Around Mason (E-Files)

Around Mason: Week of Jan. 21, 2025

Lauren Reuscher — Fri, 17 Jan 2025 18:29:14 +0000

Around Mason: Week of Jan. 21, 2025 Lauren Reuscher Fri, 01/17/2025 - 13:29

Faculty/Staff Announcements

Have something to share? Review announcement guidelines and submit an announcement from your unit through the online form.

Campus Updates

Attend a Dining Contractor Presentation

Help shape the future of Mason Dining! You're invited to attend a 90-minute presentation with one of the university's prospective dining contractors. Space is limited. If you would like to attend, complete this interest form by Friday, Jan. 24, at noon. If there is more interest than seats available, participants will be randomly selected. Participants will be notified about which session(s) they will attend.

Outstanding Achievement Awards: Nominate a Colleague

The ceremony will be hosted on Tuesday, April 15, on the Fairfax Campus. Nominations for many awards are due on Friday, Feb. 21. Visit the webpage. For any inquiries, contact awards@gmu.edu.

Parking and Transportation Updates for Spring Semester

Mason Shuttles Schedules for Spring Semester

Mason Shuttles serve the Fairfax Campus, Mason Square, SciTech Campus, Vienna Metro station, and more. Mason Shuttles service is free for students, faculty, and staff with a valid Mason ID. Visitors are not currently permitted. Find out more about shuttle service and spring semester schedules.

Register for Homecoming 2025

How C-SPAN Changed Our World

Mark Rozell, dean of the Schar School of Policy and Government, will interview Lamb, one of the United States’ preeminent contributors to the communications and documentation fields.

Support for Duo Mobile Application on iOS 15 Ending

Duo Security, George Mason’s provider for 2FA, has announced it will end support for the Duo Mobile application on iOS 15 effective Monday, Feb. 17, 2025. Users with this operating system have been notified about the change. This change means users will not be able to troubleshoot issues or receive maintenance fixes or security updates on devices running iOS 15 and lower; however, users can still authenticate and receive passcodes.

To receive full support, users should upgrade to iOS 16 or later. For assistance, contact the ITS Support Center at 703-993-8870 or submit a request ticket.

James Buchanan and Vernon Smith Seminar

George Mason's Department of Economics invites the university community to the James Buchanan and Vernon Smith Seminar on Thursday, Feb. 6, at 5 p.m. The seminar and reception will take place on the Fairfax Campus in the Johnson Center Bistro (located on the ground floor).

This seminar series is designed to appeal to a broad audience. Gregory Clark, Danish National Research Council professor of economics at the University of Southern Denmark, will present "For Whom the Bell Curve Tolls: The Role of Genetics in Social Life, England, 1600–2024." Learn more.

Training and Professional Development

UNIV Faculty Application

UNIV 100 supports first year students by focusing on resources and opportunities available to them at George Mason. To learn more about this rewarding teaching experience, visit the website.

Nominations for the David J. King Award

The David J. King Teaching Award is given annually to a faculty member who has made significant, long-term contributions (over the course of 20 years or more) to the educational excellence of the university. Read more and nominate a colleague by Feb. 12, 2025. Contact the Stearns Center for Teaching and Learning with questions.

Facilitating Inclusive Practices: Become an ASPIRE facilitator

The Office for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion seeks to equip George Mason faculty and staff with the tools and knowledge to lead impactful workshops that foster inclusive workplace environments. Faculty and staff are invited to receive training and become facilitators for the ASPIRE workshops. Through two half-day sessions in March 2025, faculty and staff will gain a strong understanding of the ASPIRE workshop content, key principles of learner-centered approaches, and effective strategies for engaging participants.

New facilitators will receive personalized mentorship throughout their first few sessions, ensuring they feel confident and well-prepared as they take on their facilitation roles. This opportunity provides a platform for professional growth and empowers facilitators to make a lasting impact by advancing inclusive practices within their teams and across the university. Contact Aimee Weinstein with questions.

Call for Proposals—Reclaiming History: Islam and Cultural Patrimony in the 21st Century

For its annual conference, the AbuSulayman Center for Global Islamic Studies at George Mason is calling for papers to address the phenomenon of cultural destruction with an eye to understanding the nature of such loss in places such as, but not limited to Afghanistan, Bosnia, China, Gaza, India, Iraq, Lebanon, Mali, Myanmar, the Palestinian Territories, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen, as well those efforts to redress the crimes of looting and to restore cultural patrimony as an act of reconciliation. More information can be found on the website. Note: The deadline has been extended to Monday, Feb. 3.

Resources for You

George Mason Night with the Washington Capitals

Join the ��AV Alumni Association for a pregame reception at Clyde's Gallery Place before the hockey game on Thursday, March 20. Learn more.

Patriot Packout’s ‘New Year, New Me’ Free Store

Attend as many times as you want. Bring your friends.
Choose from any of the items you need—for free!
Donation items are accepted but not required.

The store will be open for shopping and donations on Wednesday, Jan. 29, and Thursday, Jan. 30, from 11 a.m. to midnight at The Ridge, located between Blueridge and Sandbridge halls on the Fairfax Campus. Learn more about Patriot Packout.

Upcoming Performances and Arts Events at George Mason

American Roots Series: Graham Breedlove Group
Saturday, Jan. 25, at 5 p.m.
SciTech Campus, Hylton Center, Gregory Family Theater
Called “one of the most exciting trumpet players on the planet” (International Trumpet Guild Journal), Graham Breedlove brings his quintet for an exhilarating program of music. Just in time for Mardi Gras, Breedlove, a native of south Louisiana, is joined by fellow members of the Dewberry School of Music faculty to perform a mix of traditional New Orleans music, modern jazz, and original tunes.

Silkroad Ensemble
Saturday, Jan. 25, at 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Returning for a third year as a Mason Artist-in-Residence, Grammy Award-winning music collective Silkroad Ensemble presents this world premiere showcase of all-star percussionists and musical storytelling through the exchange of rhythm, pulse, and melody from different musical traditions around the world. Formed by Yo-Yo Ma and now led by Pulitzer Prize-winning multi-instrumentalist Rhiannon Giddens, Silkroad Ensemble will engage the community and students during its residency through a variety of events, classes, and discussions.

Keyboard Conversations® with Jeffrey Siegel: Dances for the Ears
Sunday, Jan. 26, at 7 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Enjoy the rhythmically captivating music of Bach, Chopin, Beethoven, and Spanish composers Enrique Granados and Manuel de Falla, in Jeffrey Siegel’s next program of Keyboard Conversations. Siegel is “a pianist with a bravura technique and a big, gorgeous sound . . . and when the artist himself offers the inside scoop, the musical experience becomes vastly more personal” (Denver Post). The program will conclude with a short Q&A with the audience.

George Mason School of Theater: Mason Cabaret 2025
Jan. 31 to Feb 2, multiple performances – Fairfax Campus, Harris Theatre
Friday, Feb. 7, at 8 p.m. – SciTech Campus, Hylton Center, Gregory Family Theater
In this beloved annual event, stellar student vocalists bring their talents to the stage, celebrating some of the biggest and brightest names in music and theater. In this year’s performance, they will shine the spotlight on the work of legendary Broadway director and producer Hal Prince. A devoted collaborator of Stephen Sondheim’s, the treasure trove of Prince’s work includes Fiddler on the Roof, She Loves Me, West Side Story, Sweeney Todd, Evita, and Phantom of the Opera, among many more. See the School of Theater’s bright young stars and discover the talented performers who could be Broadway’s next big hitmakers.

Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra with Branford Marsalis
Saturday, Feb. 1, at 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Grammy Award-winning saxophonist Branford Marsalis joins the Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra in this special concert. An exceptionally versatile musician, Marsalis is a band leader, featured classical soloist, and composer. Marsalis has performed with acclaimed orchestras around the world, and his legendary performances with the Grateful Dead and collaborations with Sting have made him a fan favorite in the pop arena. As a composer, Marsalis has scored films including Spike Lee’s Mo’ Better Blues, The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, and the recent Netflix film Rustin. The Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra is made up of the D.C. area’s finest musicians and is led by founder, artistic director, and virtuoso alto saxophonist Jim Carroll. This performance will also feature vocalist Darden Purcell, George Mason’s jazz program director.

Virginia Opera: The Constitution and Loving v. Virginia
Thursday, Feb. 6, at 7 p.m.
Off-campus: Stacy C. Sherwood Community Center (3740 Blenheim Boulevard, Fairfax, Virginia 22030)
In support of Virginia Opera’s world premiere production of Loving v. Virginia, this legal panel discusses the origins, challenges, and significance of the 1967 Supreme Court ruling that struck down state laws banning marriage between individuals of different races. Panel participants will include Mary Bauer, executive director of ACLU-VA, as well as other constitutional scholars, active attorneys and/or judges, and experts. A brief Q & A session will follow the discussion. This event is co-presented by the City of Fairfax and Center for the Arts at ��AV and offered in conjunction with the Center for the Arts at ��AV’s May 3–4 performances of the world premiere opera.

Spring Comedy Headliner: Sarah Sherman
Thursday, Feb. 6, at 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Sarah Sherman, a.k.a. Sarah Squirm, is currently a featured player on Saturday Night Live. She co-stars with Adam Sandler in the Netflix film, You Are SO Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah! Sherman is known for her popular live show, Helltrap Nightmare. Sherman previously opened for Eric André on his national tour and wrote for The Eric André Show.

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. “A stylistic smorgasbord” (New Yorker) representing the diverse experiences of the BIPOC communities of Los Angeles, the group’s unique blend of choreography and freestyle elements provides an “uplifting and joyous” (Maryland Theatre Guide) experience that will have its audience grooving and moving. 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.

Announcement Guidelines

Submit an Announcement

Topics

Around Mason: Week of Jan. 14, 2025

Lauren Reuscher — Fri, 10 Jan 2025 18:52:22 +0000

Around Mason: Week of Jan. 14, 2025 Lauren Reuscher Fri, 01/10/2025 - 13:52

Faculty/Staff Announcements

Have something to share? Review announcement guidelines and submit an announcement from your unit through the online form.

Campus Updates

Parking Permit Sales for Spring 2025 Semester

Spring semester parking permits are available for purchase online via the Parking Portal. Learn more about parking options and rates. Note: Faculty and staff enrolled in payroll deduction for their parking permits do not need to take any action.

As a reminder, most parking permits are virtual permits. Permit holders will not be issued or mailed physical hangtag permits. Your license plate serves as your permit, and your permit will be valid once purchased.

Follow the instructions to add and change the vehicles associated with your parking permit. Note: your license plate must be associated with your permit, not just your parking account. For questions, contact Parking Services at 703-993-2710 or parking@gmu.edu.

Presentations by Print and Mail Vendor Finalists

Vendors competing to provide George Mason with print fleet, copy center, and mail services will present their proposals in January. The university community is invited to attend virtual presentations by the finalists on the following dates:

Thursday, Jan. 9, from 2–4 p.m. (Canon)
Tuesday, Jan. 14, from 3–5 p.m. (Excela)
Wednesday, Jan. 15, from 10 a.m. to noon (IST)
Friday, Jan. 17, from 1–3 p.m. (MCS)

Questions? Contact Buz Grover, Auxiliary Services and Operations, at 703-993-5784 or via email.

Register for Homecoming 2025

James Buchanan and Vernon Smith Seminar

Training and Professional Development

New Year, New Goals: How Workplace Coaching Can Help You Succeed

The new year is the perfect time to reflect, set goals, and take action toward achieving them. George Mason’s Workplace Coaching Program is here to support you with a self-motivated, future-focused approach to gain clarity, build confidence, and reach your personal and professional potential. Workplace coaching offers:

Personalized guidance to break through barriers and create meaningful change
Strategies for success in communication, time management, decision-making, and more
Flexible, no-cost sessions designed to meet your unique goals

Kickstart your growth journey. Learn more and sign up to start 2025 with purpose and momentum.

Resources for You

Well-Being Book Discussion Group for Faculty/Staff

Join the Center for the Advancement of Well-Being for a ProjectConnect faculty/staff book discussion group. The group will meet virtually on Friday, Feb. 21, from noon to 1 p.m. The group will discuss The Other Significant Others: Reimagining Life with Friendship at the Center by Rhaina Cohen. A free copy of the book will be provided to read after you register. Learn more and sign up by Thursday, Jan. 16.

Mini Hackathon: Innovate for Peace with Tech

Faculty and staff, encourage your students to participate in an exciting mini-hackathon hosted by the Young Women’s Peacebuilding Fellowship on June 11 at Mason Square. Participants will listen to fellows pitch bold ideas that merge peacebuilding and technology, vote for the project that inspires them most, and collaborate with like-minded tech enthusiasts to bring the vision to life, guided by a fellow as the program lead.

The winning team will receive courtside tickets to a George Mason basketball game. Those interested should email Megan Jeans by Jan. 31. This event is sponsored by the Carter School Center for Peace Tech.

Upcoming Performances and Arts Events at George Mason

Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra with Branford Marsalis
Saturday, Feb. 1, at 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Grammy Award-winning saxophonist Branford Marsalis joins the Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra in this special concert. An exceptionally versatile musician, Marsalis is a band leader, featured classical soloist, and composer. Marsalis has performed with acclaimed orchestras around the world, and his legendary performances with the Grateful Dead and collaborations with Sting have made him a fan favorite in the pop arena. As a composer, Marsalis has scored films including Spike Lee’s Mo’ Better Blues, The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, and the recent Netflix film Rustin. The Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra is made up of the D.C. area’s finest musicians and is led by founder, artistic director, and virtuoso alto saxophonist Jim Carroll. This performance will also feature vocalist Darden Purcell, George Mason’s jazz program director.

Announcement Guidelines

Submit an Announcement

Topics

Around Mason: Week of Jan. 7, 2025

Lauren Reuscher — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 17:07:56 +0000

Around Mason: Week of Jan. 7, 2025 Lauren Reuscher Fri, 12/20/2024 - 12:07

Faculty/Staff Announcements

Have something to share? Review announcement guidelines and submit an announcement from your unit through the online form.

Campus Updates

Presentations by Print and Mail Vendor Finalists

Questions? Contact Buz Grover, Auxiliary Services and Operations, at 703-993-5784 or via email.

Register for Homecoming 2025

The Mason Nation is invited to celebrate Homecoming from Jan. 31 to Feb. 8. Show your Brave and Bold school spirit as we invite you to reminisce and share the experiences with your friends and family. View the schedule of events.

West Campus Town Hall: Watch the Recording

In December, George Mason hosted a community conversation regarding the university’s West Campus development. Community members were invited to share their thoughts and ideas regarding concepts for the development, campus and community needs, and opportunities for collaboration. Watch the video recording. Contact Traci Kendall, Community and Local Government Relations, with questions.

��AV Alumni Association’s 2025 Celebration of Distinction: Nomination Form

Support for Duo Mobile Application on iOS 15 Ending

Duo Security, George Mason’s provider for 2FA, has announced it will end support for the Duo Mobile application on iOS 15 effective Monday, Feb. 17. Users with this operating system have been notified about the change. This change means users will not be able to troubleshoot issues or receive maintenance fixes or security updates on devices running iOS 15 and lower; however, users can still authenticate and receive passcodes.

To receive full support, users should upgrade to iOS 16 or later. For assistance, contact the ITS Support Center at 703-993-8870 or submit a request ticket.

Nominations for the David J. King Award

The David J. King Teaching Award is given annually to a faculty member who has made significant, long-term contributions (over the course of 20 years or more) to the educational excellence of the university. Read more and nominate a colleague by Feb. 12. Contact the Stearns Center for Teaching and Learning with questions.

Training and Professional Development

New Adjunct Faculty Success Workshop

The virtual New Adjunct Faculty Success Workshop is happening on Saturday, Jan. 11. Designed to support new adjunct faculty, this workshop offers valuable resources, professional development opportunities, and a welcoming introduction to the George Mason community. Register.

Note: New adjunct faculty hires must be entered into BANNER to obtain their faculty ID and NetID and participate in important Blackboard and Patriot Web training on the day of the workshop. For more information, visit the Adjunct Faculty Success Workshop webpage.

For questions, contact Faculty Affairs and Development at facaffs@gmu.edu. Thank you for your support in helping new adjunct faculty thrive at George Mason!

Calls for Proposals: 4-VA@Mason

��AV faculty interested in pursuing a novel research project in conjunction with colleagues at one of nine other 4-VA schools in Virginia are encouraged to respond to the annual 4-VA@Mason Collaborative Research Grants calls for proposals.

These grants of up to $20,000 are designed to facilitate and support alliances which leverage the strengths of each partner university to improve efficiencies in research and higher education, reduce working in silos, and provide hands-on experiential learning opportunities for students. Visit the website for more information.

Facilitating Inclusive Practices: Become an ASPIRE facilitator

The Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion seeks to equip George Mason faculty and staff with the tools and knowledge to lead impactful workshops that foster inclusive workplace environments. Faculty and staff are invited to receive training and become facilitators for the ASPIRE workshops. Through two half-day sessions in March, faculty and staff will gain a strong understanding of the ASPIRE workshop content, key principles of learner-centered approaches, and effective strategies for engaging participants.

Resources for You

New Year, New Goals: How Workplace Coaching Can Help You Succeed

Workplace coaching offers:

Personalized guidance to break through barriers and create meaningful change
Strategies for success in communication, time management, decision-making, and more
Flexible, no-cost sessions designed to meet your unique goals

Kickstart your growth journey. Learn more and sign up to start 2025 with purpose and momentum.

Mini Hackathon: Innovate for Peace with Tech

Annual Leave Rollover Reminder: Jan. 9 Deadline

As we approach the end of the leave year, faculty and staff are reminded that the annual leave carryover limit will be rolled over on Thursday, Jan. 9. Employees with leave balances exceeding the carryover limit must use their excess leave before Jan. 9 to avoid losing it. Coordinate time off with supervisors.

For more information on carryover limits, visit the Annual Leave webpage. Additionally, employees have the option to donate excess leave through the Leave Sharing Program. Contact hr@gmu.edu with questions.

Upcoming Performances and Arts Events at George Mason

U.S. Navy Band Commodores
45th International Saxophone Symposium
Saturday, Jan. 11
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
The 45th International Saxophone Symposium, hosted by the U.S. Navy Band, features over 150 performances, masterclasses and lectures designed for musicians of all ages. First hosted in 1978, the International Saxophone Symposium features world-renowned saxophonists while highlighting the prominence of the saxophone in both classical and jazz literature. Saturday night's concert presents the U.S. Navy Band Commodores jazz ensemble with special guest Will Vinson in an evening of big band and jazz music. This event is open to the public, and no tickets are required.

Silkroad Ensemble
Saturday, Jan. 25, at 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Returning for a third year as a Mason Artist-in-Residence, Grammy Award-winning music collective Silkroad Ensemble presents this world premiere showcase of all-star percussionists and musical storytelling through the exchange of rhythm, pulse, and melody from different musical traditions around the world. Formed by Yo-Yo Ma and now led by Pulitzer Prize winning multi-instrumentalist Rhiannon Giddens, Silkroad Ensemble will engage the community and students during its residency through a variety of events, classes, and discussions.

Keyboard Conversations® with Jeffrey Siegel: Dances for the Ears
Sunday, Jan. 26, at 7 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Enjoy the rhythmically captivating music of Bach, Chopin, Beethoven, and Spanish composers Enrique Granados and Manuel de Falla, in Jeffrey Siegel’s next program of Keyboard Conversations. Siegel is “a pianist with a bravura technique and a big, gorgeous sound…and when the artist himself offers the inside scoop, the musical experience becomes vastly more personal” (Denver Post). The program will conclude with a short Q&A with the audience.

George Mason School of Theater: Mason Cabaret 2025
Jan. 31 to Feb 2, multiple performances – Fairfax Campus, Harris Theatre
Friday, Feb. 7, at 8 p.m. – SciTech Campus, Hylton Center, Gregory Family Theater
In this beloved annual event, stellar student vocalists bring their talents to the stage, celebrating some of the biggest and brightest names in music and theater. In this year’s performance, we will shine the spotlight on the work of legendary Broadway director and producer Hal Prince. A devoted collaborator of Stephen Sondheim’s, the treasure trove of Prince’s work includes Fiddler on the Roof, She Loves Me, West Side Story, Sweeney Todd, Evita, and Phantom of the Opera, among many more. See the School of Theater’s bright young stars and discover the talented performers who could be Broadway’s next big hitmakers.

Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra with Branford Marsalis
Saturday, Feb. 1, at 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Grammy Award-winning saxophonist Branford Marsalis joins the Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra in this special concert. An exceptionally versatile musician, Marsalis is a band leader, featured classical soloist, and composer. Marsalis has performed with acclaimed orchestras around the world, and his legendary performances with the Grateful Dead and collaborations with Sting have made him a fan favorite in the pop arena. As a composer, Marsalis has scored films including Spike Lee’s Mo’ Better Blues, The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, and the recent Netflix film Rustin. The Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra is made up of the D.C.-area’s finest musicians and is led by founder, artistic director, and virtuoso alto saxophonist Jim Carroll. This performance will also feature vocalist Darden Purcell, George Mason’s jazz program director.

Family Series: Mike Super—Magic & Illusion
Sunday, Feb. 2, at 4 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
See America’s Got Talent finalist and “America’s Favorite Mystifier,” Mike Super, live on stage. Mike Super brings his immersive show of mind-blowing illusions to entertain and enthrall the whole family. He rose to fame as the winner of NBC’s hit television series Phenomenon, becoming the only magician in history to win a live magic competition on primetime U.S. network television. Recommended for ages 3 and up.

Hylton Family Series: Elena Moon Park & Friends
Saturday, Feb. 8, at 11 a.m.
SciTech Campus, Hylton Center, Gregory Family Theater
Celebrate folk and children’s music from around the globe with Elena Moon Park & Friends. With an emphasis on east and southeast Asia, plus original songs reimagined to mix musical traditions, languages, styles, and stories, Park celebrates learning about the world through music. Sing and clap along to Taiwanese train songs, Tibetan jump rope rhymes, Cambodian folk songs, sing-alongs in English, and more, performed on string instruments, accordion, and drums. As an Artist-in-Residence, Elena Moon Park will also work with the community through classes and workshops during the week leading up to the performance.

Announcement Guidelines

Submit an Announcement

Topics

Around Mason: Week of Dec. 17, 2024

Lauren Reuscher — Fri, 13 Dec 2024 19:33:17 +0000

Around Mason: Week of Dec. 17, 2024 Lauren Reuscher Fri, 12/13/2024 - 14:33

Faculty/Staff Announcements

Have something to share? Review announcement guidelines and submit an announcement from your unit through the online form.

Campus Updates

Winter Graduation is Dec. 18–19

George Mason will celebrate its newest graduates at Commencement and Degree Celebrations on Wednesday, Dec. 18, and Thursday, Dec. 19, at EagleBank Arena. Tickets are required. Expect increased traffic on and around the Fairfax Campus during graduation festivities, particularly during Commencement, which takes place on Thursday, Dec. 19, at 9:30 a.m. Contact University Events with questions.

University Winter Break Lockdown

The university will be closed for winter break from Monday, Dec. 23, at 6 a.m. through Monday, Jan. 6, 2025, at 6 a.m. However, some employees and students may require entry for special projects into buildings without electronic access. Therefore, pre-planned access for nonelectronic lock buildings can be coordinated in advance via the Winter Break Building Access Form found on the Mason Police website. Failure to coordinate with Mason Police in advance may result in being denied access. For questions on building card access, email caso@gmu.edu.

West Campus Town Hall: Watch the Recording

George Mason recently hosted a community conversation regarding the university’s West Campus development. Community members were invited to share their thoughts and ideas regarding concepts for the development, campus and community needs, and opportunities for collaboration. The meeting took place on Dec. 11. Watch the video recording. Contact Traci Kendall, Community and Local Government Relations, with questions.

Holiday Break Reminders from Information Technology Services

Information Technology Services (ITS) reminds ��AV faculty, staff, and students to stay vigilant during the holidays and take precautions before leaving for winter break. Cybercriminals step up efforts to steal from people during the holidays. Be wary of emails from strangers, and do not share login information or Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) codes.

Also, before leaving for break, log off all systems and turn off non-essential devices in offices and on-campus residences. Additional information about precautions to take during the holiday and before leaving for the break is available on the ITS website.

��AV Alumni Association’s 2025 Celebration of Distinction: Nomination Form

Support for Duo Mobile Application on iOS 15 Ending

To receive full support, users should upgrade to iOS 16 or later. For assistance, contact the ITS Support Center at 703-993-8870 or submit a request ticket.

Staff Senate Holiday Donation Drive

Every holiday season, the Staff Senate supports a donation drive to benefit local organizations. For the 2024 holiday season, the Staff Senate is encouraging the Mason community to support four organizations:

Food and toiletry contributions to the Patriot Pantry, which provides access to food and hygiene items to the George Mason community.
Donations of toys and supplies to Inova Children’s Hospital.
If you love the dogs and cats of our local community, support Lucky Dog Animal Rescue in Arlington, Virginia.
Read donation guidelines and find out most-needed items on the Staff Senate website.

Parking Services Donation Drive: Receive Credit toward a Parking Citation

Make a donation of nonperishable food or personal hygiene items to benefit the Patriot Pantry at any Parking Services office and receive a $15, $20, or $30 credit toward an outstanding parking citation. Restrictions apply. The donation drive is underway through Wednesday, Dec. 18. Get the details. Contact parking@gmu.edu with questions.

Nominations for the David J. King Award

Training and Professional Development

Calls for Proposals: 4-VA@Mason

Facilitating Inclusive Practices: Become an ASPIRE facilitator

Call for Proposals—Reclaiming History: Islam and Cultural Patrimony in the 21st Century

The AbuSulayman Center for Global Islamic Studies at George Mason is calling for papers to address the phenomenon of cultural destruction with an eye to understanding the nature of such loss in places such as, but not limited to Afghanistan, Bosnia, China, Gaza, India, Iraq, Lebanon, Mali, Myanmar, the Palestinian Territories, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen, as well those efforts to redress the crimes of looting and to restore cultural patrimony as an act of reconciliation. More information can be found on the website.

Resources for You

Wear Mason’s Holiday Gift Guide

It's that time of the season! Shop Wear Mason’s holiday gift guide for fan favorites. Make the holiday special for a student, alum, faculty/staff, family member, or colleague.

Annual Leave Rollover Reminder: Jan. 9 Deadline

As we approach the end of the leave year, faculty and staff are reminded that the annual leave carryover limit will be rolled over on Jan. 9, 2025. Employees with leave balances exceeding the carryover limit must use their excess leave before Jan. 9, 2025, to avoid losing it. Plan ahead and coordinate time off with supervisors.

Upcoming Performances and Arts Events at George Mason

U.S. Navy Concert Band
45th International Saxophone Symposium
Friday, Jan. 10, and Saturday, Jan. 11
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
The 45th International Saxophone Symposium, hosted by the U.S. Navy Band, features more than 150 performances, masterclasses and lectures designed for musicians of all ages. The International Saxophone Symposium features world-renowned saxophonists, while highlighting the prominence of the saxophone in both classical and jazz literature. Friday night's concert presents the U.S. Navy Concert Band with a mixture of band pieces and classically oriented saxophone solos. Featured soloists will include Makoto Hondo, ~Nois, and Musician First Class Harrison Clarke. This event is open to the public, and no tickets are required.

Silkroad Ensemble
Saturday, Jan. 25, at 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Returning for a third year as a Mason Artist-in-Residence, Grammy Award-winning music collective Silkroad Ensemble presents this world premiere showcase of all-star percussionists and musical storytelling through the exchange of rhythm, pulse, and melody from different musical traditions around the world. Formed by Yo-Yo Ma and now led by Pulitzer Prize winning multi-instrumentalist Rhiannon Giddens, Silkroad Ensemble will engage the community and students during its residency through a variety of events, classes, and discussions.

Announcement Guidelines

Submit an Announcement

Topics

Around Mason: Week of Dec. 10, 2024

Lauren Reuscher — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 15:52:24 +0000

Around Mason: Week of Dec. 10, 2024 Lauren Reuscher Fri, 12/06/2024 - 10:52

Faculty/Staff Announcements

Have something to share? Review announcement guidelines and submit an announcement from your unit through the online form.

Campus Updates

Faculty and Staff Holiday Parties

��AV's successes this year are possible because of our dedicated faculty and staff. Gather with colleagues to celebrate your 2024 achievements at the university holiday parties. RSVP for the event at your campus:

SciTech Campus: Tuesday, Dec. 10, from noon to 1:30 p.m., Beacon Hall
Fairfax Campus: Wednesday, Dec. 11, from 1:30–3:30 p.m., Johnson Center, Dewberry Hall
Mason Square: Monday, Dec. 16, from 1:30–3:30 p.m., Van Metre Hall, multipurpose room

Commencement Volunteers

University Events is seeking faculty and staff volunteers to assist with the Winter 2024 Graduation ceremonies on Wednesday, Dec. 18, and Thursday, Dec. 19.

Check out the volunteer form for locations, times, and a brief description of each volunteer opportunity. Volunteers will receive additional information about their specific duties prior to Dec. 17. Thank you for supporting our 2024 graduates!

Disability Services Seeking Volunteers to Proctor Final Exams

Disability Services is seeking volunteer proctors to assist during final exams. Rooms in Student Union Building I (SUB I) will be used to proctor exams for students registered with Disability Services. A proctor is needed for each room, as well as some “runners” to take students to their assigned seats. Professional staff are needed to volunteer for two-hour shifts on Dec. 11, 12, 13, 16, and 17 between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m.

The proctor role involves having students sign in and out of the testing space and ensuring concerns of academic integrity are addressed. Proctors are welcome to bring quiet work (such as a laptop or book). The runner role involves walking students from the check-in room to their assigned seat and dropping off the test proctoring form to SUB I, Room 3313. Additional information on the role and duties will be provided to volunteers. Sign up. Contact Rachel Carter with questions.

West Campus Town Hall

You’re invited to a community conversation regarding ��AV’s West Campus development. Share your thoughts and ideas regarding concepts for the development, campus and community needs, and opportunities for collaboration. All are welcome.

West Campus Town Hall Meeting
Wednesday, Dec. 11
7–8:30 p.m.
City of Fairfax City Hall, Council Chambers: 10455 Armstrong Street, Fairfax, Virginia, 22030

University Winter Break Lockdown

Staff Senate Holiday Donation Drive

Food and toiletry contributions to the Patriot Pantry, which provides access to food and hygiene items to the George Mason community.
Donations of toys and supplies to Inova Children’s Hospital.
If you love the dogs and cats of our local community, support Lucky Dog Animal Rescue in Arlington, Virginia.
The SciTech Campus will collect items for the Northern Virginia Family Services SERVE Campus through food donations brought to the SciTech holiday party.
Read donation guidelines and find out most-needed items on the Staff Senate website.

Parking Services Donation Drive: Receive Credit toward a Parking Citation

Resources for You

Wear Mason’s Holiday Gift Guide

It's that time of the season! Shop Wear Mason’s holiday gift guide for fan favorites. Make the holiday special for a student, alum, faculty/staff, family member, or colleague.

Annual Leave Rollover Reminder: Jan. 9 Deadline

Upcoming Performances and Arts Events at George Mason

American Festival Pops Orchestra
Holiday Pops: Songs of the Season
Friday, Dec. 13, at 8 p.m. (SciTech Campus, Hylton Center)
Saturday, Dec. 14, at 4 p.m. (Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts)
The American Festival Pops Orchestra returns with its beloved Holiday Pops: Songs of the Season. Led by Conductor Peter Wilson, enjoy seasonal favorites, including: “The Night Before Christmas,” narrated by Rick Davis, dean of the College of Visual and Performing Arts and executive director of the Hylton Center, toe-tapping classics from the orchestra's embedded big band, and an appearance by the Mason Jazz Vocal Ensemble under the direction of Darden Purcell.

Seán Heely’s Celtic Christmas
Sunday, Dec. 15, at 2 and 5 p.m.
SciTech Campus, Hylton Center, Merchant Hall
Washington, D.C.-based, award-winning Celtic fiddler, Gaelic singer, and harpist Seán Heely returns for a winter tour through the Scottish Highlands and across the Irish coast. Featuring Highland and Irish dancing and the MacMillan Pipe Band, the performance includes Gaelic carols tucked in with lively Irish tunes and familiar Christmas melodies. 

U.S. Navy Concert Band
45th International Saxophone Symposium
Friday, Jan. 10, and Saturday, Jan. 11
Fairfax Campus Center for the Arts
The 45th International Saxophone Symposium, hosted by the U.S. Navy Band, features more than 150 performances, masterclasses and lectures designed for musicians of all ages. The International Saxophone Symposium features world-renowned saxophonists, while highlighting the prominence of the saxophone in both classical and jazz literature. Friday night's concert presents the U.S. Navy Concert Band with a mixture of band pieces and classically oriented saxophone solos. Featured soloists will include Makoto Hondo, ~Nois, and Musician First Class Harrison Clarke. This event is open to the public, and no tickets are required.

Silkroad Ensemble
Saturday, Jan. 25, at 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Returning for a third year as a Mason Artist-in-Residence, Grammy Award-winning music collective Silkroad Ensemble presents this world premiere showcase of all-star percussionists and musical storytelling through the exchange of rhythm, pulse, and melody from different musical traditions around the world. Formed by Yo-Yo Ma and now led by Pulitzer Prize winning multi-instrumentalist Rhiannon Giddens, Silkroad Ensemble will engage the community and students during its residency through a variety of events, classes, and discussions.

Announcement Guidelines

Submit an Announcement

Topics

Around Mason: Week of Dec. 3, 2024

Lauren Reuscher — Tue, 26 Nov 2024 15:11:10 +0000

Around Mason: Week of Dec. 3, 2024 Lauren Reuscher Tue, 11/26/2024 - 10:11

Faculty/Staff Announcements

Have something to share? Review announcement guidelines and submit an announcement from your unit through the online form.

Campus Updates

Police Training Exercise on Fairfax Campus: Dec. 4–5

The Fairfax County Police helicopter division will conduct a training exercise near the Fairfax Campus on Wednesday, Dec. 4, and Thursday, Dec. 5, around 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. The training will involve helicopter activity in the vicinity of West Campus. The helicopters are expected to fly over Campus Drive and lower athletic fields during the training exercise. For questions, contact the George Mason Police nonemergency number at 703-993-2810.

Commencement Volunteers

University Events is seeking faculty and staff volunteers to assist with the Winter 2024 Graduation ceremonies on Wednesday, Dec. 18, and Thursday, Dec. 19.

Disability Services Seeking Volunteers to Proctor Final Exams

West Campus Town Hall

West Campus Town Hall Meeting
Wednesday, Dec. 11
7–8:30 p.m.
City of Fairfax City Hall, Council Chambers: 10455 Armstrong Street, Fairfax, Virginia, 22030

INTO Mason Graduate Colloquium

INTO Mason pathway students will present findings from their first authentic research efforts as graduate students. The INTO Mason Graduate Colloquium will showcase the work of multilingual and international students and their investigations in their disciplines. Stop by the Ángel Cabrera Global Center lobby on Friday, Dec. 6, between 10:30 a.m. and noon. Light refreshments will be served.

December Staff Senate Meeting

The December Staff Senate meeting will focus on physical and mental health resources available to staff at George Mason. Guest speakers include Angela Chezem, medical director for Employee Health and Well-Being, and Robyn Mehlenbeck, director of the Center for Community Mental Health.

The meeting will take place on Wednesday, Dec. 4, from 10 a.m. to noon. Guest speakers will present at 11 a.m. Attend the meeting on the Fairfax Campus in Merten Hall, Room 1203, or join via Zoom. Learn more.

University Winter Break Lockdown

Staff Senate Holiday Donation Drive

Food and toiletry contributions to the Patriot Pantry, which provides access to food and hygiene items to the George Mason community.
Donations of toys and supplies to Inova Children’s Hospital.
If you love the dogs and cats of our local community, support Lucky Dog Animal Rescue in Arlington, Virginia.
The SciTech Campus will collect items for the Northern Virginia Family Services SERVE Campus through food donations brought to the SciTech holiday party.
Read donation guidelines and find out most-needed items on the Staff Senate website.

Toys for Tots Collection Underway through Dec. 12

There’s still time to make a difference this holiday season! The Office of Military Services and Contemporary Student Services are proud to serve as collection sites for the Toys for Tots campaign. Drop off new, unwrapped toys at a collection site through Thursday, Dec. 12:

Office of Military Services: Fairfax Campus, Student Union Building (SUB) I, Room 1510
Office of Contemporary Student Services: Fairfax Campus, The Hub, Room 1012

Your donations bring joy to children in need and help brighten their holidays. Questions? Contact 703-993-1316 or email military@gmu.edu.

Parking Services Donation Drive: Receive Credit toward a Parking Citation

Training and Professional Development

Sign up for Mason 101

Whether you are new to the George Mason community, looking to update your George Mason knowledge, or curious about the resources available at George Mason, sign up for Mason 101. This free, in-classroom session shares the history, organizational structure, and resources of ��AV, including a virtual tour of all campuses/sites and updates on the future of George Mason.

To register for the next session on Friday, Dec. 6, or future sessions:

Go to masonleaps.gmu.edu
Login with your George Mason credentials
In the search bar in upper right corner of the page, search for “Mason 101”
On the screen that opens, click “Mason 101”
Available Mason 101 dates will appear
Click on the “Request” button next to your preferred training date

For questions about Mason 101, contact Philip Stamper at 703-993-5308.

Call for Proposals: Seed Translational Research Project

With support from the National Science Foundation’s Accelerating Research Translation (ART) program, George Mason’s Institute for a Sustainable Earth and the Virginia Climate Center are seeking proposals from George Mason faculty for the spring 2025 Seed Translational Research Project (STRP) program. Faculty participants will develop their own project in alignment with George Mason’s ART initiatives and receive support to scale up the impact of their research through community-engaged, experiential curriculum. Visit the webpage and join a webinar on Thursday, Dec. 5, at 1 p.m. for more information.

Resources for You

Safety Tips for Online Holiday Shopping

With online holiday shopping underway, Information Technology Services (ITS) is reminding the ��AV community that cybercriminals want to take the “happy” out of their holidays. More than 72.3 million people are expected to spend about $13.2 billion shopping online on Cyber Monday. ITS is offering George Mason community members information about the precautions they can take to stay safe.

Tips include using Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), keeping software updated on all devices, and using strong passwords on all accounts. Check out the complete list of tips.

Annual Leave Rollover Reminder: January 9 Deadline

Faculty and Staff Networks

��AV has a variety of faculty- and staff-led networks to support the university's core values of “Diversity is Our Strength” and “We Thrive Together.”

Faculty and staff are encouraged to join networks that best support their engagement, well-being, or professional needs and interests. Opportunities include employee resource groups, communities of practice, and faculty affinity groups. Learn more.

Upcoming Performances and Arts Events at George Mason

Love, Betrayal and Forgiveness—Scenes from Mozart’s Most Popular Operas
Dewberry School of Music
Saturday, Dec. 7, at 2 and 8 p.m.
SciTech Campus, Hylton Center, Gregory Family Theater
The Dewberry School of Music’s Mason Opera presents its fall 2024 performance. Featuring George Mason’s talented vocal students in collaboration with an instrumental chamber ensemble, these live, in-person performances will showcase great vocal skill and dramatic ability and deeply immerse the audience in the action of the story. 

Squirrel Nut Zippers: Christmas Caravan
Saturday, Dec. 7, at 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Swing into the holiday season with platinum-selling jazz-rock band Squirrel Nut Zippers. Serving up a blend of Delta blues, big band, klezmer jazz, and calypso sound in their holiday program, Christmas Caravan, Squirrel Nut Zippers is sure to get audiences dancing to songs from their albums and other holiday favorites. 

Sons of Serendip
Sunday, Dec. 8, at 4 p.m.
SciTech Campus, Hylton Center, Merchant Hall
“Silky beyond reason” (New York Times), the Billboard-charting foursome, Sons of Serendip, combines warm and inviting vocals, harp, piano, and cello. Enjoy an afternoon of songs from their holiday-themed album, Christmas: Beyond the Lights, showcasing velvety harmony and fresh interpretations of traditional holiday tunes. 

Mason Symphony Orchestra and Choirs Winter Festival
Dewberry School of Music
Sunday, Dec. 8, at 7 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Join a joyous concert celebration by the Dewberry School of Music to ring in the winter season. Showcasing Mason’s Symphony Orchestra and Choirs, this evening will feature holiday favorites and festive new works performed by extraordinary student artists, conducted by Soo Han, Thomas Colohan, and Michael Stern. 

December Studio Series
George Mason School of Dance
Tuesday, Dec. 10, at 6 and 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, de Laski Performing Arts Building, Room A301
Enjoy an evening of student work in one of the School of Dance studios, transformed into an intimate theater. 

Silkroad Ensemble
Saturday, Jan. 25, at 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Returning for a third year as a Mason Artist-in-Residence, Grammy Award-winning music collective Silkroad Ensemble presents this world premiere showcase of all-star percussionists and musical storytelling through the exchange of rhythm, pulse, and melody from different musical traditions around the world. Formed by Yo-Yo Ma and now led by Pulitzer Prize winning multi-instrumentalist Rhiannon Giddens, Silkroad Ensemble will engage the community and students during its residency through a variety of events, classes, and discussions.

Announcement Guidelines

Submit an Announcement

Topics

Around Mason: Week of Nov. 26, 2024

Lauren Reuscher — Fri, 22 Nov 2024 19:06:21 +0000

Around Mason: Week of Nov. 26, 2024 Lauren Reuscher Fri, 11/22/2024 - 14:06

Faculty/Staff Announcements

Have something to share? Review announcement guidelines and submit an announcement from your unit through the online form.

Campus Updates

West Campus Town Hall

West Campus Town Hall Meeting
Wednesday, Dec. 11
7–8:30 p.m.
City of Fairfax City Hall, Council Chambers: 10455 Armstrong Street, Fairfax, Virginia, 22030

INTO Mason Graduate Colloquium

Commencement Volunteers

University Events is seeking faculty and staff volunteers to assist with the Winter 2024 Graduation ceremonies on Wednesday, Dec. 18, and Thursday, Dec. 19.

December Staff Senate Meeting

University Winter Break Lockdown

Staff Senate Holiday Donation Drive

Food and toiletry contributions to the Patriot Pantry, which provides access to food and hygiene items to the George Mason community.
Donations of toys and supplies to Inova Children’s Hospital.
If you love the dogs and cats of our local community, support Lucky Dog Animal Rescue in Arlington, Virginia.
The SciTech Campus will collect items for the Northern Virginia Family Services SERVE Campus through food donations brought to the SciTech holiday party.

Read donation guidelines and find out most-needed items on the Staff Senate website.

Training and Professional Development

Sign up for Mason 101

To register for the next session on Friday, Dec. 6, or future sessions:

Go to masonleaps.gmu.edu
Login with your George Mason credentials
In the search bar in upper right corner of the page, search for “Mason 101”
On the screen that opens, click “Mason 101”
Available Mason 101 dates will appear
Click on the “Request” button next to your preferred training date

For questions about Mason 101, contact Philip Stamper at 703-993-5308.

Call for Proposals: Seed Translational Research Project

Still Need Canvas Training?

Join a Canvas Boot Camp from Dec. 3–5 (via Zoom) for the final live training option before spring semester. Other Canvas training opportunities include "Getting Started with Canvas" (biweekly Zoom introductory sessions) and the ongoing Canvas lunch and learn sessions (hosted weekly on Zoom). Get the details.

Course Redesign Academy

Course Redesign Academy will include Zoom meetings on Jan. 8–9, 2025, to support faculty members’ final adjustments for a spring course or advanced planning for summer/fall. Accepted participants receive a stipend to support course development. Learn more and apply by Wednesday, Dec. 11. This opportunity is facilitated by the Stearns Center for Teaching and Learning.

Resources for You

Safety Tips for Online Holiday Shopping

With online holiday shoppers gearing up for Cyber Monday, Information Technology Services (ITS) is reminding the ��AV community that cybercriminals want to take the “happy” out of their holidays. More than 72.3 million people are expected to spend about $13.2 billion shopping online on Cyber Monday. ITS is offering George Mason community members information about the precautions they can take to stay safe.

Tips include using Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), keeping software updated on all devices, and using strong passwords on all accounts. Check out the complete list of tips.

Annual Leave Rollover Reminder: January 9 Deadline

Faculty and Staff Networks

��AV has a variety of faculty- and staff-led networks to support the university's core values of “Diversity is Our Strength” and “We Thrive Together.”

Upcoming Performances and Arts Events at George Mason

Canadian Brass: Making Spirits Bright
Saturday, Nov. 30, at 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
“With their unbeatable blend of virtuosity, spontaneity and humor” (Washington Post), Canadian Brass kicks off the holiday season with a program of original arrangements and signature takes on beloved classics such as “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” “Christmas Time is Here,” “Silver Bells,” “Jingle Bell Rock,” and songs of Hanukkah. 

Take 6
Sunday, Dec. 1, at 2 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
The most awarded a cappella group in history, Take 6, brings its vocal genius to the Center for the Arts for a gospel-infused holiday concert. Experience vocal artistry with their silky-smooth program that slips and slides from jazz to pop to R&B, doo-wop, and blues.

Chanticleer: A Chanticleer Christmas
Sunday, Dec. 1, at 4 p.m.
SciTech Campus, Hylton Center, Merchant Hall
The holidays shine brighter when Grammy Award-winning Chanticleer comes caroling to the Hylton Center with their beloved program. With 12 expressive voices ranging from countertenor to bass blended with precision, clarity, and breathtaking beauty, “it’s impossible to resist the voices of Chanticleer” (San Francisco Chronicle).

Mason Wind Symphony Concert
Reva and Sid Dewberry Family School of Music
Tuesday, Dec. 3, at 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
The Mason Wind Symphony presents its second concert of the season with traditional and contemporary works for wind bands composed by a variety of composers.

Mason Symphonic Band Concert
Reva and Sid Dewberry Family School of Music
Wednesday, Dec. 4, at 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
This ensemble comprises both music majors and nonmajors from myriad academic disciplines. Conducted by director of concert bands, William L. Lake Jr., this concert will be inspiring and entertaining.

Fall: Dance Innovations
School of Dance
Friday, Dec. 6, at 2 and 7 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 7, at 7 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Harris Theatre  
The creative School of Dance students present their own choreography. Always relevant and fresh, this evening of works will have something for everyone. 

Sons of Serendip
Sunday, Dec. 8, at 4 p.m.
SciTech Campus, Hylton Center, Merchant Hall
“Silky beyond reason” (New York Times), the Billboard-charting foursome, Sons of Serendip, combines warm and inviting vocals, harp, piano, and cello. Enjoy an afternoon of songs from their holiday-themed album, Christmas: Beyond the Lights, showcasing velvety harmony and fresh interpretations of traditional holiday tunes. 

December Studio Series
George Mason School of Dance
Tuesday, Dec. 10, at 6 and 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, de Laski Performing Arts Building, Room A301
Enjoy an evening of student work in one of the School of Dance studios, transformed into an intimate theater. 

U.S. Navy Concert Band
45th International Saxophone Symposium
Friday, Jan. 10, and Saturday, Jan. 11
Fairfax Campus Center for the Arts
The 45th International Saxophone Symposium, hosted by the U.S. Navy Band, features over 150 performances, masterclasses and lectures designed for musicians of all ages. The International Saxophone Symposium features world-renowned saxophonists, while highlighting the prominence of the saxophone in both classical and jazz literature. Friday night's concert presents the U.S. Navy Concert Band with a mixture of band pieces and classically oriented saxophone solos. Featured soloists will include Makoto Hondo, ~Nois, and Musician First Class Harrison Clarke. This event is open to the public and no tickets are required.

Silkroad Ensemble
Saturday, Jan. 25, at 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Returning for a third year as a Mason Artist-in-Residence, Grammy Award-winning music collective Silkroad Ensemble presents this world premiere showcase of all-star percussionists and musical storytelling through the exchange of rhythm, pulse, and melody from different musical traditions around the world. Formed by Yo-Yo Ma and now led by Pulitzer Prize winning multi-instrumentalist Rhiannon Giddens, Silkroad Ensemble will engage the community and students during its residency through a variety of events, classes, and discussions.

Announcement Guidelines

Submit an Announcement

Topics

Around Mason: Week of Nov. 19, 2024

Lauren Reuscher — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 17:31:04 +0000

Around Mason: Week of Nov. 19, 2024 Lauren Reuscher Fri, 11/15/2024 - 12:31

Faculty/Staff Announcements

Have something to share? Review announcement guidelines and submit an announcement from your unit through the online form.

Campus Updates

Join the Virtual Celebration: Celebrate Milestone Service Awards at University Green and Gold Days

George Mason is proud to honor employees who are marking significant milestones in their careers. Cheer on colleagues and show your support for their incredible contributions to the university during the Green and Gold Day service awards. Join the event livestreams:

Gold Day – Celebrating 20–50 Years of Service, Wednesday, Nov. 20, from noon to 1:30 p.m.
Green Day – Celebrating 5–15 Years of Service, Thursday, Nov. 21, from 9–10:30 a.m.

Questions may be sent to awards@gmu.edu.

West Campus Town Hall

West Campus Town Hall Meeting
Wednesday, Dec. 11
7–8:30 p.m.
City of Fairfax City Hall, Council Chambers: 10455 Armstrong Street, Fairfax, Virginia, 22030

December Staff Senate Meeting

University Winter Break Lockdown

The university will be closed for winter break from Monday, Dec. 23, at 6 a.m. through Monday, Jan. 6, 2025, at 6 a.m. However, some employees and students may require entry for special projects into buildings without electronic access. Therefore, pre-planned access for non-electronic lock buildings can be coordinated in advance via the Winter Break Building Access Form found on the Mason Police website. Failure to coordinate with Mason Police in advance may result in being denied access. For questions on building card access, email caso@gmu.edu.

Staff Senate Holiday Donation Drive

Food and toiletry contributions to the Patriot Pantry, which provides access to food and hygiene items to the George Mason community.
Donations of toys and supplies to Inova Children’s Hospital.
If you love the dogs and cats of our local community, support Lucky Dog Animal Rescue in Arlington, Virginia.
The SciTech Campus will collect items for the Northern Virginia Family Services SERVE Campus through food donations brought to the SciTech holiday party.

Read donation guidelines and find out most-needed items on the Staff Senate website.

Spark and Share hosted by SciTech Innovation District

The Spark and Share event at the SciTech Campus is a chance to connect with local tech leaders in the future Innovation District, enjoy food and drinks, and network with professionals from industry, government, and academia. The event will take place on Wednesday, Nov. 20, from 4:30–6:30 p.m. at Mum Mum restaurant on George Mason’s SciTech Campus. RSVP.

This session features Ethan Ahn, associate professor of electrical and computer engineering at George Mason, and Brian Gollenberg, business area vice president of Progeny Systems at General Dynamics Mission Systems. Both leaders will discuss disruptive technologies, the field’s most pressing needs, and the future workforce.

Galileo Science Café—Into the Abyss: The Science and Survival of Submarines

In honor of Veterans Day, join a discussion about submarine science with Noel Gonzalez, former Navy captain and current COO of Targeted Bioscience. Learn about military science and the challenges of science in the deep. Galileo’s Science Café will be hosted on Thursday, Nov. 21, from 7–9 p.m. at the Manassas Museum (9101 Prince William Street, Manassas, Virginia). Stick around for a Q&A with the presenter and light refreshments. Learn more and RSVP. This event is sponsored by George Mason's College of Science as well as the City of Manassas, Department of Economic Development.

Training and Professional Development

Still Need Canvas Training?

Course Redesign Academy

Resources for You

Annual Leave Rollover Reminder: January 9 Deadline

Employee Resource Groups and Affinity Groups

Employee resource groups are voluntary, employee-led groups that serve as a means of connection for faculty and staff while fostering a diverse, inclusive environment aligned with the institutional mission, vision, business practices, and objectives. George Mason’s employee resource groups are open to all classified staff, administrative/professional and instructional/research faculty, adjunct faculty, and non-student wage employees. Learn more.

Affinity groups facilitate connections and professional partnerships and champion strategic efforts to support the success of their members. The Office of Faculty Affairs and Development supports faculty and doctoral students' affinity groups as part of George Mason's commitment to inclusive excellence. Learn more on the Faculty Affinity Groups website.

Upcoming Performances and Arts Events at George Mason

Documentary Screening: Patriot Packout
Tuesday, Nov. 19, from 6–8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Ike’s, Multipurpose Room
Patriot Packout is George Mason's community-based donation initiative that diverts new and gently used items away from the trash and redistributes them to students, staff, and alumni for free. Patriot Packout addresses basic needs insecurity while accelerating action toward the university’s Zero Waste goal. Mason Exhibitions, along with Facilities and Campus Operations, invites you to a screening of an original documentary about Patriot Packout, produced by current MFA student Steven Luu. A curated menu of locally sourced and campus-grown food will be served. RSVP.

Sons of Serendip
Sunday, Dec. 8, at 4 p.m.
SciTech Campus, Hylton Center, Merchant Hall
“Silky beyond reason” (New York Times), the Billboard-charting foursome, Sons of Serendip, combines warm and inviting vocals, harp, piano, and cello. Enjoy an afternoon of songs from their holiday-themed album Christmas: Beyond the Lights, showcasing velvety harmony and fresh interpretations of traditional holiday tunes. 

American Festival Pops Orchestra—Holiday Pops: Songs of the Season
Friday, Dec. 13, at 8 p.m. (SciTech Campus, Hylton Center)
Saturday, Dec. 14, at 4 p.m. (Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts)
The American Festival Pops Orchestra returns with its beloved Holiday Pops: Songs of the Season. Led by Conductor Peter Wilson, enjoy seasonal favorites, including: “The Night Before Christmas,” narrated by Rick Davis, dean of the College of Visual and Performing Arts and executive director of the Hylton Center, toe-tapping classics from the orchestra's embedded big band, and an appearance by the Mason Jazz Vocal Ensemble under the direction of Darden Purcell.

Seán Heely’s Celtic Christmas
Sunday, Dec. 15, at 2 and 5 p.m.
SciTech Campus, Hylton Center, Merchant Hall
Washington, D.C.-based, award-winning Celtic fiddler, Gaelic singer, and harpist Seán Heely returns for a winter tour through the Scottish Highlands and across the Irish coast. Featuring Highland and Irish dancing and the MacMillan Pipe Band, the performance includes Gaelic carols tucked in with lively Irish tunes and familiar Christmas melodies. 

Announcement Guidelines

Submit an Announcement

Topics

Around Mason: Week of Nov. 12, 2024

Lauren Reuscher — Fri, 08 Nov 2024 20:40:34 +0000

Around Mason: Week of Nov. 12, 2024 Lauren Reuscher Fri, 11/08/2024 - 15:40

Faculty/Staff Announcements

Have something to share? Review announcement guidelines and submit an announcement from your unit through the online form.

Campus Updates

Galileo Science Café—Into the Abyss: The Science and Survival of Submarines

In honor of Veterans Day, join a discussion about submarine science with Noel Gonzalez, former Navy captain and current COO of Targeted Bioscience. Learn about military science and the challenges of science in the deep. Galileo’s Science Cafe will be hosted on Thursday, Nov. 21, from 7–9 p.m. at the Manassas Museum (9101 Prince William Street, Manassas, Virginia). Stick around for a Q&A with the presenter and light refreshments. Learn more and RSVP. This event is sponsored by George Mason's College of Science as well as the City of Manassas, Department of Economic Development.

Discussion with U.S. Census Bureau Director Robert Santos

The ��AV Chapter of the American Statistical Association will host Robert Santos, director of the U.S. Census Bureau, for a discussion on Friday, Nov. 15, from 12:30–1:30 p.m. on the Fairfax Campus in Nguyen Engineering Building, Room 1602. The campus community is invited to discover the critical role of the Census Bureau in shaping public policy with national statistics and data collection.

Toys for Tots

This holiday season, help spread joy by donating to the Toys for Tots campaign. George Mason’s Office of Military Services is an official collection site, working alongside the Office of Contemporary Student Services to support children in need. Drop off new, unwrapped toys at either collection site through Dec. 12:

Office of Military Services: Fairfax Campus, Student Union Building (SUB) I, Room 1510
Office of Contemporary Student Services: Fairfax Campus, SUB I, Room 3600

All donations go directly to children in the community who might otherwise go without gifts. Make this holiday season brighter—thank you for your generosity! For more information, contact military@gmu.edu or 703-993-1316.

Peer Advisor Application Open

University Studies is hiring Peer Advisors to co-teach "Intro to Mason" classes in fall 2025. This is an on-campus job opportunity for undergraduate students. Faculty and staff may encourage interested students to fill out an application and attend an information session.

Visit the website for more details. Information sessions are posted on Mason360.gmu.edu. Search for "Peer Advisor information session" under events.

Training and Professional Development

Still Need Canvas Training?

Course Redesign Academy

Course ReDesign Academy will include Zoom meetings on Jan. 8–9, 2025, to support faculty members’ final adjustments for a spring course or advanced planning for summer/fall. Accepted participants receive a stipend to support course development. Learn more and apply by Wednesday, Dec. 11. This opportunity is facilitated by the Stearns Center for Teaching and Learning.

Apply for the Emerging Leaders Supervisor Series

Human Resources is now accepting applications for the next cohort of the Emerging Leaders Supervisor Series. The series begins in February 2025 and runs until May 2026. This cohort will be hybrid to accommodate those participants working fully remotely.

The goals of the Emerging Leaders Supervisor Series are to support participants as they:

Develop a leadership mindset
Create and implement a vision for their own leadership and their team
Lead a high-performing team
Learn tools and strategies to grow their self-awareness, relationships, and communication skills, which will support the above three objectives.

Get more details about the application process. Apply by Monday, Dec. 2. Applicants must be George Mason faculty or classified staff and must supervise at least one employee who is faculty or classified staff.

Resources for You

The MIX Handmade Marketplace

The Mason Innovation Exchange (MIX) will host its Handmade Marketplace on Thursday, Nov. 14, from 1–6 p.m., where George Mason community members and alumni will sell their handmade creations. This biannual event is a wonderful opportunity to share innovative interests and connect with a community of fellow makers. Stop by the first floor of Horizon Hall on the Fairfax Campus.

Help Make College Dreams Come True

Interested in helping local high school students in non-traditional programs achieve their dream of a college education? Become a mentor with George Mason's Dream Catchers program. Mentors attend monthly workshops on campus to assist students seeking to attend college upon graduating high school. Interested? Contact Buz Grover at hgroveri@gmu.edu or 703-993-5784 for more information.

Bi/Pan Coffee Social

The LGBTQ+ Faculty/Staff Alliance is hosting a coffee social for those who want to be in community with other bi/pan individuals on Thursday, Nov. 14, from 9–10 a.m. in the Women and Gender Studies Lounge (Johnson Center, Room 240K).

Kritikos Anti-Racist Reading Group: Fall Sessions

The Kritikos Anti-Racist Reading Group will meet on Friday afternoons this fall. Kritikos engages in discussions on writing about the arts, critical studies, translation, the artist in society, and art as speech. Learn more.

Join them for the topic “Black Joy: Reclaiming My Time” on Friday, Nov. 15, from 1–2:30 p.m. via Zoom. This event is free and open to the public.

Upcoming Performances and Arts Events at George Mason

Documentary Screening: Patriot Packout
Tuesday, Nov. 19, from 6–8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Ike’s, multipurpose room
Patriot Packout is George Mason's community-based donation initiative that diverts new and gently used items away from the trash and redistributes them to students, staff, and alumni for free. Patriot Packout addresses basic needs insecurity while accelerating action toward the university’s Zero Waste goal. Mason Exhibitions, along with Facilities and Campus Operations, invites you to a screening of an original documentary about Patriot Packout, produced by current MFA student Steven Luu. A curated menu of locally sourced and campus-grown food will be served. RSVP.

Jazz4Justice™
Friday, Nov. 22, at 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Jazz4Justice™ brings attorneys, judges, students, and members of the Northern Virginia community together to celebrate their love of jazz. Proceeds from the evening benefit Legal Services of Northern Virginia, continuing its mission of service to the community, as well as providing financial support for the Mason Jazz Studies program for scholarships, trips, recordings, and student projects.

Enchantment Theatre Company: My Father’s Dragon
Saturday, Nov. 23, at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. (SciTech Campus, Hylton Center, Merchant Hall)
Sunday, Nov. 24, at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. (Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts)
Elmer Elevator is on a mission to rescue a baby dragon held captive on Wild Island. How will he pull off such an adventurous rescue? With pure luck—plus chewing gum, lollipop sticks, and rubber bands. Celebrating the 75th anniversary of Ruth Stiles Gannett’s Newbery Honor-winning adventure book, My Father’s Dragon, Enchantment Theatre Company brings to life the story of an unlikely friendship between a courageous boy and a yellow and blue-striped dragon. Recommended for ages 4–10.

Fall: Dance Innovations
School of Dance
Friday, Dec. 6, at 2 and 7 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 7, at 7 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Harris Theatre  
The creative School of Dance students present their own choreography. Always relevant and fresh, this evening of works will have something for everyone. 

Squirrel Nut Zippers: Christmas Caravan
Saturday, Dec. 7, at 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Swing into the holiday season with platinum-selling jazz-rock band Squirrel Nut Zippers. Serving up a blend of Delta blues, big band, klezmer jazz, and calypso sound in their holiday program, Christmas Caravan, Squirrel Nut Zippers is sure to get audiences dancing to songs from their albums and other holiday favorites. 

Sons of Serendip
Sunday, Dec. 8, at 4 p.m.
SciTech Campus, Hylton Center, Merchant Hall
“Silky beyond reason” (New York Times), the Billboard-charting foursome, Sons of Serendip, combines warm and inviting vocals, harp, piano, and cello. Enjoy an afternoon of songs from their holiday-themed album Christmas: Beyond the Lights, showcasing velvety harmony and fresh interpretations of traditional holiday tunes. 

December Studio Series
George Mason School of Dance
Tuesday, Dec. 10, at 6 and 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, de Laski Performing Arts Building, Room A301
Enjoy an evening of student work in one of the School of Dance studios, transformed into an intimate theater. 

Seán Heely’s Celtic Christmas
Sunday, Dec. 15, at 2 and 5 p.m.
SciTech Campus, Hylton Center, Merchant Hall
Washington, D.C.-based, award-winning Celtic fiddler, Gaelic singer, and harpist Seán Heely returns for a winter tour through the Scottish Highlands and across the Irish coast. Featuring Highland and Irish dancing and the MacMillan Pipe Band, the performance includes Gaelic carols tucked in with lively Irish tunes and familiar Christmas melodies. 

Announcement Guidelines

Submit an Announcement

Topics