When Forbes released its annual America’s Best-In-State Employers list, for the third consecutive year, UConn Health earned a spot among the Top 20 employers in Connecticut, a recognition that reflects what so many who work here already know: this is a special place to build a career.
The list, created in partnership with Statista, is based on more than two million evaluations from employees across the country. For UConn Health, the recognition is both an honor and a testament to the strength of its people.
Dr. Andy Agwunobi, UConn Health CEO, said the award is about more than a ranking. “We are honored to be recognized among the best employers in the state. This reflects the heart of UConn Health our extraordinary employees. Every day, they bring compassion, expertise, and dedication to our patients, students, and research. We are committed to creating a workplace where they feel valued, supported, and empowered to thrive.”
“UConn Health is a place where people can grow. Whether someone is just starting their career or has been here for decades, they are part of a culture that values collaboration, respect, and opportunity. That’s what makes our workplace truly exceptional,” added Lakeesha Brown, vice president of Human Resources, UConn and UConn Health.
That spirit of opportunity is what drew in Joe Dempsey, research assistant 2, and what has kept him here. Hired just over three years ago as a special payroll employee moving boxes, Dempsey never expected his path would lead him to a career in cancer research. Today, he works full time in Dr. Pramod Srivastava’s immunology lab in the Carole and Ray Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center, publishing in top medical journals and contributing to cutting-edge discoveries.
“I had no idea about research when I first came here,” he said. “But I was encouraged to learn, to sit in on classes and journal clubs, and to grow. Now I’m doing research full time. The sky is the limit here and it’s because of the people who believe in your potential.”
Dempsey credits mentors like Dr. Srivastava and career scientists in the lab for helping him find his footing. He also points to UConn Health’s culture of investment in employees.
“It’s not just about the work it’s about the way people want to see you succeed,” he explained. “I started with no research experience. “Now, I see myself here for the long term, and I try to extend to others the generosity I experienced from day one.”
For Mirsa Claudio, who supports UConn Health’s Bone Marrow Transplant and Malignant Hematology programs in the Cancer Center, it’s the culture of teamwork that makes her proud to come in each day.
“What I love most is the way we help each other,” Claudio said. “If I get stuck, someone’s always ready to jump in. We respect each other, we collaborate, and we make it work. It makes the day go by so quickly, and it doesn’t feel like the typical workplace, it feels like a family.”
She also values how her role gives her the chance to support patients in meaningful ways, even behind the scenes.
“Every detail matters when you’re part of a transplant team. I know that what I do helps our patients have a smoother experience,” she said. “That’s a privilege and it motivates me every day.”
Stories like Joe’s and Mirsa’s echo across the campus: employees finding opportunities, and connection in their work. It’s what sets UConn Health apart and why Forbes recognized it among the best employers in Connecticut.
At the end of the day, the award isn’t just about UConn Health as an institution. It’s about the people who make it what it is.
“When our employees thrive, UConn Health thrives and so do the communities we serve,” says Agwunobi.
