USM Staff Retreat Promotes Wellness and Team Spirit
September 22, 2025
USM staff came together on Saturday for a rejuvenating retreat focused on team building, mental health, and wellness, leaving participants energized for the rest of the semester.
Pond Island, The University of St. Martin (USM) hosted its annual staff retreat on Saturday, bringing together the staff for a day dedicated to team building, wellness, and professional growth. The retreat focused on strengthening teamwork and prioritizing mental health, ensuring staff remain motivated and engaged for the remainder of the academic semester.
The program featured an inspiring session led by Dr. Carole Joseph, USM counselor and psychologist, who emphasized the importance of recognizing signs of depression, respecting one another, and supporting students who may be facing personal challenges. Dr. Joseph encouraged staff to seek counseling services when needed, as well as to be attentive and proactive in guiding students to get help when needed.
Adding a wellness component, Lisa Burnett, USM’s GED Coordinator, led the team in stretching and yoga exercises designed to promote relaxation and mindfulness. The physical activity complemented the day’s mental health focus, offering the team members simple techniques to reduce stress in their daily routines.
The retreat also included dynamic team-building exercises facilitated by Juliana Hodge-Shipley, Division Head at USM. Through problem-solving and group activities, staff members had the opportunity to strengthen collaboration, communication, and trust skills vital to the university’s continued success.
Staff members expressed that the retreat left them feeling rejuvenated, motivated, and better prepared to serve the student body with renewed energy and compassion.
“The retreat was a valuable opportunity for our team to step back, focus on wellness, and strengthen the bonds that make USM a supportive community for both staff and students,” said Patricia Jansen, USM Student Service Center Representative.
USM continues to prioritize staff development and student support, fostering an environment where both academic and personal growth are encouraged.
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The program featured an inspiring session led by Dr. Carole Joseph, USM counselor and psychologist, who emphasized the importance of recognizing signs of depression, respecting one another, and supporting students who may be facing personal challenges. Dr. Joseph encouraged staff to seek counseling services when needed, as well as to be attentive and proactive in guiding students to get help when needed.
Adding a wellness component, Lisa Burnett, USM’s GED Coordinator, led the team in stretching and yoga exercises designed to promote relaxation and mindfulness. The physical activity complemented the day’s mental health focus, offering the team members simple techniques to reduce stress in their daily routines.
The retreat also included dynamic team-building exercises facilitated by Juliana Hodge-Shipley, Division Head at USM. Through problem-solving and group activities, staff members had the opportunity to strengthen collaboration, communication, and trust skills vital to the university’s continued success.
Staff members expressed that the retreat left them feeling rejuvenated, motivated, and better prepared to serve the student body with renewed energy and compassion.
“The retreat was a valuable opportunity for our team to step back, focus on wellness, and strengthen the bonds that make USM a supportive community for both staff and students,” said Patricia Jansen, USM Student Service Center Representative.
USM continues to prioritize staff development and student support, fostering an environment where both academic and personal growth are encouraged.
Latest News →
