Blog Post | June 2026
This spring, two teams from the Children’s Learning Institute at UTHealth Houston (CLI) were recognized by the UTHealth Houston Employee Wellness program for their work supporting team well-being during the first half of FY26. Selected from a group of 15 submissions, these initiatives highlight how intentional, everyday practices can strengthen connection, engagement, and a positive work environment.
Across both teams, one theme is clear: well-being is not separate from the work; it is part of how the work happens.
First Place: Initiative of Distinction
Harris County ACCTS (Education Outreach Team)
For the Harris County ACCTS team, well-being shows up in both big and small moments.
Through thoughtful planning and creative expression, the team has built a culture centered on connection and recognition. Initiatives like the Sparkle & Shine Committee’s encouragement buckets and the Sweet Vibes Corner offer daily opportunities to uplift and support one another.
“Employee well-being strengthens our team, helping us build meaningful relationships where we work hard, support one another, and celebrate success together.” — Noemi Orellana
Celebrations are designed to bring people together. Themed décor, personalized elements, coordinated attire, and shared photos help foster a sense of belonging. At the same time, it is often the spontaneous moments, sharing coffee, bringing in treats, or recognizing a colleague’s milestone, that reflect the team’s strong culture of care.
Together, these practices support well-being across multiple areas, including occupational, social, environmental, and spiritual wellness, strengthening both relationships and the team’s ability to do their work with purpose.
Third Place: Initiative of Merit
Texas Infant-Toddler Specialist Network (ITSN)
For the Texas ITSN, well-being begins with creating space to pause, reflect, and connect.
Team meetings open with brief mindfulness practices, such as guided breathing and intention setting. These simple moments help staff arrive fully, ready to engage and collaborate. Four team members, trained as Certified CARE (Cultivating Awareness and Resilience in Education) specialists, lead activities that support physical, emotional, and mental health. This work extends beyond the team, informing how they engage with partners and deliver training.
Connection continues outside of meetings. Monthly lunches provide intentional time to build relationships, while values-based reflection using Dare to Lead by Brené Brown helps team members better understand one another. By identifying and sharing core values, the team strengthens alignment, trust, and communication.
Through these practices, the Texas ITSN has created an environment where staff feel supported and heard, laying the foundation for strong collaboration and meaningful impact.
“Employee well-being directly impacts how our team collaborates, communicates, and performs. The ITSN team intentionally incorporates mindfulness, psychological safety practices, and values-based discussions into our meetings and events to create healthy environments where people feel supported, heard, and empowered to do their best work.” — Melisa Smith and Elise Cohen
Connecting Back to Our Mission
Together, these efforts show how a culture of care strengthens the work itself. When teams feel connected, supported, and valued, they are better equipped to partner with families, support early learning programs, and contribute to stronger learning and health outcomes for children across Texas. This recognition highlights the meaningful role staff well-being plays in advancing the work we do every day.