University of Maryland School of Dentistry

What does the Office of Wellness and Organizational Engagement (OWOE) do?

The Office of Wellness and Organizational Engagement (OWOE) is committed to cultivating a campus environment where all students, faculty, staff, and patients feel valued, respected, and supported. We focus on advancing well-being, fostering a culture of inclusion, and encouraging personal and professional balance.

Through thoughtfully designed programming, one-on-one guidance, and accessible resources, OWOE works to:

Promote emotional, mental, and physical wellness

Support positive and respectful interactions across our community

Encourage a healthy work-life balance for optimal academic and professional success

Build a campus culture rooted in kindness, equity, and engagement Our goal is to ensure that every member of our School of Dentistry community feels a strong sense of connection and belonging.

 

What should I do if I’m struggling with adjusting to campus culture, equity, belonging, stress, professionalism, or interpersonal relationships? How do I get support for a bias incident?

If you are facing challenges related to respect, inclusion, stress, or interactions with others on campus, you are not alone—and we are here to help. We can provide training, and respond to incidents in an appropriate manner.

We encourage students, faculty, or staff members experiencing difficulties to schedule a confidential appointment with Dr. Dawn Roberts. These conversations are an opportunity to be heard, explore solutions, and identify strategies for navigating your unique situation in a supportive and respectful environment.

 

I want to incorporate wellness and better work-life balance into my daily routine but don’t know where to start. Can OWOE help?

Absolutely. Prioritizing your well-being is one of the most important investments you can make in your academic, professional, and personal life.

We will work with you one-on-one to assess your current lifestyle, stress levels, and adaptive strategies. Together, you’ll explore practical ways to integrate wellness into your daily routine—from stress reduction techniques to time management 

and goal setting. Research consistently shows that a balanced lifestyle not only enhances mental and physical health but also improves academic performance and resilience.¹

Let us help you take the first step toward building a more fulfilling, balanced life.

 

I have an idea for a wellness or engagement initiative. Can the Office help me bring it to life?

Absolutely. At OWOE, we value creativity, collaboration, and community-centered innovation. Whether your idea is geared toward students, faculty, staff, patients, or the surrounding community, we are here to support you.

We’re excited to partner with you to design and implement programs, workshops, or initiatives that promote well-being, inclusion, and meaningful engagement. Reach out to us—we're happy to help you turn your idea into impact.

 

I have sensitive questions about differences in identity, culture, or background. Is this a safe space to ask them?

Yes—this is exactly what we’re here for.

The Office of Wellness and Organizational Engagement is a confidential, respectful, and judgment-free space where curiosity, growth, and dialogue are welcomed. If you have questions about diversity, equity, inclusion, or navigating differences in respectful and meaningful ways, we invite you to reach out.

We can provide personal guidance, educational resources, or customized training to help you build confidence in fostering positive, inclusive interactions. No question is too small or too difficult—we’re here to support your learning journey.

 

How can I get involved?

We welcome your involvement! Contact us by emailing Dr. Roberts or stop by the OWOE. We know that you have a lot to offer and We welcome the opportunity for Students, faculty and staff to collaborate with our office.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

¹ American College Health Association. National College Health Assessment. Available at: www.acha.org/NCHA