Paul Nooney has been a vital part of George Mason University’s Schar School of Policy and Government since September 2018. As the director of student services at the school, he is being recognized as December Employee of the Month for his leadership, dedication, versatility, and being the “embodiment of the core values of Mason.” Fifteen letters of support for his nomination illustrated his impact on student success.
“Nooney's concern for the students for whom he is responsible is noteworthy,” wrote Distinguished Visiting Professor Richard Kauzlarich.
“Paul is central to the Schar School's signature advising and professional student services and has long served as a caring and creative administrator, attentive to students and relied upon by faculty, fellow staff, and students alike,” said Bonnie Stabile, Schar School’s associate dean for student and academic affairs.
“No matter how full his day is with other commitments, he drops what he is doing to help,” said Jill V. Deering, senior assistant dean of student and academic affairs.
Several of his colleagues also commended Nooney for efforts to promote community during the COVID-19 lockdown.
“From baking class to trivia night to piano concerts, Paul found a way for Schar School members to feel like a community, even when stuck in their homes,” said Beth Olchowski, senior assistant dean for strategy.
Justin Gest, professor and director of the Master of Public Policy Program, recalls Nooney produced a video series called “Power Lunch” to sustain togetherness and thriving.
Nooney also stepped up to fill a void. “When the Schar School lost their graduate admissions team for a period during the pandemic, Paul was asked to step in and manage the prospective student recruiting events during that period,” said Duane D. Bradshaw, director of career development.
Nooney also researched and learned all he could about online learning so he was able to provide support to Schar School faculty and staff members during the pandemic, said Silva Pecini Morris, assistant dean for graduate student services.
How did you come to Mason:
Prior to working in higher education, I worked as a high school science teacher in upstate New York. I decided to go back to school and get my master’s in higher education administration and spent five years working in the first-year experience office at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute before making the move to the DC area and coming to work for Mason.
Best day on the job:
The first day back in the office after COVID. As an extrovert, I get my energy from other people and being back in person and interacting with co-workers face-to-face was the best feeling.
What do you like best about working at Mason:
The people. Especially out here on the Mason Square campus, everyone knows each other and helps each other out. Even though we’re a part of the largest university in Virginia, Mason Square has a small campus feel and it makes working here a lot of fun.
What do you like to do when you’re not working:
I’m a singer—a tenor with the Choral Arts Society of Washington at the Kennedy Center and in a smaller group here in Arlington. It’s the best hobby!