When nominating Katherine (Katie) Richards for Employee of the Month, her colleagues emphasized her giving nature, positivity, and interpersonal strengths, in addition to her commitment to the program. A two-time George Mason alumna, Richards, the senior graduate program coordinator in George Mason University’s Higher Education Program (HEP), is in her 10th year of working at George Mason.
“Every day, we witness the positive energy, willingness to help, sincerity, and vast knowledge of university operations that Katie brings to her work,” said Kelly Schrum, a professor in the Higher Education Program. “Katie is a model staff member and a proud Mason alum whose exemplary service to the College of Humanities and Social Sciences and George Mason University exemplifies the values honored through this award.”
In her role she serves as the academic advisor to all HEP's master’s students and is their main point person from the application phase to admissions and through coursework to graduation. She connects students with targeted resources like the Writing Center, Counseling and Psychological Services, and emergency funds.
She also supports HEP faculty and is a key liaison throughout the college and university.
Richards has also worked to strengthen partnerships, such as with University Life, to support assistantships for incoming students and to honor student achievements and successes.
David Powers Corwin, assistant professor in the School of Integrative Studies, said, “Katie is always eager to lend a helping hand where needed and is such a positive presence in whatever space she is in.”
Chrystal Mwangi, associate professor in the Higher Education Program, agreed. “I have always known her to exemplify Mason’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and inclusion,” Mwangi said. “Katie is a joy to work with and I am grateful to call her a colleague. She definitely demonstrates that our students come first.”
“Katie is consistently sought out by students, faculty, and community members for her caring and wise counsel,” said Julie Owen, associate professor of leadership and integrative studies. “She has an uncanny ability to listen deeply and ask insightful questions. Though not part of her formal job description, Katie has been trusted by students with their personal stories and struggles and is always able to connect them with relevant campus resources and support.”
“Katie simply embodies the spirit and aims of our institution—in every wise word and important action, she represents the very best of Mason as an institution committed to community, inclusion, and a just, free, and prosperous world,” said Graziella McCarron, assistant professor in the School of Integrative Studies.
How did you come to Mason:
I received my undergraduate degree from George Mason in English and then went to work in the private sector. After about two years, I knew I wanted to come back to George Mason to pursue an MFA in Creative Writing (Poetry). I knew about Mason’s great tuition benefit, so I started applying to staff roles and was hired by the Higher Education Program, where I have been for the last 10 years. I completed my MFA in 2020 and have my first book of poetry, Apple Mind, coming out Nov. 14 from Harbor Editions. George Mason has opened up a ton of opportunities for me as a staff member, student, and now alum.
Best day on the job:
I always love the end of spring semester when we do our Celebration of Achievements event. My favorite role is supporting our students, so it is very meaningful to me to be able to celebrate their successes with them.
What do you like best about working at Mason:
I enjoy working with our students and feeling that I have made a difference in their lives. It is exciting to feel that the work you do can have a positive impact on others’ lives.
What do you like to do when you’re not working:
I enjoy spending time with my husband and two children. I also like to knit and garden when there is downtime (which there’s not a lot of these days!). And, of course, I do my writing in the evenings.