Themed old red drawing

There’s No Place Like
HEALTH CARE

Celebrating Health System and Nurses Week 2025!

Dear Colleagues,

May 5-9, 2025, UTMB celebrates National Health System Week and Nurses Week.

This year’s theme, “There’s No Place Like Health Care,” reminds us how meaningful and impactful your work truly is. Whether you provide care in our hospitals, clinics, correctional managed care facilities, or support patients and teams behind the scenes, each of you brings heart, dedication, and courage to our mission—just like the heroes of Oz, you make magic happen every day.

Your compassion, professionalism, and commitment to excellence are what make UTMB feel like home for our patients and their families. We simply couldn’t provide Best Care without you.

We hope you’re able to take part in the festivities happening across our four campuses or celebrate in your own way with your team. Wherever you are, please take a moment to reflect on the incredible role you play in our health system.

Thank you for all that you do—because truly, there’s no place like health care… and no team like ours.

In this special video, UTMB team members from across the Health System share—from the heart—why UTMB feel like home. 

Message from Dr. Jochen Reiser, UTMB President and CEO, UTMB Health System

Door or Break Room Decorating Contest!!

Let your creativity shine with the heart, courage, brainpower, and unwavering spirit that every health care worker brings to our organization- “There’s No Place Like Health Care” right in your breakroom or doorway. Make it meaningful to your care area, celebrate your team, and have fun with it! Just remember to keep safety in mind and ensure displays don’t interfere with daily work or care. 

Submit your photos by Thursday, May 8 at 5:00 p.m. Winners will be announced on Friday, May 9!

Click here for more information on how to submit your entry —because there’s truly no place like health care!

themed characters

Activities and Celebrations!

Check out the daily campus themes during the week!

From May 5–9, 2025, UTMB proudly celebrates National Health System Week and Nurses Week—a full week of recognition, appreciation, and celebration!

This year’s theme, “There’s No Place Like Health Care,” honors the heart, courage, intellect, and commitment that every health care professional brings to our mission. Each day highlights a unique theme, inspired by the journey to Oz and connected to the extraordinary impact our professionals make every day.

themed heart icon

Monday, May 5 – Heart of Health Care 
We are kicking off the week by celebrating compassion and empathy at the core of patient care.
Your kindness and emotional connection make the lasting difference—compassion truly is our greatest strength.
Dress Theme: Red or heart-themed clothing and accessories

Theme Lion Icon

Tuesday, May 6 – Courage to Care
We recognize the everyday bravery shown in health care—from tough decisions to pivotal moments, your courage inspires us all.
Dress Theme: Animal prints or lion-inspired attire (scrubs, scrub caps, socks, lion-mane headband, cat ears, etc.)

Themed Scarecrow Icon

Wednesday, May 7 – The Wisdom of Health Care
We shine a spotlight on knowledge, innovation, and continuous growth. Your dedication to learning and improvement drives the future of health care.
Dress Theme: Plaid shirts, straw hats, or any scarecrow-inspired flair

Theme Rainbow icon

Thursday, May 8 – Somewhere Over the Rainbow – UTMB Shines
We embraced the bright future of health care at UTMB and celebrate the vibrance each of you brings to your role.
Dress Theme: Rainbow colors or bold, colorful accessories to light up the day

Theme Dorothy Icon

Friday, May 9 – Following the Yellow Brick Road
We reflect on where we've been and look ahead to where we’re going—honoring the rich legacy of nursing and celebrating the journey ahead.
Dress Theme: Classic nurse uniforms, blue gingham, polka dots, or a splash of red shoes or socks (in honor of Dorothy)