At University of Vermont, V. Ernesto Méndez is doing more than leading important work in Agroecology—he is helping shape a culture of care and connection.

V. Ernesto Méndez, PhD, is Co-director of UVM's Institute for Agroecology and is Professor of Agroecology and Environmental Studies in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS). As part of his leadership, Méndez has introduced “mindfulness moments” into his team meetings, creating space for reflection, grounding, and deeper listening. 

"I strongly believe that co-creating a culture of wellness is a leader’s responsibility."

V. Ernesto Méndez, PhD

UVM Employee Wellness' Integrative Health and Wellness Coach, Melisa Oliva, MA, NBC-HWC, spoke with him to learn more about why he’s made wellbeing a priority and how these small but meaningful practices are making a big difference for his team.  

What inspired you to include mindfulness moments in your team meetings, and what impact have you noticed among your colleagues? 

Méndez: Our work in transformative agroecology is complex and demands a lot from people. I also have noticed how people in the field of agroecology have burned a lot of bridges, due to egos and rigid positions. Part of the motivation was to better support people in doing this work, both as individuals and as part of a collective. In addition, we want to create a culture of trust, safety, and support. 

Our people have reacted well to mindfulness moments. They have expressed liking these practices for how they can be grounding, allowing them to pause and reflect, and the opportunity to go beyond the intellectual dimension.  Also very popular have been practicing deep listening and kind speech. 

What practices or values guide your team’s approach to wellbeing in your day-to-day work? 

Méndez: We are still figuring out how to incorporate consciousness into our day-to-day work. We do have the following agreement for how we aspire to bring and uplift when we work together that we have been using for several years now: 

  • Communication

  • Relationships

  • Vulnerability and Humility

  • Responsibility

  • Humanness

  • Hope

How do you support your team in prioritizing wellness, especially during busy or stressful periods? 

Méndez: I try to be a good listener and try to bring an energy of calm and equanimity as much as possible. I believe it is important to be intentional about this, rather than letting things roll or be hectic, is really important. People know I can do deep listening if that is what they need, and that I will try my best to avoid anyone needing to rush or overwork. 

What message would you share with other leaders who are exploring ways to bring more wellbeing into their teams and workspaces? 

Méndez: I strongly believe that co-creating a culture of wellness is a leader’s responsibility. I need to listen to people’s needs and support processes and practices that result in people feeling that our institute is a safe place where they belong. Not only is it good for everyone, but it tends to result in better outcomes from the team. It does require both internal work for the leader, as well as working with others in a way that generates trust and connections.

Melisa Oliva

Melisa Oliva, NBC-HWC, is an Integrative Health and Wellness Coach. UVM Employees can meet with Melisa for personalized coaching that works with their schedule at no cost. 

UVM/UVMMC Employee Coaching Connection (ECC)

Additionally, all UVM and UVMMC Employees have the opportunity to participate in a 10-week, online, combination group and one-on-one UVM Employee Coaching Connection (ECC) in the fall or spring of each year. This program aligns with UVM’s broader initiative to promote a culture of wellness, emphasizing the importance of health and well-being as integral components of professional success and personal fulfillment.

Osher Affiliate and UVM Faculty member Susan Whitman, PA-C, NBC-HWC, offers context for why ECC is so deeply supportive.Learn more about UVM/UVMMC Employee Coaching Connection (ECC)