Human Resources

Advancement

Take Your Junior Patriot to Work Day

Take Your Junior Patriot to Work Day was action-packed and kid-approved

lclarkg — Thu, 07 May 2026 13:43:32 +0000

Take Your Junior Patriot to Work Day was action-packed and kid-approved lclarkg Thu, 05/07/2026 - 09:43

Take Your Junior Patriot to Work Day is an annual tradition at 91��. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

91�� welcomed 262 “Junior Patriots” and their families for Take Your Junior Patriot to Work Day at the Fairfax and Mason Square campuses on April 23. The day kicked off with music and dancing by the Green Machine, a visit from the Patriot mascot, and the Junior Patriot Palooza on Merten Lawn, hosted by Human Resources.

The Touch a Truck event is always a hit. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

With 45 hands-on activities, junior Patriots visited campus departments and offices to explore robotics, emergency preparedness, and video game design, watched K-9 and drone demonstrations from George Mason Police, and took a behind-the-scenes tour of the Center for the Arts.

Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Active events included blending smoothies on Mason Dining’s blender bike, and climbing aboard fire, police, and SWAT vehicles at the popular Touch a Truck event.

Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Creativity and play took center stage with crafts, pickleball, story time with University Libraries, scavenger hunts, mock courtroom visits, dance classes, lawn games, and more—offering a dynamic mix of learning, movement, and fun.

Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Thank you to the campus partners whose creativity and commitment made the day such a success.

Take Your Junior Patriot to Work Day will return on Thursday, April 22, 2027. Interested in hosting an activity? Contact engagehr@gmu.edu.

Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Storytime on the plaza at Mason Square. Photo provided

George Mason Police shared a drone demonstration at Mason Square. Photo provided

Moot Court at Mason Square. Photo provided

More about Take Your Junior Patriot to Work Day

Topics

Mason Square

Police and Public Safety

Caitlin Horan is May Employee of the Month

ckearney — Fri, 01 May 2026 14:13:15 +0000

Caitlin Horan is May Employee of the Month ckearney Fri, 05/01/2026 - 10:13

Caitlin Horan, assistant dean of graduate academic services in 91��’s Costello College of Business, has transformed the graduate services team. Referred to as the “heart” of the Costello graduate team, Horan is known for her innovation, student advocacy, and strong organization skills. She’s also a founding member of her department’s party planning team and has created team-building events such as chili cook-offs and trips to see the cherry blossoms. For all of this and more, she is being recognized as the May Employee of the Month.

May Employee of the Month Caitlin Horan with President Gregory Washington. Photo by David Loughner/Office of University Branding

“Not only has Caitlin leveraged her strong interest in technology, efficiency, and providing quality service to students to improve the functioning of the graduate teams, she has also sought opportunities to lend her voice, time, and effort to university-level initiatives to implement new and better systems,” said Paige Wolf, associate dean of Costello graduate programs.

Graduate program manager Lauren Flynn said Horan is truly exemplary as both an employee and a colleague. “I don’t believe I have ever worked with anyone more thoughtful in her work and generous with her time, and I can think of no one more deserving.”

Saul Garcia, assistant director of MS in Management Program, emphasized Horan’s ability to recall and organize entire Costello schedules and programs with ease, which has been vital for their department. “She is the glue that holds our unit together,” he said.

May Abou Ghazaleh, assistant director of the Master’s in Real Estate Development Program, said, “Caitlin’s expertise, organization, and commitment has transformed the efficiency and accessibility of program operations, directly contributing to the success of faculty, staff, and students.”

“As a leader, Caitlin is not only dedicated to the success of our programs but also deeply empathetic to the needs of her staff. She consistently goes above and beyond to support her team, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to excel,” said Vanessa H. DeShane, director of specialized master’s programs at Costello.

“One of the things that truly stands out about Caitlin is her wealth of knowledge,” said Shabnam Rezai, assistant director of MSF and MSBA Programs. “She’s our go-to person for advice and guidance.”

How did you come to George Mason:

After completing a master’s degree in educational administration and policy at the University of Georgia, I was looking to move to the DMV—a term I only associated with the Department of Motor Vehicles before moving here! I completed my undergraduate degree at the College of William and Mary, so I had a number of college friends who lived in the area, and I was looking for a change. I applied to many schools in D.C. and Northern Virginia, but George Mason’s commitment to access and inclusion resonated with me the most.

Best day on the job:

I have had the opportunity to join groups of students on their short-term study-abroad programs in Chile, Dubai, Estonia, and South Africa. These experiences have been incredibly rewarding, both personally and professionally. Watching the students learn about doing business in a foreign country firsthand while applying what they have learned in the classroom is such a cool experience!

What do you like best about working at Mason:

My answer is twofold: First, I love my colleagues! They are some of the hardest working, innovative, and passionate people I know. Second, I also love working with our students. Graduate students are such an interesting group because of the diversity of perspectives that they bring to the table. Our students range in age from 21 to 60+, so there’s always something to learn from them. I also absolutely love it when I hear them talk about how they have been able to apply what they learned in the classroom to their jobs, or how they have leveraged the network they gain by joining the program to find a new job.

What do you like to do when you’re not working:

I enjoy traveling, hiking, reading, playing ultimate frisbee, and spending time with friends and family.

Topics

Costello College of Business

George Mason Retirees: Sept. 2025 to March 2026

lclarkg — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 14:08:17 +0000

George Mason Retirees: Sept. 2025 to March 2026 lclarkg Thu, 04/23/2026 - 10:08

Congratulations to the 91�� faculty and staff retirees from September 2025 to March 2026. The list below includes retirees, the department from which they retired, and years of service.

We hope you will come back to visit sometimes. Once a Patriot, always a Patriot!

Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

September 2025

James Gentry, Facilities and Campus Operations, 23 years, 6 months

Thomas Huff, College of Science, 29 years, 4 months

Patrick Kolbe, Center for Earth Observing and Spatial Research, 27 years, 11 months

Barbara (Bobbie) Merritt, Human Resources, 19 years, 5 months

Luz Sta Catalina, Student Accounts, 20 years, 3 months

Balendran Velauthapillai, Center for Earth Observing and Spatial Research, 23 years, 11 months

October 2025

Seunghun Ok, Kellar Institute for Human disAbilities, 21 years, 4 months

Linda Santos, Center for Evidence-Based Crime Policy, 7 years, 7 months

November 2025

Henry Feil, Facilities and Campus Operations, 35 years, 4 months

Jill Parady, Human Resources, 10 years, 5 months

Maria Valdez, Community Business Partnerships, 5 years, 1 month

January 2026

Deb Dickenson, Executive Vice President for Finance and Administration, 6 years, 4 months

Teresa Gibbons, Information Technology Services, 20 years

Charles Lemley, Antonin Scalia Law School, 3 years, 2 months

February 2026

James Burroughs, Public Policy and Public Administration, 26 years

James Chaney, Facilities and Campus Operations, 21 years, 9 months

Stephen Christophe, Costello College of Business, 27 years, 5 months

Michael Davis, Antonin Scalia Law School, 10 years, 5 months

Yvette Del Gallo, Facilities and Campus Operations, 12 years, 1 month

Edward Dittmeier, Office of University Audit, 10 years, 6 months

Carolyn Drews-Botsch, Global and Community Health, 5 years, 5 months

Karl Fryxell, School of Systems Biology, 28 years, 4 months

Donna Fulton, School of Kinesiology, 14 years, 6 months

Saiid Ganjalizadeh, Information Systems and Operations Management, 5 years, 4 months

David Ganley, University Police, 24 years, 4 months

Jonathan Goldman, College of Engineering and Computing, 24 years, 2 months

Carrie Grabo, History and Art History, 17 years, 2 months

R. Chris Jones, Environmental Science and Policy, 45 years, 4 months

James Lawrey, Biology, 48 years, 4 months

Michael Mauck, Information Technology Services, 30 years, 6 months

Christopher Nayeri, Information Technology Services, 33 years, 3 months

Murray James Pyle, Information Systems and Operations Management, 6 years, 5 months

David Rosenblum, Computer Science, 5 years, 6 months

Bernard Scheiner, Card Access Security Office, 8 years, 7 months

Harvey Singer, Information Systems and Operations Management, 28 years, 4 months

Gheorghe Tecuci, Computer Science, 35 years, 6 months

Patrice Winter, Global and Community Health, 18 years, 8 months

March 2026

Stacy Borzi, Facilities and Campus Operations, 24 years, 8 months

John Smilde, Office of University Advancement and Alumni Relations, 5 years, 2 months

Topics

Retirement

Watch a recording of the ceremony.

George Mason’s 2026 Outstanding Achievement Awards honor faculty and staff excellence

ckearney — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 20:35:33 +0000

George Mason’s 2026 Outstanding Achievement Awards honor faculty and staff excellence ckearney Thu, 04/16/2026 - 16:35

The 91�� campus community came together at the 2026 Outstanding Achievement Awards on April 14 to recognize faculty and staff whose dedication, innovation, and service shape and strengthen the university.

Sally Lorentson, assistant vice president of University Life, received the Margaret C. Howell Award. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

The Outstanding Achievement Awards serve as a powerful reminder to celebrate not only these accomplishments, but also the everyday contributions that continue to make George Mason an extraordinary place to learn, work, and grow. More than 30 individuals and two teams were recognized at the ceremony.

President Gregory Washington expressed his appreciation for George Mason employees, emphasizing the importance of community, collaboration, and the shared commitment to student success. “What happens here is about impact under constraint,” Washington said. “It’s about creativity when the easy answer is unavailable. It’s about commitment when the work would be simpler somewhere else. You stretch time, you stretch budgets, and most importantly, you stretch yourselves. And somehow what our students experience, is not scarcity, but possibility.”

From emerging leaders to longstanding changemakers, each honoree represents the university’s core values in action, demonstrating what it means to “Thrive Together.”

Recognizing Emerging Talent and Exemplary Service

The Rising Star Award was awarded to Ronae Jones, marketing and events coordinator for the College of Visual and Performing Arts. In her short time at George Mason, Jones has demonstrated exceptional creativity, collaboration, and professionalism.

The Civility Star Award was presented to Kyle Warfield, associate director of community engagement and retention, Office of Access, Compliance, and Community, for his leadership in fostering an inclusive and respectful campus culture.

Ryan Barnett, associate director of the Office of Military Services, received the Martha J. Reiner Quality Customer Service Award for his outstanding support of military-affiliated students and their families.

The Patriot Pathbreakers Award was presented to two teams: the Office of Access, Compliance, and Community, and the Mason Minds Matter team. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

Honoring Teaching, Leadership, and Innovation

Three faculty members were recognized with the Adjunct Faculty Service Award: AJ Thurston (Department of Psychology, College of Humanities and Social Sciences), Kristi Horton (College of Engineering and Computing), and Jerry Pierce (Costello College of Business), each celebrated for their dedication to teaching, mentorship, and student success.

Marci Kinas Jerome of the Kellar Institute for Human disAbilities received the David W. Rossell Quill Award for her decades of leadership and service in advancing student success and program excellence.

The Innovation Award was presented to Birgit Debeerst, director of University Life project and process management, whose data-driven approach and process improvements have significantly enhanced efficiency and the student experience within University Life.

Celebrating Alumni and Community Impact

George Mason’s special community of alumni employees was recognized through the Faculty and Staff Alumni Awards.

Cheryl Hairston, associate head athletic trainer in Intercollegiate Athletics, was honored for her unwavering commitment to student-athlete well-being.

Melissa Mandac, senior assistant director of graduate operations if the Office of Admissions, was recognized for her leadership, mentorship, and dedication to fostering inclusive environments.

The Margaret C. Howell Award was awarded to Sally Lorentson, assistant vice president of University Life, for her exceptional leadership in advancing student success and shaping impactful university initiatives.

Excellence Across Roles and Teams

President Washington with Wonki Hwangbo, associate director of human resources in Mason Korea, who joined the ceremony virtually from the Songdo campus, to receive the Campus Culture Champion Award. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

The ceremony highlighted the essential contributions of staff across the university.

Wage employees Elizabeth Macleod, Leading to Well-Being program coordinator, and Mykola Signayevskyy, data analyst, Office of International Programs and Services, were recognized for their excellence and dedication.

Four individuals received Exceptional Support Awards for being indispensable resources within their units: Michael Benedict, IT support specialist, University Life; Susan Engel, data integrity manager, Office of University Advancement and Alumni Relations; Terri Ann Guingab, instructional designer, College of Public Health; and Jancy Templeton, advisor, Special Education and Disability Research, College of Education and Human Development.

Kristine Neuber, IT accessibility coordinator in the Office of Access, Compliance, and Community, received the Excellence in Action Award for her longstanding commitment to accessibility and inclusion.

Crystal Hall Buckley, director of the Office of Graduate Admissions, was honored with the Mentorship Excellence Award for her impact on professional development and staff growth.

Wonki Hwangbo, associate director of human resources in Mason Korea, joining virtually from the Songdo campus, received the Campus Culture Champion Award for transforming workplace culture and strengthening community connections across campus.

Recognizing Legacy, Spirit, and Service

Maria Cruz of Housing and Residence Life received the Goldie and Diane Hattery Award for Excellence. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

The Goldie and Diane Hattery Award for Excellence was presented to Maria Cruz of Housing and Residence Life and Karen Soriano-Maginness of Facilities Custodial Services for their outstanding service and commitment to creating welcoming environments for students.

The George Mason Legacy Award recognized Nance Lucas, executive director and chief well-being officer at the Center for the Advancement of Well-Being, and Kim Eby, vice provost for faculty affairs and development, for their long-term transformative impact on the university.

The Nancy Murphy Mason Spirit Award celebrated Kristen Wright, director of the Office for Community Engagement and Civil Learning (CECIL), and Jason Hartsel, assistant director of marketing and communication, Student Media, for their enthusiasm, mentorship, and commitment to building community.

The Sustainability Hero Award was presented to Jonathan Elwell, director of Dining Services.

Melanie Knapp, assistant dean, library and technology, Scalia Law, received the Rick Holt Active Transportation Advocate Award for her dedication to promoting sustainable practices.

Kayla Turner, academic advisor, Child, Family and Community Engagement in CEHD, was recognized with the Jade Barricelli Spirit of Academic Advising Excellence Award for her commitment to student-centered advising.

Teamwork in Action

The Patriot Pathbreakers Award, which celebrates collaboration, was presented to two teams: the Office of Access, Compliance, and Community, and the Mason Minds Matter team. Both groups were recognized for their innovative cross-functional efforts to address complex challenges and support student well-being.

Ann Garner of University Career Services and Olga O’Brien of the Freedom Aquatic and Fitness Center were recognized with Outstanding Supervisor Awards for exemplary leadership and support of their teams.

Topics

Danielle Dufresne is April Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 13:59:51 +0000

Danielle Dufresne is April Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Wed, 04/01/2026 - 09:59

Clinical Assistant Professor Danielle Dufresne is the associate center director at 91��'s Center for Community Mental Health (CCMH). A member of George Mason’s Psychology Department since 2019, Dufresne is responsible for training new clinicians and overseeing every psychological/behavioral/cognitive assessment at the Fairfax-based center.

Colleagues have applauded Dufresne’s leadership, integrity, and commitment to supporting her trainees. She has made notable contributions that have improved the capabilities of the center and furthered the university’s dedication to innovation and supporting its students. For these reasons, Dufresene has been named April Employee of the Month.

Dufresene. Photo provided

In her nomination, CCMH director Robyn Mehlenbeck mentioned Dufresne’s accomplishments, including creating, in collaboration with the director of the university’s Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), a therapy-friendly approach to ADHD testing. “Dr. Dufresne is truly committed to helping each individual grow professionally, and her impact has been significant,” said Mehlenbeck. “She helps oversee our internship program and helps with procedures and policies necessary for a nonprofit community mental health center. We have a small but mighty staff, and I have personally been impressed by Dr. Dufresne’s consistent mentoring of our staff, as well as our trainees.”

Leah Adams, CCMH’s associate director of clinical training, said Dufresne has elevated the training experiences of all who train at the center. “Conducting high-quality comprehensive assessments is a time-intensive endeavor, and Danielle is with our trainees at each step of the way, providing close, supportive mentorship, and going above and beyond to meet them at their individual levels of need.”

Psychology professor Jerome Short, one of the CCMH faculty supervisors, spoke highly of Dufresne’s mentoring of doctoral students. “She has generously provided template models of psychological assessment reports, demonstrated administration of neuropsychological and achievement tests, and consulted with me as an instructor and supervisor to doctoral students about how to best assess their first clients in their first psychological assessment courses. This has allowed more people in the community with limited economic resources to receive reduced fee services and gain accommodations in their community colleges, universities, and workplaces.”

“Dr. Dufresne exemplifies the highest standards of ethical integrity, mentorship, and student- centered learning,” said doctoral student Sasha Hickham. “Her commitment to student success is unparalleled: Her unique approach emphasizes quality over quantity, a culture of collaboration across all academic levels, and forward-thinking innovation to meet the evolving mental health needs of our local community.”

President Washington congratulates April Employee of the Month Danielle Dufresne in an online ceremony. Photo provided

How did you come to Mason:

After being in private practice for several years, having previously worked with another psychologist and mentor or in large group and community practices, I found myself missing the collaboration and exchanges that come with working directly with colleagues. So, having already had an interest in moving to the area, but not quite ready to leave my practice and family, I began looking for a position in psychological assessment—my area of focus, that would allow me to collaborate with others more regularly. That lead me to George Mason and CCMH (Center for Psychological Services when I started). I met with Robyn Mehlenbeck and other faculty and knew quickly that this was my next step and was excited when the position was offered. I juggled traveling weekly and wearing multiple hats and have found so much growth and community here. 

Best day on the job:

I had to think about this one because the ongoing opportunity for growth also means frequently challenging yourself, so while there have been many great days, there have been many hard ones as well. Great days include those where you see a trainee feel successful and when you hear the feedback from students around their positive training experiences or have an opportunity to meaningfully support a trainee in their next steps or through a challenging experience. Engaging with colleagues around intentional and strategic growth has also been exciting because of the engagement of so many creative and dedicated people. I would say, however, one of the best days was actually during COVID closures. I had the opportunity—along with other key people including Robyn Mehlenbeck—to meet with [College of Humanities and Social Sciences] dean [Ann] Ardis to re-start psychological assessment services through a hybrid testing model ... Meeting with such important people, presenting on my ideas and speaking on my area of expertise, felt… like a benchmark in the culmination of my work and dedication to training. 

What do you like best about working at Mason:

The most valuable part about being part of George Mason and CCMH has been the community. The support, ability to collaborate and consult, and the opportunities not only for your own growth, but the ability to support others in their own, has been the most satisfying part of this time. Not every week is easy, but every week offers the chance to challenge yourself. 

What do you like to do when you’re not working:

I spend time with my loved ones. That may be a standing Sunday movie date—something about going to a theater is still so fun, going out for a bite to eat and catch up on the week, or we feed our competitive energy in video games. I don’t usually win, but we laugh a lot. 

Learn more about the Center for Community Mental Health

Topics

College of Humanities and Social Sciences

Center for Community Mental Health

University Day Service Awards honor faculty and staff service

lclarkg — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 17:48:38 +0000

University Day Service Awards honor faculty and staff service lclarkg Thu, 03/19/2026 - 13:48

91�� honored faculty and staff with significant service anniversaries at the University Day Service Awards ceremony on Monday on the Fairfax Campus.

Honorees were recognized for years of state service ranging from 5–55 years.

President Gregory Washington and Evan Cantwell, senior photographer in the Office of University Branding. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

President Gregory Washington thanked the honorees for their contributions to the university and its students’ success.

“Thank you for the work you do, the care you show our students, and the role you play in making the university one of the most important opportunity engines not just in the region, but in the country,” said Washington.

Robinson Professor James Trefil celebrated 55 years of service. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Robinson Professor James Trefil is the first George Mason faculty member to reach the milestone of 55 years of service. Trefil taught at the University of Virginia for more than a decade before joining George Mason’s then brand-new Robinson Professor Program in 1987. Learn more about Trefil and his contributions to the university.

40-year service awardees. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

The event served as a special catch‑up ceremony, recognizing employees who reached service milestones between July 1, 2025, and December 31, 2025. Staring this fall, George Mason will transition to a calendar-year service recognition timeline, meaning that employees will be celebrated in the same calendar year in which they reach their milestones.

Learn more about the ceremony and view the program for a complete list of honorees.

35-year service awardees. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

30-year service awardees. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

25-year service awardees. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

20-year service awardees. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

15-year service awardees. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

10-year service awardees. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

5-year service awardees. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

More about University Day Service Awards

Topics

University Day

Paul Bazzano is March Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 14:28:24 +0000

Paul Bazzano is March Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Mon, 03/02/2026 - 09:28

Paul Bazzano has worked for Mason Recreation for more than 30 years. He started as a student worker while pursuing his bachelor’s degree in communication at 91�� and is now assistant director of competitive sports and athletic training.

March Employee of the Month Paul Bazzano with President Gregory Washington. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Colleagues have applauded Bazzano for his outstanding leadership, innovation, and dedication to advancing Mason Recreation’s mission. He has made numerous contributions that have strengthened Mason Recreation’s programs, elevated its visibility across campus and beyond, and deepened the university’s commitment to inclusive and adaptive recreation. For these reasons, Bazzano was selected as the March Employee of the Month.

In their nominations, many of Bazzano’s colleagues talked about how he went above and beyond in coordinating two major university events that brought together campus and community partners in meaningful ways.

The first event was the National Beep Baseball All-Star Tournament, which brought more than 70 blind and visually impaired athletes, coaches, and volunteers from across the country to George Mason. In addition to the tournament, Bazzano organized a Learn-to-Play Clinic, giving about 25 visually impaired students and community members the opportunity to experience Beep Baseball for the first time.

“Paul has continued to elevate the profile of our department and the awareness of a wonderful adaptive sport,” said Sheldon Tate, executive director of Mason Recreation. “He has poured himself fully into the Beep Baseball movement and is quickly becoming the quintessential ally for individuals with disabilities. We are proud to follow his lead, and there are dozens of colleagues across campus who would absolutely agree that Paul is raising the bar.”

“Through his leadership, Paul has strengthened partnerships with organizations such as Game One, MindsEye, Lighthouse for the Blind, and the Metro Washington Association of Blind Athletes,” said Ethan Carter, associate director of programs, well-being, and assessment. “He also began discussions with the Junior Tennis Champions Center to host a wheelchair tennis event in Spring 2026, expanding George Mason’s reach and reputation in adaptive sports.”

In addition to forging new opportunities for differently abled athletes, Bazzano supports all the students who participate in Mason Recreation’s programs, said Jennifer Tolson, head athletic trainer at Mason Recreation

“Paul works day and night to help our club teams and intramurals succeed both on and off the field,” said Tolson. “He’s always finding ways to make things happen—even when it seems impossible. A great example of this is when our football team had an opponent forfeit. Paul immediately searched for another team to play, ensuring our athletes still got the experience they deserved. That’s who Paul is—he never gives up on our teams and always fights to give them the best opportunities possible.”

How did you come to Mason:

I started at George Mason in 1995 as an undergraduate student and never really left. I worked in athletics and recreation as a student, and after graduation I was offered the chance to continue doing work I loved. Mason has been home ever since.

Best day on the job:

It is hard to narrow it down to one day. March 2006 during the Final Four run stands out. I was responsible for supervising the student bus to Dayton, Ohio, for the first round, and what was supposed to be a quick trip turned into something much bigger. The pride on campus during that stretch is something I have never seen before and have not seen since.

What do you like best about working at Mason:

Watching students grow and move on to do great things. What means the most is when they come back and reconnect. Knowing you played even a small role in their experience stays with you.

What do you like to do when you’re not working:

I enjoy staying active. Whether it is playing a sport or just finding ways to stay healthy, that has always been an important part of my life. I have also taken up sports photography, which has been a fun creative outlet and another way to give back to our students.

Nominate a colleague for Employee of the Month

Topics

Mason Recreation

University Life

Shekila Melchior is February Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 18:11:47 +0000

Shekila Melchior is February Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Fri, 01/30/2026 - 13:11

For her efforts to ensure 91�� is an environment where all students can succeed, Shekila Melchior, director of strategic initiatives and partnerships in 91��’s Office of Access, Compliance and Community, has been named February Employee of the Month.

February Employee of the Month Shekila Melchior with President Washington. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

“Through strategic institutional-wide initiatives, program development, mentorship, and community-building efforts, Shekila has demonstrated unwavering leadership in promoting a welcoming environment for students, faculty, and staff across all George Mason campuses,” said Erikca Brown, associate director of professional development in the Office of Access, Compliance, and Community.

Colleagues in the Office of Access, Compliance, and Community applauded Melchior’s commitment to making sure all George Mason students have access to the resources, mentorship, and support they need to thrive. Her leadership in coordinating access, inclusion, and well-being initiatives directly supports student retention and success.

Among her many responsibilities, Melchior facilitates outreach and recruitment efforts to ensure that George Mason remains a welcoming institution for diverse student populations. She also provides one-on-one mentorship to students facing barriers in higher education, ensuring they feel heard, supported, and valued.

“Her efforts create a learning environment where all students feel empowered to succeed—truly embodying the philosophy that at George Mason, our students come first,” said Brown.

Melchior is also valued by her colleagues university-wide as a partner and collaborator as she supports academic and administrative units. She also provides consultation, resources, and best practices to faculty and staff on fostering inclusive classrooms, workplaces, and research environments.

She provided support on a National Science Foundation grant to prepare recent PhD graduates to be leaders in quantum education and workforce development research, and also serves on the university’s Mental Health and Well-Being Executive Committee, which promotes mental health support for the campus community.

“One of Shekila’s most impactful contributions is her ability to build bridges across departments, disciplines, and communities,” said Sharnnia Artis, vice president for access, compliance, and community.

Melchior cultivates this culture of collaboration by fostering cross-campus partnerships between Academic Affairs, Enrollment Management, University Life, Human Resources, and other key stakeholders.

Melchior plays an integral role in accountability, ensuring university compliance with federal and state nondiscrimination laws and that George Mason’s policies reflect this commitment. Her data-driven assessments to monitoring and improving the campus climate ensure that institutional efforts are transparent and impactful.

“Through her work, Shekila creates spaces where students, faculty, and staff feel valued, respected, and empowered, reinforcing the belief that our community thrives when we support one another,” said Artis.

How did you come to Mason:

I came to Mason in 2019 and joined the Counseling Program as an Assistant Professor. It was a return home for me as a Prince William County graduate.  

Best day on the job:

I have the privilege to merge my clinical experiences with the work I do now in the Office of Access, Compliance and Community. Thus, my best day is when we held a healing space for Junior Patriots Day. We normally hold these spaces for faculty, staff and students so it was a gift to see young people engage in well-being activities such as yoga, mindful coloring and destressing with Kinetic sand and fidget spinners. 

What do you like best about working at Mason:

My colleagues, it is a privilege to be seen and known. We take good care of each other and it has allowed me to flourish in my work. I am so grateful. 

What do you like to do when you’re not working:

I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I love to craft, listen to audiobooks and play games at Dave and Buster’s.

Topics

Office of Access Compliance and Community

Oscar Ferrufino is January Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 19:27:15 +0000

Oscar Ferrufino is January Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Tue, 12/16/2025 - 14:27

January Employee of the Month Oscar Ferrufino is a member of 91��’s Essential Employees group, so he is one of the first to respond when severe weather is forecasted. A heavy equipment operator in Facilities Management, he has been an integral part of the Facilities and Campus Operations department for almost 20 years. Since 2006, his work has helped make George Mason’s campuses a better place.

President Washington with January Employee of the Month Oscar Ferrufino. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

“Oscar can always be counted on to support our team, even if it is 2 a.m. with wind howling and snow flying. He is there and at the forefront without any complaints,” said Erich Miller, grounds program manager.

“Oscar demonstrates a level of stewardship, commitment, and service to the university who consistently goes above and beyond the call of duty,” said Amy Millman, executive assistant to the vice president in Facilities and Campus Operations.

“Oscar has a wealth of grounds knowledge and professionally completes any assigned task. It is a pleasure to work alongside him, no matter what type of task we’ve been assigned,” said Archie Nesbit, senior grounds supervisor.

Kevin Brim, waste and recycling supervisor, said, “Every day, Oscar goes above and beyond in service to our university. I have never heard Oscar say he doesn’t have time to help a colleague or coworker.”

How did you come to Mason:

I was looking to move back to the area after moving away for a few years. I had close to 20 years' experience in a university setting, so when I searched for openings, I was happy to see there were positions available at George Mason. I applied and traveled here for the interview and was hired from there.

Best day on the job:

Any day, but the best days are when I get to help colleagues in other shops that need assistance.

What do you like best about working at Mason:

Flexibility with my schedule. I was able to take time off when my kids were little.

What do you like to do when you’re not working:

I love fishing and biking.

Topics

Facilities