PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

Meet John McGirl, Chief People & Synergies Officer at Starboard Cruise Services, where he oversees global employee experience and synergistic initiatives that advance the organization. One particularly meaningful employee initiative that John has implemented is our very own VITAL SIGNS program for parents and caregivers. Let’s learn why.

Why Starboard Is Engaging Employees Through VITAL SIGNS

John McGirl – At Starboard, we believe our responsibility to our people extends beyond the workplace. It includes supporting the well-being of our employees, their families, and the communities they call home. That is why we have chosen to engage our employees in Victoria’s Voice’s VITAL SIGNS program, a powerful drug awareness and prevention initiative designed specifically for parents and caregivers.

For me as a leader, the program has been both personal and transformational. Having experienced the devastating impact of addiction first-hand, I understand how quickly lives can be changed by substance misuse. VITAL SIGNS has reinforced for me the importance of proactive conversations, education, and awareness. It has strengthened my commitment to creating an environment where employees feel supported not only as professionals, but as parents, caregivers, and family members.

The impact across our workforce has been equally meaningful. Employees have gained valuable tools to recognize warning signs, start difficult conversations, and better protect their families. The program has fostered greater empathy, connection, and openness among our teams while helping reduce the stigma often associated with addiction and mental health challenges.

By investing in prevention and awareness, we know that Starboard is helping empower employees with knowledge that can save lives. Through Victoria’s Voice and the VITAL SIGNS program, we are strengthening our culture of care, supporting families, and contributing to a broader movement dedicated to ending the opioid epidemic and protecting future generations.