Faculty/Staff Announcements
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Campus Updates
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. 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.
Glass Recycling on Campus
Mason Facilities and Campus Operations has updated the recycling locations on campus for glass bottles and jars. The purple glass bottle and recycling trailers will be located in Fairfax near Southside Dining Hall, Lot R, Rogers Hall, and the student townhouses. The locations will rotate on a biweekly basis. View the flyer for dates and locations.
To prevent recycling contamination, only bring glass bottles and jars to the purple trailers. If not recycled in the purple trailers, glass or similar materials (e.g, ceramics) should be disposed of in campus trash bins. For questions, contact Facilities Customer Service at 703-993-2525.
Updates from University Libraries
Reduce student textbook costs
The University Libraries actively collect online resources suitable for use as course materials across the curriculum. In addition to e-books and journal articles, they have online case studies, streaming video, datasets, and more. Students can access online resources on- and off-campus, at no cost, by using their university login credentials when prompted. Learn more.
AI Salon Series
The AI Salon Series brings community members together to discuss current events and intersectional topics surrounding artificial intelligence. In the style of scientific salons, a Mason Librarian will provide a brief presentation on a specific topic related to AI. Following the presentation, the floor will open for a lively discussion. In-person salons will be held in the Fenwick Library Main Reading Room (Level 2) on Fairfax Campus. Online salons will be held on Zoom. View the schedule, topics, and register.
View the full list of updates in the latest University Libraries newsletter.
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.
Open Call for Professional Head Shots at SciTech Campus
Creative Services will host free open call photo sessions for faculty and staff who need professional head shots at the Science and Technology Campus. Sessions will be hosted on the SciTech Campus on Thursday, Sept. 26, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Katherine Johnson Hall atrium. Sign up for a time slot.
Sittings should take less than 15 minutes. Attendees will receive a gallery link with the photographs approximately 30 days after the open call date. Contact imaging@gmu.edu with questions.
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.
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.
Training and Professional Development
Faculty-Staff Enrichment Day
Faculty-Staff Enrichment Day is coming up on Tuesday, Oct. 15, from 9 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. on the Fairfax Campus. Engaging workshops will cover themes like professional development, well-being, and maximizing your strengths using the Gallup Q12 framework. Connect with colleagues and participate in sessions designed to support your growth and success.
Supervisors are encouraged to provide flexibility during work hours for their teams to attend. Learn more and register.
Project/Product/Program Manager (PM) Network at George Mason
The Project/Product/Program Manager (PM) Network connects individuals across George Mason University who work in areas of project, product, and/or program management. The network will be an opportunity to share resources, learn, and build connections across the university. Join the PM Network on Microsoft Teams. For questions, contact Nikki Smith Acierto, University Business Consulting.
4-VA Call for Proposals: Course Redesign for Virginia Institutions of Higher Learning
4-VA, a state-funded consortium of 10 higher education institutions, is now accepting proposals to provide new opportunities in collaborative course redesign. 4-VA is interested in supporting faculty-led research that could inform a future course or program redesign effort, or to convene stakeholders throughout the state on the topic of course redesign and embedded experiential learning. Read more. Contact Elizabeth Gillooly, 4-VA@Mason, with questions.
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.
Resources for You
Mason Nation Thriving Together 5K
Registration is open for the annual Mason Nation Thriving Together 5K. The race will take place on Saturday, Oct. 19, on the Fairfax Campus. All proceeds from the event will benefit the George Mason University Student Mental Health and Well-Being Fund. Learn more and register.
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.
Participate in a Research Study from the SMART Lab
Community members are invited to participate in a research study through a free, off-campus wellness event hosted by the George Mason University SMART Lab. Visit the Wellness Center for Older Adults on Friday, Oct. 4, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. The center is located at 4027B Olley Lane, Fairfax, Virginia.
As part of a research study, participants will receive free tests of blood pressure, balance, strength, and thinking. The assessments will take up to one hour to complete. Researchers will provide participants with their wellness assessment results to share and consult with their primary care providers. Event organizers are not medical providers and do not offer any treatment.
Participants must be over 55 years old, have corrected vision/hearing, and can read and understand English. RSVP. This research study is IRB# 2126895-1.
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
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.
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. 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.
Reva and Sid Dewberry Family School of Music: 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.
Reva and Sid Dewberry Family School of Music: 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.
Reva and Sid Dewberry Family School of Music: Mason Opera Scenes
Monday, Oct. 21, at 7:30 p.m.
Off Campus: Old Town Hall, 3999 University Drive, Fairfax, Virginia
Mason Opera opens its 2024–25 season with an exciting showcase of opera scenes and ensembles from the world’s most beloved operas. Free and open to the public.
Reva and Sid Dewberry Family School of Music: Mason Jazz Ensemble Concert
Thursday, Oct. 24, at 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Harris Theatre
The Mason Jazz Ensemble, directed by Jim Carroll, offers opportunities for improvisation, performance, recording, writing, leadership, and service. This ensemble has performed at venues including the Shanghai Concert Hall in Beijing, China, the Center for the Arts and Hylton Performing Arts Center at George Mason, Jazz4Justice™ concerts, Blues Alley, Chantilly Jazz Festival, Law Day and the Jazz Education Network/JENerations Jazz Festival.
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.
School of Theater: 110 in the Shade
Nov. 1–3, multiple performances
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Sharply intelligent Lizzie Curry is considered unlucky in love by her father and brothers but remains unwilling to settle for a man who can’t live up to her standards. As her family schemes to change her fortunes amid a blistering hot summer in the Dust Bowl, a smooth-talking stranger arrives in town, promising to bring down the rain within 24 hours. As the town waits for the skies to open, Lizzie considers how to find the place between what is possible and what she dreams could be.
School of Dance – Fall: New Dances
Friday, Nov. 8, at 8 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 9, at 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
An evening of faculty and student work that showcases the talented dancers of the School of Dance in a wide range of stories, ideas, and styles.
The U.S. Army Concert Band: A Salute to Veterans
Veterans and the Arts Initiative
Thursday, Nov. 7, at 7:30 p.m.
SciTech Campus, Hylton Performing Arts Center, Merchant Hall
The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own" returns to the Hylton Center for a special performance dedicated to our nation's heroes in A Salute to Veterans. Through the powerful combination of music, storytelling, and shared moments of reflection, the concert band will showcase the timeless themes of selfless service across generations. This performance will express our deepest gratitude to those who exemplify unwavering dedication and determined commitment to duty, inspiring us all to strive for excellence and service in our own lives.