We asked you to nominate an organization leader who has done something positive to demonstrate or promote health and wellness among employees. We received many great nominees. Health and wellness in the workplace is an important issue, and clearly leaders are inspiring others to be healthy.

Here are a few of the submissions for the First Annual A.D.A.M. Apple Award for Work & Wellness. We hope you enjoy them.

Winner

Keli C. credits her company’s CEO for inspiring a healthy attitude throughout the organization:

"A few years ago, our CEO organized a wellness team. The group created healthy initiatives across the board. Employees can now take health risk assessments, receive healthy lifestyle newsletters, participate in wellness contests, and earn self-care bonuses. Healthy living is a way of life for us now. Imagine playing tennis with your general manager at lunch ... or taking a walk down a mountain every day just for the health of it ... yoga classes and chair massages for melting away stress ... snowshoe lunches, summer biking, and hiking groups. What else can I say, except wellness is contagious here."

We received many great stories from other contestants. Here are a few we’d like to share:

• One writer said a human resource representative is an inspiration to others -- "She always makes sure we have a bottle of water on our desk to keep us healthy and hydrated. She is always talking about the great cuisine she makes, and always orders healthy food from the vendor that comes to our office once a month. She reminds, encourages, and invites everyone in the office to attend the weekly yoga classes our company offers. From her example I have started exercising more regularly, drink a lot more water, and feel great! I have noticed a huge difference in how I feel during my day at work."
• Another person told us about her company’s office manager – "In the summer she brings her kayak to work, so that she can hop on the river at day’s end. She attends meditation classes and posture-focused trainings, to improve both her mind and body. She tells us how great the classes are, what a beautiful paddle she had on the river, and she motivates us to ‘shake it up a bit.’ She encourages us to step out of our generic fitness routines."

Thanks to all who entered, and congratulations to the winner! Good luck to all in our next contest.