Employee of the Month

Katie Richards is November Employee of the Month

Colleen Rich — Wed, 30 Oct 2024 14:44:39 +0000

Katie Richards is November Employee of the Month Colleen Rich Wed, 10/30/2024 - 10:44

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 ��AV’s Higher Education Program (HEP), is in her 10th year of working at George Mason.

Katie Richards and George Mason President Gregory Washington during the November Employee of the Month ceremony. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

“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 ��AV 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.

More faculty and staff news

Nominate a colleague for Employee of the Month

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College of Humanities and Social Sciences

Higher Education Program

Isela Caballero is October Employee of the Month

Colleen Rich — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 19:59:12 +0000

Isela Caballero is October Employee of the Month Colleen Rich Tue, 10/01/2024 - 15:59

As the communications coordinator for the Department of Health Administration and Policy (HAP) in the College of Public Health at ��AV, 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.

President Washington with October Employee of the Month Isela Caballero. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

“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 ��AV 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!

Start your own career in the Mason Nation

In This Story

Isela Caballero

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Alumni

Amir Hasan is September Employee of the Month

Colleen Rich — Thu, 29 Aug 2024 21:39:57 +0000

Amir Hasan is September Employee of the Month Colleen Rich Thu, 08/29/2024 - 17:39

As an office manager, Amir Hasan supports ��AV’s Statistics Department. She was previously recognized with a 2023 Trailblazer Award from the College of Engineering and Computing for her work. Her efficiency and organizational and event planning skills set her apart. For her outstanding work, she has been awarded September Employee of the Month.

George Mason President Gregory Washington and Amir Hasan, September Employee of the Month. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

Hasan’s colleagues specifically highlighted her hard work with departmental events and outreach, such as the 30th anniversary of the department event and the George’s reception at the Joint Statistical Meetings 2023, which is described as an important annual gathering of the statistical community. Professors from other universities, including George Washington, Yale, and Georgetown, also recognized Hasan for her efforts.

Along with her work responsibilities, Hasan is also part of the planning team for the university’s Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander Affinity Group.

“She is a trailblazer [of the Mason value] ‘diversity is our strength,” said department chair Jiayang Sun.

“Amir is a star employee,” Sun added. “She provides exceptional support to the department's functions and operations. She actively seeks opportunities to acquire new skills and generously shares her knowledge, not only to the department members but also staff in other departments.”

“Amir is always ready to learn new skills and to step up when needed,” said Martin Slawski, an associate professor in Statistics. “She not only responds promptly to all requests by faculty and staff, but also constantly strives to contribute to the growth and improvement of administrative processes in our department.”

Hasan is also known for her fantastic door decorations, having won both the 2022 Elegant Award and the 2023 North Star Award in her department’s door decoration competition. She takes pride in her ability to "heighten everyone’s spirits” with her fun designs.

How did you come to Mason:

I first came to Mason in 2014 for my son’s orientation. Then my daughter also enrolled here in 2017. Both of them graduated with master's degrees. I loved Mason so much the first time I came that I decided to move to the neighborhood. My kids, knowing how much I loved Mason, kept insisting that I try and find a job here. I eventually did in 2022.

Best day on the job:

Everyone is so helpful and friendly that it made me feel at home from the very first day, making every day the best day on the job at Mason. If you want to know what the most satisfying day is—it’s those days when I get to help students in need.

What do you like best about working at Mason:

Mason understands the meaning of “it takes a village to raise a good citizen.” The motto “students first” is a vision for ensuring a brighter future. On a personal level, Mason has provided me with opportunities I never thought possible, especially fulfilling my dream of going back to school to study—I’m pursuing an online MBA.

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

Socializing with my senior neighbors, gardening, painting, and studying.

Join the Mason Nation

Meet more of the Mason Nation

Hillary Hamm is December Employee of the Month
December 3, 2024
Meet the Mason Nation: Nandini Koka
November 22, 2024
Katie Richards is November Employee of the Month
November 1, 2024
Meet the Mason Nation: Marit Majeske
October 11, 2024
Isela Caballero is October Employee of the Month
October 1, 2024

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Brianna Alford is August Employee of the Month

Colleen Rich — Tue, 30 Jul 2024 19:51:14 +0000

Brianna Alford is August Employee of the Month Colleen Rich Tue, 07/30/2024 - 15:51

As assistant director for student belonging in the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD) at ��AV, Brianna Alford oversees scholarships and finances in the college’s Student and Academic Affairs (SAA) office. She is also a mentor to student employees. For her dedication and her mentorship, Alford is recognized as August Employee of the Month.

Brianna Alford. Photo by Office of University Branding

“Brianna has been an exceptional member of our team,” said Daniel Minot, CEHD assistant dean for student success. “She has proven herself to be a trusted, reliable, and invaluable resource for so many colleagues. Her dedication, commitment, and willingness to always go 'above and beyond' to support our students, staff, and faculty truly sets her apart from her peers.”

“Brianna is an exemplar of positivity. She is a kind, caring and compassionate colleague who is present for others—always,” Ellen Rodgers, CEHD associate professor, said. “She manifests the highest levels of integrity in all matters—personally and professionally, most especially in her fiduciary responsibilities and maintaining the confidences of Mason community members.”

Several of her colleagues emphasized Alford’s strength as a mentor.

“Brianna is the kind of colleague, mentor, and friend I wish everyone could have,” Caroline Masakayan, CEHD student enrichment coordinator, said. “If I am ever feeling overwhelmed or uncertain, Brianna is my go-to person. There is rarely a question Brianna cannot answer, and I am continuously impressed by her professionalism and expertise. She takes pride in being a mentor and fulfills the role with ease and grace.”

“In addition to being a strong, effective mentor and support for various members of our SAA team, Brianna has stepped into the role of a supervisor in providing direct support and management of CEHD student wage staff, as well as a graduate professional assistant,” said Minot. “She not only effectively manages, supports, and empowers students in this capacity, but led the search, selection, hiring, and onboarding processes for each. Brianna has truly excelled in this leadership role, showcasing strong skills in supervision and management.”

How did you come to Mason:

We relocated from Florida to Virginia when my husband got a job in Washington, D.C. I interviewed at a few universities but something about George Mason just felt right. When I arrived for my on-campus interview, I felt an instant connection with the campus and with the team and left crossing my fingers I got an offer. Thankfully, I did, and I was thrilled to accept it.

Best day on the job:

The 2019 CEHD Student Research Symposium. I watched our students develop their research over the spring semester, and it was such a rewarding experience to see them present at the symposium. They worked so hard and showed up as true professionals committed to contributing to their field. It was a very special evening.

What do you like best about working at Mason:

Being a part of the best team! I’m fortunate to be surrounded by a great group of colleagues who make me laugh every day. They’re committed to our students, they work hard, and they never shy away from helping each other out. Work takes up a large portion of our time and lives—it’s important to me that I enjoy spending time with the people I work with.

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

I love any time spent with my husband and my daughter—especially by the water or downtown at a farmer’s market. When the weather cools down, I enjoy cooking, baking, watching football, and extra time with extended family around the holidays.

Topics

College of Education and Human Development

Sophie Donora is July Employee of the Month

Colleen Rich — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 14:08:45 +0000

Sophie Donora is July Employee of the Month Colleen Rich Mon, 07/01/2024 - 10:08

Sophie Donora has been a member of the ��AV community for over a decade.

Donora, who is also a two-time alumna, started working at George Mason as a graduate assistant for University Life (UL) Regional Campuses at Mason Square in Arlington, Virginia, while working on her master’s degree in arts management and was hired as a programming coordinator. She is currently assistant director and assists in facilitating University Life programs and services that are integral to students’ educational success at Mason Square, including the Plaza Programming Activation Project. Throughout this project, Donora participated in many collaborative workshops, created multimodal promotional content, and was an all-around team player.

For leading her team to great success, Donora is recognized as July’s Employee of the Month.

George Mason President Gregory Washington and July Employee of the Month Sophie Donora. Photo by Eduardo Macedo/Office of University Branding.

Colleagues describe Donora as a bridge-builder, solutionist, and relationship-builder, especially when it comes to students. Having lived abroad, Donora also brings a unique perspective when connecting with George Mason’s international student population.

“Sophie is a consummate team player—always willing to work through all issues and challenges to create an inclusive and collaborative environment,” said Cathy Pinskey, capital program director, facilities administration. “I am always happy to have Sophie as part of the team.”

Paul Nooney, the former director of student services at the Schar School of Policy and Government, agrees. “Her ideas surrounding student engagement are top notch, and I know all of the students here in Arlington appreciate the work she and the entire UL Mason Square team have done to make this feel like a vibrant college campus,” he said. “Sophie is also willing to help with the ‘not so fun’ details of working on a college campus. I have worked with her to support students who are struggling to make sure they are safe and connected to the resources they need.”

“Her passion for the support of students and especially graduate and professional students reflects her personal interest and investment in the work we do as higher ed professionals,” said Austin Deray, assistant director of graduate student life.

Melissa Thierry, Donora’s supervisor, said she welcomes students, colleagues and visitors with a sincere hello and a smile, and is intentional about making sure people are included in celebrations, discussions, decisions, and initiatives.

“Mason Square is currently experiencing a great amount of change due to the addition of Fuse and the growth [of the campus],” Thierry said. “Sophie has worked tirelessly to bring colleagues from different units together to talk out issues, solve problems, and offer solutions.”

“As her supervisor, I am proud of her willingness to take risks and the hard work that it takes.
We believe our best work is only possible when we apply our diversity of origin, identity, circumstance, and thought,” said Thierry.

When did you first come to George Mason?

I first came to George Mason in 2013 as an undergraduate global affairs major and then received my master’s in arts management. I’m currently working toward my PhD in George Mason’s Higher Education Program.

Best day on the job?

I am super lucky that I get to have a best day on the job every year! I think the best day of the year is the Mason Square Welcome Fair. This event always falls on the first week of classes at Mason Square and is a large-scale, in-person information fair designed to welcome our new and returning students to campus. It's a great way to build Patriot spirit, pride, and tradition while connecting our students to services and resources both at Mason and Arlington. The first week of classes is always my favorite, so it's always so fun to wrap up the week with this high-energy event.

What do you like best about working at Mason?

I am so honored that I get to work with the most dedicated, passionate, and encouraging professionals and students! Their tireless commitment and the wonderful impact they bring to everything they do is what I think makes George Mason one of the best places to work!

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

I have a passion for loud concerts, finding the best brunch menus, and hiking Virginia’s beautiful parks!

Join the Mason Nation

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Hillary Hamm is December Employee of the Month
December 3, 2024
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Meet the Mason Nation: Nandini Koka
November 22, 2024
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Meet the Mason Nation: Marit Majeske
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Christopher Wagaman is the June Employee of the Month

Colleen Rich — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 12:28:01 +0000

Christopher Wagaman is the June Employee of the Month Colleen Rich Mon, 06/03/2024 - 08:28

Christopher (Chris) Wagaman has supported travel at ��AV for more than 10 years. Currently the travel manager in Fiscal Services, he is recognized as the June Employee of the Month for his dedication, commitment, and integrity.

President Washington with June Employee of the Month Chris Wagaman. Photo by Ayman Rashid/Office of University Branding

His colleagues describe Wagaman as a professional and knowledgeable leader—”Chris always makes sure we exude confidentiality and professionalism,” one commented.

“‘He is the guru of the Mason Finance Gateway!’” said Heather Strange, former fiscal learning and engagement director. “Throughout my seven years of working with Chris, I have seen him grow into a great manager as his team expanded and adopted new technology.”

“Chris has assisted hundreds of students, faculty, and staff as they navigate through the complicated travel reimbursement process. He consistently uses out-of-the-box thinking and ingenuity and that guides him daily in all that he does,” said Becky Klein, Wagaman’s supervisor and associate director of purchasing operations in Fiscal Services.

Clifford Shore, chief procurement officer of Fiscal Services, shared, “A recent communication from another department stated the following, ‘I want to thank Chris's team in travel. They are so incredible, helpful, and professional. Led by his leadership, they are absolutely the best George Mason has to offer.’ I think this provides a great summary of the level of customer service, knowledge, and leadership that Chris brings to his job.”

How did you come to Mason:

I first started as a temporary employee for the Accounts Payable team. Then I applied for the travel technician position that opened.

Best day on the job:

My best day on the job was the day I knew I got the promotion to George Mason's Travel Office Manager position.

What do you like best about working at Mason:

I like the proximity to downtown Fairfax City, the numerous events held by George Mason, and the work/life flexibility provided here.

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

I like to travel, camp, and see live music in my off time.

Jobs at George Mason

Topics

Fiscal Services

Silke Vrouletis is May Employee of the Month

Colleen Rich — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 17:43:05 +0000

Silke Vrouletis is May Employee of the Month Colleen Rich Tue, 04/30/2024 - 13:43

Silke Vrouletis, a senior consultant in University Business Consulting, has been an integral part of the business consulting team at ��AV since November 2021. She has been awarded May Employee of the Month for her unwavering work ethic, creative problem-solving skills, and commitment to high standards.

May Employee of the Month Silke Vrouletis with President Washington. Photo by Ayman Rashad/Office of University Branding

“Silke Vrouletis is an outstanding contributor to University Business Consulting, her Mason clients, and to Mason as a whole,” said Whitney Owen, executive director of University Business Consulting. “She has been an integral part of several high-impact and strategic initiatives for the university, including planning and celebrating Mason's 50th anniversary. Silke approaches all her work with a tremendous work ethic, pride in her work and the outcome, and holding herself to the utmost quality standards.”

Pamela Promisel, consultant manager in University Business Consulting, said that Vrouletis is able to make connections between disparate pieces of information to help her solve problems in new and innovative ways. “She is always thinking about how something can be done better, more efficiently, or in some cases whether it should be done at all.”

Vrouletis plays a key role with the university’s Mental Health and Well Being Task Force. “I am impressed with her can-do attitude combined with her ability to think outside the box in achieving our collective goals,” said Nance Lucas, executive director and chief well-being officer at the Center for the Advancement of Well-Being in University Life. “She gives unselfishly of herself on our team and has taken ownership of our group's fate and successes. It's unusual for one person to be fully adept at both managing relationships and complex tasks, which Silke does exceptionally well.”

Rachel Wernicke, associate dean and chief mental health officer of University Life, has also worked closely with Vrouletis on the Mental Health and Well-Being Task Force. “I have observed her to be a dedicated, talented, and thoughtful consultant. She has the ability to think strategically about the larger vision and goals for the task force and to track all of the details of this large project,” Wernicke said. “She also works to ensure that the task force members are engaged and understand their purpose and helps them to accomplish their tasks.”

How did you come to Mason:

I was in the midst of the online Master of Professional Studies Program in Industrial-Organizational Psychology here at Mason, when my husband and I discussed relocating from Southwest Virginia. At that point I was working for Virginia Tech in their advancement division. As I loved working in higher education and I had become familiar with Mason through my program, I looked for opportunities to work within Mason. As a result, I applied to various positions in Northern Virginia and received two job offers from Mason within a couple of days from each other. I was extremely excited for the opportunities and decided to join University Business Consulting and Capital Strategy and Planning as an administrative assistant/analyst. Since then, I have had the fortune to be promoted to consultant and senior consultant, working on various strategic initiatives, and providing strategy and project support.

Best day on the job:

The best day is when one of my clients/colleagues tells me that the work I had done or insights I have provided are useful and helped them or made their day just a tiny bit easier. Process efficiency while taking individuals and their work ability/skills/perspective into consideration is what I love to do. Being able to listen to them and transform a problem into a solution that is workable for them makes any workday less “work” but rather joyful.

What do you like best about working at Mason:

Mason is such an innovative and aspiring university. I enjoy immensely that no day is like the other. I might receive a new project or challenge any given day that allows me to utilize my creativity and problem-solving skills that ultimately will support a person, a unit, a department, or a whole division. I am extremely grateful for the autonomy and support I receive on a daily basis from my peers, my supervisor, my department head, and senior leadership.

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

When I am not working, I love to spend my time in the kitchen developing new recipes, either sweet or savory, being inspired by cultures across the world and what we can find at any given moment at farmer’s markets. When not doing that, you will find me either hiking and spending time in nature, or with my nose buried in a book. And as my coworkers will point out, I might just be doing a big jigsaw puzzle with 2,000-3,000 pieces.

Topics

University Business Consulting

University Life

Regina Reynon is April Employee of the Month

Colleen Rich — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 15:59:33 +0000

Regina Reynon is April Employee of the Month Colleen Rich Mon, 04/01/2024 - 11:59

Regina Reynon, a senior accounts payable fiscal technician, has been an integral part of ��AV’s Fiscal Services since November 2021. For her commitment, strong work ethic, and her desire to go above and beyond, Reynon has been recognized as the April Employee of the Month.

Mason President Gregory Washington with April Employee of the Month Regina Reynon. Photo by Eduardo Macedo/Office of University Branding

“Regina demonstrates an excellent work ethic and initiative. Her attitude and approach to performing her duties are incredibly refreshing,” said Tuyen Nguyen, assistant director of Accounts Payable. “Regina always goes the extra mile.”

“Regina has provided a fantastic level of support to the department and the university,” said Clifford Shore, chief procurement officer of Fiscal Services.

Catherine Staggs, assistant director of Accounts Payable, shared that Reynon has conducted multiple tests on the new AP Form Banner Workflow to make sure that the system is working as intended. “She actively works to develop positive relationships with her co-workers and other departmental staff to make sure that our student payments are processed on time,” said Staggs.

Jesse Guessford, director of curriculum and initiatives in undergraduate education in the Office of the Provost, lauds Reynon for her support of the Office for Student Scholarship, Creative Activities, and Research (OSCAR). “Regina went above and beyond to make sure our students were paid for their research experiences,” said Guessford. “Without her help, the OSCAR program would not have functioned, and students would not have been able to participate in a life-changing education experience.”

Quyen Le, director of Accounts Payable, said Reynon is a key contributor to the department's stability and productivity. “She is one of the main reasons the Accounts Payable team works well together and thrives,” said Le. “She is always professional in work habits and social interactions, specifically with students, faculty, and staff.”

How did you come to Mason:

My career had always been in the hospitality industry (hotel and airlines) so when COVID hit, the hospitality industry was badly affected. In view of this, I was looking for a more stable opportunity. I wanted to diversify my experience and knowledge, and ��AV was the right fit.

Best day on the job:

Is when I know that I served the Mason community, students, and vendors to the best of my ability, whether I am answering an inquiry by email or processing the request/invoice.

What do you like best about working at Mason:

The diverse culture that I work with and yet we embrace each other's differences, experiences, and knowledge. In addition, the support and guidance that I receive from my managers.

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

Spending time with family and friends. Watch a good movie. I am fond of movies that are based on true stories. Do a brisk walk in our community and enjoy nature.

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Judith Herbert is March Employee of the Month

Colleen Rich — Wed, 06 Mar 2024 22:01:44 +0000

Judith Herbert is March Employee of the Month Colleen Rich Wed, 03/06/2024 - 17:01

Judith (Judy) Herbert, a senior administrative assistant in the Dean’s Office in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS) is described by her colleagues as a caring listener and a calming presence in the office.

President Washington with March Employee of the Month Judy Herbert. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Her nomination received 13 letters of support, including several from student workers expressing their appreciation. For her hard work and dedication, she is being recognized as ��AV’s March Employee of the Month.

“Judy is a professional and team-player,” said Kim Dight, CHSS’s chief business officer. “She has a way of making every person she comes into contact with feel valued and special.”

“Judy was happy to listen to my frustrations and provide advice,” said Sarah Holland, communications officer in the Office of University Branding. “She asked after my cats, my partner, my vacations—I felt that when I told her something about my personal life, she remembered it and wanted to follow up.”

“What sets Judy apart is her proactive attitude and willingness to step in whenever and wherever there is a need,” said Kristen Koehler, assistant dean of strategic communications and marketing in CHSS.

“Judy goes above and beyond what is expected in her role,” said Jeanette Bush, CHSS faculty affairs assistant. “She frequently is seen attending to the needs of Mason students who find their way to the Dean’s Office in search of answers to questions or help with a problem.”

Craig Zaccaro, a software developer in CHSS, said, “Judy can always be counted on to bring a calm, positive outlook to any project. She is a wonderful colleague whose hard work and dedication has positive impacts across the college.”

Her care for the office’s student workers was frequently noted.

“It’s obvious to anyone who works with Judy that her passion is working with students. She manages our [work study students] and serves as a mentor to them, listening to their challenges and offering advice and support,” said Jill Bowen, curriculum, space, and technology manager at CHSS.

“I can confidently say that she is by far the kindest, most accommodating person I have worked with,” said student worker Garrett Martin. “She is a joy to work with, and her presence in the office never fails to make everyone’s day better.”

“Judy is the perfect person to receive this award,” said student worker Afreen R. “Since day one, she has always been there to willingly help me with anything. She treats everyone with respect, kindness, and has a humorous personality that makes working with her fun.”

“Yesterday’s Dean’s Office celebration of one of our front desk student worker’s 21st birthday, which Judy masterminded, is simply the latest example of how she makes each of our work study students feel seen, valued, and appreciated for their contributions,” said CHSS Dean Ann Ardis.

How did you come to Mason:

I came to Mason 13 years ago as a part-time employee, working in the Office of Admissions. After several years in that role, I decided to move to a full-time position with the College of Humanities and Social Sciences Dean’s Office when my boys headed off to college.

Best day on the job:

My best day on the job would be working at our college’s degree celebrations. The excitement and energy that comes with being a part of the student’s graduation is so fulfilling. I get the pleasure of making sure each student feels special and looks perfect before they walk on stage to get recognized.

What do you like best about working at Mason:

The colleagues I get to work with every day, who make my job so rewarding and make me feel valued for my work contributions in the office.

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

I enjoy going to concerts, musicals, biking and cooking with my family and friends.

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