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UVA Health's most recent Spark Innovation Competition — established in 2022 to leverage the wisdom, energy, and dedication of team members — concluded in July 2024. The competition invites participants across the organization to submit ideas that could bring positive change to the culture of UVA Health.

This round's initiative focused on enhancing the research culture within the health system by seeking submissions that could transform how research is conducted, streamline processes, and improve the quality of life for faculty, staff, students, research subjects, and supporting team members. With 319 submissions from over 80 different areas across UVA Health, participants proposed actionable ideas, which were evaluated based on feasibility, impact, and sustainability.

David Kashatus, PhD, Associate Professor of Microbiology, Immunology and Cancer Biology and Assistant Dean for Research at UVA School of Medicine, served as the Culture Lead for the Spark Innovation Competition. 

“With this round of the Spark competition, we set out to build off the momentum generated with the first competition and tap into the collective wisdom of the people working within the research community. The ideas ranged from simple to complex, but they all shared a passion for improving the research environment,” Kashatus reflects. 

One of the standout submissions came from Brant Isakson, PhD, Professor of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, and a resident faculty member of the Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center. Project teammate Randy Speight, Director of Capital and Facilities Planning, brought Isakson’s idea to life. 

A Simple Solution to a Common Problem

Isakson's idea addressed a longstanding issue faced by researchers in the MR4, MR5, and MR6 buildings: limited access to outdoor space during the workday. Despite a large courtyard connecting these buildings, the area was underutilized due to a lack of seating. Many researchers and staff members were left to eat lunch while sitting on the short walls or stand while enjoying brief breaks outside.

"When I was here as a post-doc, the space between MR4 and MR5 was just a gravel pit. It flooded frequently and was messy," Isakson recalls. "When they built MR6, they put in a beautiful courtyard.”

Recognizing the potential of the courtyard, Isakson proposed adding outdoor seating and tables to make the space more inviting. 

Turning Ideas into Reality

Isakson’s team submitted their idea through the Spark platform, which Isakson found remarkably user-friendly. "It was very easy to submit. I went online, filled out the form, and shared my thoughts. The barrier to entry was so low that I thought, 'Why not?' Even if nothing came of it, at least someone would see it," Isakson recalls. 

The proposal resonated with the judging panel, and Isakson’s team advanced to the final round, where they presented a more detailed pitch. Isakson worked closely with the project team, including Speight, who played a key role in ensuring the feasibility of the project.

"Randy is the guy who handles permits, fire codes, and all the logistical details," Isakson notes. "Once the idea was solidified, professionals like Randy took over to bring the project to life. He’s kept me involved in decisions, like choosing the type of benches, which I appreciate. But I’m happy to let the professionals handle the execution. It’s going to be fantastic."

The Impact of Outdoor Spaces on Well-being

The new outdoor seating area is expected to provide more than just a pleasant lunch spot. Isakson highlights the mental health benefits of spending time outdoors. "Artificial light and circulated air can take a toll," he explains. "Being able to step outside, sit down, and take a mental refresh is hugely beneficial."

The communal courtyard is not just about relaxation; it’s also a space for collaboration and informal meetings. "Having a place to have coffee or lunch, meet new faculty, or conduct informal interviews is invaluable," Isakson notes. "It’s a great place for lab meetings or catching up with colleagues."

A Collaborative Effort

Speight, who manages facilities planning for several research buildings at UVA, has seen firsthand how similar projects can enhance employee satisfaction.

"We added picnic tables at McKim Hall, and they’re always occupied," he shares. "The new seating area in the courtyard will be a well-utilized space. It’s located on a solid surface, away from high-traffic areas, making it an ideal spot for outdoor gatherings."

Speight emphasizes the significance of communal spaces for fostering a sense of community: "The courtyard sits right between three major research buildings. Everyone looks out their windows and sees this big empty space. Now, it’s becoming a place where people can go outside, eat lunch, have one-on-one conversations, or even work with their laptops."

A Lasting Legacy

Both Isakson and Speight are optimistic that the project will have a lasting impact on UVA Health’s research community. "This is about more than just tables and chairs," Isakson explains. "It’s about creating an environment that fosters creativity, collaboration, and well-being."

As the Spark Innovation Competition continues to inspire new ideas, initiatives like enhancing the communal courtyard remind everyone that sometimes the simplest solutions can have the most profound impact. 

By empowering team members to share their ideas and providing the support needed to bring them to fruition, UVA Health is fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.

"If you make it easy for people to share their ideas, great things can happen," Isakson concludes. "I think the Spark initiative is a fantastic way to tap into the creativity and expertise of our community. It’s exciting to see what’s next."