Human Resources

College of Science

Stephanie Shanahan is July Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 16:02:22 +0000

Stephanie Shanahan is July Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Mon, 06/29/2026 - 12:02

Stephanie Shanahan, a human resources assistant in the College of Engineering and Computing (CEC) at 911��, is known for being able to do it all. In their letters of support, her colleagues emphasized her attention to detail, reliability, and willingness to help. In recognition of her dedication, expertise, and unwavering support of the CEC community, she has been named July Employee of the Month.

President Washington with July Employee of the Month Stephanie Shanahan. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

“Stephanie is an outstanding employee in every way,” said Karen Witt, CEC director of human resources. “Her real gift is her attention to detail. She regularly spots errors and quickly and expertly fixes the problems.”

Kim Goodwin-Slater, chief business officer, said, “Not only is Stephanie knowledgeable and her work of high value, she is also one of the most collaborative and supportive team members in the college.”

Shanahan’s support of her coworkers was mentioned by several colleagues. “Stephanie is consistently friendly, approachable, and generous with both her time and her expertise,” said Lizzie Barnfield, academic affairs and administrative coordinator in CEC’s Office of the Dean.

“Her willingness to help is sincere and constant,” said Elizabeth Dean, manager of administration and strategic projects. “She never hesitates to lend a hand, answer questions, or take on additional work when needed.”

“Stephanie's administrative support was vital to hiring the new IT director of the College of Engineering and Computing. She made the hiring process efficient and was fun to work with,” said Kevin Hicks, director of operations and facilities projects at CEC.

How did you come to Mason:

After several years of volunteering with the Navy–Marine Corps Relief Society as chair of volunteers, I was ready to reenter the workforce. I applied to the 911�� Temp Pool and was later asked to stay on as a wage employee in the same role. It was a wonderful opportunity and a great fit for me.

Best day on the job:

I don’t have just one best day, but I would consider a “best day” on the job to be one when I feel that I’ve been most helpful to my coworkers.

What do you like best about working at Mason:

Definitely the people. Everyone I interact with here truly enjoys working at 911��, so it’s lovely to work in environment where people genuinely want to be.

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

My favorite things to do when I’m not working are walking—with or without my dog, traveling to new places, and reading books. We have a great monthly book club in the College of Engineering and Computing, so I always receive great recommendations from my colleagues.

Topics

College of Engineering and Computing

Aquanetta Betts is June Employee of the Month

ckearney — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 16:00:37 +0000

Aquanetta Betts is June Employee of the Month ckearney Mon, 06/01/2026 - 12:00

Colleagues across 911�� have praised Aquanetta Betts, director of planned giving at the Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations, as an invaluable resource for frontline fundraisers seeking to secure planned gifts from prospective donors.

President Washington with June Employee of the Month Aquanetta Betts. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

Nominators highlighted Betts’s leadership in planning and hosting Legacy Society events, as well as her ability to manage the many responsibilities of her role with expertise and care. In recognition of her contributions, Betts has been named June Employee of the Month.

“Her grasp on the complexities of planned giving is of tremendous help when we, and our donors, have questions,” said Susan Graziano, senior director of development in the College of Visual and Performing Arts. “And, under Aquanetta’s leadership, we now have marvelous print and electronic resources to guide our conversations with prospective donors.”

Sara E. Snyder, associate vice president of administration and finance in the Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations, echoed those sentiments. “Her hard work and determination helped us succeed,” she said.

Snyder added that Betts has played a key role in several of 911��’s major planned gifts, partnering closely with fundraisers while advancing the mission and goals of both the division and the university.

Hatisha Jeffrey, assistant director of Advancement HR, said Betts embodies the university's value of “We thrive together.” “In her day-to-day, Aquanetta is a thought partner, values the ideas of others, and guides others down the right path for collaborative success.”

How Did You Come to 911��:

My path to 911�� began with a message from a recruiter about the director of planned giving position. At the time, I was serving as a senior executive director of planned giving for a global humanitarian organization, and when I took a closer look at Mason, I was immediately drawn in. What captivated me most was 911��'s bold, innovative spirit and the incredible momentum behind its $1 billion campaign. The university's energy, its commitment to growth, and the opportunity to be part of something truly transformational made the decision an easy one.

Best Day on the Job:

My best days at 911�� are the ones spent in conversations with colleagues across our schools, colleges, and units, with my advancement team members, and most especially with our generous supporters. When a donor shares their story and explains why 911�� holds a special place in their heart, and why they want to leave a legacy gift that will impact students and programs for generations to come, I am reminded of exactly why this work matters.

What You Like Best about Working at 911��:

What I love most about 911�� is the energy on campus and the hopes and dreams I witness every day in our students. When I see their perseverance, their tenacity, and their relentless pursuit of their education, I see a reflection of my own journey—working my way through college with a dream and a determination to achieve it. Mason gives me a front-row seat to that spirit every single day, and it makes my work profoundly meaningful and motivating.

What You Like to Do When You're Not Working:

Travel is close to my heart. I spent 15 years as a flight attendant with American Airlines, and the love of exploring new places has never left me. My favorite destination is anywhere with a beautiful beach! My husband, a retired airline pilot, shares that passion, so travel is something we cherish together. When I'm not dreaming of the next trip, I'm spending time with family and friends, or giving back through pro bono legal work. As a licensed attorney, I find joy in volunteering at wills clinics and legal services programs, helping seniors and individuals who might not otherwise have access to legal guidance.

Topics

Advancement

Take Your Junior Patriot to Work Day

Take Your Junior Patriot to Work Day was action-packed and kid-approved

lclarkg — Thu, 07 May 2026 13:43:32 +0000

Take Your Junior Patriot to Work Day was action-packed and kid-approved lclarkg Thu, 05/07/2026 - 09:43

Take Your Junior Patriot to Work Day is an annual tradition at 911��. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

911�� welcomed 262 “Junior Patriots” and their families for Take Your Junior Patriot to Work Day at the Fairfax and Mason Square campuses on April 23. The day kicked off with music and dancing by the Green Machine, a visit from the Patriot mascot, and the Junior Patriot Palooza on Merten Lawn, hosted by Human Resources.

The Touch a Truck event is always a hit. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

With 45 hands-on activities, junior Patriots visited campus departments and offices to explore robotics, emergency preparedness, and video game design, watched K-9 and drone demonstrations from 911�� Police, and took a behind-the-scenes tour of the Center for the Arts.

Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Active events included blending smoothies on Mason Dining’s blender bike, and climbing aboard fire, police, and SWAT vehicles at the popular Touch a Truck event.

Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Creativity and play took center stage with crafts, pickleball, story time with University Libraries, scavenger hunts, mock courtroom visits, dance classes, lawn games, and more—offering a dynamic mix of learning, movement, and fun.

Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Thank you to the campus partners whose creativity and commitment made the day such a success.

Take Your Junior Patriot to Work Day will return on Thursday, April 22, 2027. Interested in hosting an activity? Contact engagehr@gmu.edu.

Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Storytime on the plaza at Mason Square. Photo provided

911�� Police shared a drone demonstration at Mason Square. Photo provided

Moot Court at Mason Square. Photo provided

More about Take Your Junior Patriot to Work Day

Topics

Mason Square

Police and Public Safety

Caitlin Horan is May Employee of the Month

ckearney — Fri, 01 May 2026 14:13:15 +0000

Caitlin Horan is May Employee of the Month ckearney Fri, 05/01/2026 - 10:13

Caitlin Horan, assistant dean of graduate academic services in 911��’s Costello College of Business, has transformed the graduate services team. Referred to as the “heart” of the Costello graduate team, Horan is known for her innovation, student advocacy, and strong organization skills. She’s also a founding member of her department’s party planning team and has created team-building events such as chili cook-offs and trips to see the cherry blossoms. For all of this and more, she is being recognized as the May Employee of the Month.

May Employee of the Month Caitlin Horan with President Gregory Washington. Photo by David Loughner/Office of University Branding

“Not only has Caitlin leveraged her strong interest in technology, efficiency, and providing quality service to students to improve the functioning of the graduate teams, she has also sought opportunities to lend her voice, time, and effort to university-level initiatives to implement new and better systems,” said Paige Wolf, associate dean of Costello graduate programs.

Graduate program manager Lauren Flynn said Horan is truly exemplary as both an employee and a colleague. “I don’t believe I have ever worked with anyone more thoughtful in her work and generous with her time, and I can think of no one more deserving.”

Saul Garcia, assistant director of MS in Management Program, emphasized Horan’s ability to recall and organize entire Costello schedules and programs with ease, which has been vital for their department. “She is the glue that holds our unit together,” he said.

May Abou Ghazaleh, assistant director of the Master’s in Real Estate Development Program, said, “Caitlin’s expertise, organization, and commitment has transformed the efficiency and accessibility of program operations, directly contributing to the success of faculty, staff, and students.”

“As a leader, Caitlin is not only dedicated to the success of our programs but also deeply empathetic to the needs of her staff. She consistently goes above and beyond to support her team, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to excel,” said Vanessa H. DeShane, director of specialized master’s programs at Costello.

“One of the things that truly stands out about Caitlin is her wealth of knowledge,” said Shabnam Rezai, assistant director of MSF and MSBA Programs. “She’s our go-to person for advice and guidance.”

How did you come to 911��:

After completing a master’s degree in educational administration and policy at the University of Georgia, I was looking to move to the DMV—a term I only associated with the Department of Motor Vehicles before moving here! I completed my undergraduate degree at the College of William and Mary, so I had a number of college friends who lived in the area, and I was looking for a change. I applied to many schools in D.C. and Northern Virginia, but 911��’s commitment to access and inclusion resonated with me the most.

Best day on the job:

I have had the opportunity to join groups of students on their short-term study-abroad programs in Chile, Dubai, Estonia, and South Africa. These experiences have been incredibly rewarding, both personally and professionally. Watching the students learn about doing business in a foreign country firsthand while applying what they have learned in the classroom is such a cool experience!

What do you like best about working at Mason:

My answer is twofold: First, I love my colleagues! They are some of the hardest working, innovative, and passionate people I know. Second, I also love working with our students. Graduate students are such an interesting group because of the diversity of perspectives that they bring to the table. Our students range in age from 21 to 60+, so there’s always something to learn from them. I also absolutely love it when I hear them talk about how they have been able to apply what they learned in the classroom to their jobs, or how they have leveraged the network they gain by joining the program to find a new job.

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

I enjoy traveling, hiking, reading, playing ultimate frisbee, and spending time with friends and family.

Topics

Costello College of Business

911�� Retirees: Sept. 2025 to March 2026

lclarkg — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 14:08:17 +0000

911�� Retirees: Sept. 2025 to March 2026 lclarkg Thu, 04/23/2026 - 10:08

Congratulations to the 911�� faculty and staff retirees from September 2025 to March 2026. The list below includes retirees, the department from which they retired, and years of service.

We hope you will come back to visit sometimes. Once a Patriot, always a Patriot!

Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

September 2025

James Gentry, Facilities and Campus Operations, 23 years, 6 months

Thomas Huff, College of Science, 29 years, 4 months

Patrick Kolbe, Center for Earth Observing and Spatial Research, 27 years, 11 months

Barbara (Bobbie) Merritt, Human Resources, 19 years, 5 months

Luz Sta Catalina, Student Accounts, 20 years, 3 months

Balendran Velauthapillai, Center for Earth Observing and Spatial Research, 23 years, 11 months

October 2025

Seunghun Ok, Kellar Institute for Human disAbilities, 21 years, 4 months

Linda Santos, Center for Evidence-Based Crime Policy, 7 years, 7 months

November 2025

Henry Feil, Facilities and Campus Operations, 35 years, 4 months

Jill Parady, Human Resources, 10 years, 5 months

Maria Valdez, Community Business Partnerships, 5 years, 1 month

January 2026

Deb Dickenson, Executive Vice President for Finance and Administration, 6 years, 4 months

Teresa Gibbons, Information Technology Services, 20 years

Charles Lemley, Antonin Scalia Law School, 3 years, 2 months

February 2026

James Burroughs, Public Policy and Public Administration, 26 years

James Chaney, Facilities and Campus Operations, 21 years, 9 months

Stephen Christophe, Costello College of Business, 27 years, 5 months

Michael Davis, Antonin Scalia Law School, 10 years, 5 months

Yvette Del Gallo, Facilities and Campus Operations, 12 years, 1 month

Edward Dittmeier, Office of University Audit, 10 years, 6 months

Carolyn Drews-Botsch, Global and Community Health, 5 years, 5 months

Karl Fryxell, School of Systems Biology, 28 years, 4 months

Donna Fulton, School of Kinesiology, 14 years, 6 months

Saiid Ganjalizadeh, Information Systems and Operations Management, 5 years, 4 months

David Ganley, University Police, 24 years, 4 months

Jonathan Goldman, College of Engineering and Computing, 24 years, 2 months

Carrie Grabo, History and Art History, 17 years, 2 months

R. Chris Jones, Environmental Science and Policy, 45 years, 4 months

James Lawrey, Biology, 48 years, 4 months

Michael Mauck, Information Technology Services, 30 years, 6 months

Christopher Nayeri, Information Technology Services, 33 years, 3 months

Murray James Pyle, Information Systems and Operations Management, 6 years, 5 months

David Rosenblum, Computer Science, 5 years, 6 months

Bernard Scheiner, Card Access Security Office, 8 years, 7 months

Harvey Singer, Information Systems and Operations Management, 28 years, 4 months

Gheorghe Tecuci, Computer Science, 35 years, 6 months

Patrice Winter, Global and Community Health, 18 years, 8 months

March 2026

Stacy Borzi, Facilities and Campus Operations, 24 years, 8 months

John Smilde, Office of University Advancement and Alumni Relations, 5 years, 2 months

Topics

Retirement

Watch a recording of the ceremony.

911��’s 2026 Outstanding Achievement Awards honor faculty and staff excellence

ckearney — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 20:35:33 +0000

911��’s 2026 Outstanding Achievement Awards honor faculty and staff excellence ckearney Thu, 04/16/2026 - 16:35

The 911�� campus community came together at the 2026 Outstanding Achievement Awards on April 14 to recognize faculty and staff whose dedication, innovation, and service shape and strengthen the university.

Sally Lorentson, assistant vice president of University Life, received the Margaret C. Howell Award. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

The Outstanding Achievement Awards serve as a powerful reminder to celebrate not only these accomplishments, but also the everyday contributions that continue to make 911�� an extraordinary place to learn, work, and grow. More than 30 individuals and two teams were recognized at the ceremony.

President Gregory Washington expressed his appreciation for 911�� employees, emphasizing the importance of community, collaboration, and the shared commitment to student success. “What happens here is about impact under constraint,” Washington said. “It’s about creativity when the easy answer is unavailable. It’s about commitment when the work would be simpler somewhere else. You stretch time, you stretch budgets, and most importantly, you stretch yourselves. And somehow what our students experience, is not scarcity, but possibility.”

From emerging leaders to longstanding changemakers, each honoree represents the university’s core values in action, demonstrating what it means to “Thrive Together.”

Recognizing Emerging Talent and Exemplary Service

The Rising Star Award was awarded to Ronae Jones, marketing and events coordinator for the College of Visual and Performing Arts. In her short time at 911��, Jones has demonstrated exceptional creativity, collaboration, and professionalism.

The Civility Star Award was presented to Kyle Warfield, associate director of community engagement and retention, Office of Access, Compliance, and Community, for his leadership in fostering an inclusive and respectful campus culture.

Ryan Barnett, associate director of the Office of Military Services, received the Martha J. Reiner Quality Customer Service Award for his outstanding support of military-affiliated students and their families.

The Patriot Pathbreakers Award was presented to two teams: the Office of Access, Compliance, and Community, and the Mason Minds Matter team. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

Honoring Teaching, Leadership, and Innovation

Three faculty members were recognized with the Adjunct Faculty Service Award: AJ Thurston (Department of Psychology, College of Humanities and Social Sciences), Kristi Horton (College of Engineering and Computing), and Jerry Pierce (Costello College of Business), each celebrated for their dedication to teaching, mentorship, and student success.

Marci Kinas Jerome of the Kellar Institute for Human disAbilities received the David W. Rossell Quill Award for her decades of leadership and service in advancing student success and program excellence.

The Innovation Award was presented to Birgit Debeerst, director of University Life project and process management, whose data-driven approach and process improvements have significantly enhanced efficiency and the student experience within University Life.

Celebrating Alumni and Community Impact

911��’s special community of alumni employees was recognized through the Faculty and Staff Alumni Awards.

Cheryl Hairston, associate head athletic trainer in Intercollegiate Athletics, was honored for her unwavering commitment to student-athlete well-being.

Melissa Mandac, senior assistant director of graduate operations if the Office of Admissions, was recognized for her leadership, mentorship, and dedication to fostering inclusive environments.

The Margaret C. Howell Award was awarded to Sally Lorentson, assistant vice president of University Life, for her exceptional leadership in advancing student success and shaping impactful university initiatives.

Excellence Across Roles and Teams

President Washington with Wonki Hwangbo, associate director of human resources in Mason Korea, who joined the ceremony virtually from the Songdo campus, to receive the Campus Culture Champion Award. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

The ceremony highlighted the essential contributions of staff across the university.

Wage employees Elizabeth Macleod, Leading to Well-Being program coordinator, and Mykola Signayevskyy, data analyst, Office of International Programs and Services, were recognized for their excellence and dedication.

Four individuals received Exceptional Support Awards for being indispensable resources within their units: Michael Benedict, IT support specialist, University Life; Susan Engel, data integrity manager, Office of University Advancement and Alumni Relations; Terri Ann Guingab, instructional designer, College of Public Health; and Jancy Templeton, advisor, Special Education and Disability Research, College of Education and Human Development.

Kristine Neuber, IT accessibility coordinator in the Office of Access, Compliance, and Community, received the Excellence in Action Award for her longstanding commitment to accessibility and inclusion.

Crystal Hall Buckley, director of the Office of Graduate Admissions, was honored with the Mentorship Excellence Award for her impact on professional development and staff growth.

Wonki Hwangbo, associate director of human resources in Mason Korea, joining virtually from the Songdo campus, received the Campus Culture Champion Award for transforming workplace culture and strengthening community connections across campus.

Recognizing Legacy, Spirit, and Service

Maria Cruz of Housing and Residence Life received the Goldie and Diane Hattery Award for Excellence. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

The Goldie and Diane Hattery Award for Excellence was presented to Maria Cruz of Housing and Residence Life and Karen Soriano-Maginness of Facilities Custodial Services for their outstanding service and commitment to creating welcoming environments for students.

The 911�� Legacy Award recognized Nance Lucas, executive director and chief well-being officer at the Center for the Advancement of Well-Being, and Kim Eby, vice provost for faculty affairs and development, for their long-term transformative impact on the university.

The Nancy Murphy Mason Spirit Award celebrated Kristen Wright, director of the Office for Community Engagement and Civil Learning (CECIL), and Jason Hartsel, assistant director of marketing and communication, Student Media, for their enthusiasm, mentorship, and commitment to building community.

The Sustainability Hero Award was presented to Jonathan Elwell, director of Dining Services.

Melanie Knapp, assistant dean, library and technology, Scalia Law, received the Rick Holt Active Transportation Advocate Award for her dedication to promoting sustainable practices.

Kayla Turner, academic advisor, Child, Family and Community Engagement in CEHD, was recognized with the Jade Barricelli Spirit of Academic Advising Excellence Award for her commitment to student-centered advising.

Teamwork in Action

The Patriot Pathbreakers Award, which celebrates collaboration, was presented to two teams: the Office of Access, Compliance, and Community, and the Mason Minds Matter team. Both groups were recognized for their innovative cross-functional efforts to address complex challenges and support student well-being.

Ann Garner of University Career Services and Olga O’Brien of the Freedom Aquatic and Fitness Center were recognized with Outstanding Supervisor Awards for exemplary leadership and support of their teams.

Topics

Danielle Dufresne is April Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 13:59:51 +0000

Danielle Dufresne is April Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Wed, 04/01/2026 - 09:59

Clinical Assistant Professor Danielle Dufresne is the associate center director at 911��'s Center for Community Mental Health (CCMH). A member of 911��’s Psychology Department since 2019, Dufresne is responsible for training new clinicians and overseeing every psychological/behavioral/cognitive assessment at the Fairfax-based center.

Colleagues have applauded Dufresne’s leadership, integrity, and commitment to supporting her trainees. She has made notable contributions that have improved the capabilities of the center and furthered the university’s dedication to innovation and supporting its students. For these reasons, Dufresene has been named April Employee of the Month.

Dufresene. Photo provided

In her nomination, CCMH director Robyn Mehlenbeck mentioned Dufresne’s accomplishments, including creating, in collaboration with the director of the university’s Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), a therapy-friendly approach to ADHD testing. “Dr. Dufresne is truly committed to helping each individual grow professionally, and her impact has been significant,” said Mehlenbeck. “She helps oversee our internship program and helps with procedures and policies necessary for a nonprofit community mental health center. We have a small but mighty staff, and I have personally been impressed by Dr. Dufresne’s consistent mentoring of our staff, as well as our trainees.”

Leah Adams, CCMH’s associate director of clinical training, said Dufresne has elevated the training experiences of all who train at the center. “Conducting high-quality comprehensive assessments is a time-intensive endeavor, and Danielle is with our trainees at each step of the way, providing close, supportive mentorship, and going above and beyond to meet them at their individual levels of need.”

Psychology professor Jerome Short, one of the CCMH faculty supervisors, spoke highly of Dufresne’s mentoring of doctoral students. “She has generously provided template models of psychological assessment reports, demonstrated administration of neuropsychological and achievement tests, and consulted with me as an instructor and supervisor to doctoral students about how to best assess their first clients in their first psychological assessment courses. This has allowed more people in the community with limited economic resources to receive reduced fee services and gain accommodations in their community colleges, universities, and workplaces.”

“Dr. Dufresne exemplifies the highest standards of ethical integrity, mentorship, and student- centered learning,” said doctoral student Sasha Hickham. “Her commitment to student success is unparalleled: Her unique approach emphasizes quality over quantity, a culture of collaboration across all academic levels, and forward-thinking innovation to meet the evolving mental health needs of our local community.”

President Washington congratulates April Employee of the Month Danielle Dufresne in an online ceremony. Photo provided

How did you come to Mason:

After being in private practice for several years, having previously worked with another psychologist and mentor or in large group and community practices, I found myself missing the collaboration and exchanges that come with working directly with colleagues. So, having already had an interest in moving to the area, but not quite ready to leave my practice and family, I began looking for a position in psychological assessment—my area of focus, that would allow me to collaborate with others more regularly. That lead me to 911�� and CCMH (Center for Psychological Services when I started). I met with Robyn Mehlenbeck and other faculty and knew quickly that this was my next step and was excited when the position was offered. I juggled traveling weekly and wearing multiple hats and have found so much growth and community here. 

Best day on the job:

I had to think about this one because the ongoing opportunity for growth also means frequently challenging yourself, so while there have been many great days, there have been many hard ones as well. Great days include those where you see a trainee feel successful and when you hear the feedback from students around their positive training experiences or have an opportunity to meaningfully support a trainee in their next steps or through a challenging experience. Engaging with colleagues around intentional and strategic growth has also been exciting because of the engagement of so many creative and dedicated people. I would say, however, one of the best days was actually during COVID closures. I had the opportunity—along with other key people including Robyn Mehlenbeck—to meet with [College of Humanities and Social Sciences] dean [Ann] Ardis to re-start psychological assessment services through a hybrid testing model ... Meeting with such important people, presenting on my ideas and speaking on my area of expertise, felt… like a benchmark in the culmination of my work and dedication to training. 

What do you like best about working at Mason:

The most valuable part about being part of 911�� and CCMH has been the community. The support, ability to collaborate and consult, and the opportunities not only for your own growth, but the ability to support others in their own, has been the most satisfying part of this time. Not every week is easy, but every week offers the chance to challenge yourself. 

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

I spend time with my loved ones. That may be a standing Sunday movie date—something about going to a theater is still so fun, going out for a bite to eat and catch up on the week, or we feed our competitive energy in video games. I don’t usually win, but we laugh a lot. 

Learn more about the Center for Community Mental Health

Topics

College of Humanities and Social Sciences

Center for Community Mental Health

University Day Service Awards honor faculty and staff service

lclarkg — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 17:48:38 +0000

University Day Service Awards honor faculty and staff service lclarkg Thu, 03/19/2026 - 13:48

911�� honored faculty and staff with significant service anniversaries at the University Day Service Awards ceremony on Monday on the Fairfax Campus.

Honorees were recognized for years of state service ranging from 5–55 years.

President Gregory Washington and Evan Cantwell, senior photographer in the Office of University Branding. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

President Gregory Washington thanked the honorees for their contributions to the university and its students’ success.

“Thank you for the work you do, the care you show our students, and the role you play in making the university one of the most important opportunity engines not just in the region, but in the country,” said Washington.

Robinson Professor James Trefil celebrated 55 years of service. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Robinson Professor James Trefil is the first 911�� faculty member to reach the milestone of 55 years of service. Trefil taught at the University of Virginia for more than a decade before joining 911��’s then brand-new Robinson Professor Program in 1987. Learn more about Trefil and his contributions to the university.

40-year service awardees. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

The event served as a special catch‑up ceremony, recognizing employees who reached service milestones between July 1, 2025, and December 31, 2025. Staring this fall, 911�� will transition to a calendar-year service recognition timeline, meaning that employees will be celebrated in the same calendar year in which they reach their milestones.

Learn more about the ceremony and view the program for a complete list of honorees.

35-year service awardees. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

30-year service awardees. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

25-year service awardees. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

20-year service awardees. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

15-year service awardees. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

10-year service awardees. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

5-year service awardees. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

More about University Day Service Awards

Topics

University Day

Paul Bazzano is March Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 14:28:24 +0000

Paul Bazzano is March Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Mon, 03/02/2026 - 09:28

Paul Bazzano has worked for Mason Recreation for more than 30 years. He started as a student worker while pursuing his bachelor’s degree in communication at 911�� and is now assistant director of competitive sports and athletic training.

March Employee of the Month Paul Bazzano with President Gregory Washington. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Colleagues have applauded Bazzano for his outstanding leadership, innovation, and dedication to advancing Mason Recreation’s mission. He has made numerous contributions that have strengthened Mason Recreation’s programs, elevated its visibility across campus and beyond, and deepened the university’s commitment to inclusive and adaptive recreation. For these reasons, Bazzano was selected as the March Employee of the Month.

In their nominations, many of Bazzano’s colleagues talked about how he went above and beyond in coordinating two major university events that brought together campus and community partners in meaningful ways.

The first event was the National Beep Baseball All-Star Tournament, which brought more than 70 blind and visually impaired athletes, coaches, and volunteers from across the country to 911��. In addition to the tournament, Bazzano organized a Learn-to-Play Clinic, giving about 25 visually impaired students and community members the opportunity to experience Beep Baseball for the first time.

“Paul has continued to elevate the profile of our department and the awareness of a wonderful adaptive sport,” said Sheldon Tate, executive director of Mason Recreation. “He has poured himself fully into the Beep Baseball movement and is quickly becoming the quintessential ally for individuals with disabilities. We are proud to follow his lead, and there are dozens of colleagues across campus who would absolutely agree that Paul is raising the bar.”

“Through his leadership, Paul has strengthened partnerships with organizations such as Game One, MindsEye, Lighthouse for the Blind, and the Metro Washington Association of Blind Athletes,” said Ethan Carter, associate director of programs, well-being, and assessment. “He also began discussions with the Junior Tennis Champions Center to host a wheelchair tennis event in Spring 2026, expanding 911��’s reach and reputation in adaptive sports.”

In addition to forging new opportunities for differently abled athletes, Bazzano supports all the students who participate in Mason Recreation’s programs, said Jennifer Tolson, head athletic trainer at Mason Recreation

“Paul works day and night to help our club teams and intramurals succeed both on and off the field,” said Tolson. “He’s always finding ways to make things happen—even when it seems impossible. A great example of this is when our football team had an opponent forfeit. Paul immediately searched for another team to play, ensuring our athletes still got the experience they deserved. That’s who Paul is—he never gives up on our teams and always fights to give them the best opportunities possible.”

How did you come to Mason:

I started at 911�� in 1995 as an undergraduate student and never really left. I worked in athletics and recreation as a student, and after graduation I was offered the chance to continue doing work I loved. Mason has been home ever since.

Best day on the job:

It is hard to narrow it down to one day. March 2006 during the Final Four run stands out. I was responsible for supervising the student bus to Dayton, Ohio, for the first round, and what was supposed to be a quick trip turned into something much bigger. The pride on campus during that stretch is something I have never seen before and have not seen since.

What do you like best about working at Mason:

Watching students grow and move on to do great things. What means the most is when they come back and reconnect. Knowing you played even a small role in their experience stays with you.

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

I enjoy staying active. Whether it is playing a sport or just finding ways to stay healthy, that has always been an important part of my life. I have also taken up sports photography, which has been a fun creative outlet and another way to give back to our students.

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