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Schar School Launches New Yearlong Master’s Program

Andrew J Schappert — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 17:09:35 +0000

Schar School Launches New Yearlong Master’s Program Andrew J Schappert Fri, 04/03/2026 - 13:09

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In August 2025, 911��'s Schar School of Policy and Government launched the National Security and Policy cohort program and welcomed its first group of students to campus. The newest addition to the school’s programmatic offerings, the NSPP offers students a full-time, one-year master’s degree experience with a group of like-minded peers who support and challenge each other’s intellectual growth. The inaugural cohort will graduate in August 2026 with a Master of Public Policy degree with an emphasis on national security.

NSPP students toured the Defense Intelligence Agency and had lunch with Schar School alumni who work there.

“Our cohort students bring a new dynamic to the program,” said NSPP Program Director Justin Gest. “They’re hustlers who have decided to devote more time to their studies to expedite their education and entry into the world of public policy. And perhaps most importantly, they value the community that our MPP program engenders among students.”

The NSPP program pushes boundaries in its exploration of national security, integrating a focus on economic statecraft and transnational crime along with the traditional study of international relations and intelligence. Students take four courses each semester and are trained in the fundamental skills of policy—economic and statistical analysis, program evaluation, and policy communication—while applying these skills to national security problems.

A program combines classroom learning with the Schar School’s expert faculty with a robust cocurricular program that introduces NSPP students to a variety of security-related careers and organizations.

Cohort members met with Virginia Senator Tim Kaine while in Washington, D.C.

In its inaugural year, cohort programming has included a winter study-abroad session in Brussels, Belgium, to visit NATO Headquarters and the EU Commission; a trip to New York to observe the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty negotiations; a tour of the Defense Intelligence Agency and lunch with Schar School alumni working there; a day on Capitol Hill with the Senate Armed Services Committee; lunch with a former governor of Virginia, a meeting with a member of Congress, and a visit to a security-related think tank led by its CEO.

Students have also met with leaders and managers at the Department of Justice, Homeland Security, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Secret Service, and national security consulting firms and defense contractors.

Elaina Ryan, a member of the first cohort, had taken a summer course at 911�� as an undergraduate student, so she was familiar with “the unique expertise that Schar School faculty bring,” she said.

The small size of the NSPP program also appealed to Ryan. “It’s nice that all of my professors know who I am and could speak to my abilities in the classroom,” she said. “It's also enlightening hearing from the others in my cohort, who bring a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences. We learn from each other as much as we learn from our professors. It also brings more accountability to group projects—everyone goes above and beyond because we have personal relationships with each other and don't want to disappoint.”

Former Ambassador Richard Kauzlarich describes the students in his POGO 750 Energy in a Turbulent World course as dedicated and driven to succeed. “They develop a team-centric approach that is important in making the cohort-based program work,” he said. “I hope the students come away from my class with a strong sense of why energy—the major public policy challenge facing the U.S. and other countries as well—represents a key building block in their national security studies.”

Nikki Forry teaches POGO 646 Policy and Program Evaluation in the NSPP program and has enjoyed teaching the group and observing the close ties they’ve formed. “The small class size allows for more interaction and personalized instruction,” she said. “The cohort approach allows for stronger bonds to be developed between students and these bonds enhance the learning community.”

To round out the program, students meet regularly throughout the year with Schar School Career Development Office staff and develop a tailored plan for securing internships and their first job in the field, along with a framework for continued professional growth.

“The program has repeatedly offered us experiences with networking and also did a mandatory resume review last fall,” said Ryan, who landed an internship at the Niskanen Center think tank. “I spoke with Duane [Bradshaw] and Brian [Bar] at the Career Development Office, and it was their advice that was primarily responsible for landing my current internship.”

Other recent internship placements include the U.S. House of Representatives, the National Conference of State Legislatures, the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General, and U.S. Indo-Pacific Command.

Cohort programs like the NSPP offer students a distinctive educational and professional development experience that they can’t get elsewhere, Forry says.

“The rich curriculum targeting national security provides students with the skills they will need to graduate and find employment,” she said. “The cohort program offers an intensive learning environment beneficial to highly motivated students.”

For more information about the National Security and Public Policy cohort program, visit this website.

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A student-athlete’s marketing play draws fans to the stands

Katarina Benson — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 15:26:00 +0000

A student-athlete’s marketing play draws fans to the stands Katarina Benson Fri, 04/03/2026 - 11:26

For 911�� baseball player Evan Blanchard, success isn’t just measured in hits and RBIs. During his internship with Mason Athletics’ marketing department, the third baseman helped design a promotional campaign that brought hundreds of fans—and a surge in attendance—to a men’s basketball rivalry game.

Evan Blachard in his Patriots uniform. Photo by Rafael Suanes/911�� Athletics

As a senior majoring in sport management, Blanchard needed to complete an internship of at least 400 hours to meet his degree requirements. His interest in sports marketing began with Lily Plizga, associate director of fan engagement and brand strategy in 911�� Athletics. As a student-athlete, Blanchard saw Plizga working tirelessly during games and knew how strong the department was. After a discussion with Plizga, Blanchard decided to fulfill his internship requirement by working with 911�� Athletics’ marketing department.

“The biggest thing is how fast-paced sports environments are," said Blanchard of his internship experience. “You need to be able to handle multiple roles, communicate effectively, and stay organized.”

Some of his core responsibilities included devising marketing plans, which included creating promotional themes, brainstorming giveaway ideas, and emphasizing social media strategy while ensuring all the marketing materials resonated with the different stakeholders, including students, fans, alumni, sponsors, and donors.

On gamedays, Blanchard was responsible for gathering and distributing promotional items, along with running in-game collateral, such as sponsored student competitions and T-shirt tosses.

His internship also required that he manage a special project. Blanchard decided to do a promotion for the men’s basketball program, with the purpose of boosting attendance by 5% at the big in-state rivalry game between 911�� and James Madison University (JMU) scheduled to take place during Thanksgiving break.

The plans involved collaborating with 911�� baseball alumni Danny Hosley and South Trimble, who are currently Savannah Bananas players. The idea was to have Hosley and Trimble participate in a pre-game autograph session, halftime entertainment, and timeout competitions.

Blanchard at a 911�� men's basketball game. Photo by Art Pittman/911�� Athletics

Aside from getting people to the game, the goal was to attract a new audience, especially baseball fans, while also cross-promoting men’s basketball and baseball. Since most 911�� students were home for the break, the target audience for this promotion also included kids and families in the area.

Blanchard began preparing at the start of the fall 2025 semester, with weekly goals to keep on track. This included reaching out to both Hosley and Trimble and coordinating with the Masonettes, marketing staff, and the department leadership. He also contacted various baseball and softball clubs to coordinate group sales and designed autograph cards for fans, along with additional promotional graphics for the event.

"As an intern, you have value, but you still have to prove yourself," he said. “Preparation was key, and I made sure everything was well planned and gathered feedback from everyone involved."

On the big day, both the marketing department and Blanchard were eager to see whether their planning was successful. The results speak for themselves:

61.1% attendance increase since the last time 911�� played a home game over the Thanksgiving recess
1,499 attendees above the 2023-24 yearly attendance average (39.8%)
19.7% attendance increase since last home game versus JMU

More than 400 fans came through the meet and greet line with trading cards, mini-bats, baseballs, jerseys, and banana hats, eager to meet Hosley and Trimble.

Plizga described Blanchard as one of the best interns she has ever had, with praise for his professionalism and reliability. Early on in his internship, Blanchard stepped in to help when 911�� Athletics decided to participate in Fairfax’s annual Fall Festival within the week of the event. There wasn’t a lot of turnaround time to get staff participation in the day-long event. Blanchard helped Plizga set up and then tear down at the festival. Then they headed back to the campus to work at a 6 p.m. soccer game.

Plizga also appreciated Blanchard’s positive attitude and demeanor. “Sometimes tensions can get high, but Evan’s positive attitude made the workplace a lot better. Everyone loved working with him, and he definitely boosted the mood throughout the day,” she said.

In addition to learning how to operate various technologies, such as the Daktronics videoboard used to promote events, Blanchard said understanding the importance of workplace culture, teamwork, and professionalism, and knowing how to effectively contribute to an organization were also important lessons.

His advice to students seeking internships is to develop good relationships with your professors and to always be on the lookout for opportunities they share.

To those wishing to pursue sport marketing, Blanchard said, “You have to be able to put yourself in uncomfortable situations that involve communicating with people, bringing up new ideas, and just trying out new things. You also have to be able to wear multiple hats at once, while ensuring that you stay organized by having a plan.

Learn more about Internships at 911��

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911��’s student parent and caregiver meetups earn national recognition

Katarina Benson — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:55:03 +0000

911��’s student parent and caregiver meetups earn national recognition Katarina Benson Wed, 04/01/2026 - 20:55

More than 30% of 911�� students who participated in the National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE) this year reported spending time caregiving each week—for children, siblings, parents, or other family members. That’s a significant portion of the student body navigating coursework alongside responsibilities that many campus programs weren’t built to acknowledge. University Life’s Contemporary Student Services (CSS) unit is working to change that.

Student parent and caregiver events provide important community. Photo provided

CSS’s monthly Student Parent and Caregiver Meetups are designed to foster connection and build support networks; research shows these activities are linked to increased student retention and success. CSS was recognized with the NASPA Adult Learner and Students with Children Knowledge Community’s Outstanding Undergraduate Student Parent Program award for these meetups.

The NASPA award honors innovative approaches to supporting the specific needs of student parents in higher education. “Supporting student success means recognizing those realities and meeting students as learners and caregivers at the same time,” said Joisanne Rodgers, CSS director. “Each student and staff member involved gives care, time, support, to ensure that 911�� student parents and caregivers have a place to gather, be in community, and know they belong and matter.”

911�� alumna Veronica Vassar, MA Higher Education and Student Development ’25, said, “This space was one of the biggest contributors to my sense of belonging at 911��.”

The meetups, conceived of and hosted by CSS associate director Shyama Kuver, began as virtual gatherings during COVID-19 lockdown in spring 2020. By fall 2022, the initiative had grown into an in-person program, co-led by undergraduate student parent and FamilyU Fellow Valeria Fernandez. After her fellowship, Fernandez continued her work with CSS as a contemporary student ambassador, helping grow the program alongside Caroline Simpson, then CSS coordinator and now New Student and Family Programs assistant director.

When Fernandez graduated, undergraduate student parent and CSS Ambassador Chathrini Sirisena stepped into the leadership role. Today, the meetups continue to flourish thanks to CSS student ambassadors Mahjabeen Rahman and Kaitlyn La; Ryne Kimlick, an undergraduate student parent and CSS peer mentor; and Maria Garin Jones, CSS coordinator.

That continuity—students carrying the work forward for other students—speaks to what the program has built over the years.

Some attendees of the student parent and caregiver meetings. Photo provided

“As a student parent, being there with others just like me was so meaningful,” Sirisena said. “That feeling of not being alone in the experience is so important, and I am grateful we have been able to create that for our student parents.”

For Kuver, the recognition reflects something she has believed since the beginning. “The CSS meetups were my first program implementation at 911��,” she said. “I believe in their importance and in their evolution. I believe in the spirit and necessity of horizontal support networks for our student communities.”

911�� is also a proud recipient of the FamilyU Seal, a national certification recognizing the important work done every day to help student parents pursue their education, access economic mobility, and thrive.

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Ilia Malinin wins his third consecutive world championship

ckearney — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 19:58:37 +0000

Ilia Malinin wins his third consecutive world championship ckearney Mon, 03/30/2026 - 15:58

911��’s Ilia Malinin gave a resounding performance at the 2026 World Figure Skating Championships in Prague that resulted in his third consecutive world championship.

lia Malinin celebrates with the U.S. flag after winning the men's free skating program of the 2026 ISU Figure Skating World Championships in Prague, Czech Republic on March 28, 2026. Photo by Michal Cizek/AFP via Getty Images

Malinin, a 21-year-old exploratory studies major from Vienna best known as the "Quad God,” was just six weeks removed from a free skate at the 2026 Milan Winter Olympics that saw the heavy gold medal favorite fall from medal contention. In the immediate days afterwards, he spoke of the relentless pressure on him and others at the Olympic level.

With a fresh outlook, Malinin delivered an impressive two-minute, 49-second short program that included a quadruple flip, a triple axel, a quadruple lutz-triple toe loop combination, and a backflip for good measure, affirming his status as the world’s most dominant skater.

“I was definitely coming back to prove myself that [the Olympic performance] was a one-time thing, but now I realize this is much more than just skating,” Malinin told the media afterward. “It’s being able to go and enjoy and have fun.”

Malinin finished with a total score of 329.40, placing him well ahead of silver medalist Yuma Kagiyama of Japan (306.67). Another Japanese skater, Shun Sato, finished third with 288.54 points.

Malinin plans to spend the next few weeks touring across America on the Stars on Ice tour.

“I was around 13 when I realized that I could skate for more than just fun.”

Ilia Malinin

Read an interview with Ilia Malinin >>

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911�� College of Public Health students learn AI implementation and management in graduate-level health administration course

Taylor Thomas — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 15:55:03 +0000

911�� College of Public Health students learn AI implementation and management in graduate-level health administration course Taylor Thomas Mon, 03/30/2026 - 11:55

Key Takeaways:

The health care field is rapidly evolving to include AI as standard across organizations and in care delivery.
HAP 621, a graduate level course taught by Associate Professor Renee Geschke in the fall 2025 semester, included a project where students engaged with real-life AI scenarios and implemented problem-solving as a health care leader, improving their AI literacy and analysis skills.
Jadon Thomas, an oncology nurse and 911�� health informatics student, reflects that the project prepared future health care leaders to be proficient with AI in clinical settings.

Photo via Unsplash.

Future health care leaders must be equipped to make data-informed, ethical, and emotionally intelligent decisions in environments increasingly influenced by artificial intelligence (AI). A graduate-level health administration and policy course (HAP 621) taught by Associate Professor Renee Geschke in the fall 2025 semester taught students how to become those leaders.

Geschke assigned a new project where students evaluated decisions, engaged with AI tools, and proposed responsible strategies for implementation in health care settings. Students were challenged to analyze a realistic leadership scenario when AI is being implemented within a health care organization.

For the project, students chose or proposed an AI-related leadership scenario relevant to their professional interests. They then experimented with at least two AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Copilot, Gemini, Tableau, Power BI) to analyze how AI impacts leadership communication, emotional intelligence, team engagement, key ethical and organizational considerations (e.g., bias, transparency, accountability, workforce trust), and how leaders can ensure ethical governance. Finally, students suggested actionable leadership strategies for responsible AI implementation in health care.

For example, an AI system flags a patient at high risk for readmission to the hospital. Staff are concerned about data accuracy and potential bias of the AI system. Students, as the hypothetical organizational leader, needed to address these concerns while balancing innovation and ethical oversight.

By the time the project was complete, students were better prepared to enter a rapidly evolving health care field.

“This assignment helped us think beyond everyday use and consider how AI is being integrated into clinical environments” said Jadon Thomas, a health informatics student with a concentration in management, who was enrolled in HAP 621. "Learning how these tools work and understanding how to use them effectively prepares health care workers like myself for a future in health informatics, where connecting clinical needs with technological capabilities will be needed."

Why learn AI now?

As Thomas, an oncology nurse for the DC VA Medical Center, pointed out, AI is moving from a transformative concept to a practical tool integrated into clinical systems.

“Just as the health care field transitioned from paper documentation to electronic medical records, we are now entering a new phase where AI will be integrated into these electronic medical records to improve clinical workflow and reduce burnout,” said Thomas.

Geschke was inspired to create this project after observing her students’ needs and industry demands. First, she noticed students were already encountering AI tools in informal and unstructured ways, but lacked the skills to use AI to its full potential. In addition, Geschke recognized that ignoring AI would place students at a disadvantage when entering the workforce. Rather than prohibiting AI use, Geschke designed a structured, transparent learning experience that explicitly teaches how and when AI can be used responsibly.

“Health care leaders will routinely interact with AI-enabled systems across operations, quality improvement, workforce management, and patient engagement. Developing AI literacy helps students recognize limitations, bias, and ethical concerns, ask better questions, and lead thoughtful organizational conversations about technology adoption,” said Geschke. Her expertise focuses on health systems management, health policy, and curriculum development, with an emphasis on student-centered and experiential learning.

Thomas echoed the sentiment, saying, “Health care organizations are actively developing and adopting AI-driven tools, so gaining this knowledge now is essential for understanding how these technologies will shape our workflows, responsibilities, and expectations in the future.”

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The Bestick twins reflect on their time as student-athletes at 911��

Katarina Benson — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 17:30:56 +0000

The Bestick twins reflect on their time as student-athletes at 911�� Katarina Benson Fri, 03/27/2026 - 13:30

Life is filled with unexpected twists and turns. In the case of 911�� lacrosse twins Kaitlyn and Regan Bestick, that road has split and come back together several times. Now, as the Fredericksburg, Virginia, natives and Honors College students compete in their final season together and prepare to separate again, they reflect on their time in the Mason Nation.

Regan has been a goalkeeper for the Patriots women’s lacrosse team for the past three years after transferring from Saint Joseph’s after her freshman season. She’s started every game this season and has recorded 96 saves. Kaitlyn has played all four years at 911�� and is currently second on the team in goals scored with 26. Both of them have created a positive impact on the team, which isn’t surprising considering the number of athletes in their family.

Regan and Kaitlyn Bestick. Photo by Mason Athletics

Sports and lacrosse have played an integral role in the lives of the Bestick twins. The product of two collegiate athletes—their mom was an All-American lacrosse player at James Madison, and their dad played baseball at William & Mary—they said televised sports were a big part of their household growing up.

Because we’re a sports family, we just watch a lot of games,” said Kaitlyn. “Our roommates will tell you the same thing: We always have some form of sports on.”

From childhood, their parents instilled a sense of competitiveness among the siblings, and they said they will always be grateful for that. “Our parents really prioritized us not only competing at the highest level but also getting the best education possible. And they instilled in us that work ethic to be able to succeed both academically and athletically,” said Regan.

The close bond between the sisters helps them give each other constructive feedback that translates into better performances. “Being in opposite positions really helps. When we're training in the off season, it helps to have someone who can shoot on me and tell me what I'm doing wrong, or what I'm giving up, and vice versa," said Regan. “It really helps to have that second pair of eyes. Inherently, I feel like we make each other better every day."

Despite spending their first years apart, they still collided on the field during that first season. On March 11, 2023, Regan made her debut for Saint Joseph's, against her twin sister, who was starting for 911��. Regan recalls feeling overwhelmed with emotion, as it was the first time she competed against her sister. However, when Regan came on, she knew that she had to focus on giving her best performance and ensuring the victory. The Hawks came away with the win, and Regan contributed to the clean sheet.

The sisters grew up playing together. Photo by Mason Athletics

Kaitlyn played a key role in bringing Regan to Mason. Kara, the head coach for the women’s lacrosse team, saw the sisters play at the club level in high school and was impressed by their skills and tenacity.

"I was definitely a big part of (Regan’s) recruiting process coming to Mason,” said Kaitlyn. “We wanted her from day one. And (Coach) Mupo was adamant about getting an inside scoop about her process, because she's a very talented player.”

“I knew that Kara was an amazing coach,” said Regan. “(George) Mason was in my top two schools my first time around recruiting as a high schooler. I knew that it was a place that I really liked and really enjoyed the coaching style and coaching aspects that Kara brings to the table.”

Regan also liked the idea of being closer to home. “I really enjoyed the fact that my parents got to come to every one of Kaitlyn's games,” she said, noting that they couldn’t always make it to Philadelphia for hers.

Regan brought valuable experience to 911��. “Her being here just makes us so much better on all facets,” said Kaitlyn. “Not only does she lock down her cage on the field, but she's also a great role model for our underclassmen. She's added so much value to our team.”

Aside from being among the top scorers, Kaitlyn also has additional leadership responsibilities as she is the president of the Student Athletes Advisory Council (SAAC) and serves as the voice for student-athletes.

Both sisters also have set out clear career paths. Regan has known since high school that she wanted to become a veterinarian. Majoring in biology with a minor in chemistry, she is already a certified veterinary assistant. After graduation, she’ll begin her four-year journey in veterinary school.

Kaitlyn, who completed her bachelor’s in government and international politics last year, is currently working on her master's in political science through the Bachelor’s/Accelerated Masters (BAM) Program at 911��. She will be attending law school in the fall.

Kaitlyn was introduced to law at a young age by her dad, who is a police officer for Fairfax County. “I came into Mason knowing I wanted to be an attorney. But personally, I want to do more civil or government work,” said Kaitlyn. "I'm also interested in sports law. I don't really want to be in a courtroom too much, but rather more behind the scenes."

She interned last summer with the Federal Reserve Board of Governors and worked with their procurement division.

Both are really excited about their graduate studies. "This will be the first time we're only students—not student-athletes, so I don't know how we're going to handle just having schoolwork to do and no practice or anything taking up half our day," said Kaitlyn.

This also means that the sisters will once again be away from each other, but they have already prepared for this situation.

"We talk way too much, so obviously there will be a lot of FaceTime calls and texts," said Kaitlyn.

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911��’s Teaching Kitchen offers students cooking tips and community

Katarina Benson — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 21:10:30 +0000

911��’s Teaching Kitchen offers students cooking tips and community Katarina Benson Tue, 03/24/2026 - 17:10

In February, 911�� Dining, in partnership with the Office of New Student and Family Programs, hosted a Teaching Kitchen designed specifically for first-year and transfer students. The 50 available spots filled immediately, a clear signal that today’s students are looking for connection, not just consumption.

The session was led by Chef William Weaver, director of student engagement, and Chef George Charbel, campus executive chef. Together, they guided students through three hands-on stations focused on practical, confidence-building skills. The first was chocolate mug cakes, which introduced foundational baking techniques. The second, overnight oats, reinforced nutrition and smart meal planning. The last station was elevated ramen, used to teach students how to transform a staple food item into a balanced, intentional meal.

Students created three recipes. Photo provided

But the real outcome wasn’t the recipes. It was community.

“We chose to offer this Teaching Kitchen class to give first-year students a fun opportunity to learn a new skill, connect with their peers, and begin building a sense of community early in their college experience,” Jonathan Holcomb, associate director of New Student Programs.

The Mason Dining Voice and Vision survey made it clear that dining is one of the most powerful touchpoints for belonging for students. Of the first-year students surveyed, 60.6% said dining helps them adjust to college life, and 53.1% said dining helps them feel welcome on campus.

For first-year and transfer students especially, the transition to campus can feel isolating. A teaching kitchen changes that dynamic. The shared experience sparks conversation and builds confidence among students, turning strangers into peers.

“I loved this event,” said George Mason first-year student Esther Agbara, who participated in the event. “I liked how everyone was cooperating with each other.”

The Teaching Kitchen is part of Mason Dining’s ongoing engagement-based programming. The team hosts monthly events centered on different themes. Throughout the year, Mason Dining also offers a variety of experiential events, including its Supper Club series, a fine-dining-style experience hosted in the dining halls.

Mason Dining and the workshop students. Photo provided

At 911��, dining is more than a service. It is a strategy for belonging—one intentionally designed to support student transition, build confidence, and reinforce the university’s commitment to helping every student succeed.

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Doctoral student brings teacher well-being to the front of the class with dissertation research

sholla4 — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 15:42:07 +0000

Doctoral student brings teacher well-being to the front of the class with dissertation research sholla4 Tue, 03/24/2026 - 11:42

Teacher well-being has been a persistent issue in education, and the COVID-19 pandemic marked a significant turning point, intensifying existing challenges and highlighting the need for greater support. A 2025 RAND report on the State of American Teachers found that teachers were more likely to report experiencing poor well-being across all indicators than their peers in other fields, with 53% reporting feeling burned out. And as teacher and administrator resignation rates remain above pre-pandemic levels, education is reaching a critical juncture.

Megan Sharkey. Photo provided.

Megan Sharkey, a doctoral student in educational psychology in the College of Education and Human Development at 911��, is hoping her research on teacher well-being will give districts and divisions the insights needed to get teachers the support they need.

Prior to coming to 911��, Sharkey taught elementary, special education, and early childhood education for almost 20 years. Across public, charter, and private schools from the Bronx in New York City to New Orleans and Northern Virginia, Sharkey's experiences teaching across varied geographical settings, demographics, and school systems shaped her approach to research.

“She’s unique in that not only does she have the knowledge of where we are and where we’re headed from a research perspective, but she also has the practical, firsthand understanding of how teacher well-being implicates the lives of many educators across different settings and systems,” said Betsy Levine-Brown, associate professor of education and Sharkey’s dissertation chair.

As the COVID-19 pandemic wore on, Sharkey’s experiences teaching under increasingly challenging conditions helped narrow her research interests to teacher well-being.

“I just felt like our story [as teachers] during COVID-19 wasn’t being told,” she said. “We value education. We work hard for the best outcomes for our students and families. At times, that goes unnoticed, and I wish our world valued the work of educators more.”

Now, she’s hoping her dissertation research will help educators, administrators, and schools better understand where wellness support is needed. With funding from the American Education Research Association (AERA) Stress, Coping, and Resilience Special Interest Group (SIG), Sharkey is working with a large school division in Northern Virginia to examine teacher, school, and organizational well-being efforts with a focus on elevating teachers’ voices to better understand and address comprehensive educator well-being resources and supports.

Sharkey’s research aims to answer two main questions: how are teachers’ well-being perceptions shaped by organizational policies and supports, and in what ways do teachers explain their well-being in relation to their daily work experiences? This includes looking at district- and administrative-level supports for educators, as well as surveying and interviewing teachers to understand how they experience and interpret their well-being across personal, professional, and organizational domains. It’s an approach that allows Sharkey to look at the layers of impact, from the macro level of administration to the micro level of one-on-one teacher/student interaction.

“Administrators want to build the workforce, and they want teaching to be a sustainable career path. Turnover is hard, and turnover is expensive,” said Sharkey. “And retaining teachers begins with understanding working conditions and why teachers leave the profession.”

Sharkey noted that recent research on teacher well-being shows how it can have a big impact on school culture and student achievement. Like with any job, employee satisfaction improves workplace climate. In schools, these effects can extend into the classroom, as a more positive school climate has been associated with a range of student outcomes, including engagement, attendance, and academic performance. When teachers are supported with the conditions they need to show up as their best selves, students benefit.

“This type of research is at the intersection of scholarship, policy, and applied practice and will have a real contribution to the daily lives of education professionals and the organizational structures of our school divisions,” said Levine-Brown.

“I’m incredibly grateful for the research practice partnerships I’ve built during this process,” said Sharkey. “Through them, there’s real opportunity for this research to have direct impacts on Northern Virginia educators.”

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This student is tasting start-up success with a meal delivery service for seniors

sholla4 — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 17:33:08 +0000

This student is tasting start-up success with a meal delivery service for seniors sholla4 Mon, 03/23/2026 - 13:33

Starting a business is a delicate task. Even if you get the measurements just right, without a dash of innovation, a sprinkle of luck, and a heaping spoonful of courage, it’s likely to go straight from the oven to the bin.

Zachary Suh prepares food in the College of Public Health's Nutrition Kitchen. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

Zachary Suh, however, is mastering the recipe.

Suh, a marketing major in the Costello College of Business, member of the Honors College, and a University Scholar at 911��, founded HomePlate, formerly Elderly Eats, in his sophomore year. It’s a meal service for seniors that provides medically thoughtful and culturally relevant meals made fresh and delivered right to their doorstep.

The idea first took root during COVID-19 lockdowns, when Suh’s grandmother moved in with the family as her Alzheimer’s reached late-stage. “My mom, who is a 911�� professor, became her full-time caregiver,” he said. "Caregiving takes a huge physical and emotional toll. I wanted to help her in any way I could.”

Leaning into his love for cooking, Suh took over making all the meals for his family: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. He discovered that his grandmother was most interested in Korean food. “Even with her cognitive decline, you could tell she enjoyed those meals much more,” he said.

This discovery led him to another: a major gap in senior food delivery. “At one point, we looked into meal service for seniors, but we couldn’t find anything that did culturally relevant meals,” he said.

Suh is familiar with start-ups: his older brother, Jeremy Suh, founded an AI company while in college. “He’s a big inspiration for me, very much my mentor,” Suh said. “We talked about this idea for a food delivery service, about how I could bring this onto a larger scale.”

And from those conversations, Suh was encouraged to apply for the 2024 Patriot Pitch competition, hosted by Costello College of Business. HomePlate won first place in the General Entrepreneurship Track and was selected as a Mason’s Choice Award Prize winner, earning Suh $7,000 to start turning his idea into reality.

“From the very outset, what impressed me most about Zach was his unwavering commitment to helping caregivers and seniors by providing them with nutritious, culturally relevant meals that could be consumed at home,” said Jerry Pierce, MBA ’92, a retired KPMG partner and professor of accounting at Costello. “His passion for helping others is always on full display and was a big reason the audience selected him for the Mason’s Choice Award.”

Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

Previously, HomePlate provided meal plans with an in-house demonstration of meal prep. Now, they’re transitioning to a fresh meal delivery service. Suh works with a registered dietician to craft meals that meet the variety of dietary and health needs of senior populations, such as diabetic restrictions, sodium control, low cholesterol, and general wellness. During the pilot program in March, HomePlate focused on Korean meals with hopes to expand to other cuisines in late 2026.

For Suh, now a junior at 911��, this shift lets him get back to doing what he loves: cooking. He is making all the meals from scratch in partnership with Kitchen of Purpose in Arlington. “You’ll see me at every stage,” he said. “In the grocery store, in the kitchen, delivering the meals, and then taking the trash out after.”

Being both a student and a business owner is certainly a balancing act. Suh said that it wouldn't be possible without the phenomenal support from 911��. Costello’s Office of Career Services and Jeremy Plotnick, director of minor programs for Costello, have been key supporters. Plotnick mentored Suh and helped him register his work on the business as an internship, allowing him to prepare for the relaunch while earning academic credit toward his degree. Working in the MIX incubator connected him to student and alumni entrepreneurs. Professors have offered advice. Even while studying abroad at Mason Korea, he was able to network and pitch his business through the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, as well as attend a one-week accelerator program in Australia.

“I don’t think you get this level of care and mentorship at other universities,” Suh said. “Being a 911�� student gives you access to this unparalleled network of professionals who have so much knowledge."

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From practicum to profession: MSW program skills helped this student turn her internship into a full-time role

Taylor Thomas — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 16:32:45 +0000

From practicum to profession: MSW program skills helped this student turn her internship into a full-time role Taylor Thomas Mon, 03/23/2026 - 12:32

Key Takeaways:

Master of Social Work student Heather Apostol’s practicum at True Ground Housing Partners has led to a full-time position as Resident Services Coordinator.
The Master of Social Work at 911��’s College of Public Health prepares future professionals through evidence-based social work frameworks and experiential learning.
Apostol credits her Filipino heritage for instilling in her the values of compassion, humility, service, and community-building.

911�� Master of Social Work (MSW) student Heather Apostol is the model of translating academic-experiential learning to professional skills, thanks to her practicum at True Ground Housing Partners. Her program implementation abilities led to her promotion from MSW Resident Services Intern to a full-time position as Resident Services Coordinator.

True Ground Housing Partners is one of the country’s leading nonprofit affordable housing developers, providing housing to thousands in the Washington, D.C., area. As an intern, Apostol supported residents across multiple affordable housing communities through case management, housing stabilization efforts, and community programming. After interning during the fall 2025 semester, the transition was seamless.

Heather Apostol. Photo provided.

Apostol now coordinates rental assistance efforts, collaborates with county agencies and property management, and connects residents to community-based resources. Additionally, she develops and facilitates programming focused on youth empowerment, financial literacy, culture and community, and more.

“I immediately felt connected with the work. I was very excited to be entered into the Resident Services Coordinator role,” said Apostol, who began her full-time position in January 2026 and is expected to graduate with her master's degree in this May. "Because I was already familiar with the residents, staff, and some of the operations, it felt like a natural next step and allowed me to continue building relationships while expanding my responsibilities."

Apostol’s supervisor, Dannette Lawrence, speaks highly of Apostol’s aptitude, ability to be transparent, reflective, and consistent during her internship.

“Heather demonstrated professionalism, empathy, and initiative early on, approaching her work with curiosity and accountability while building meaningful connections with residents and colleagues and thoughtfully applying her academic training to real-world practice. I am truly grateful to have had the opportunity to witness Heather’s growth from a social work student into a thoughtful, dedicated changemaker committed to serving the community as a Resident Services Coordinator at True Ground Housing,” said Lawrence, associate director of True Ground Housing.

The MSW at 911��’s College of Public Health provides a strong foundation in trauma-informed care, ecological systems theory, policy analysis, and ethical decision-making. Apostol says these frameworks directly inform her daily practice in affordable housing settings.

“911��’s program emphasized evidence-based interventions and reflective practice, which strengthened my assessment skills, professional documentation, and confidence in interdisciplinary collaboration. I feel well-prepared to navigate both individual-level case management and systems-level advocacy,” said Apostol.

Influenced by culture, leading with care

Apostol cites her cultural heritage in shaping her commitment to serving others. As a Filipino social worker, the Filipino value of bayanihan—the spirit of community cooperation and helping one another—deeply influences her approach to supporting individuals and families.

“This cultural foundation reminds me that caring for others is not just a profession, but a shared responsibility rooted in empathy, humility, and service. Being Filipino allows me to bring cultural awareness, resilience, and a strong sense of community into my practice as a social worker,” said Apostol, who proudly shares she is the first in her family to receive a master’s degree.

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Key Takeaways:

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911�� College of Public Health students learn AI implementation and management in graduate-level health administration course

The Bestick twins reflect on their time as student-athletes at 911��

911��’s Teaching Kitchen offers students cooking tips and community