Call for Volunteers to Serve as Judges in 2026 DMV Regional Science Fairs

The District of Columbia (D.C.) Branch of the Commissioned Officers Association (COA) needs PHS officers from all categories to serve as Science Fair Judges for middle and high schools located in Maryland and Virginia. This activity involves judging science projects in various categories that focus on promoting healthy lifestyles and addressing issues relevant to public health. A total of 9 science fairs will be held from February through April and mostly require in-person participation.

This is a great opportunity to meet some of the brightest students in the D.C. metropolitan area and encourage the scientists, healthcare providers, and engineers of tomorrow. Please consider supporting and encouraging our local middle and high school youth by serving as a Science Fair Judge!

• Registration: Click here to sign up as a Judge or visit the link at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd5uvHf21dNiy8IvFNsPMCFjVWNX-TFD9PbHIjWClNlpbOpRg/viewform?usp=publish-editor.

  • If you are unable to access the form using your work laptop, consider disconnecting the VPN to access it or use your personal device.

  • Upon registration, a copy of your response will be emailed to the email address you provided.

  • For questions regarding the registration process, please contact CDR Pariban Dhanormchitphong at Pariban.Dhanormchitphong@fda.hhs.gov.

• Uniform of the Day: Service Dress Blue

• Officers will receive detailed instructions from the Lead Judge approximately 3-5 days prior to the science fair.

  • Please remember to mark your calendar after registering since the event is ~1-2 months away. 

For general questions related to science fairs, please contact the Science Fair Planning Subcommittee Lead CDR Pariban Dhanormchitphong at pariban.dhanormchitphong@fda.hhs.gov.

Please note that current DC COA and COA membership (i.e., dues are paid) is required for all DC COA leadership and volunteers IN ORDER TO BE RECOGNIZED (e.g., Certificate of Appreciation) for their participation in a leadership role or as a volunteer for a DC COA-sponsored activity. Officers may choose to participate in a leadership role on a committee or subcommittee, or volunteer for an activity, without being a current member, however, they will not be officially recognized by DC CO/COA for their participation.