There’s no denying that residency can be an overwhelming time. One of the great benefits of training at the University of Wisconsin Department of Radiology is the Resident Wellness Committee, run by residents, for residents.
When he began his residency in 2021, Cullen Fleming, MD could tell that the COVID-19 pandemic had taken a toll on the resident culture, and he sought to lift everyone’s spirits. Because radiologists often work collaboratively, Dr. Fleming established weekly interdepartmental volleyball events, which transitioned to social events in colder months. Several months into organizing these events, he officially joined the Resident Wellness Committee, eventually becoming the team lead.
The committee has made great strides under Dr. Fleming’s leadership over the years, establishing fun annual events including a cutest pet or plant contest, fall food drive, Halloween costume competition, a half-day wellness outing, and more. Throughout the year, smaller social events are regularly held.
Dr. Fleming encourages other trainees to help lead activities. Madeline Jentink, DO organizes a resident book club that meets about once a month at different coffee shops in the Madison area. Books are recommended and voted on by members, and span across genres.
Moving forward, Emily Kruger, MD will lead the committee after Dr. Fleming departs to begin his fellowship training. She initially joined to get to know upper-level residents when she started her residency. Dr. Kruger has been helping plan activities for the past two years and started the tradition of giving each resident a ‘birthday bag.’
Her favorite committee activities include the cutest pet or plant contest, and the welcome week events to get to know the incoming residents. She’s excited to work with residents to see what events everyone is interested in for the upcoming year and is planning to incorporate family friendly activities as many of the residents have young children.
