

Happenings

Market Square 

Through Sept. 24 | Weekly, Thursdays, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Courtyard at MR5 | Shop for fresh produce, beautiful flowers, unique crafts, and delicious eats from local food trucks! Vendors include It’s Poppin’ Time, Little Manila, Mexican Tacos, Mr. Baker, Miss Day Delights, and Tealicious Cafe. Questions? Contact George Minor, UVA HR, Rewards and Recognition. See photos and read rave reviews on Connect. 

Donate Blood: September Is National Sickle Cell Awareness Month 

Battle Building, Quayle Center, First Floor | While donors of all backgrounds are needed, blood from Black and African American donors is three times more likely to be a direct antigen match for patients with sickle cell disease. To register, contact Sharon Jones. Swag alert: Through Sept. 20, receive an exclusive Hello Kitty mascot clip. Details. Blood drive dates:  

• Thursday, Sept. 10: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.  
• Tuesday, Sept. 15: 12:30-5:30 p.m.  
• Tuesday, Sept. 22: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.  

In the community: Saturday, Sept. 19 | 9 a.m.-2 p.m. | Jefferson School City Center, Carver Recreational Center | To sign up, visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter code “JeffersonSchool.” Hosted by UVA Health’s Division of Hematology and Oncology. 

UVA Schwartz Center Rounds: The Pearls We Carry 

Friday, Sept. 11 | noon-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall Conference Center Auditorium | Schwartz Center Rounds are interprofessional, panel-based discussions that allow healthcare workers to reflect and share how they are affected by their work. The goal of the program is to foster and support empathy, collaboration, and compassion for self and others. In this session, through stories and conversation, a multidisciplinary panel of longtime UVA Health team members will share the “pearls of wisdom” gathered across decades of service. Lunch provided for the first 60 people. Learn more and register. 

Kitten Yoga 

Sunday, Sept. 13 | 5:30-6:20 p.m. | Relay Active, Dairy Market, 946 Grady Ave. | Office of Team Wellbeing has arranged a private kitten yoga session for UVA Health team members. All skill levels are welcome. The cost is $35,which includes a donation to the local animal shelter that provides the kittens. Learn more and register. 

ECHO: Clinical Concerns for Emerging Vape Shop Trends 

Tuesday, Sept. 15 | 4-5 p.m. | Discuss emerging and established trends in substances frequently encountered in vape shops and other similar locations. This series highlights clinical resources, best practices, and clinical innovations to more efficiently and broadly care for and educate patients on the risks inherent in using these substances. Flyer. Learn more and register. 

Anderson Lecture Featuring Eva Nogales, PhD 

Thursday, Sept. 17 | 4-5 p.m. | Claude Moore Medical Education Building Auditorium | The 2026 Anderson Lecture will be presented by Eva Nogales, PhD, Professor of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Structural Biology, Molecular and Cell Biology Department, UC Berkeley. Her topic is "Structure-Function Studies of Microtubules and Their Associated Proteins." This in-person event is open to all with no advance registration required. Details. 

2026 APP Week: The Pulse of Progress 

Advanced Practice Provider (APP) Week recognizes the crucial expertise of audiologists, certified nurse midwives, certified registered nurse anesthetists, clinical nurse specialists, genetic counselors, licensed clinical social workers, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants/associates. UVA Health APPs are invited to join onsite and virtual events celebrating “APPs Powering Tomorrow.” (View the recorded virtual events any time.*) See the schedule: 

• Sunday, Sept. 20  
  • Sept. 20-25 | Step Challenge Start | APP teams, sign up on the Hoos Well app to join a fun way to promote healthy activity and competition! 
  • 11 a.m. | King Family Vineyards, 6550 Roseland Farm, Crozet | Family event to watch polo matches starting at noon and 2 p.m. 
• Monday, Sept. 21 
  • *Watch anytime | Opening Ceremony with Associate Chief Nursing Officer Bill Lombardi, DNP, RN, AGACNP-BC, CCRN, UVA Health Center for Advanced Practice, and Opening Keynote with Harvard- and Stanford-trained physician-scientist Daniel Kraft, MD, presenting “The Future of Health and Medicine: Where Can Technology Take Us?” 
  • 5 p.m. | Orange Theory Fitness, 1935 Arlington Blvd., Charlottesville 
• Tuesday, Sept. 22 
  • *Watch anytime | Presidents Panel | Featuring David Bunnell, American Academy of Physician Associates; Valerie Fuller, American Association of Nurse Practitioners; Jackeline Iseler, National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists; Peter Johnson, American College of Nurse Midwives; Emily Mycyk, American Academy of Anesthesiologist Assistants; and Tracy Young, American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology. 
  • 5:30-7:30 p.m. | Sun Pins at Dairy Market, 946 Grady Ave., Charlottesville | Bring your family for duckpin bowling fun! 
• Wednesday, Sept. 23 
  • 7-9 a.m. | University Medical Center Dining Conference Rooms | Join us for breakfast! APP Council Recognition Committee also will deliver coffee and donuts to Fontaine, Ivy, Riverside, and Zion Crossroads.  
  • *Watch anytime | Midweek Keynote | Jones Loflin presents “Powering Tomorrow: Leading Well in a World of Too Much to Do.” 
  • 6-8 p.m. | WildMan Dan Brewery, 279 Avon Rd., Afton | Darts, karaoke, foosball, food, and camaraderie! 
• Thursday, Sept. 24 
  • 5:30 p.m. | Contemplative Sciences Center, 403 Emmet St., Charlottesville | Onsite attendance by invite and RSVP only | UVA Health APP Week Gala and Awards Ceremony presented by the APP Council will honor 86 nominees and award six recipients.  
  • *Watch anytime | National APP Week Awards | Presented by Bill Lombardi, and from Cedars-Sinai: Honore Kotler, DNP, RN, ACNP-BC. Celebrating 263 nominees and six recipients. 
• Friday, Sept. 25  
  • Throughout the day | APP leadership will visit hospital units and clinics to distribute treats and UVA Health swag to team members. 
  • *Watch anytime | Closing Ceremony and Host Handoff | Bill Lombardi and Advocate Health present “Passing the Torch to 2027 National AAP Week.” 

Thank you to APPs and all team members supporting our UVA Health mission of transforming health and inspiring hope for all Virginians and beyond!

18th Annual Therapeutic Apheresis Academy (TAA)  

Sept. 24-26 | Pinn Hall Conference Center | This multidisciplinary conference is designed for physicians in nephrology, hematology, and pathology/blood banking, and allied health professionals with an interest in therapeutic apheresis. The 2026 program builds on the success of prior TAAs with evidence‑based clinical content, interprofessional education, hands‑on demonstration workshops, and interactive case discussions. Register. Questions? Contact Monica McCommon, UVA Health Continuing Education Program Manager. 

Join 2027 BEE Award Committee 

Call for interest deadline: 8 a.m., Friday, Sept. 25 | UVA Health University Medical Center Nursing Professional Governance Organization’s BEE Award Committee supports meaningful recognition of non-nursing team members — who work with nurses — through the BEE (Being Excellent Everyday) Award. Nominees are University Medical Center team members (excluding physicians) who support patient care. They fill a wide range of roles such as nursing assistants; health unit coordinators; Environmental Services team members; occupational, physical, and respiratory therapists; pharmacists; technicians; transporters; and many others. The BEE Award is presented twice a month.     

If you’re in a non-nursing University Medical Center role, join the BEE Award Committee to review and vote on nominations, spread awareness of the program, and contribute to recognition efforts for non-nursing team members.

Fall 2026 Mental Health and Wellness Festival 

Thursday, Oct. 8 | 4-6 p.m. | Courtyard between MR5 and MR6 | Bringing together UVA Health students, team members, and trainees — and community organizations — for engagement and resource sharing focused on holistic mental health and wellness. Participate in wellness workshops and enjoy food, music, movement, drumming, and the wellness practice of grounding. Sponsored by UVA Health Office of Community Engagement and Health Outcomes, UVA School of Medicine Office of Medical Sciences Outreach, and UVA School of Nursing Office of Community Health and Wellbeing. World Mental Health Day is Oct. 10. 

2026 Menopause Is Thriving at UVA 

Friday, Oct. 16 | 7 a.m.-4 p.m. | Omni Hotel, Charlottesville | JoAnn Pinkerton, MD, and Carrie Sopata, MD, encourage you to join this conference to learn, connect, and explore how we can better support women through every stage of the menopause transition. Please join in advancing thoughtful, evidence-based care and meaningful conversations that help women thrive. Learn more and register. 

UVA’s New, 100% Online Master of Change Management Degree 

Application deadline: Sunday, Nov. 1 | Navigating burnout, technology adoption, and process changes require decision-makers who are equipped with skills to anticipate and address today's unprecedented scope and speed of change. Designed for working adults, UVA’s new online master’s degree in change management fosters human-centered tools and data-driven decision-making needed to build alignment and guide others through challenging transitions. Customization opportunities ensure learning is directly applicable to a variety of industries, including healthcare. Program begins January 2027. Learn more. 

Appreciation

‘Future of Healthcare’: UVA Health Auxiliary Awards 16 Scholarships to Student Volunteers 

UVA Health Auxiliary welcomed students and their families to a ceremony at UVA Health Prince William Medical Center to celebrate $50,000 in scholarships to help 16 student volunteers pursue higher education and healthcare careers. 

Individual scholarships range from $2,000 to $5,000 each. The two highest awards are named in honor of exceptional UVA Health Auxiliary volunteers whose dedication and service helped shape the organization: 

• The Nancy Lawson Scholarship honors a charter member of the auxiliary who joined in 1961 and is affectionately remembered as one of the organization’s “Founding Mothers.” Her many years of service helped establish a tradition of volunteerism and community support that continues today. This scholarship is awarded to Henry Pavu, who will be attending UVA. 
• The Paulette O’Connor Scholarship recognizes the volunteer manager of the UVA Health Auxiliary Thrift Shop in Old Town Manassas, Virginia, who's volunteered for more than 22,000 hours over 34 years. Her extraordinary commitment to the auxiliary and the community makes her a fitting namesake for one of the program’s premier scholarships. Kadriey Haznedar accepted this scholarship and will be attending Northern Virginia Community College. 

Read more on Connect. 

Friday, Sept. 4

Impacts of Labor Day | Monday, Sept. 7

• All UVA Health clinics will be closed. (Dialysis clinics will remain open.) 
• Team Member Gym will be closed. 
• Parking and Transportation Modifications: 
  • University Transit Service bus and the Health System Fontaine and Northridge shuttle service will not operate Monday, Sept. 7. 
  • University Medical Center Courtesy Shuttle will operate on the weekend schedule, running every 60 minutes, 7:20 a.m. to 7:45 p.m. 
  • UtoCar will operate normally. 
  • Parking is available for team members in the South Garage on Crispell Drive and 11th Street Garage (Level D and above only) Monday, Sept. 7. 
  • University Transit Bus and Health System Transit shuttle will operate normally Tuesday, Sept. 8. 
• Cafe and retail locations | Closed Monday 
  • Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center Cafe 
  • Fontaine Research Park Building 500 
  • Orthopedic Center at Ivy Road 
  • University Hospital, Operating Room Cafe 
  • West Complex Cafe 
• UVA Health Update will not be sent Monday, Sept. 7. It will resume Wednesday, Sept. 9. 

Operations

Monthly Epic Update

Changes go live Tuesday, Sept. 8 | This month’s Epic updates will impact ambulatory and inpatient licensed independent practitioners, nurses, and therapy services — as well as the Emergency Department and the Access/Patient Access team. Details about the latest changes can be found in the Epic Update Bundle. Contact the Service Desk: fill out a form or call 434.924.5334.

Monthly Update: Clinical and Operational Documents 

Having a working knowledge of policies and other clinical and operational documents relevant to your role and responsibilities at University Medical Center supports quality patient care and regulatory compliance. Learn What’s New in Clinical and Operational Documents. This month’s highlights include: 

• Updates to High Flow Nasal Cannula Therapy Acute Pediatrics Guideline 
• New Formula Dispensed at Discharge SOP 
• New External Ventricular Drain (EVD) SOP 
• New Social Media Health System Policy, and many more. 

Questions? Email PolicyTechAdmin@uvahealth.org.

Onboarding: August Additions to the Provider Directory 

Every provider we feature in our directory strengthens our ability to deliver compassionate, expert care to the communities we serve. We’re grateful to the clinicians newly added this month, each helping connect more patients with the support and healing they deserve. Additions from the last 30 days are listed on Connect.

Ambulatory GLOBO Cart Deployment 

Sept. 14-18 | 8 a.m.-5 p.m. | In an effort to expand and enhance language support across our ambulatory clinics, the UVA Health Language Services team, in partnership with GLOBO, will deploy 130 new iPads and carts. This initiative will provide updated iPad software and upgraded equipment, improving access to reliable language services for patients and care teams. GLOBO carts with new iPads will be strategically deployed Sept. 14-18. Language Services team members will deliver the new carts and be available for questions. There are two different cart styles (see picture; orientation cards are located on the front).   

We will deliver and expand GLOBO cart coverage to UVA Health clinics and offices. Also, old equipment will be picked up during this time. Watch the orientation video. Please cascade this information to your team members. Questions? Email RLANGSERVICES@uvahealth.org.

E-Bikes and Motorized Scooters 

E-bikes and motorized scooters are prohibited from being brought into University Medical Center or UVA School of Medicine for any reason. Additionally, they may not be charged, stored, or parked in any University Medical Center or UVA School of Medicine buildings as they are a known fire risk. For more information: 

• SEC-043: Riding, Parking, and Storing Motorized Scooters and Electric Power-Assisted Bicycles at the University  
• Bike rack locations   
• Highlighted locations with security camera coverage of bike racks (circled in yellow)

See a Spill? Cover It and Make a Call  

All team members are reminded to cover a spill with the sorbent pads found at the wall-mounted spill kit locations. Mark the spill with the caution sign, if available, and report it to Environmental Services at 434.982.1555. It takes everyone to maintain a safe environment for all. See graphic on right for reference. 

UVA Health in the News

Top Story 

• Virginia Business magazine’s Virginia 500 list features Dr. Mitchell Rosner, UVA Community Health CEOErik Shannon, Dr. Mark Esser, and Dr. Scott Just. 

Patient Care 

• Dr. Gregory Saathoff’s testimony in the Lindsay Clancy trial is featured in hundreds of media outlets nationally, including NBC News, PBS, and The Washington Times. 
• Dr. Mitchell Rosner and Dr. Leigh Cantrell are featured locally, in media outlets across Virginia, and in Becker’s Hospital Review discussing UVA Health bringing oncology services to Lynchburg. 
• Chief Information and Technology Officer Sonney Sapra talks with Becker’s Hospital Review about the challenge of “firefighting” in healthcare IT. 
• Becker’s Hospital Review highlights University Medical Center among the most highly recommended hospitals by patients. 
• Dr. Oliver Monfredi is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing a new leadless pacemaker. 
• Dr. Dan Chen talks with Becker’s Hospital Review about spinal fusions. 
• Dr. Ina Stephens joins the Bendy Bodies podcast to discuss the link between brain inflammation and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. 

Research 

• Dr. Jennifer Payne talks with CBS News about postpartum depression.  
• Dr. Amy Mathers’s article for The Conversation on whether patients always have to finish their antibiotics is featured in more than 80 media outlets internationally. 
• Paul and Diane Manning Institute of Biotechnology’s role in Central Virginia’s booming biotech sphere is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally. 
• Dr. Bruce Greyson’s research into near-death experiences is highlighted in USA Today. 
• Dr. Ziqiao Wang’s research into autism risk patterns is featured by Newsweek. 
• Dr. Daniel Cox’s research into managing type 2 diabetes without medications is featured across Virginia and on TV stations nationally. 
• Dr. Christopher Kramer talks with Healio about a potential treatment for transthyretin amyloidosis with cardiomyopathy. 
• Researcher Caroline Kenyon is featured by the American Hospital Association discussing a visual “risk ladder” for death from epilepsy. 

Community 

• American Red Cross features Dr. Nathan Charlton discussing how to spot an opioid overdose and how to respond. 

Education 

• Dr. Monique Dufour talks with Medscape about how graphics can help doctors communicate. 

Human Resources

Kronos: Timekeeping and Clocking-In  

As a reminder: University Medical Center employees should be at their designated work location and use the most appropriate clock-in method when beginning their shift. This requirement is noted in the Fair Labor Standards Act and Overtime Medical Center HR Policy. Also:  

• Employees who are non-exempt (hourly) should use the clocking device their manager indicates. In most areas, this will be a physical, wall-mounted, clocking station nearest to their place of work.  
• With a manager’s approval, employees can use the "web-punch" feature within the Kronos application — but only while connected to the UVA Health network and at their place of work. 

Happenings

UVA Research Computing Open House 

Wednesday, Sept. 9 | 2-5 p.m. | Michie North | Whether you’re new to research computing or looking to expand your use, the Research Computing Open House will offer UVA researchers an inside look at the computational tools, services, and expert support available to accelerate your research. RSVP optional but appreciated.

Donate Blood: September Is National Sickle Cell Awareness Month 

Battle Building, Quayle Center, First Floor | While donors of all backgrounds are needed, blood from Black and African American donors is three times more likely to be a direct antigen match for patients with sickle cell disease. To register, contact Sharon Jones. Swag alert: Through Sept. 20, receive an exclusive Hello Kitty mascot clip. Details.Blood drive dates: 

• Thursday, Sept. 10: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 
• Tuesday, Sept. 15: 12:30-5:30 p.m. 
• Tuesday, Sept. 22: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 

In the community: Saturday, Sept. 19 | 9 a.m.-2 p.m. | Jefferson School City Center, Carver Recreational Center |To sign up, visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter code “JeffersonSchool.” Hosted by UVA Health’s Division of Hematology and Oncology. 

UVA Schwartz Center Rounds: The Pearls We Carry 

Friday, Sept. 11 | noon-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall Conference Center Auditorium | Schwartz Center Rounds are interprofessional, panel-based discussions that allow healthcare workers to reflect and share how they are affected by their work. The goal of the program is to foster and support empathy, collaboration, and compassion for self and others. In this session, through stories and conversation, a multidisciplinary panel of longtime UVA Health team members will share the “pearls of wisdom” gathered across decades of service. Lunch provided for the first 60 people. Learn more and register.

Kitten Yoga 

Sunday, Sept. 13 | 5:30-6:20 p.m. | Relay Active, Dairy Market, 946 Grady Ave. | Office of Team Wellbeing has arranged a private kitten yoga session for UVA Health team members. All skill levels are welcome. The cost is $35,which includes a donation to the local animal shelter that provides the kittens. Learn more and register. 

Free Mindfulness Courses for Healthcare Employees 

Working in healthcare can be stressful, and mindfulness is a proven method of improving resilience and wellbeing. The UVA Mindfulness Center, in partnership with the Office of Team Wellbeing, is offering two free mindfulness courses this fall:     

• Mindfulness for Healthcare Employees | Wednesdays, Sept. 16-Nov. 4 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | 560 Ray C. Hunt Drive | This course has been taught at UVA for more than 20 years and provides an in-depth experience. Led by Matt Goodman, MD. Register.   
• Introduction to Mindfulness | Tuesdays, Oct. 13-Nov. 3 | 5:30-7 p.m. | Zoom | For those who are interested in learning about mindfulness with a shorter time commitment. Led by Cawood Fitzhugh, NP. Register.   

Both courses address the application of mindfulness in multiple areas, including reducing personal stress and increasing wellbeing, and improving communication with patients and others. Free for UVA Health employees.

iCSD 2026: International Conference on Spreading Depolarization 

Sept. 18-22 | Pinn Hall Conference Center | A multidisciplinary, annual meeting focused on the study of mechanisms and treatment of conditions where spreading depolarization (SD) may represent a novel therapeutic target. SD is a significantly under-recognized, massive wave of brain dysfunction that is believed to be involved in a wide range of conditions. Learn more. 

Embrace Your Menopause Journey 

Tuesdays, Sept. 22-Oct. 20 | noon-1 p.m. | Zoom | Join this inspiring, five-week group where you will learn to see menopause as a powerful new chapter in life. Guided by the expertise of Beth Frackleton, RN, National Board-Certified Health Coach, ACSM Certified PT, and Mary Sherman, LCSW, CEAP, CAPP, this supportive group setting will empower you with:  

• In-depth knowledge and understanding: gain insights into the changes your body is experiencing.  
• Boosted self-efficacy: build confidence in managing your menopausal journey.  
• Lifestyle enhancements: discover practical modifications to enhance your wellbeing.  
• Stress management techniques: learn effective ways to handle stress and maintain balance.  
• Valuable resources: access a wealth of information and support tailored to your needs.   

Learn more and register.

Researchers: Shut the Sash Competition 

Oct. 1-31 | UVA Office for Sustainability's Green Labs Program is conducting the 2026 Shut the Sash competition in October. This friendly competition promotes safe, smart, and sustainable practices for use of chemical fume hoods. Labs that register will receive their competition form on Oct. 1 to complete throughout the month. Details. 

Amplifying Your Research Impact: A Strategic Communications Workshop 

Tuesday, Oct. 6 | 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | Contemplative Commons, Studio 1B | Office of the Vice President for Research presents a one-day workshop for UVA researchers who want to communicate their work more effectively. Through faculty panels, journalist perspectives, and hands-on media training — you will learn how to reach the public, communicate your work clearly, make more effective funding pitches, and build a cohesive academic brand. Space is limited. Learn more and register. 

Trauma-Sensitive Human Trafficking Training for Healthcare Workers 

Tuesday, Oct. 6 | 3:30-5 p.m. | The Graduate Hotel, Charlottesville | This interdisciplinary continuing education program is designed to enhance healthcare professionals' ability to recognize and respond to individuals who may be experiencing human trafficking. This program is Intended for physicians, physician assistants, nurses, social workers, psychologists, trainees, and other healthcare professionals committed to improving care for vulnerable populations. Learn more and register. 

Appreciation

'Such a Joy' | Kudos to Our UVA Health Colleagues   

To best serve our community, UVA Health regularly surveys our patients on their healthcare experience. Below is a selection of feedback praising our team members:   

• "The technician who helped me through the test was outstanding. He assisted me with getting on the table and helped me adjust myself as the test went on. I am limited as far as walking and lifting my leg. His concern was stellar and compassionate throughout the procedure. Hold on to this man, because he represents the very best in patient care.”
• "The nurses and doctors were amazing! Very courteous, caring, and informative. Ollie, my food server, was such a joy!” 
• “Savannah has been my therapist to take care of two unrelated, sequential health issues. She is always caring and thoughtful and listens to/addresses any questions I have. She shows me and explains the latest research that supports the therapies she wants to implement. When she feels it to be appropriate and sees something of concern, she calls fellow therapists for a second opinion — very commendable. She is a delightto work with, and my progress has been wonderful!” 

Thank you to our team members for providing outstanding, compassionate, and safe care! 

Wednesday, Sept. 2

Donate Blood: September Is National Sickle Cell Awareness Month

Battle Building, Quayle Center, First Floor | While donors of all backgrounds are needed, blood from Black and African American donors is three times more likely to be a direct antigen match for patients with sickle cell disease. To register, contact Sharon Jones. Swag alert: Through Sept. 20, receive an exclusive Hello Kitty mascot clip. Details. Blood drive dates:  

• Thursday, Sept. 10: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.  
• Tuesday, Sept. 15: 12:30.-5:30 p.m.  
• Tuesday, Sept. 22: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 

Operations

Impacts of Labor Day | Monday, Sept. 7  

• All UVA Health clinics will be closed. (Dialysis clinics will remain open.)    
• Team Member Gym will be closed.    
• Parking and Transportation Modifications: 
  • University Transit Service bus and the Health System Fontaine and Northridge shuttle service will not operate Monday, Sept. 7.    
  • University Medical Center Courtesy Shuttle will operate on the weekend schedule, running every 60 minutes, 7:20 a.m. to 7:45 p.m.    
  • UtoCar will operate normally.    
  • Parking is available for team members in the South Garage on Crispell Drive and 11th Street Garage (Level D and above only) Monday, Sept. 7.    
  • University Transit Bus and Health System Transit shuttle will operate normally Tuesday, Sept. 8.    
• Cafe and retail locations | Closed Monday 
  • Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center Cafe    
  • Fontaine Research Park Building 500    
  • Orthopedic Center at Ivy Road    
  • University Hospital, Operating Room Cafe    
  • West Complex Cafe    
• UVA Health Update will not be sent Monday, Sept. 7. It will resume Wednesday, Sept. 9.

Monthly Update: Clinical and Operational Documents 

Having a working knowledge of policies and other clinical and operational documents relevant to your role and responsibilities at University Medical Center supports quality patient care and regulatory compliance. Learn What’s New in Clinical and Operational Documents. This month’s highlights include:    

• Updates to High Flow Nasal Cannula Therapy Acute Pediatrics Guideline 
• New Formula Dispensed at Discharge SOP 
• New External Ventricular Drain (EVD) SOP 
• New Social Media Health System Policy, and many more. 

 Questions? Email PolicyTechAdmin@uvahealth.org. 

Human Resources

2026 Annual Retraining 

Deadline: Wednesday, Sept. 30 | All UVA Health team members hired on or before April 1, 2026 — who provide patient care, receive training, or participate in healthcare education and research within or for the benefit of UVA Health University Medical Center, regardless of their employer — are required to take the training. Visit the 2026 Annual Retraining web page for more information. 

Happenings

Market Square 

Through Sept. 24 | Weekly, Thursdays, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Courtyard at MR5 | Shop for fresh produce, beautiful flowers, unique crafts, and delicious eats from local food trucks! Vendors include It’s Poppin’ Time, Little Manila, Mexican Tacos, Mr. Baker, Miss Day Delights, and Tealicious Cafe. Questions? Contact George Minor, UVA HR, Rewards and Recognition. See photos and read rave reviews on Connect. 

September: UVA Health Team Member and Health Awareness 

To support our UVA Health mission of transforming health and inspiring hope — each month, we recognize team member and health awareness months, weeks, and days. See the latest list.

Art Drop-In Day 

Thursday, Sept. 3 | 1-3 p.m. | University Hospital, Dining Conference Rooms 1-3 | Drop in for a creative break in your day. All art supplies will be provided. Hosted by The Fralin Museum of Art at UVA and UVA Health. Free for allUVA Health team members. 

Food Sampling and Demonstration 

University Hospital, Main Cafeteria | Stop by and sample delicious food from 11 a.m. to 1:45 p.m., except where otherwise noted: 

• Tuesday, Sept. 8 | Mountain Culture 
• Tuesday, Sept. 15 | noon-2 p.m. | Primi 
• Thursday, Sept. 17 | Countertop Productions 
• Tuesday, Sept. 22 | RVP Bar 
• Thursday, Sept. 24 | Clean Juice 
• Thursday, Oct. 1 | Kiwi Kuisine 
• Thursday, Oct. 8 | Zenjoy 
• Tuesday, Oct. 13 | Hem and Her 
• Tuesday, Oct. 20 | Cville Candy 
• Tuesday, Oct. 27 | The Donut Kitchen 
• Tuesday, Nov. 3 | Snowing in Space 
• Tuesday, Nov. 10 | Good Phyte 

UVA Research Computing Open House 

Wednesday, Sept. 9 | 2-5 p.m. | Michie North | Whether you’re new to research computing or looking to expand your use, this open house will offer UVA researchers an inside look at the computational tools, services, and expert support available to accelerate your research. RSVP optional but appreciated.

Anderson Lecture Featuring Eva Nogales, PhD 

Thursday, Sept. 17 | 4-5 p.m. | Claude Moore Medical Education Building Auditorium | The 2026 Anderson Lecture will be presented by Eva Nogales, PhD, Professor of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Structural Biology, Molecular and Cell Biology Department, UC Berkeley. Her topic is "Structure-Function Studies of Microtubules and Their Associated Proteins." This in-person event is open to all with no advance registration required. Details. 

Open House: Claude Moore Health Sciences Library 

Tuesday, Sept. 22 | noon-2 p.m. | Claude Moore Health Sciences Library | Whether you're a student, clinician, support staff, faculty member, or just curious about what is offered, this event is perfect for you. Meet the team, explore UVA groups and departments, enjoy free treats, and participate in a scavenger hunt. Details. Questions? Contact Tricia Roche, Access Services Manager.

2026 EDS and Hypermobility Disorders PT/OT Symposium 

Friday, Oct. 23 | 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Sandridge Auditorium | This half-day continuing education program is designed to enhance rehabilitation professionals’ knowledge and practical skills in caring for individuals with Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS), hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD), and related complex conditions. The program will feature expert presentations on evidence-based rehabilitation approaches, common clinical challenges, and the impact on treatment planning of comorbidities such as dysautonomia, chronic pain, fatigue, and activity intolerance. The program is intended for physiatrists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, therapy assistants, students, and other rehabilitation professionals seeking practical tools to improve care for patients with hypermobility-related disorders. Learn more and register. 

2026 Healthcare Ethics and Moral Distress Consultation Intensive Training Seminar 

Nov. 8-10 | This in-person, three-day program is designed for multidisciplinary practicing healthcare professionals who wish to develop or deepen their healthcare ethics and moral distress consultation knowledge and skills and prepare for the healthcare ethics consultation certification exam. Registration deadline: Oct. 8. Learn more and register. 

Appreciation

‘Your Impact Matters Deeply’: 2026 UVA Health Service Awards 

Congratulations to the hundreds of team members marking milestone anniversaries at UVA Health this year!  

At two summer events, UVA Health leaders honored University Medical Center, UVA School of Medicine, and UVA School of Nursing team members in a wide range of fields who've dedicated much or all of their careers to UVA Health for one to five decades. 

At a June 5 luncheon: 140 team members with 10, 15, and 20 years of service were recognized. See a list of all the honorees in the program. At an Aug. 3 dinner: 110 team members with 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, and 50 years of service were lauded. See a list of all the honorees in the program. Read more and see the photos on Connect. 

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