Meet Lara Vajas, MS, MBA
Say hi to Lara Vajas, the Manager of Medical Fitness at the Valley Hospital’s Center for Health and Wellness in Mahwah, NJ. She has worked at Valley Hospital for the past 11 years and has been in her current position since the Center for Health and Wellness opened three years ago.
Lara received both her BS and MS in Exercise Physiology and an MBA in Business Management. She is also the 2020 recipient of the Northeast Region’s Rising Star award (Rock on, Lara!!).
We caught up with Lara recently and here’s what she had to say.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
I am lucky to have staff and fellow leaders that I truly enjoy coming to work and seeing each day. I have a passion for healthcare and fitness so I am lucky to live and breathe this passion every day!
What has been your favorite/most successful initiative at your fitness/wellness center?
I have celebrated many successes with my manger and management team over the last few years. Our medical fitness center is celebrating its 3rd anniversary this month and I feel very fortunate to have been able to work on the planning and opening of the facility prior to our grand opening. It was a once in a lifetime, career building experience!
What led you to choose this field?
I was a three sport athlete in high school and received 12 Varsity letters. The love of sports and working out along with taking a college level Anatomy and Physiology course my Junior year of high school led me to pursue a degree in Exercise Physiology.
What one do you like to do outside of work?
I love to cook, workout, travel, and spend time with family and friends.
Are you involved in any charity/community work?
I have been a member and involved with the Valley Hospital Auxiliary, which raises money for our hospital initiatives and programs. Last year here at the Wellness Center, we held a successful toy drive that resulted in many families in tough situations to bring home Christmas gifts to their children. I have also been involved and have supported the MS Society for many years.
Thank you, Lara, for all you do!