PACU Day's Special Guest Highlights the Science of Play and Purpose in Life

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C., Feb. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- At Piedmont Advantage Credit Union's annual PACU Day event, held each year on President's Day, credit union employees gather for a day dedicated to professional growth and hearing directly from leadership on the state of the credit union.

A highlight of the day was a presentation from a special guest, Dr. Meredith Adams, MD, MS, FASA, FAMIA, a distinguished scientist whose research spans chronic pain and opioid use disorder, data visualization and infrastructure support, artificial intelligence tool development, neuroscience and public health. While her work is rooted in data and innovation, she took a different approach to this occasion, focusing on the science-backed importance of play, joy and purpose in our lives.

Dr. Adams is an Associate Professor of Anesthesiology, Artificial Intelligence, Translational Neuroscience and Public Health Sciences at Wake Forest School of Medicine in Winston-Salem, N.C. 

Dr. Adams captivated PACU employees by exploring how play is not just a pastime but an essential part of mental resilience, cognitive flexibility and overall well-being. She challenged the notion that play is only for children, explaining that the opposite of play is not work but depression. Through research-based insights, she underscored how making time for meaningful activities can enhance problem-solving skills, increase empathy and reduce stress, qualities that are invaluable in both personal and professional settings.

"Our ability to be present, to support others and to navigate challenges is deeply tied to how well we recharge," Dr. Adams shared. "Play deficit is like sleep deficit. If we don't prioritize it, we lose our energy, creativity and resilience."

She introduced the idea of play personality types, encouraging employees to identify what brings them joy, whether it's movement, creativity, competition or relaxation. She also highlighted the importance of setting boundaries to limit time spent on activities that drain energy without adding value.

As a credit union that prioritizes people over profits, Dr. Adams' message reaffirmed the organization's desire to advance a culture of belonging. Employees were reminded that belonging extends beyond the workplace. It starts with self-care, making space for joy and supporting one another in meaningful ways.

PACU President & CEO Dion Williams reflected on the keynote: "Dr. Adams' insights align perfectly with our mission. We don't just serve our members; we build relationships that empower our team and community. Prioritizing play and purpose isn't just good for individual well-being. It strengthens our entire culture."

"This year's PACU Day was more than an opportunity for professional development; it was a powerful reminder that success and fulfillment go hand in hand when we make time for joy," Williams added.

About Piedmont Advantage Credit Union
Headquartered in Winston-Salem, N.C., and founded in 1949 to meet the financial needs of Piedmont Aviation and Piedmont Airline employees, Piedmont Advantage Credit Union has grown to serve member-owners, who reside, work, worship, attend school or operate a business in one of the six counties it serves in North Carolina or who are employed by one of its many employer companies. These six counties are Davie, Forsyth, Guilford, Iredell, Mecklenburg and Rockingham. A not-for-profit, cooperative financial institution, Piedmont Advantage still has a strong presence in aviation with its six branches throughout the service region.

SOURCE Piedmont Advantage Credit Union