The University of Houston’s Recreation Center was buzzing with energy as benefit-eligible faculty and staff gathered for Human Resources’ annual Wellness & Benefits Fair. This year’s event drew an impressive 1,475 attendees, making it one of the most well-attended fairs in recent years.
Among the 50 participating vendors and departments were Fidelity, VOYA, Blue Cross Blue Shield, AFLAC, and several UH departments including Human Resources, the UH Police Department, UH Staff Council, Campus Smiles, and Campus Safety.
The fair offers employees a valuable opportunity to engage directly with health and wellness providers, ask questions, and gather information about their benefits.
“We know employees look forward to this event every year,” said Sandra Armstrong, Executive Director of Human Resources. “It’s a chance for us to connect face-to-face with people we usually only communicate with via email.”
Each year, HR selects a theme for the fair and decorates the venue accordingly, including themed t-shirts. This year’s theme: Wellness & Benefits Bootcamp.
Deanna Holmes, Senior Benefits Coordinator, explained that the theme was chosen from a list of employee submissions.
For many employees, the fair is more than just informative—it’s essential.
“I’m always busy, and my schedule is hectic, so having this event every year is a great reminder not to put off thinking about my benefits,” said Aurora Muñoz, Collections Analyst at Student Business Services.
Kevin Burns, Bursar at Student Business Services, has attended the fair annually since 2012. He believes it’s a must for all employees.
“We’re in the business of education, and people spend over 40 hours a week here—away from their families and loved ones,” said Burns. “These benefits help support those families, so it’s crucial to stay informed.”
Burns noted how the fair has evolved over the years, with more vendors, insurance providers, and free health items like heart monitors now available.
“It’s good to stay up to date—even with providers you’ve had for years,” added Muñoz.
One notable change this year was the timing of the event. Based on employee feedback, HR moved the fair to the first week of the Open Enrollment period, rather than the second week as in previous years.
“Feedback is critical for us,” said Armstrong. “We take it seriously and use it to improve the event every year.”
With the Wellness & Benefits Bootcamp complete, UH employees are now better equipped to take charge of their health and benefits and ready to face the year ahead with confidence and clarity.
