Employee of the Month

Johnnie Hall is April Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 13:59:41 +0000

Johnnie Hall is April Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Mon, 03/31/2025 - 09:59

Science and Technology Campus machine shop manager Johnnie Hall embodies �� value “students come first.” The machine shop is regularly used by registered student organizations, researchers, and students alike, and Hall frequently works evenings and weekends to work with their schedules. He is also a mentor to Mechanical Engineering Department’s capstone design students, who often comment that they would not be able to complete their projects on time if not for his assistance.

Employee of the Month Johnnie Hall and President Washington. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

Hall also helped facilitate the department’s move to the new Life Sciences and Engineering Building (LSEB). “It would not have been possible without Johnnie's efforts packing and labeling, disassembling equipment, fielding questions from the project team, fielding questions from faculty, students, and staff, all the while maintaining a positive, collaborative attitude and staying on top of his typical duties running the machine shop,” said Leigh McCue-Weil, professor and chair of the Mechanical Engineering Department.

One notable moment during the move was when the loading docks were snowed in, and he personally began clearing snow until he could flag down a snowplow to assist. “Rather than complaining, Johnnie simply grabbed a shovel and began digging out the loading dock before the movers and riggers arrived,” added McCue-Weil.

“Johnnie has been a reliable ‘jack of all trades’ for the College of Engineering and Computing always willing to step in where needed in support of our strategic goals,” said Arthur B. Pyster, professor and associate dean for research in the college. “He was one of the first technicians to lend his expertise to Mason's Nanofabrication Facility and the College of Engineering and Computing's Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM).”

Joyce Rose, CEC’s operations manager, said, “Johnnie is exemplary. We wish we had more employees just like him! During Johnnie's time at Mason, he has gone above and beyond what was expected of him.”

Johnnie Hall works in the machine shop at the Science and Technology Campus. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

“In my mind, Johnnie can be considered ‘employee of the day’ every day of the year. Whenever you ask him for a favor, you can count on him 100%,” said mechanical engineering professor Nathan Kathir.

Volgenau School of Engineering Divisional Dean Ariela Sofer said, “I constantly get comments about how great Johnnie is!”

How did you come to Mason:

I started working at Mason in August of 2018 as a part-time machine shop technician. Before working at Mason, I had gone through a trades program focused on welding at my local community college on the Eastern Shore of Virginia. I jumped at the chance to apply my skills and learn more along the way. Since then, I have had the chance to be a part of some amazing student and research projects.

Best day on the job:

My favorite day has always been our Mechanical Engineering Department's senior Capstone Day. It's such a rewarding experience getting to showcase all of our students' hard work that I have had the opportunity to be a part of.

What do you like best about working at Mason:

My favorite part about working at Mason is being able to give students a chance to try new things they might have never had the chance to. It's such a great feeling seeing our students learn new skills in our workshop that they can take with them in life.

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

When I am not working, I enjoy playing music at home on my synthesizer. I also enjoy taking car rides in my 1985 Toyota Celica.

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Bonnie Madden is March Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 15:32:03 +0000

Bonnie Madden is March Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Fri, 02/28/2025 - 10:32

Bonnie Madden, a two-time �� alum, joined the Biology Department as the microbial and phage lab manager almost a decade ago while working on her bachelor's degree in biology. Since then, she has been an integral part of the College of Science department. She is known for her dedication to both the lab and fostering student success.

George Mason President Gregory Washington and March Employee of the Month Bonnie Madden. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

“Bonnie is an enormous asset to the Biology Department and to ��. She has a lot of great and innovative ideas that have enhanced the quality of the lab in many ways,” said Anne Scherer, term associate professor of biology.

Elisabeth Epstein, assistant professor of biology, said, “She is our go-to person to make our microbiology labs run smoothly and professionally and, importantly, on time and ready to go! Her extensive expertise is often relied on for producing high-quality lab materials. She often comes into the labs even on evenings and weekends to make sure the student experience runs smoothly.”

Along with managing the lab, Madden, who also has a master’s degree in biology from George Mason, teaches a section of the Science Education Alliance-Phage Hunters Advancing Genomics and Evolutionary Science (SEA-PHAGES) discovery-based research course, which teaches undergraduate students how to isolate and analyze bacteriophage. She also teaches a next gen sequencing course in the spring semester.

“Bonnie is a mentor to each and every student,” said Scherer. “She trains undergraduates, learned how to use the transmission electron microscope for the course, and she walks around the classroom and fields questions that students might have and works one-on-one with those struggling.”

How did you come to Mason:

I came to Mason as an undergraduate. My goal at the time was to set an example for my sons and show them learning is an ongoing process regardless of age. Right before graduating with my BS in Biology [in 2015], I was offered the opportunity to become part of the Biology Department by Dr. Deborah Polayes as a replacement for Jo Mose, who was the microbiology lab manager back in 2015.

Best day on the job:

My best day on the job was when I graduated [in 2023] with my master’s degree as my students and assistant lab workers were graduating with their bachelor's degrees. I was so proud of them, as I am every year.

What do you like best about working at George Mason:

The thing I like about Mason is all the opportunities it has to offer. The opportunity for growth and expanding your potential is limitless. Also, the opportunity to make lifelong connections is invaluable. It is up to the individual to decide what they are comfortable with and how far they want to expand their boundaries.

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

I have a broad range of activities that keep me busy throughout the year. Some hobbies tend to be seasonal. In the summer, I enjoy boating and gardening. Last summer, my husband and I were able to boat on Lake Windermere in England. In the winter, I tend to enjoy movies and painting. However, I enjoy concerts, traveling, and flameworking with glass year-round.

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Kenneth Darby is February Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 21:38:50 +0000

Kenneth Darby is February Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Mon, 02/03/2025 - 16:38

As the senior events manager at ��’s Mason Square, Kenneth (Kenny) Darby is known as the one who can do it all. He has been a vital part of Mason Square events since 2017 and has worked as senior events manager for the past five years. In their letters of support, his colleagues emphasized his ability to seamlessly manage complex high-profile events with precision and care, and his unwavering commitment, empathy, and attention to detail.

Employee of the Month Kenny Darby with President Gregory Washington. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

“As an outstanding leader and colleague, Kenny consistently enriches the Mason Square community with his positive contributions, supporting event clients to bring their vision to a reality,” said Sara Hawes, director of Operations for Mason Square administration. “His unwavering dedication to his responsibilities, coupled with the empathy and attention he extends to clients, colleagues, supervisors, and students sets a commendable example for all those who have the opportunity to interact with him.”

Mercedes Allsop, executive assistant to the Dean's Office in the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School, said, “Kenny’s dedication not only enhances our campus environment but also sets a commendable standard for others to aspire to, truly making him a deserving candidate for this recognition. “His ability to manage high-profile events with a calm, professional demeanor ensures that each event is executed flawlessly.”

Alison Price, director of operations and the Law and Economics Center at Antonin Scalia Law School, highlighted Kenny’s skill with high-profile clients. “Kenny is the role model for how customer service should be provided at this university,” she said.

“Kenny is the ‘go-to’ individual when having an event at Mason Square. From beginning to end, I trust him to ensure that our events go smoothly,” said Una Murphy, director of donor relations in the Office of University Advancement and Alumni Relations. “He is friendly, assured, professional, inquisitive, caring and incredibly intuitive. I completely trust Kenny's judgement when it comes to a successful event.”

Colleagues have come to rely on Darby for his expertise. “Kenny has become an invaluable asset at Mason Square,” said Frank Strike, vice president of Facilities. “He provides excellent customer service, and his attention to detail allows him to seamlessly integrate multiple complex tasks to deliver an exceptional experience to all stakeholders. His dedication and commitment to excellence is an inspiration to his colleagues and enhances Mason's reputation.”

How did you come to Mason:

I was hired as an event coordinator to help support events on the Arlington Campus. They were looking for a talented individual that had event experience and A/V knowledge, so I applied.

Best day on the job:

Every day is a good day on the job, but the best day was when I got hired.

What do you like best about working at Mason:

The people I work with and those I collaborate with. This community is very close, and I appreciate each of the relationships that I have built.

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

That's a hard question. I enjoy quiet time. My days are busy when I'm at work and when I'm not at work, so the quiet times are the best times for me.

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Mason Square

Maria Wilkins is January Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Mon, 06 Jan 2025 16:23:42 +0000

Maria Wilkins is January Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Mon, 01/06/2025 - 11:23

Maria Wilkins, coordinator of Health Professions Advising in the Office of Undergraduate Education, is known for her success as “a one-woman department.” In their letters of support nominating her for Employee of the Month, her colleagues emphasized her expertise, dedication, and student-centered approach.

Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

As the only pre-health advisor at ��, Wilkins is solely responsible for the advising and programming for all students. A large part of her role is helping students with their graduate school applications in the health care field, including medical, dental, and veterinary school, occupational and physical therapy degrees, and pharmacy school.

“Maria is one of George Mason’s many unsung heroes, and is very deserving of this recognition,” said Ryan Braun, director of undergraduate academic success in the Office of Undergraduate Education.

“Maria might be the best collaborator I have ever worked with. In addition to building excellent relationships within the Office of Undergraduate Education, she has cultivated tremendous collaboration with various colleges and units at George Mason as well as many colleagues outside of Mason,” he added.

“Maria is a wonderful colleague and an amazing professional who brings a wealth of knowledge,” said Assad Khan, director for undergraduate student affairs in the College of Science.

Keith D. Renshaw, associate provost for undergraduate education, said, “It is hard for me to imagine someone better suited for this recognition—she has my absolute, unqualified, enthusiastic support!”

Her colleagues also highlighted her outstanding work coordinating the Health Professions Program Fair during Health Professions Week, which she pioneered in 2023. This past year, she doubled the size of the fair and added a field trip to the George Washington Medical School for 30 George Mason pre-medicine students.

She also coordinates George Mason’s Early Selection Medical School partnerships with George Washington University and Virginia Commonwealth University.

“Maria manages to fit in Mason's core values not only with her students but with faculty as well. She ensures students meet the skills needed for tomorrow and the future,” said Alexandra Masterson, an associate professor in the Biology Department of the College of Science.

Wilkins is so beloved by students that they have “created a group that has become known in our office as the ‘Maria Fan Club.’ At several events, I have even seen some of these students arguing among themselves who is the ‘president’ of the Maria Fan Club,” shared Braun.

How did you come to Mason:

I was finishing up working at the Fairfax County Health Department on the COVID-19 Response Team when I came across this position. As a first-generation student without any initial connections to the health care world, I remembered how challenging and lost I felt applying to pharmacy school in undergrad. I would have loved to have an advisor with firsthand experience navigating this process and being there just to support me. That’s what makes me feel so connected to this role, and so far, I have absolutely loved getting to know students—shoutout to my fan club!—and learning more about their motivations for pursuing health care. I’m very passionate about this role and hope to continue growing the department in the years to come.

Best day on the job:

It’s really any day I can celebrate with students. It could be getting accepted into health professional school, being the first one in their family to graduate, hearing back about a shadowing opportunity, or even getting a good grade on an exam! Whatever it is, their accomplishments always bring a smile to my face!

What do you like best about working at Mason:

The best part about this role is that I’ve been able to make it my own. I’ve always been a creative individual, and I love to think outside of the box when it comes to planning events that will resonate with students. Health Professions Week was a new initiative I started in 2023, and it has grown tremendously over just one year. Hundreds of students participated and were able to gain new skills, learn more about the application process, tour a medical school, and connect with others along the way. I am also very grateful for the support from those in Undergraduate Education, as well as other campus partners who are always open to collaborating!

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

I love spending time with my husband, binge watching Netflix, playing with my kids, and cuddling with my two cats. I also find myself driving oddly long distances in search of delicious food!

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Hillary Hamm is December Employee of the Month

Colleen Rich — Tue, 03 Dec 2024 19:45:30 +0000

Hillary Hamm is December Employee of the Month Colleen Rich Tue, 12/03/2024 - 14:45

Hillary Hamm has been an integral part of George Mason University operations since 2008. As the fiscal and HR technician in the Department of Computational and Data Sciences (CDS), Hamm is known for her efficiency and dedication. Her skill and knowledge were especially apparent as she smoothly provided procurement services for three departments in the College of Science at once.

President Gregory Washington with December Employee of the Month Hillary Hamm. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

When nominating her for Employee of the Month, her colleagues emphasized her efficiency and hard work to meet deadlines while managing procurement for these academic units. She also manages the employment of about 40 student teachers and research assistants as part of her role.

“Hillary has been performing duties in multiple departments and for the College of Science. These extra duties are well beyond her contractual commitments. Her performance during this period has been superb. She [has] kept a very positive attitude and encouraged an enjoyable working environment,” said Anamaria Berea, associate professor in computational and data sciences.

“CDS owes the management of its growth to its staff, of which Hillary is a major component. We wouldn't be where we are today without her, and two other academic units [she helped] would agree,” said Jason Kinser, associate dean for academic affairs in the College of Science.

He also emphasized her ability to work well under pressure, stating that her “overload was always met with a smile and a positive attitude to accomplish that which needed to be done.”

Sharmin Abdullah, assistant professor of computational and data sciences, agreed. “Ms. Hamm's responsiveness to issues is noteworthy. She tackles challenges with a sense of urgency and a remarkable ability to devise effective solutions promptly,” Abdullah said. “This proactive approach has not only mitigated potential problems but has also fostered a positive and productive working environment within our department.”

How did you come to Mason:

My journey at George Mason began in 2008, when I started as a part-time front desk receptionist at the Kellar Institute for Human DisAbilities within the College of Education and Human Development. During my interview, my soon-to-be supervisor, Kim Kalthoff, asked me why I wanted to work at George Mason. Honestly, I had applied to every job I thought I was qualified for—just to get my foot in the door. I’d heard George Mason was a fantastic place to work, with great benefits, and the bonus of tuition assistance if I ever decided to go back to school once I became a classified employee. I remember being nervous that my honest answer might hurt my chances, but to my surprise, it didn’t!

Best day on the job:

One of the most memorable days in my career at George Mason came just last year. A group of us from the College of Science had been working for over a year to establish the first College of Science Staff Advisory Committee. We connected with other staff advisory committees across the university, took our time to plan, and really wanted to do it right. In October, we finally presented it to the rest of the College of Science staff. It was one of the proudest moments of my professional life—I couldn’t have been prouder of what we accomplished together.

What do you like best about working at Mason:

What truly stands out for me after 16 years at George Mason is the incredible people I’ve had the privilege of working with. The wonderful women in the Department of Special Education in CEHD mentored and guided me in ways I will forever be grateful for, shaping me into the “Patriot” I am today. More recently, the amazing people in the College of Science have helped me find my voice and believe in myself. I honestly wouldn’t be the woman I am today without their support, and I’ve been fortunate to form lifelong friendships and a true sense of family here at George Mason.

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

Outside of work, I cherish spending time with my husband, Josh, and my daughter, Zoey. When I’m not with my family, you can often find me crafting, curled up with a good book by the fire with my dog, or exploring new adventures with friends and loved ones.

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Katie Richards is November Employee of the Month

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

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

When nominating Katherine (Katie) Richards for Employee of the Month, her colleagues emphasized her giving nature, positivity, and interpersonal strengths, in addition to her commitment to the program. A two-time George Mason alumna, Richards, the senior graduate program coordinator in ��’s Higher Education Program (HEP), is in her 10th year of working at George Mason.

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

“Every day, we witness the positive energy, willingness to help, sincerity, and vast knowledge of university operations that Katie brings to her work,” said Kelly Schrum, a professor in the Higher Education Program. “Katie is a model staff member and a proud Mason alum whose exemplary service to the College of Humanities and Social Sciences and �� exemplifies the values honored through this award.”

In her role she serves as the academic advisor to all HEP's master’s students and is their main point person from the application phase to admissions and through coursework to graduation. She connects students with targeted resources like the Writing Center, Counseling and Psychological Services, and emergency funds.

She also supports HEP faculty and is a key liaison throughout the college and university.

Richards has also worked to strengthen partnerships, such as with University Life, to support assistantships for incoming students and to honor student achievements and successes.

David Powers Corwin, assistant professor in the School of Integrative Studies, said, “Katie is always eager to lend a helping hand where needed and is such a positive presence in whatever space she is in.”

Chrystal Mwangi, associate professor in the Higher Education Program, agreed. “I have always known her to exemplify Mason’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and inclusion,” Mwangi said. “Katie is a joy to work with and I am grateful to call her a colleague. She definitely demonstrates that our students come first.”

“Katie is consistently sought out by students, faculty, and community members for her caring and wise counsel,” said Julie Owen, associate professor of leadership and integrative studies. “She has an uncanny ability to listen deeply and ask insightful questions. Though not part of her formal job description, Katie has been trusted by students with their personal stories and struggles and is always able to connect them with relevant campus resources and support.”

“Katie simply embodies the spirit and aims of our institution—in every wise word and important action, she represents the very best of Mason as an institution committed to community, inclusion, and a just, free, and prosperous world,” said Graziella McCarron, assistant professor in the School of Integrative Studies.

How did you come to Mason:

I received my undergraduate degree from George Mason in English and then went to work in the private sector. After about two years, I knew I wanted to come back to George Mason to pursue an MFA in Creative Writing (Poetry). I knew about Mason’s great tuition benefit, so I started applying to staff roles and was hired by the Higher Education Program, where I have been for the last 10 years. I completed my MFA in 2020 and have my first book of poetry, Apple Mind, coming out Nov. 14 from Harbor Editions. George Mason has opened up a ton of opportunities for me as a staff member, student, and now alum.

Best day on the job:

I always love the end of spring semester when we do our Celebration of Achievements event. My favorite role is supporting our students, so it is very meaningful to me to be able to celebrate their successes with them.

What do you like best about working at Mason:

I enjoy working with our students and feeling that I have made a difference in their lives. It is exciting to feel that the work you do can have a positive impact on others’ lives.

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

I enjoy spending time with my husband and two children. I also like to knit and garden when there is downtime (which there’s not a lot of these days!). And, of course, I do my writing in the evenings.

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Isela Caballero is October Employee of the Month

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

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

As the communications coordinator for the Department of Health Administration and Policy (HAP) in the College of Public Health at ��, Isela Caballero runs the department’s social media and admissions campaigns, and coordinates events alongside her daily responsibilities. For her hard work, event planning skills, and enthusiasm for her work, she is being recognized as the October Employee of the Month.

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

“Since joining the department, she has become an essential team member and invaluable asset to the college,” said Tracy Shevlin, operations manager of HAP. “Her ‘Can Do’ attitude is exceptional, and her enthusiasm is contagious. Not surprisingly, she was named as a Mason Kindness Ambassador in 2023.”

Caballero, who graduated from George Mason with a bachelor of science in community health in 2017 and is currently a first-year student in the master of public health program, is also known for her strong event planning skills. Her colleagues note her outstanding work organizing college-wide events such as open houses and graduation receptions, capstone events for the master of health administration and health informatics students, case competitions, webinars, and symposiums.

Brian K. Gillette, director of student success at the college, emphasized Caballero’s great planning with last year’s spring degree celebration. “She directly had a huge impact on our students and their families by creating such an inviting and fun event.”

Along with her hard work, her colleagues credit her with drawing students to the department’s programs.

Brenda Sheingold, associate professor and program director of the master's in health system management said, “I feel very fortunate to have Isela working with our program to keep us competitive!” She described often having students interview for the program and mention they found the program through the department’s social media.

Sheingold added she “would like to note that Isela is an absolute joy to work with. She is professional and enthusiastic, even when faced with complex and complicated processes.”

How did you come to Mason?

As a �� alum with a passion for public health, I was eager to find a role where learning, growth, and my passion could align. When I discovered an opening at the College of Public Health, it felt like a perfect fit.

Best day on the job:

There have been so many great moments, but my favorite is seeing the graduating students and their families during the College of Public Health’s Degree Celebration. It’s inspiring to witness their joy and accomplishments.

What do you like best about working at Mason?

I truly enjoy working with a diverse group of colleagues and students. The emphasis on learning and the opportunity to stay connected to emerging public health research is incredibly rewarding. I’ve also had the chance to build meaningful relationships with many colleagues and students, which has made my experience at George Mason even more fulfilling. I’m grateful for these connections and the personal growth they’ve brought.

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

I love traveling, planning fun activities with friends, and enjoying peaceful time alone in nature—especially when the weather is nice!

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Alumni

Amir Hasan is September Employee of the Month

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How did you come to Mason:

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

Best day on the job:

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

What do you like best about working at Mason:

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

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

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

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Meet more of the Mason Nation

Patricia King is May Employee of the Month
April 30, 2025
Johnnie Hall is April Employee of the Month
April 1, 2025
Meet the Mason Nation: CJ Minteer
March 12, 2025
Bonnie Madden is March Employee of the Month
March 3, 2025
Meet the Mason Nation: Traci Kendall
February 28, 2025

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Brianna Alford is August Employee of the Month

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

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

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

Brianna Alford. Photo by Office of University Branding

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

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

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

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

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

How did you come to Mason:

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

Best day on the job:

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

What do you like best about working at Mason:

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

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

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

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