Meet the Mason Nation: Traci Kendall

Traci Kendall

Job: Executive Director of Operations and Community and Local Government Relations, Government and Community Relations

Traci Kendall is the executive director of operations and community and local government relations at George Mason University. She has been with George Mason since 1996 and is one of the longest-serving members of the Office of Government and Community Relations. Kendall has been instrumental in establishing the university’s town-gown relations with local communities.

Known for her knack for establishing a congenial rapport with others and navigating diplomatic issues with a cool demeanor, Kendall has made strong connections with colleagues throughout the university and in the external community that are key to forming successful partnerships for George Mason.

Being a good neighbor: “I’m inspired by the people I’ve worked with over the years,” Kendall said. “So many people are passionate about their work and eager to be of service or share their expertise with the community.”

Kendall has led the development of several resources to assist external community members, including the Discover George Mason guide, which details services and programs available to the public; the Mason Speakers program, which offers free educational lectures to community and business organizations; and the Good Neighbor Program, which helps educate off-campus students on how to be good neighbors in the communities in which they live.

Follow the signs to campus: Kendall and her team work to win the community’s hearts and minds by developing awareness of George Mason as a trusted resource that can help community members in their everyday lives, through opportunities like small business counseling, health services, summer camps, recreation, entertainment, and more.

“Helping others to discover the university in new ways energizes me,” Kendall said. “When someone says, ‘Oh wow, I never knew that,’ it excites me.” 

Serving the community: Kendall organized the first Patriot Packout program in 2007, offering students an easy way to donate extra food, clothing, and household items during move-out. The Community and Local Government Relations team mobilized faculty and staff volunteers and partnered with local businesses to transfer donated items to local nonprofit organizations. The program has continued to grow and is now managed by University Sustainability.

Part of George Mason’s history: Kendall’s favorite George Mason memory involves the men’s basketball team’s 2006 Final Four run. 

“I have never experienced a time when the whole university community—students, alumni, faculty, staff, and the surrounding community—felt so incredibly connected over a singular experience,” she said. “It was really an amazing time to be at George Mason.”

Journeying afar: Outside work, Kendall enjoys exploring the world beyond the local community. “I live and work in order to travel!” Kendall said. “I love checking out new places, architecture, and natural beauty.” 

Her recent travels have included a six-country tour of the Alps with a ride on the Bernina Express, a panoramic train, a two-week tour of Spain, and a trip to Iceland with a dip in the Blue Lagoon. 

“Swimming with the dolphins with my then 9-year-old daughter in Cozumel was remarkable,” she recalled. “I remember thinking how truly happy I was in that moment.”

What’s next on her itinerary? Kendall and her daughter will cruise the fjords of Norway this summer. She also has a trip to Thailand and Cambodia booked for 2026.