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As workplaces have evolved in recent years, Working��ţӰ�� is sharing stories through its “Forward Together” series to feature how individuals, schools, departments and units are building community.

In an urgent care setting, which fills the gap between a hospital emergency department and a primary care setting, caregivers help patients of all ages deal with a wide range of pressing concerns seven days a week. The clinic in Hillsborough often sees around 110 patients per day.

Not long after joining the clinic in late 2022, Health Center Administrator Katelyn Thomas hatched the idea of finding a fitting mascot to help her team feel united in the face of daily challenges.

Clinics across Duke have used mascots – ducks, lizards, crows and flamingos – to build identity and camaraderie.

 In early 2023, inspired by the selflessness, diligence and work ethic of bees, Thomas floated the idea of making the honeybee her team’s unofficial symbol.

“We liked what the honey bee signifies, they’re really strong, they’re intellectual, and they’re community-oriented,” Thomas said. “Plus we’re also up on the second floor, which kind of feels like being up in a hive. It just made sense and grew from there.”

Before long, the team embraced the concept, and Thomas and Nurse Manager Amanda Riggins presented each team member to get badge holders bearing the image of a bee ringed by words such as “kind,” “positive,” “confident” and “brave.”

Ian Lee Brown, ��ţӰ�� Health System Vice President and Chief Employee Experience Officer said organic, team-oriented touches like the Hillsborough clinic’s mascot help staff members feel supported.

“People want to stay within an organization where they feel they are valued, empowered, and that there’s clarity in what they’re doing,” Brown said. “We want people to feel connected and know they are a part of something bigger than themselves. When an organization puts people first, allowing employees at any level to feel that their ideas matter, I think people will stay, thrive and find joy in the daily work they do.”

Beyond the decorative touches, Riggins said the honey bee theme has created awareness of the collaborative climate that clinic team members aim to create.

“We love having the bee merch, but it has to be more than that,” Riggins said. “We want it to remind us about what it means to be part of this team and about what kind of team we are.”

If your Duke team has a fun story about building a positive workplace culture, we want to share it for a potential future Forward Together story. and tell us your team’s story.

Send story ideas, shout-outs and photographs through  or write working@duke.edu.

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