Faculty/Staff Announcements
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Campus Updates
President's Town Hall Sessions with Faculty/Staff
George Mason University President Gregory Washington will host two 90-minute town hall sessions to discuss the state of the university and to engage with faculty and staff.
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The first town hall, for faculty and staff working in academic units, will take place on Wednesday, March 19, at 9 a.m., on the Fairfax Campus, The Hub, Ballroom.
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The second town hall, for employees working in nonacademic units, will take place on Tuesday, March 25, at 1:30 p.m., on the Fairfax Campus, The Hub, Ballroom.
For those unable to attend in-person, both sessions will be livestreamed on Zoom. Contact your respective unit leadership for Zoom links and passwords. While questions will be taken at the conclusion of each town hall, the Zoom chat function will not be enabled. Should virtual attendees have any questions, please provide them to your designated unit contact so they can be shared in-person during your respective town hall session.
Captioning will be available on the livestream. If you are in need of sign language interpreters for this event, please reach out directly to the Office of Disability Services. If United Language Group (ULG) services are needed, please reach out directly to the Office of Human Resources.
Harvard COACHE Faculty Satisfaction Survey
This spring, full-time George Mason University faculty can once again make their voices heard by participating in the Collaboration on Academic Careers in Higher Education (COACHE) Faculty Satisfaction Survey, a national survey designed specifically to understand the job satisfaction of instructional and research faculty. The survey launched in early February and will be open until early April. Faculty were emailed a unique link to the survey. Learn more.
Final Call for Outstanding Achievement Award Nominations: Submit by Feb. 21
Time is running out to nominate outstanding faculty and staff for the 2025 Outstanding Achievement Awards. With new categories this year—like the Rising Star Award, Wage Employee Service Award, and Campus Culture Champion—there are even more opportunities to recognize the hard work and dedication of your colleagues.
Submit your nominations by Friday, Feb. 21. Save the date for the ceremony on Tuesday, April 15, from 10–11:30 a.m. on the Fairfax Campus, Johnson Center, Dewberry Hall. For any questions, contact awards@gmu.edu.
Spring Career Fair
Students and alumni are encouraged to attend the Spring Career Fair on Feb. 18, 19, and 20. Participants can network with employers, gain insight from alums, find part-time gigs, internships, and full-time jobs. This three-day event will host more than 50 employers each day, seeking to fill job vacancies. The fair will happen on the Fairfax Campus in the Johnson Center, lower level.
Each day of the fair will have its own focus: Tuesday is STEM, Wednesday covers all interests, and Thursday is business, government, and nonprofits. University Career Services is also hosting a Resume Clinic and a Prepare for the Fair Workshop the week before the grand event. Learn more.
The Eaterie is Now Open
The Eaterie, a new dining venue on the Fairfax Campus in Student Union I (SUB I), is now open. This location features seven stations, including an expanded kosher station—the first certified Kosher Kitchen in Virginia. Committed to sustainability, The Eaterie will use reusable containers and source 80% of its items locally. Customers are encouraged to sign up for the ReusePass program to participate in The Eaterie’s waste-free dining initiative. Payment options include card, cash, Dining Dollars, Swipes, and Mason Money.
Hayden Center Open Forum
The third annual Hayden Center open forum is an event where the audience controls the discussion with their questions. Join General Michael Hayden (former CIA and NSA director) and other Schar School faculty for a conversation about 2025’s national security challenges. The open forum will take place on Wednesday, Feb. 12, at 7 p.m. at Mason Square, Van Metre Hall. A reception will follow the event. The forum will also be livestreamed. RSVP.
Calling All Phi Beta Kappa and Phi Kappa Phi Members
The Phi Beta Kappa and Phi Kappa Phi honor societies welcome faculty and staff to participate in George Mason’s local chapters. Members should complete this short survey to get connected with local chapters and stay up to date on upcoming chapter events. Learn more about the honor societies on the George Mason Phi Beta Kappa and Phi Kappa Phi websites.
Southside Dining becomes a Certified Green Restaurant
Southside Dining is officially a Certified Green Restaurant®, recognized by the Green Restaurant Association for its commitment to sustainability. Restaurants generate more than 300 million tons of garbage every year, but Southside is working to reduce waste through recycling, water efficiency, and sustainable food practices. Mason Dining has also eliminated all polystyrene foam products, ensuring a greener dining experience for the campus community. This semester, dine “green” at Southside! Contact Sophia Nelson, Mason Dining, with questions.
Training and Professional Development
Request for Proposals: 17th Annual Innovations in Teaching and Learning Conference
George Mason faculty, graduate instructors, and staff are invited to propose sessions, volunteer to be a reviewer, and/or serve as a session host at the 17th Annual Innovations in Teaching and Learning Conference.
This hybrid conference takes place with online sessions via Zoom on Sept. 25 and in-person sessions on Sept. 26. This year's conference theme is “Teaching for the Future: AI, Analog and Beyond.” Visit the website for a full description of the conference, plus the call for proposals and reviewers.
Title IX Mason Employee Mandatory Reporter Training
The Title IX Office is providing virtual training this spring. This training is for current George Mason employees who have not completed their annual Mandatory Reporter Title IX training (virtual or in-person) for the 2024–25 academic year.
Spring 2025 Title IX Virtual Training Schedule:
Note: This training requirement may also be fulfilled by registering for and attending “Building Supportive Communities: Clery Act and Title IX” via MasonLEAPS. Contact titleix@gmu.edu with questions.
Apply for the Leadership Legacy Program
Ready to take your leadership skills to the next level? Applications are now accepted for the Leadership Legacy Program. This program is designed to help faculty and staff who are stepping into leadership roles, preparing for future opportunities, or looking to grow as leaders in their current positions. Read more and apply by March 21.
Thrive at Mason Boot Camp: Call for Workshop Proposals
This year's Thrive at Mason boot camp is dedicated to fostering a growth mindset as we navigate an evolving landscape. This theme aims to inspire resilience, adaptability, and innovative thinking for personal and professional development. Faculty and staff are invited to submit creative and engaging workshop proposals. These contributions will play a pivotal role in encouraging the George Mason community to embrace the power of a growth mindset.
Proposals should be submitted through the online form by Friday, Feb. 21, at 5 p.m. All submitters will receive notification of their proposal status by Friday, March 7. For questions, contact Daniel Labriola, Fiscal Services.
Suicide Prevention Training for Students, Faculty, and Staff
SOS (Signs of Suicide) for Higher Ed is a suicide prevention training program, which includes two 30-minute, self-guided, online training courses for students, faculty, and staff.
The trainings provide video and interactive learning to teach everyone on campus how to ACT (Acknowledge, Care, Tell) in their role in suicide prevention. SOS for Higher Ed uses real and diverse stories of mental health struggles and recovery, along with modeled scenarios, to provide all learners with actionable steps to help someone in need.
Members of the George Mason community are encouraged to participate and learn:
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How to recognize signs of suicide risk
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How to have caring conversations that encourage someone to seek help
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How to build community connections that foster positive mental well-being
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An overview of available student mental health resources, on and off campus
For more details and to access the training, visit the Counseling and Psychological Services website.
Resources for You
Support Group for Working Mothers at George Mason
The Support Group for Working Mothers at George Mason is one way faculty, staff, and students can come together, discuss the issues confronting working mothers, and perhaps motivate changes on campus. The in-person and virtual meeting schedule for the spring semester is now available. Those interested can also join the community via Teams. Share stories and become part of an informal organization of working mothers. Visit the website for meeting dates and more information.
Institute for Immigration Research: Commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of the Arrival of the Vietnamese Boat People
Join the Institute for Immigration Research on Tuesday, Feb. 11, from 7–8:30 p.m. on the Fairfax Campus, Merten Hall, Room 1201, for an evening commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the arrival of the Vietnamese Boat People. From 1975 to 1992, almost two million Vietnamese risked their lives to flee oppression and hardship after the Vietnam War. Escaping by boat, many were captured or did not survive the journey, found freedom in other countries, or were resettled in refugee camps.
The event will include a discussion of the Vietnamese Boat People resettlement experience, a viewing of the Closing the Gap documentary, a conversation on the current state of refugees around the world and in the United States, and an art and book display. The evening event will follow afternoon panels with online speakers. Learn more and RSVP.
Patriot Perks Basketball Watch Parties
The Patriot Perks Basketball Watch Parties are in full swing! Catch the excitement at Commonwealth Brewing on Saturday, Feb. 22, as the men’s basketball team takes on VCU. Or, come to PJ Skidoos on Sunday, Feb. 23, for the first-ever women’s basketball watch party for the away game against Saint Joseph’s. Enjoy giveaways, food, and exclusive discounts with your Mason ID. Let’s come together and cheer on the Patriots.
Bring your Mason ID to enjoy discounts, giveaways, and cheer with fellow fans. RSVP.
Fall for the Book Mini Fest
Fall for the Book will host its third annual Mini Fest on Thursday, Feb. 20, from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the Fairfax Campus, Fenwick Library, Reading Room. Five events will feature writers TJ Butler, Daniel Bedrosian, Matthew Gabriele, Samuel Kọ́láwọlé, and Steve Almond. The events are free and open to the public. Check out the full schedule.
Upcoming Performances and Arts Events at George Mason
Virginia National Ballet: Snow White
Friday, Feb. 14, at 7 p.m.
SciTech Campus, Hylton Performing Arts Center, Merchant Hall
Virginia National Ballet’s delightful production of Snow White is a whimsical, enchanting ballet which follows the story of the Disney film and features its instantly recognizable music. Brought back by popular demand, the whole family will enjoy this upgraded production featuring gorgeous new backdrops and scenery, with world class choreography and dancing.
Mason Jazz Festival
Saturday, Feb. 15, all day
Fairfax Campus, Harris Theatre
The Mason Jazz Festival is a yearly invitational, non-competitive event open to middle school, high school, collegiate, and community jazz ensembles. All concerts and events are free and open to the public (no tickets are required). The closing concert is at 7 p.m. and will feature the Mason Jazz Ensemble under the direction of Jim Carroll and the U.S. Army Blues.
Versa-Style Street Dance Company
Saturday, Feb. 15, at 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Named “Los Angeles’ Best Dance Troupe for Hip Hop Empowerment” by LA Weekly, Versa-Style Street Dance Company immerses its audience in the electrifying world of hip hop and street dance culture. To mark its 20th anniversary, the troupe presents Rooted Rhythms, a mixed repertory program of its most popular works, paying homage to street dance styles such as whacking, popping, and house dance, as well as a blend of Afro-Latin styles including salsa and West African. As a Mason Artist-in-Residence, Versa-Style Street Dance Company will engage the community and students through a variety of events, classes, and discussions.
The Acting Company: The Comedy of Errors
Saturday, Feb. 15 at 8 p.m.
SciTech Campus, Hylton Performing Arts Center, Merchant Hall
The Acting Company presents 2022 Tony Award nominee Christina Anderson’s delightful modern verse translation of one of Shakespeare’s earliest works. In this farcical romp, separated families and mistaken identities create hilarious mayhem.
Faculty Artist Series: The Spheres Project
Dewberry School of Music
Sunday, Feb. 16, at 3 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Harris Theatre
The Dewberry Faculty Artist Series showcases the talents of our School of Music professional faculty. The series is presented every spring semester. The Spheres Project is a musical collaboration between George Mason string faculty and students. The project embraces both the differences and commonalities of our lived experiences. Each performance is created from the synergy between participants as they explore the intersections of their worlds. In this performance, The Spheres Project will present the Prokofiev String Quartet No. 2, Op. 92.
The Acting Company: August Wilson’s Two Trains Running
Sunday, Feb. 16, at 7 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
The Acting Company returns with August Wilson’s Tony Award-winning play. Set amid the Civil Rights Movement, the drama centers on Memphis Lee, an African American diner owner whose business is set to be demolished for an urban renewal project. While Lee fights for fairness and dignity, his customers struggle with how gentrification is changing their lives in unpredictable ways. Two Trains Running is a poignant tribute to the spirit and perseverance of the people who make our country great even when faced with overwhelming odds.
National Pan-Hellenic Council 2025 Step Show
Saturday, Feb. 22, at 7 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Join the Divine 9 as they compete for the title of 2025 National Pan-Hellenic Council Step Show Champions. This year's theme, “Icon: Celebrating Black Music,” honors legendary artists and unforgettable moments in Black music history.
Faculty Artist Series: Duo-Piano Silver Anniversary Concert (Anna Balakerskaia and Linda Apple Monson)
Dewberry School of Music
Sunday, Feb. 23, at 3 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Harris Theatre
The Dewberry Faculty Artist Series showcases the talents of our School of Music professional faculty. The series is presented every spring semester. This recital celebrates the 25 years that Anna Balakerskaia and Linda Apple Monson have performed and taught together at George Mason University and features duo-piano works.
Czech National Symphony Orchestra
Sunday, Feb. 23, at 4 p.m.
SciTech Campus, Hylton Performing Arts Center, Merchant Hall
The 2022 Gramophone Orchestra of the Year nominee, Czech National Symphony Orchestra makes its Hylton Center debut with a masterful program of fiery, powerhouse works under the direction of Music Director Steven Mercurio. The Czech National Symphony Orchestra ranks among the most highly sought after orchestras in Europe and the United States and is consistently praised for its versatile programs that include classical, film scores, jazz, musicals, and more.
Mason Wind Symphony and Symphonic Band Concert
Dewberry School of Music
Tuesday, Feb. 25, at 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
The Mason Wind Symphony and Symphonic Band open their spring 2025 performance season with a joint concert performance, conducted by Director of Bands William L. Lake Jr.
Kodo
Saturday, March 1, at 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Experience the “primal power and bravura beauty of Kodo” (Chicago Tribune) when Japan’s premier ensemble of taiko drummers returns to the Center for the Arts with its exuberant rhythms and energy. Kodo’s modern take on the ancient art form of taiko drumming will leave its audience breathless with its heart-pounding and stunningly athletic displays of musicianship.
Keyboard Conversations® with Jeffrey Siegel: A Few of Our Favorite Things
Sunday, March 2, at 2 p.m.
SciTech Campus, Hylton Performing Arts Center, Merchant Hall
The internationally acclaimed pianist Jeffrey Siegel returns with his popular Keyboard Conversations®—concerts with captivating commentary. A Few of Our Favorite Things is a program of beloved, familiar works composed by some of the most popular composers of all time, including, Beethoven, Chopin, Gershwin, and Rachmaninoff—music known to non-concert goers, as well as classical music aficionados. The program will conclude with a short Q&A with the audience.
Angélique Kidjo
Sunday, March 2, at 7 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Five-time Grammy Award-winner Angélique Kidjo brings her powerhouse voice, electrifying stage presence, and joyous music to the Center for the Arts. Named one of 2021’s “Most Influential People” by TIME Magazine and one of the “Top 100 Most Inspiring Women in the World” by the Guardian, Kidjo is one of the greatest artistic forces in international music today. Blending West African rhythms with jazz, pop, funk, R&B, Latin, and dance music, Kidjo’s visionary music tells the story of Africa’s past while looking ahead to the future.
Juan Megna Trio
Wednesday, March 5, at 1:30 p.m.
SciTech Campus, Hylton Performing Arts Center, Jacquemin Family Foundation Rehearsal Hall
George Mason University alum (Doctor of Musical Arts ‘21), Dewberry School of Music professor, and recipient of a Young Alumni Commissioning Award (’23), Juan Megna showcases musical influences from across the Americas with the Juan Megna Trio. The Argentinian-born percussionist/drummer studied music at the State University of Campinas in São Paulo, Brazil, before continuing his musical and educational odyssey in the United States. At George Mason, he leads the School of Music Latin American Ensemble. The Juan Megna Trio will perform a mix of Megna’s original compositions, blended jazz, Argentinian and Afro-Brazilian rhythms.
JigJam
Friday, March 14, at 8 p.m.
SciTech Campus, Hylton Performing Arts Center, Merchant Hall
Just in time for St. Patrick’s Day, JigJam, “the best Irish group in bluegrass” (Irish American News), guarantees foot-stomping, heart-pounding feel-good tunes. The quartet made its Grand Ole Opry Debut in 2023 to a sold-out crowd, where they were joined by Garth Brooks, Trisha Yearwood, Steve Earle, and Lauren Alaina, among others. These talented multi-instrumentalists have released three albums and are winning over audiences with their infectious blend of bluegrass and American folk. Celebrate the rich musical heritage of the Irish with “Ireland’s answer to New Grass Revival” (Midwest Records).
Chloé Arnold’s Syncopated Ladies LIVE
Saturday, March 22, at 8 p.m.
SciTech Campus, Hylton Performing Arts Center, Merchant Hall
Founded by D.C. native Chloé Arnold, an Emmy Award-nominated tap dancer and choreographer, and protégé of Golden Globe winner Debbie Allen, Syncopated Ladies LIVE is a spellbinding and inspirational all-female tap dance celebration of sisterhood, empowerment, rhythm, and joy. These dynamic performers are reinvigorating the artform of tap, weaving together inspiring stories, electric energy, and intricate footwork, while dancing to everything from pop and hip-hop to salsa and R&B.