Knox College Employees Among Nation's Healthiest

For the third year in a row, Knox College is maintaining the same health insurance rates for its employees, and winning recognition as one of the "Healthiest Companies in America." Knox is one of just 34 companies nationwide honored with the award from Interactive Health Solutions, Inc., the College's health management program. IHS gathered data from its clients -- 1,300 firms with more than one million insured employees and spouses.

The award was based on the results of the 2009 health screening program held on the Knox campus. "The screening indicated that 67 percent of eligible employees and spouses at the College are considered healthy," said Roxanne Ronk, benefits coordinator at Knox. The confidential screening includes blood tests for health risk factors and individual reports that suggest areas for improvement to maintain scores in a healthy range.

"Participants are encouraged to share the results with their personal physician and take appropriate steps to maintain or improve their health," Ronk added.

"This recognition shows that Knox has been successful in communicating to its employees that the College cares about their health and well being," said Christopher Parks, vice president for business development of Interactive Health Solutions. Parks presented a plaque and trophy on Thursday, June 24, to Ronk and Knox College President Roger Taylor. Photo, right: Roxanne Ronk, Christopher Parks, Roger Taylor.

"The real credit for this award goes to the people of Knox who are taking part in the program and making healthy lifestyle choices, and to Roxanne for leading this initiative, even before the cost of health care became a trendy news story," Taylor said.

Close to 80 percent of eligible Knox College employees and spouses participated in the screening this year, Ronk said. That compares to an average participation rate of about 20 percent at other colleges and universities that work with IHS. "Our goal is to make people aware of their health, and Knox employees recognize the value of this program," Ronk said.

Health and wellness offerings for employees at Knox include on-campus mammogram and PSA tests, and a fitness walk challenge organized by Wellness Coordinator Marcy Simkins, along with incentives for annual physical examinations.

Founded in 1837, Knox is a national liberal arts college in Galesburg, Illinois, with students from 45 states and 48 countries. Knox's "Old Main" is a National Historic Landmark and the only building remaining from the 1858 Lincoln-Douglas debates.