Title: Georgetown Leaders Thank Staff Members Who Redeployed During COVID-19 Pandemic

“We simply could not be more grateful for all that you have made possible for our Georgetown community,” DeGioia said.

Redeploy Georgetown was the University’s solution to avoiding the COVID-related layoffs, mandatory furloughs or salary reductions that many universities have utilized. The temporary program supported health and safety efforts on campus while keeping Georgetown’s workforce employed. Participants continued receiving their full salary and benefits, in addition to receiving free meals, free parking, personal protective equipment and twice-weekly COVID tests. 

During the May 25 virtual thank-you event that marked the end of the program, DeGioia described that more than 200 members of the staff filled important positions as care navigators, public health ambassadors and public health screeners. 

‘Deep Care and Compassion’

“Each of you took on new roles and new responsibilities to support the establishment of our public health framework,” DeGioia said.

He noted that during 2021 ambassadors provided 5,500 reminders regarding wearing masks and maintaining physical distance. Over 80,000 screenings were completed by screeners at building entrances. More than 4,500 visitors were greeted by the check-in team. Further, care navigators supported 6,000 community members with contact tracing, isolation and quarantine.

“Each of these responsibilities required deep care and compassion, a commitment to service, a sense of teamwork and collaboration,” DeGioia said. “Through all of this, you shared your dedication to this community.”