Kemah, Texas (June 6, 2023) – The Division of Research and Innovation (R&I) recently concluded an exciting and enriching staff retreat in Kemah, Texas. From May 31 to June 1, 2023, this retreat proved to be a memorable event, fostering team building, knowledge exchange, and rejuvenation amidst the picturesque landscapes of the Gulf Coast.
The R&I staff retreat aimed to enhance professional skills, encourage innovation, and cultivate collaboration among team members. Throughout the retreat, participants engaged in a series of workshops covering team-building activities, communication skills, and effective project management strategies. With interactive sessions and practical exercises, the retreat provided a platform for the exchange and exploration of new ideas.
Prairie View A&M University Vice President of Research and Innovation Magesh Rajan, Ph.D., P.E., MBA., welcomed the staff and expressed his heartfelt appreciation for their hard work and dedication. He acknowledged the significant contributions made by the team and emphasized the critical role they play in the Division’s success.
“It’s evident just how vital the contributions of our R&I team have been to the overall success our division. Each team member’s dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment have been instrumental in driving our department’s achievements. The team’s innovative ideas, diligent research, and tireless efforts have propelled us forward, shaping our division’s trajectory and enabling us to stay at the forefront of research and innovation excellence,” said Dr. Rajan.
The retreat offered an ideal opportunity for team members to strengthen their bonds and improve their collaborative dynamics. Various team-building activities were meticulously planned to encourage effective communication, trust-building, and problem-solving. From engaging group challenges to outdoor adventures like a scavenger hunt, these activities fostered a sense of camaraderie and unity among the participants.
Crysta Mendes, R&I’s Program Manager and retreat organizer, took a moment to address the R&I staff, underscoring the significance of the retreat in their professional growth. “As we embark on this transformative retreat, we embrace the opportunity to step away from our daily routines and immerse ourselves in an environment dedicated to personal and collective development,” said Mendes.
While the retreat focused on professional growth, it also recognized the importance of relaxation and personal well-being. Participants had ample time to unwind and reflect on their accomplishments while taking in the serene coastal surroundings. Whether it was leisurely walks along the boardwalk, enjoying local cuisine, a boat ride along the Galveston Bay, or simply lounging by the pool, the retreat provided a much-needed respite from the daily hustle and bustle. This balance of reflection and relaxation rejuvenated the staff, allowing them to return to work with renewed energy and fresh perspectives.
The R&I staff retreat in Kemah proved to be a transformative experience for the participants. Through a combination of professional development workshops, team-building activities, and moments of reflection and relaxation, the retreat strengthened the team’s unity, fostered innovation, and ignited a renewed sense of purpose in their pursuit of research and innovation excellence.
By Joe McGinty
