Isela Caballero is October Employee of the Month

As the communications coordinator for the Department of Health Administration and Policy (HAP) in the College of Public Health at George Mason University, Isela Caballero runs the department’s social media and admissions campaigns, and coordinates events alongside her daily responsibilities. For her hard work, event planning skills, and enthusiasm for her work, she is being recognized as the October Employee of the Month.

“Since joining the department, she has become an essential team member and invaluable asset to the college,” said Tracy Shevlin, operations manager of HAP. “Her ‘Can Do’ attitude is exceptional, and her enthusiasm is contagious. Not surprisingly, she was named as a Mason Kindness Ambassador in 2023.”

Caballero, who graduated from George Mason with a bachelor of science in community health in 2017 and is currently a first-year student in the master of public health program, is also known for her strong event planning skills. Her colleagues note her outstanding work organizing college-wide events such as open houses and graduation receptions, capstone events for the master of health administration and health informatics students, case competitions, webinars, and symposiums.

Brian K. Gillette, director of student success at the college, emphasized Caballero’s great planning with last year’s spring degree celebration. “She directly had a huge impact on our students and their families by creating such an inviting and fun event.”

Along with her hard work, her colleagues credit her with drawing students to the department’s programs.

Brenda Sheingold, associate professor and program director of the master's in health system management said, “I feel very fortunate to have Isela working with our program to keep us competitive!” She described often having students interview for the program and mention they found the program through the department’s social media.

Sheingold added she “would like to note that Isela is an absolute joy to work with. She is professional and enthusiastic, even when faced with complex and complicated processes.”

How did you come to Mason?

As a George Mason University alum with a passion for public health, I was eager to find a role where learning, growth, and my passion could align. When I discovered an opening at the College of Public Health, it felt like a perfect fit.

Best day on the job:

There have been so many great moments, but my favorite is seeing the graduating students and their families during the College of Public Health’s Degree Celebration. It’s inspiring to witness their joy and accomplishments.

What do you like best about working at Mason?

I truly enjoy working with a diverse group of colleagues and students. The emphasis on learning and the opportunity to stay connected to emerging public health research is incredibly rewarding. I’ve also had the chance to build meaningful relationships with many colleagues and students, which has made my experience at George Mason even more fulfilling. I’m grateful for these connections and the personal growth they’ve brought.

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

I love traveling, planning fun activities with friends, and enjoying peaceful time alone in nature—especially when the weather is nice!