Haydee Miranda's journey is a powerful example of how wellness can transform both personal and professional life. From supporting students during the pandemic to leading as the Tutoring Center's Program Director, she has embraced flexibility, community, and self-care.

In this interview, Employee Wellness Manager Cara Hancy explores Miranda’s inspirations, goals, and practical strategies for creating a healthier workplace. 

"The calmer you are, the easier it is."

– Haydee Miranda's insight, learned while conquering swimming lessons, now guides her approach to life, leadership, and wellbeing. 

Haydee Miranda
In UVM's Center for Academic Success, Tutoring Center Program Director Haydee Miranda embodies a growth mindset approach to self care.

Key Takeaways from Haydee Miranda’s Journey 

  • Wellness is about community and creating supportive spaces. 

  • Flexibility can open doors to new experiences—like learning to swim or playing pickleball. 

  • Boundaries are vital for sustaining wellbeing in service-oriented roles. 

  • Employee Wellness programs like Campus Rec and Well-check can make a big difference. 

Cara Hancy (CH): Where did you learn the value of wellness at work? 

Haydee Miranda (HM): I learned it through experience at UVM. After graduating, I joined the UVM Tutoring Center team [in UVM's Center for Academic Success] and supported students during the pandemic. Today, I’m the Program Director. Our space is calm, bright with natural light, and filled with plants—a welcoming environment for everyone to receive support. Being part of a community is important for our health. 

CH: Who inspires you to lead with wellbeing? 

HM: I was inspired by the idea of “reclaiming my summers.” Growing up, I didn’t have opportunities for summer camps. Now, with my work schedule ebbing and flowing with the academic calendar, I have more flexibility in the summer. Last summer, I learned to swim at the Burlington YMCA! Swimming taught me that “the calmer you are, the easier it is.” I use that metaphor in many aspects of my life. 

 CH: What goals do you have for your own wellbeing? 

HM: I want to learn pickleball, work with a personal trainer, and find a fun way to invest in myself this summer. I tried tennis and discovered, “Sometimes you are going to fail at things.” That motivated me to keep going—and that’s how I found pickleball! 

CH: What about your team’s wellbeing? 

HM: I want to keep my team moving more! 

CH: What barriers do you face addressing your wellbeing at work? 

HM: The same ones my team faces—setting healthy boundaries and finding harmony between work and life. At the Tutoring Center, we’re dedicated to students, so boundaries can feel counterintuitive. But they’re essential for mental health and energy.

 CH: What is your favorite UVM Employee Wellness resource or program? 

HM: Campus Rec and Well-checks from the EDGE! I’m also joining the Ambassador team to learn more and support my team better. 

All Employee Wellness Programs & Resources

What UVM Employees Value in Wellness Champions

three people laughing while looking at a laptop

Six key qualities UVM employees appreciate in colleagues who excel at promoting wellness:

Commitment to Healthy Living 

Modeling and encouraging healthy choices with enthusiasm and positivity.

Stress Management & Emotional Resilience

Maintaining calm and balance while managing stress effectively.

Creating Supportive Environments

Fostering well-being through positive workplace changes.

Building Relationships & Community

Strengthening wellness through teamwork and service.

Lifelong Learning & Growth

Embracing personal development, and inspiring others to do the same.