Student Outbreak Response Team (SORT)

The Student Outbreak Response Team (SORT), launched in 2024, is comprised of a dynamic and dedicated group of students committed to enhancing public health preparedness and response within the university and the broader community. Members of SORT are provided hands-on experiences in outbreak investigation, emergency response to public health threats, public health education, and networking, empowering students to become future leaders in public health.

Mission: To equip students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary to effectively respond to public health emergencies and outbreaks, thereby contributing to the safety and well-being of our community.

Training & Education

Comprehensive training in outbreak investigation, field epidemiology, and emergency response. Conduct workshops and exercises to enhance practical skills.

Community Engagement

& Networking

Collaborate with local health departments, hospitals, and community organizations to support public health initiatives. Engage with subject matter experts, learn about best practices & lessons learned from practitioners, build your network and meet others interested in similar work, and build relationships across public health preparedness.

Real-World Experience

Offer opportunities for students to engage in real-world outbreak investigations and emergency response activities as needed. Facilitate internships and volunteer positions with public health agencies and organizations.

Research & Innovation

Encourage student-led research projects focused on infectious diseases, outbreak response, and public health preparedness. Promote the development of innovative solutions to public health challenges.

Membership

SORT is open to all students with an interest in public health, emergency management, and outbreak response. Members come from diverse academic backgrounds, including public health, medicine, nursing, biology, and social sciences, fostering a multidisciplinary approach to public health challenges.

If you are passionate about public health and eager to make a difference, we hope to have you join the Student Outbreak Response Team (SORT)! Gain valuable experience, develop essential skills, and contribute to the health and safety of our community.

Requirements of a SORT Member:

1. FEMA Trainings. FEMA course numbers 100 and 700 are required in order to apply to become a SORT member. After being accepted into the organization, members are also required to complete FEMA course numbers 200 and 800.

IS-100: Introduction to the Incident Command System (ICS)

IS-200: Basic Incident Command System for Initial Response

IS-700: An Introduction to the National Incident Management System

IS-800: Introduction to the National Response Framework

2. General Attendance Requirements. Monthly general board meetings (GBMs) are REQUIRED.

You are allowed no more than one (1) unexcused absence per semester. You will attend at least two (2) activities or training sessions (virtual or in-person) per semester in addition to the monthly meetings. Note. We will work with all students upon communication of any illness or inability to complete these requirements.

3. Yearly Course Requirements. Enrollment and successful completion of select public health course that exemplifies the values, spirit, and mission of SORT each academic year is required as a member. Visit the following database for a list of possible courses, and note that additional courses can be petitioned to count for this requirement by emailing usfcert@gmail.com.

For more information about next steps in joining, complete the following interest form.