The COVID-19 pandemic is a global health crisis that is challenging nations and communities across the globe. One of the things that public health practitioners do so well is support each other, especially the most vulnerable of us, during difficult times. As we continue to navigate this pandemic using the guidance and protocols shared by the World Health Organization (WHO), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and others, the safety and well‑being of our STAR Fellows, Interns and program staff remains our top priority.

STAR’s host organization, Public Health Institute (PHI), is taking steps to help stop the spread of the Coronavirus pandemic while continuing to serve our STAR community with as minimal disruption as possible. Effective Friday, March 20, STAR is:

• Encouraging all Fellows, Interns and program staff to work remotely. PHI’s offices in Washington, DC, and Oakland and Sacramento, California are closed. Participants sitting in USAID Missions or with implementing partners, including staff employed by Elements, are working from home as possible, or are asked to practice social distancing to the extent possible in an office environment, in order to limit potential exposure to COVID-19.

• Continuing to recruit for critical Fellowship and Internship positions. Pandemics require technical expertise, like those of our participants, to assist containment. During these transitional times, STAR recruitment interviews are being held virtually, with some positions being delayed to accommodate USAID personnel availability. As this situation develops, STAR will continue to re-assess our processes and contact applicants as needed. Should you have questions, please contact us at recruitment@ghstar.org. And, check out our job board for open Fellowships and Internships.

We are living in extraordinary times, and we are confident in our community’s ability to adapt to these temporary changes seamlessly as we continue to deliver the level of service and support our valued STAR participants and staff deserve. We will continue to take proactive, educated actions with the needs, health and safety of our team and their families at the forefront of every decision we make. Be well.

Learn more about the Public Health Institute’s response to COVID-19.