Beckman Institute Calendar (Master)

Dr. Karin Jensen, Assistant Professor of Biomedical Engineering, the University of Michigan, will lecture on "Changing the Narrative: Fostering a Culture of Well-being in Academia."

Those who register by Friday, February 23, will be provided pizza.

Abstract:

Higher education is facing a mental health crisis. High levels of mental health challenges are reported, in parallel with decreased positive well-being. Trainees report high levels of stress, which is found to be a major barrier for retention. Faculty report high levels of burnout that has only increased since the COVID-19 pandemic. What can be done? Studies of higher education describe cultures of stress, overwork, and similar narratives that are not supportive of individual or organizational well-being. In this lecture I will discuss the research on culture in academia and the impacts on well-being. I will present research on well-being and share practical strategies that we can leverage to support our own well-being. Building on the literature on the intersection of well-being and academic culture, I will discuss calls to change the narrative to build a culture of well-being in academia to build thriving academic communities.