Faculty/Staff Announcements
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Campus Updates
Faculty and Staff Experience Survey Town Hall
Faculty and staff are invited to join Human Resources, President Washington, and Gallup Senior Partner Stephanie Marken for the Faculty and Staff Experience Survey Town Hall on Wednesday, Sept. 18, from 3–4 p.m. on the Fairfax Campus, Hub Ballroom. This is a chance to review the key findings of the Faculty and Staff Experience Survey and collaborate on the next steps to enhance the community at George Mason.
This event will also be available via livestream webinar to ensure everyone has the opportunity to participate. Those attending in-person will have an opportunity to ask questions live. Online questions will not be accepted through the webinar, but questions may be submitted electronically during the event to engageHR@gmu.edu.
October Staff Senate Meeting with President Gregory Washington
George Mason University President Gregory Washington will join the October Staff Senate meeting as guest speaker on Wednesday, Oct. 2, from 10 a.m. to noon. Constituents are invited to attend the meeting in-person on the Fairfax Campus in Merten Hall, Room 1201, or via Zoom.
Constituents may submit a comment or question by Monday, Sept. 23. Live questions will also be accepted during the meeting, time permitting. Get more details.
George Mason Rock the Block with Fairfax City
Join the annual George Mason Rock the Block at the City of Fairfax Old Town Square on Friday, Sept. 27. This event features live music, a beer garden, food vendors, George Mason giveaways, and more. The music starts at 6:30 p.m. George Mason Rock the Block is an annual community welcome event for students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Come dressed in your best George Mason gear. Learn more.
CCEE and LEAD Merging to Form the Center for Leadership and Intercultural Engagement
University Life announces the merger of two units—the Center for Culture, Equity, and Empowerment (CCEE) and the Leadership Education and Development Office (LEAD)—to form the new Center for Leadership and Intercultural Engagement. This merger will enhance the units' ability to serve the university community through programs and services that foster leadership development and intercultural humility.
During this transition, services will continue from the offices' current locations, and existing websites will be maintained as a new online presence is created. For questions, contact Tamara Thomas and Nick Lennon, directors, Center for Leadership and Intercultural Engagement.
Fall Career Fair
George Mason’s Fall Career Fair is coming up on Wednesday, Sept. 25, and Thursday, Sept. 26, on the Fairfax Campus in the Johnson Center. Students will have the chance to meet employers, get guidance from alums, and find part-time jobs, full-time opportunities, and internships.
More than 200 employers will attend the fair. For two days before the fair, University Career Services will host the annual Resume Clinic and “Prepare for the Fair” workshop. Please encourage students to attend both events to make their best impression at the Career Fair. Learn more.
MESA to Microsoft 365 Migration Completion
Information Technology Services (ITS) has completed migrating all MESA M: Drive mydata and shared drives to Microsoft 365 (M365). The MESA system will be fully decommissioned on Wednesday, Nov. 6. All original data on MESA is now read-only and will be removed during the decommissioning process.
To provide further support, ITS will continue to hold M365 training sessions through September. If you cannot attend, all training sessions are recorded and stored in the Collaboration Collective MS Team – MESA Migration Project channel. The channel will remain open past the project's close to serve as a forum for M365 collaboration with peers.
For more resources and project details, visit the MESA to M365 Roadmap. Contact the ITS Support Center with questions at support@gmu.edu or 703-993-8870
Peace Week and International Day at Mason Square
As part of Fall 2024 Peace Week, the Carter School presents the second annual International Day at Mason Square on Thursday, Sept. 26, from 3:30–5:30 p.m. Students, faculty, staff, and community members are invited to connect, share their voices, and learn about diverse cultures through live entertainment, food, crafts, and more. RSVP.
Peace Week, from Sept. 23–27, focuses on exploring the frontiers of innovation and pioneering solutions for conflict prevention and transformation. Through online and in-person seminars, workshops, and interactive sessions, participants will engage with strategies, practices, and policies to enhance innovation and entrepreneurship in peacebuilding efforts. View the full schedule. Contact Amber Williams with questions.
Study Abroad Fair
The Global Education Office will host the Fall 2024 Study Abroad Fair on Tuesday, Sept. 17, between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. on the Fairfax Campus, East Plaza. Please encourage your students to attend so they can learn more about global education, talk to faculty and partners, and enjoy light refreshments. Rain site is the Johnson Center, Dewberry Hall.
Annual Grad Fair
George Mason will host its annual Grad Fair on Wednesday, Sept. 18, from 4–6 p.m. in the Johnson Center on the Fairfax Campus. Current George Mason undergraduate students and anyone considering attending George Mason for a graduate degree or certificate are invited to explore the options at the Grad Fair.
Laurence Bray, senior associate provost for graduate education and leader of the Graduate Division, will be available to answer questions and discuss the power of George Mason’s research and educational opportunities. View the full list of colleges and schools attending the fair and RSVP.
New Traffic Pattern at Prince William Parkway and University Boulevard
New traffic patterns will go into effect in mid-September at the intersection of Prince William Parkway and University Boulevard near the Science and Technology Campus. To improve traffic operations and safety, left turns will no longer be permitted at this intersection. This will affect the way drivers enter and exit the SciTech Campus from these routes. Get more details about the changes.
Training and Professional Development
IT Security Awareness Training Deadline
The deadline for George Mason employees, including contractors, affiliates, and student wage workers, to complete their IT Security Awareness Training is Thursday, Oct. 31.
Information Technology Services (ITS) assigned the training to employees’ MasonLEAPS accounts. Those with specialized functions received mandatory role-based training.
This year, ITS is changing how it enforces compliance. Users must complete the training before their semi-annual password reset. If the training is not completed by then, users will be allowed to change their passwords and have 14 days to complete the training. Failure to comply will result in the user’s account being disabled. Additional information about how compliance will be enforced is available on the ITS website. Contact the ITS Support Center with questions at support@gmu.edu or 703-993-8870.
Safe Zone+ Program Updates
The primary mission of George Mason’s Safe Zone+ Program, like the LGBTQ+ Resources Center, is to create a safer, more welcoming and inclusive campus environment, to strengthen community, and to encourage networking among faculty, staff, and students toward the goal of supporting the well-being of LGBTQ people. Students, faculty, and staff are invited to sign up for a Safe Zone+ Program virtual session.
An asynchronous “Intro to LGBTQ+ Communities” module is now available on Canvas Commons, which allows faculty and other course administrators to reuse the module in their courses. Check out the module. Contact lgbtq@gmu.edu with questions.
Apply to be a Fenwick Fellow
The Fenwick Fellowship is awarded annually to a Mason faculty member to pursue a research project that uses and enhances the University Libraries' resources, while advancing knowledge in their field. Tenured, tenure-track, and term (multi-year appointment) faculty at George Mason are eligible to submit proposals. Project proposals that specifically align with the University Libraries’ ever-increasing activities in the area of digital scholarship (e.g., digital humanities, data-focused research, development of digital content and curation) are encouraged, and, as always, the selection committee will be especially interested in research projects that make substantial use of the libraries' resources and services.
The fellowship provides:
- One award of $5,000 to be used for the acquisition of library research materials that may be needed for the research project, as well as associated research costs
- Use of an office in Fenwick Library for the term of the fellowship (Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2025)
The application deadline is Friday, Oct. 4. The 2025 Fenwick Fellow will be announced at the end of the fall academic term. University Libraries will sponsor a public lecture by the fellow in the spring term following the completed fellowship. Get more details. Contact library@gmu.edu with questions.
Aspire: Inclusive Excellence Professional Development Opportunities
Understanding diversity, equity, and inclusion through embracing diverse perspectives and ensuring access to opportunity is crucial for creating an inclusive workplace for faculty and staff. George Mason employees can promote a sense of belonging in a learning environment that empowers learners to navigate cultural complexities, cultivate empathy, and develop the necessary skills to thrive in a diverse and interconnected global economy.
In support of Mason’s broader strategic goals and academic units’ Inclusive Excellence Plans, the Aspire learning and development opportunity offers multiple pathways for individuals and teams. Learn more. To schedule professional development for yourself or your team, contact Inclusive Excellence at masonIE@gmu.edu.
Manager Meetup: Supervising Gen Z
Join University Life for an interactive session to build the skills and strategies necessary to lead and inspire Gen Z, ensuring a productive and harmonious workplace for all generations. The session will be facilitated online by the University Life Supervision Collective on Thursday, Sept. 19, at 2 p.m.
The online session will provide tips, strategies, and a conversation space to share challenges and successes working with the youngest generation in the workforce. Learn more and RSVP.
Resources for You
George Mason Space Day
NASA astronaut Kjell Lindgren, who graduated from nearby Robinson High School, will headline George Mason Space Day on Saturday, Sept. 28, at the Fairfax Campus. Lindgren will be joined by aerospace engineer Oleg Goushcha from NASA Langley Research Center, who contributes to analyzing the Space Launch System for future Artemis missions.
This event is free and open to the public and includes hands-on activities, educational information, and more. Learn more and RSVP.
Trunk or Treat at George Mason
Contemporary Student Services has officially opened registration for volunteers to decorate trunks and compete for prizes at the third annual George Mason Trunk or Treat on Saturday, Oct. 26, from 4 to 6 p.m. Registration is open to university offices and student clubs and organizations. To register to decorate a trunk and give out candy, complete the form.
The George Mason Trunk or Treat is a free event for families in the George Mason and local communities. Last year's event was attended by more than 500 parents, caregivers, and children. Get more information and RSVP to attend.
Scalia-Ginsburg Colloquy to Explore Biden SCOTUS Legislation on Constitution Day
The Antonin Scalia Law School commemorates Constitution Day with its fifth Scalia-Ginsburg Colloquy exploring both sides of President Biden’s proposed major changes to the U.S. Supreme Court. The colloquy is titled, “Biden’s SCOTUS Proposal: Crucial Reform or Constitutional Crisis?” All three participants served on Biden’s Presidential Commission on the Supreme Court.
The Colloquy, which will be held online on Tuesday, Sept. 17, from 5:30–6:45 p.m., brings together two constitutional law scholars who will present both sides of this legislation. The event is free. Read more information and register.
The speakers for this program are Caroline Fredrickson, former president of the American Constitution Society and senior fellow at the Brennan Center for Justice, and Adam White, executive director of Scalia Law’s C. Boyden Gray Center for the Study of the Administrative State and resident scholar at the American Enterprise Institute. Tara Leigh Grove, the Vinson & Elkins Chair in Law at the University of Texas School of Law, will moderate.
Nanotechnology Day
Join Nanotechnology Day at the SciTech Campus on Monday, Oct. 14, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Katherine Johnson Hall. This family-friendly celebration invites students of all ages to explore the fascinating world of nanotechnology through hands-on activities, engaging demonstrations, and enlightening talks given by real researchers. Discover big ideas on a miniature scale and experience the wonders of this cutting-edge field. Bring your scientific curiosity and appetite for a variety of food trucks. This event is hosted by the Institute for Advanced Biomedical Research. Register.
Upcoming Performances and Arts Events at George Mason
An Evening with Lea Salonga
Saturday, Sept. 28, at 8:30 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Tony and Olivier Award-winning singer and actress Lea Salonga headlines the 2024 ARTS by George! benefit concert performing songs she has made famous throughout her extraordinary four-decade career on Broadway and in animated movie blockbusters. Born in the Philippines, Salonga originated the lead role of Kim in the West End and Broadway productions of Miss Saigon, and she was the first Asian cast member to perform the role of Eponine in Les Misérables on Broadway. Recognized by fans of all ages as the singing voice for two animated Disney princesses—Jasmine in Aladdin and Fa Mulan in Mulan—Salonga was named a “Disney Legend” by the Walt Disney Company in 2011.
Mason Wind Symphony and Symphonic Band Concert with The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own"
Tuesday, Oct. 1, at 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
The Mason Bands are joined by The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own," commanded by Colonel Bruce R. Pulver, in the Mason Wind Symphony and Symphonic Band's season opener. The Mason Bands are conducted by Director of Concert Bands William L. Lake Jr. This performance is free and open to the public.
Ballet Hispánico
Mason Artist-in-Residence
Saturday, Oct. 5. at 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Recognized as one of America’s cultural treasures, Ballet Hispánico celebrates the ever growing and multifaceted Hispanic diasporas through vibrant dance in this Hispanic Heritage Month performance. As a Mason Artist-in-Residence, the company will engage the community and Mason students through a variety of events, classes, and discussions during the week surrounding their performance.
Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra with Jeff Hamilton
Saturday, Oct. 5, at 8 p.m.
Science and Technology Campus, Hylton Performing Arts Center, Merchant Hall
Join world-renowned jazz drummer Jeff Hamilton and audience favorite, Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra, for an evening that places the musicality of the drum set front and center. Founder, artistic director, and virtuoso saxophonist Jim Carroll leads the Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra, comprising some of the area’s finest musicians, and is also joined by vocalist Darden Purcell, George Mason University’s director of jazz studies.
Encanto: The Sing-Along Film Concert
Sunday, Oct. 6, at 4 p.m.
Science and Technology Campus, Hylton Performing Arts Center, Merchant Hall
Disney Concerts and AMP Worldwide present Encanto: The Sing-Along Film Concert national tour. Encanto lovers of all ages can sing along with their favorite Grammy Award-winning songs performed by a live band while watching the full film. Encanto: The Sing-Along Film Concert will include all the music of the Academy Award-winning film, including iconic hits like “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” and “Surface Pressure.” Fans are encouraged to dress up as Mirabel, Luisa, Isabela, or any of their favorite characters from the film and to use their voices to transform the Hylton Center’s Merchant Hall into one big celebration of the Madrigal family.
Mason Symphony Orchestra Concert
Monday, Oct. 7, at 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Join the Reva and Sid Dewberry Family School of Music's Mason Symphony Orchestra for its opening concert of the 2024–25 season, conducted by Soo Han and Michael Stern.
Mason Choirs Concert
Tuesday, Oct. 8, at 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Join the Mason Choirs, led by Guest Conductor Thomas Colohan, in their annual fall concert featuring fun folk songs from Britain to Brazil, popular American favorites, and choral classics. The performance will include works by Lauridsen, Rheinberger, BIlly Joel, and others.
Erinys Quartet
Wednesday, Oct. 16, at 1:30 p.m.
SciTech Campus, Hylton Center, Jacquemin Family Foundation Rehearsal Hall
Though named after the Furies from Aeschylus’s The Oresteia, the Erinys Quartet aims to captivate with heavenly string music. Comprising violinists Elizabeth Stewart and Joosep Reimaa, violist Marja Räisänen, and cellist Stergios Theodoridis, the ensemble formed at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki. They are currently the quartet in residence in the Nina von Maltzahn String Quartet program at the Curtis Institute of Music. The ensemble will perform Bartók's String Quartet No. 3, Sz. 85 and Beethoven’s String Quartet No. 12, Op 127.
Manassas Ballet Theatre: Dracula
Oct. 18–20, multiple performances
SciTech Campus, Hylton Performing Arts Center, Merchant Hall
The classic vampire tale Dracula opens Manassas Ballet Theatre’s season with this chilling and bloodcurdling production. Be transported to Transylvania with Dracula’s quest for eternal life and love leading the way. The original score by Kim Reynolds is performed by The Kim Reynolds Band and will draw you into this chilling and sensual performance.
Mark Morris Dance Group and Music Ensemble
Saturday, Oct. 19, at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Over the years, choreographer Mark Morris has created more than 150 dance works that have earned him the title of “the most successful and influential choreographer alive, and indisputably the most musical” (New York Times). This program features audience favorites and rare gems, including Pacific (1995), “a beautiful, contemplative piece;” (Dancetabs), set to music of Lou Harrison; Going Away Party (1990), which Critical Dance dubbed "thoroughly enjoyable, a little risqué and laugh-out-loud funny at times;” Rock of Ages (2004), set to music by Franz Schubert; and Castor and Pollux (1980).
American Roots Series: Balsam Range
Saturday, Oct. 19, at 5 p.m. and 8 p.m.
SciTech Campus, Hylton Center, Gregory Family Theater
The 2018 International Bluegrass Music Association’s Entertainer of the Year, Balsam Range makes its Hylton Center debut in an evening of mountain music. Named for the place where the Great Smokies meet the Blue Ridge Mountains, Balsam Range has vaulted itself to one of the bluegrass genre's most award-winning acts.
Family Series: Laurie Berkner Band
Sunday, Oct. 20, at 3 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Welcome "the undisputed queen of kindie rock" (USA Today), Laurie Berkner and her band, in a concert event for the whole family. One of the most popular children’s entertainers in the United States, Berkner’s music shines a light on what it means to be a kid, and the kids can’t get enough of her folk-pop melodies made especially for them. Recommended for ages 2–8.
Villalobos Brothers
Hylton Artist-in-Residence
Saturday, Oct. 26, at 8 p.m.
SciTech Campus, Hylton Center, Merchant Hall
Celebrate Día de los Muertos early with Hylton Center Artist-in-Residence and the Grammy Award-winning Villalobos Brothers, who are redefining contemporary Mexican music while delivering positive messages of brotherhood, equity, and love. This lively trio of virtuoso fiddlers, singers, and songwriters blends Mexican folk music with Latin, jazz, rock, and classical, creating a fun-loving and cheerfully expressive sound that has delighted audiences across the U.S. and around the world.