The campus at /mdva/homes/minneapolis/index.jspMinnesota Veterans Homes - Minneapolis is the largest in the state, with several buildings. A popular and convenient way for team members to move between buildings is by tunnel. While speed and climate control are perks to the tunnel, it’s devoid of natural light and felt somewhat drab.

Just one way to support employee wellbeing, a new mural was unveiled in the tunnel on October 22 by local artist, Jendayi Berry. The vibrant, floor-to-ceiling mural:

• Captures how team members connect to the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) mission and vision
• Reflects the unique diversity of the team on the Minneapolis campus
• Brings life and color to a space that’s used regularly by employees
• Sparked positivity and conversation as it was being created — staff members saw the artist working on it daily

Illustrating the importance of employee dedication and honoring the Minnesota Veterans MDVA serves, MDVA Commissioner Brad Lindsay, Deputy Commissioner Eric Meittunen and Minneapolis Campus Administrator Doug Britain attended the unveiling with several employees, Berry and Berry’s family.

Finding the right fit to celebrate Minnesota Veterans Homes - Minneapolis

Berry was selected for the mural project because of a history of using art to tell stories and bring communities together. Berry’s unique style uses symmetry, movement, color and light to shift perspectives and create a shared understanding.

Already somewhat familiar with MDVA, since his grandfather was a Resident at Minnesota Veterans Homes, Berry collaborated with the staff at the Minneapolis Veterans Home to ask questions and gain understanding. Then, Berry featured the concepts from the collaborative conversations in the mural. To best reflect who the MDVA team is and the care it provides, words like “honor,” “team,” “passion,” “purpose,” “uplift” and “give back” are nestled among the colorful imagery of the mural.

Wellbeing at work takes many forms

In addition to the new mural, ongoing workplace wellness efforts at the Minneapolis campus include:

• Prayer and meditation rooms
• Educational presentations on topics like emotional intelligence, self-care at work and containing workplace conflict
• Partnership with MDVA’s Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility

“Through a collaborative staff effort in the design process, we were able to truly achieve a final mural that reflects the diversity and mission of the Minneapolis Veterans Home,” noted Sarikah Pannirselvam, the Home’s Assistant Finance Director and an advocate for the project. “I'm more than happy with what we've accomplished here!”

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