University Life

9/11 Day of Service was a day of reflection and community service—for all ages

Lauren Reuscher — Thu, 19 Sep 2024 14:12:01 +0000

9/11 Day of Service was a day of reflection and community service—for all ages Lauren Reuscher Thu, 09/19/2024 - 10:12

��AV students, faculty, staff, and alumni gathered on Wednesday, Sept. 11, for the 12^th annual Mason Nation 9/11 Day of Service. Since its inception, the day of service has been an opportunity to reflect on the value of individual contributions toward social change and the ways in which individuals can support their community through service projects.

The Mason Nation 9/11 Day of Service took place across locations on the Fairfax Campus, with an opening ceremony and luncheon in the Johnson Center. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Over 200 George Mason students, faculty, staff, and alumni joined the day’s activities. Service activities occurred across campus, a service fair provided a chance to learn about year-round volunteer opportunities, and a luncheon honored first responders, active members of the military, veterans, and volunteers.

The event was hosted by University Life, and the planning team included campus partners from departments and offices around the university.

George Mason ROTC's Patriot Battalion Color Guard at the 9/11 Day of Service ceremony. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Service activities included a clothing, diaper, and wipe drive for Women Giving Back; a book drive to benefit the City of Fairfax Regional Library; assembling blankets and chew toys for the Prince William Animal Shelter; creating cards and flower pots for a local assisted living community, working in the campus Greenhouse and Gardens, and more. In partnership with Van Metre Companies, volunteers put together almost 300 snack bags to support children at Pattie Elementary School in Prince William County.

Volunteers work in the Innovation Food Forest for the 9/11 Day of Service. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

Fourth and fifth grade students from Pattie Elementary also participated in the event. Members of the school’s P.O.P. Club (Paws of Positivity), a before and after school service club, visited George Mason for the day. Thanks to a grant from the Harvey S. Lowe, Jr. and Susan Hitchcock-Lowe Foundation, the university provided transportation, lunch, and project supplies for the students.

Students from Pattie Elementary School shared remarks on stage. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

During the opening ceremony and luncheon, students from Pattie Elementary took the stage to share what 9/11 means to them—children who, like many of today’s college students, were not born before September 11, 2001.

Students from the Pattie Elementary School P.O.P. Club joined the service activities. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

“In the P.O.P. club, we give back to our community through acts of service. Service is a way to show kindness and make our communities better. Whether it’s helping a friend, cleaning up trash, or doing something nice for someone, every little act of service counts. When we serve others, we spread positivity and help make the world a better place. So today, let’s think about how we can help out and make a positive change, just like so many people did on that day. Together, we can make a big difference.” –Trey, Pattie Elementary School student

Watch a video from Prince William County Public Schools to learn more about the P.O.P. Club and their visit to George Mason.

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Faculty and Staff News

Prince William County

Volunteerism

Mason ROTC

Community Service

Off the Clock: Volunteering at a community farm, Carissa O’Neill is a good seed

Lauren Reuscher — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 16:11:10 +0000

Off the Clock: Volunteering at a community farm, Carissa O’Neill is a good seed Lauren Reuscher Wed, 07/17/2024 - 12:11

Carissa O’Neill started her job at ��AV as an office assistant in University Life one year ago. In this role, she manages schedules, plans events, and more. Outside the office, O’Neill volunteers to do a different variety of tasks: planting seedlings, sinking stakes, laying out irrigation hose, harvesting crops, and weeding greenhouses.

O’Neill volunteers at The JK Community Farm in Purcellville, Virginia—a 150-acre working farm that donates 100% of its produce to local food pantries. The farm is managed by three staff members, and most of the farm work is done by volunteers. Produce is donated for distribution to community members facing food insecurity.

Carissa O'Neill (with husband Justin O'Neill) volunteers at JK Community Farm in Purcellville, Virginia. Photo provided

How did you first get started with this volunteer activity? How long have you been doing it?

I had never worked on a farm before! But I like to work with my hands, have a great desire to learn about growing and harvesting food, and there are a good number of small farms around this part of Virginia. I found JK Community Farm when I was looking for farming jobs one day. I didn’t find a job that made sense for me, but volunteering has been a great alternative. I’ve been doing it since 2021. It's a great way to get outside, and what a boost to know that you're helping someone get access to fresh fruit and vegetables.

What's a typical day look like when you volunteer at the farm? How many different crops have you harvested?

I spend a few hours a month there, usually on a Saturday or Sunday. When you get there, you gather with the other volunteers and wait for one of the staff members to assign you a task. They take time to show you how to do it, and off you go! I've helped harvest produce like potatoes, asparagus, and sunflowers, and I've planted crops like onion and bell peppers.

O'Neill did not have any prior experience working on a farm, but she wanted to learn about growing and harvesting food. Photo provided

What has been the most memorable experience you’ve had in this volunteer work?

Harvesting asparagus for the food banks—I never knew how it grew, or that it can regrow itself from the stalk you cut.

What lessons have you learned?

I’ve learned the importance of addressing the lack of fresh produce available for those who need food assistance. Of course, food banks have shelf-stable items, but what a blessing to also have fresh fruit and veggies to offer.

What else do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I also love to sew, cross stitch, watch television, and do escape rooms.

Did you know? George Mason’s Greenhouse and Gardens Program offers volunteer opportunities for students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members. The program partners with the Patriot Pantry to help address food insecurity within the George Mason student population. Volunteers grow food sustainably, harvest and distribute produce, and more. Visit the University Sustainability website for more information.

Nominate someone for Off the Clock

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Meet the Mason Nation: Mihee Cho

Colleen Rich — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 12:19:13 +0000

Meet the Mason Nation: Mihee Cho Colleen Rich Thu, 06/20/2024 - 08:19

Name: Mihee Cho

Job: Assistant Manager for Student Involvement and Leadership Development, Mason Korea

Mihee Cho, assistant manager of student involvement and leadership development in Mason Korea’s University Life Office. Photo provided

Mihee Cho has been working at ��AV Korea almost as long as the campus has existed. In June 2015, just one year after the campus opened, she started working as an administrative assistant in the Office of Academic and Student Affairs. Currently, Cho serves as the assistant manager of student involvement and leadership development in Mason Korea’s University Life Office, managing its daily operations and programming for students.

Time overseas. “My interest in working higher education sparked during my time as an international student in the United States,” said Cho. She earned a master’s degree in educational technology from Missouri State.

Home away from home. Joining a campus community as an international student gave Cho a unique perspective. “Being part of the campus community, both receiving assistance and offering support to fellow international students, was incredibly rewarding,” said Cho. “I discovered the value of creating a welcoming and supportive environment for students adjusting to life abroad.”

Paying it forward. Cho saw the opportunity to work at Mason Korea as a chance to share the knowledge and experiences she had gained as an international student. "I wanted to create a similar supportive atmosphere for students at Mason Korea, helping them navigate the challenges of studying in a new country and encouraging their involvement in campus life,” said Cho.

As of April 2024, approximately 1,000 undergraduate students study at Mason Korea, and 40% of them live on campus. International students compose approximately 14% of the study body.

Hearing student voices. Part of Cho’s job is ensuring that students have a dynamic campus experience. She collaborates with student involvement groups, including the Patriot Activities Council, Student Government, The Voice—the official student-run English media outlet), and n-Lingual, a student-led organization for language and cultural exchange.

Cho also assists in planning university-wide events like Mason Day and provides strengths advising as a certified strengths coach.

Ideas always flow. Working on a university campus, Cho values the exposure to new ideas and perspectives. “Being surrounded by students, professors, and staff from diverse backgrounds fosters an intellectually stimulating atmosphere,” she said.

No two days are the same. Interacting with students, faculty, and staff from diverse backgrounds and cultures is one of Cho’s favorite parts of her job. “Being part of an international community like Mason Korea offers a rich and dynamic environment for learning and collaboration,” said Cho.

Finding her own strengths. Cho has also enjoyed the chance to expand her own skills and help students in new ways. Becoming a certified strengths coach has enhanced the support Cho can offer students as they explore their abilities and develop their leadership potential.

Outside work, Cho enjoys traveling and listening to different genres of music. She also enjoys exploring the artsy cafes around Mason Korea’s campus.

Learn more about Mason Korea

Meet more of the Mason Nation

Meet the Mason Nation: Mihee Cho
June 19, 2024
Meet the Mason Nation: Kevin Brim
April 26, 2024
Meet the Mason Nation: Rachel Wernicke, associate dean and chief mental health officer
February 23, 2024
Meet the Mason Nation: Doug McKenna, University Registrar
January 12, 2024
Meet the Mason Nation: Will Gautney, assistant master electrician and Staff Senate chair
October 20, 2023

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Faculty and Staff News

Mason Korea

University Life

Meet the Mason Nation

George Mason creates more spaces for students to gather with new building

Colleen Rich — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 20:18:30 +0000

George Mason creates more spaces for students to gather with new building Colleen Rich Mon, 06/03/2024 - 16:18

��AV broke ground on the Activities Community Wellness Building on the Fairfax Campus on Monday morning. The facility is designed to enhance campus life by providing a gathering place for students to engage with each other and deepen their sense of belonging at the university.

Professor Michael "Doc Nix" Nickens takes a selfie during the groundbreaking of the Activities Community Wellness Building. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

The groundbreaking featured remarks from George Mason President Gregory Washington, representatives from Facilities and University Life, and associate professor of music Michael “Doc Nix” Nickens, leader of the Green Machine band ensembles.

“This is truly a students-come-first building,” said Rose Pascarell, vice president for University Life. “It’s really about listening to the needs of students who have consistently said to us: ‘We want more space to gather. We want to be able to come together more easily. We want to engage with each other.’ Which is exactly what we know is part of the magic sauce of George Mason and actually the secret sauce of student success and student retention.”

The groundbreaking featured remarks from George Mason President Gregory Washington, representatives from Facilities and University Life, and Professor Michael “Doc Nix” Nickens. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

The 25,000-square-foot concrete and tension fabric structure, to be located behind the Recreation Athletic Complex, will be built by Hoar Construction in partnership with Powers Brown Architecture and civil engineer IMEG Corp. and is scheduled for completion in 2025. The $11 million building will feature two full-sized basketball courts and meeting spaces for the university's 350-plus student groups, and it also will provide practice space for the Green Machine.

“If anything personifies our students, our diversity, our rich heritage, our innovation, our spirit, it actually is the Green Machine,” Washington said. “So having that entity have a focal point, a centerpiece, a gathering point, a rallying point, is probably one of the most important things we can do.”

Nickens, who fought back tears during his brief remarks, is thrilled that his ensembles will now have a space they can call home.

“If you think we have delivered so far, you wait till we move [into] this spot,” Nickens said, motioning to the construction site, pierced moments later by a line of gold shovels.

Learn more about the Green Machine

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Student Health Services’ designation for LGBTQ+ health care practices is the latest recognition of George Mason’s inclusive campus environment

Shayla Brown — Thu, 30 May 2024 16:51:55 +0000

Student Health Services’ designation for LGBTQ+ health care practices is the latest recognition of George Mason’s inclusive campus environment Shayla Brown Thu, 05/30/2024 - 12:51

��AV’s Student Health Services (SHS) is one of 462 health care facilities to receive the “LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality High Performer” designation from the Human Rights Campaign Foundation's 2024 Healthcare Equality Index. 

“Medicine in general has a significant history of systemic inequality, so one of the big focuses of my job is to make sure that we are addressing those inequalities and promoting health equity,” said Megan Symanowitz, SHS’s Access to Research and Inclusive Excellence health equity lead nurse. “SHS is very enthusiastic about supporting our LGBTQ+ students and learning more about how to better serve that population.”

This year was George Mason’s first time applying for the designation, said Symanowitz.

Megan Symanowitz. Photo provided.

“It's something we've been working on at the clinic for years now in collaboration with the LGBTQ+ Resource Center and George Mason’s School of Nursing. They've really helped us to identify areas where we needed to serve this community better,” said Symanowitz, who is also an alumna of the School of Nursing.

For example, acknowledging the pronouns and chosen name of every individual is one area where staff received input and made improvements, she said.

“The center guided us in making in our electronic medical health records, so people are able to self-identify their sexuality, and trans or nonbinary statuses if they want,” said Symanowitz.

“That way from the very first time we interact with a student, we’re addressing them correctly and they're not constantly having to explain themselves.”

Their team also conducts Safe Zone training, name change clinics, trans health workshops, and provides regular updates on the best health practices for the LGBTQ+ community.

This designation, which exemplifies how George Mason facilities go above and beyond the average health care practices of LGBTQ+ patient care in higher education, is one of several inclusive recognitions George Mason has received.

Last year, George Mason was one of 30 universities in the United States and the only Virginia-based institute to be awarded a “best of the best” ranking by Campus Pride.

George Mason also received a five-star Premiere Campus ranking by the Campus Pride Index, the highest possible ranking, said Josh Kinchen, director of LGBTQ+ Resources Center.

According to Forbes Advisor, George Mason is the #1 online LGBTQ+ friendly college of 2024.

Mary Lucal. Photo provided.

“Student Health Services' recent designation, coupled with Forbes Advisor naming us the top LGBTQ-friendly university, really speaks to the efforts of our faculty, staff, and students in making George Mason a place where everyone can be their authentic selves,” said Mary Lucal, vice president and chief human resources officer at George Mason.

As of August 2023, George Mason is one of 20 Division-I institutions to achieve a score of 100 on the Athletic Equity Index, in part due to efforts of the George Mason Athletics LGBTQ+ Student-Athlete Group.

“We often collaborate with athletics and offices like the resources center to expand our audience,” said Jake Kornfeld, a senior government international politics major and co-president of Pride Alliance, a registered student organization of George Mason.

“Our main goal is to provide safe spaces for healing and asking questions,” he said.

For example, the Pride Alliance organized an event where former Harvard swimmer Schuyler Bailar, the first transgender athlete to compete in on a NCAA Division I men’s team, came to speak at George Mason’s Fairfax Campus.

“He’s from the [D.C.] area, and he swam at George Mason’s pool as a kid. He shared his story about being a trans athlete. That was something that was really meaningful for a lot of people at George Mason,” said Kornfeld.

Josh Kinchen. Photo provided.

Collaborative efforts across different offices, affinity groups, and departments show George Mason’s commitment to the LGBTQ+ community and to promoting inclusivity and diversity.

Other resources for the health and safety of the LGBTQ+ community at George Mason include the LGBTQ+ Peer Mentoring Program, LGBTQ+ residential Learning Community, and the Safe Zone+ Workshop Series among others.

“What we want is for families and students to be able to choose George Mason as a place where they feel that they can be academically successful while also being who they are without fear of violence or discrimination, and thrive in their identity,” said Kinchen.

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Student Health 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.

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Faculty and Staff News

Employee of the Month

Human Resources

University Business Consulting

University Life

Spring into Well-Being Week 2024: Blossoming into the best version of you

Lauren Reuscher — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 14:40:10 +0000

Spring into Well-Being Week 2024: Blossoming into the best version of you Lauren Reuscher Wed, 04/17/2024 - 10:40

��AV’s annual Spring into Well-Being week emphasizes well-being and happiness through diverse experiences. Mason will host its annual week promoting well-being from Monday, April 22, to Friday, April 26, featuring events designed to embrace individual and community well-being. Activities will include Stress Less Fest, Meditation on Wheels, the Graduate Student Picnic, and Mason Day, with many others in between.

Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

"Spring into Well-Being offers a week of recognition and events dedicated to delving into well-being, making it especially valuable for those new to the concept,” said Lewis E. Forrest II, associate dean for University Life. “It’s an opportunity to deepen understanding and cultivate a lasting impact on individuals within the Mason community.”

Meditation on Wheels is a new activity making its way to Mason’s Fairfax Campus this year. A meditation mobile unit, Meditation on Wheels aims to make meditation accessible and convenient to all persons, including those who may not have easy access to traditional meditation centers. This program highlights the importance of self-care and encouraging people to pause, breathe, and connect with themselves and others through meditation practice.

Well-being at Mason is defined as building a life of vitality, purpose, resilience, and engagement. The university works to nurture a culture where individuals are equipped with knowledge and skills essential for thriving beyond their time at Mason. Well-being is viewed as a multidimensional concept, encompassing physical, emotional, and social aspects, providing individuals with a sense of purpose, belonging, and fulfillment.

Spring into Well-Being will happen at Mason from April 22–26. Photo provided

“Mason’s goal is to ensure that every participant not only understands but also internalizes and implements the core concepts of well-being into their journey moving forward,” said Forrest, who has spearheaded the Spring into Well-Being program since 2015. Mason’s well-being leaders are committed to uplifting an environment that supports this goal by highlighting a wealth of on- and off-campus resources tailored to the Mason community throughout the week.

Kye Hopkins, a senior success coach and the 2024 co-chair for this year’s event, emphasized the impact of well-being initiatives, noting how Mason’s resources and support have helped him maintain balance and resilience.

"Spring into Well-Being Week is a key part of fostering a culture of self-care, support, and empowerment,” Hopkins said.

Spring into Well-Being events are open to students, faculty, and staff. Photo provided

Through collaboration with the Center for the Advancement of Well-Being, Mason aims to engage students, faculty, and staff in promoting a culture of wellness. The positivity around campus is inspiring, and Hopkins said he is eager to see the continued growth of well-being activities on campus.

Activities like Spring into Well-Being enable the Mason Nation to celebrate its diverse culture and advance the mission of thriving together as a community. Whether participants are well-versed in well-being practices or just beginning their journey, the week serves as a reminder to prioritize well-being and take a step toward a healthier and happier lifestyle.

More about Spring into Well-Being

Learn about the Center for the Advancement of Well-Being

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Campus News

Mason maintains elite free speech 'green light' in latest FIRE ratings

Colleen Rich — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 16:26:37 +0000

Mason maintains elite free speech 'green light' in latest FIRE ratings Colleen Rich Mon, 02/26/2024 - 11:26

��AV has retained its “green light” rating from the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) and College Pulse, the organization’s highest rating for free speech protection. The foundation also had previously ranked George Mason as No. 8 in the nation for protecting free speech rights.

Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

FIRE, a nonprofit organization promoting free speech rights on U.S. college campuses, recently released updated ratings in its 2024 Spotlight on Speech Codes. In the report, the organization rated 489 of America’s top colleges and universities based on how much their policies encourage or threaten student speech.

Mason’s “green light” status is the highest rating the organization offers, requiring the university have no policies that seriously threaten student speech. Only 12.9% of schools received this rating.

This survey is the largest one ever performed on free speech on college campuses, according to the foundation’s website.

“��AV is committed to free expression and the pursuit of intellectual and cultural dialogue on its campus and in its classrooms. Freedom of speech and care for our community go hand-in-hand as we build the Mason community together, where all students can thrive,” said Rose Pascarell, vice president for University Life.

Following the outbreak of hostilities in Israel and Gaza, Mason developed the Patriot Plan for Community Safety and Well-being as a guide to exercising free speech, according to university policies and code of conduct, while ensuring community safety.

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Mason honored for an innovative approach to serving contemporary students

Lauren Reuscher — Wed, 31 Jan 2024 20:50:17 +0000

Mason honored for an innovative approach to serving contemporary students Lauren Reuscher Wed, 01/31/2024 - 15:50

More about Contemporary Student Services

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Contemporary Student Services

��AV’s Contemporary Student Services has been recognized by the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA), a leading voice for student affairs, for its innovative approach to serving post-traditional and off-campus students.

Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

Contemporary Student Services (CSS), part of University Life, earned the Bronze Excellence Award for supporting success in "Commuter, Off Campus, Military-Affiliated, Non-Traditional, and Other" student populations. Mason’s approach to serving these students sets it apart from other institutions of higher education. The CSS office launched in 2019 as a first-of-its-kind unit dedicated to serving the multifaceted identities of contemporary students at Mason.

The choice to include a variety of post-traditional student populations under one umbrella was intentional. At Mason, “contemporary students” include those who are adult learners (25 and older), living off-campus, transfer students, married/widowed/divorced, veteran or military-affiliated, returning to college after taking three or more years off, pregnant or parenting, or previously in the foster-care system. The definition is flexible and may continue to grow.

“Contemporary Student Services provides the latitude to evolve alongside our student population and remain flexible and inclusive,” said Joisanne Rodgers, director of Contemporary Student Services. “Mason didn't take the path of creating individual units to serve specific contemporary populations, because most contemporary students hold more than one of those identities—for example, they're a military-affiliated student parent living off-campus. The Venn diagram of contemporary student identities has a lot of intersections.”

Kids Zone in the Contemporary Student Lounge. Photo by Joisanne Rodgers/Contemporary Student Services

The Contemporary Student Lounge, in The Hub on the Fairfax Campus, is a place of refuge and support for these students. The space includes a well-equipped Kid’s Zone with age-appropriate furnishings, books, and activities. The lounge is staffed with contemporary student employees and peer mentors who help serve these students and connect them to the broader Mason community. The space has proven to be a vital resource. Last year, the lounge relocated to a larger space to accommodate the growing number of students using it.

"It's a great privilege to work with a team of innovators who not only put our students first, but also work incredibly hard to ensure we're seeing and recognizing the unique students in front of us,” Rodgers said. “The contemporary student population at Mason keeps growing, and we're honored to be part of the support network and village that advocates, celebrates, educates, and serves our contemporary students.”

Mason will be formally recognized for its work in Contemporary Student Services at the NASPA annual conference in March. View the complete list of awardees.

Mason partners with Opportunity Scholars to create pathways for student success

Colleen Rich — Mon, 29 Jan 2024 16:31:24 +0000

Mason partners with Opportunity Scholars to create pathways for student success Colleen Rich Mon, 01/29/2024 - 11:31

Talent may be equally distributed, but the same can’t always be said for opportunities.

From left, David Burge, Trishana E. Bowden, Stephen Cumbie, Fred Thompson and J. Knox Singleton. Seated, Rose Pascarell and Rachel Schaefer. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

That’s why ��AV and the like-minded Opportunity Scholars program have teamed up to provide additional pathways to success for students to position them for higher education degrees and critical workforce training.

The two organizations signed a memorandum of understanding on Jan. 23 outlining plans to coordinate efforts and find ways to work together to help more primarily underrepresented students earn meaningful postsecondary credentials in a high-demand economic sector.

The aim of the collaboration is to encourage long-term success and create economic mobility.

“We have so many of the same goals and aspirations, so I’m very excited about the partnership and very excited about what we can do collaboratively,” said Rose Pascarell, Mason’s vice president for University Life.

Fred Thompson, cofounder of Opportunity Scholars and a member of Mason’s Board of Trustees, said his organization’s mission and that of Mason are perfectly aligned.

“We’ve got the same vision and the same clientele,” Thompson said. “The only way we can give low-income students, many of whom are from underrepresented groups, the opportunity to succeed is by working together as partners.”

Much like some of Mason’s signature programs such as ADVANCE or Early Identification Program (EIP), Opportunity Scholars provides a low-cost pathway to graduate with dual enrollment classes, exams, postsecondary education and training, textbooks and other expenses associated with education. The nonprofit organization, which was found in 2019, also provides financial and academic support to students who lack the resources to obtain technical certifications and college degrees that lead to high-demand jobs.

Through the partnership, Mason will provide additional training about Opportunity Scholars to its students and staff, while collaborating with staff from Opportunity Scholars on relevant events and opportunities at Mason that will help increase student success, including admissions, financial aid, student success coaching, and career services among other things.

Trishana E. Bowden, Mason’s vice president for Advancement and Alumni Relations and the president of the ��AV Foundation, lauded the partnership’s “dedication to students who will be change agents in their lives and that of their families.”

Opportunity Scholars Chief Executive Officer Rachel Schaefer said the partnership is as much as about helping people coming into Mason as it is to make sure that all students are afforded opportunity.

“It’s about helping kids be their best and be successful,” she said.

Join the Mason Nation

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9/11 Day of Service was a day of reflection and community service—for all ages

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Off the Clock: Volunteering at a community farm, Carissa O’Neill is a good seed

How did you first get started with this volunteer activity? How long have you been doing it?

What's a typical day look like when you volunteer at the farm? How many different crops have you harvested?

What has been the most memorable experience you’ve had in this volunteer work?

What lessons have you learned?

What else do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

Read more faculty and staff news

Nominate someone for Off the Clock

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Meet the Mason Nation: Mihee Cho

Name: Mihee Cho

Job: Assistant Manager for Student Involvement and Leadership Development, Mason Korea

Learn more about Mason Korea

Meet more of the Mason Nation

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George Mason creates more spaces for students to gather with new building

Learn more about the Green Machine

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Student Health Services’ designation for LGBTQ+ health care practices is the latest recognition of George Mason’s inclusive campus environment

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Silke Vrouletis is May Employee of the Month

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Spring into Well-Being Week 2024: Blossoming into the best version of you

More about Spring into Well-Being

Learn about the Center for the Advancement of Well-Being

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Mason maintains elite free speech 'green light' in latest FIRE ratings

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Mason honored for an innovative approach to serving contemporary students

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Mason partners with Opportunity Scholars to create pathways for student success

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