UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — As Penn State moves toward a safe reopening this fall, Student Affairs has announced a newly created peer health initiative designed to provide students at University Park with guidance on healthy behaviors and social norms related to COVID-19.

The Public Health Ambassador Program will identify and train paid student employees to safely and strategically engage in dialogue with their peers about the importance of mask-wearing, physical distancing and proper cough/hand hygiene, and to address questions and expectations surrounding health and safety guidelines at the University.  

The program will be administered by Health Promotion and Wellness, in collaboration with a number of additional Student Affairs units. 

"A successful return to in-person experiences requires every member of the University community to understand and abide by the basic public health expectations the virus necessitates," said Damon Sims, vice president for Student Affairs. "The Public Health Ambassadors will encourage other students, as well as faculty, staff and visitors, to do the right thing by reminding us what's required, answering our questions, and providing the resources necessary to encourage community well-being and safety. I am grateful to these students for their significant contribution to a successful return for all of us."

Applications for Public Health Ambassadors are currently being accepted. Ambassadors will be expected to work a minimum of 10 hours each week and will be compensated based on previous training and/or experience beginning at $9.50 per hour. Positions are not limited to health science majors or students who have previously been employed at the University; all undergraduate, graduate and professional students are encouraged to apply.

Initial interviews will be conducted via Zoom during the week of Aug. 17. Selected candidates will undergo individualized training and be provided with all materials necessary to successfully engage with peers.

Interested students should visit Penn State Workday to apply. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis, however, students are strongly encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

Further information about the Public Health Ambassador Program and health ambassador positions can be found by visiting studentaffairs.psu.edu/return/ambassador.  Specific questions related to hiring can be directed to promotinghealth@psu.edu.