Faculty/Staff Announcements
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Campus Updates
Faculty and Staff Experience Survey Town Hall: Pre-Submit Questions
Faculty and staff are invited to join Human Resources, President Washington, and Gallup Senior Partner Stephanie Marken for the Faculty and Staff Experience Survey Town Hall on Wednesday, Sept. 18, from 3–4 p.m. on the Fairfax Campus, Hub Ballroom. This is a chance to review the key findings of the Faculty and Staff Experience Survey and collaborate on the next steps to enhance the community at George Mason.
This event will also be available via livestream webinar to ensure everyone has the opportunity to participate.
Those attending in-person will have an opportunity to ask questions live. Faculty/staff may also pre-submit questions by Wednesday, Sept. 11, at 5 p.m. All pre-submitted questions are anonymous, unless you choose to submit your name for follow-up. Please note: Online questions will not be accepted through the webinar, but questions may be submitted electronically during the event to engageHR@gmu.edu.
CCEE and LEAD Merging To Form the Center for Leadership and Intercultural Engagement
University Life announces the merger of two units—the Center for Culture, Equity, and Empowerment (CCEE) and the Leadership Education and Development Office (LEAD)—to form the new Center for Leadership and Intercultural Engagement. This merger will enhance the units' ability to serve the university community through programs and services that foster leadership development and intercultural humility.
During this transition, services will continue from the offices' current locations, and existing websites will be maintained as a new online presence is created. For questions, contact Tamara Thomas and Nick Lennon, directors, Center for Leadership and Intercultural Engagement.
Mason Dining Updates
The Spot Expands Its Hours, by Popular Demand
Last fall, in response to the George Mason community’s growing demand for plant-based dining, Mason Dining introduced The Spot: Where Plants Power You. This vibrant dining venue offers a diverse menu of vegan and vegetarian options, showcasing the versatility of plant-based ingredients. Due to its success and student requests, The Spot will now extend dinner hours from Monday to Thursday until 7 p.m., providing more opportunities to enjoy its innovative, plant-powered dishes in a welcoming community space.
Free Shake Day at Shake Smart
Mason Dining is excited to announce the grand opening of Shake Smart, a new smoothie and shake concept in Fenwick Library, designed for busy college students. Founded by two college students, Shake Smart offers a balanced, protein-focused menu that fits seamlessly into active lifestyles. Shake Smart will host a Free Shake Day on Thursday, Sept. 12, with complimentary shakes for all. This location supports George Mason’s commitment to providing nutritious dining options on campus. Follow @Mason_Dining for more details.
Study Abroad Fair
The Global Education Office will host the Fall 2024 Study Abroad Fair on Tuesday, Sept. 17, between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. on the Fairfax Campus, East Plaza. Please encourage your students to attend so they can learn more about global education, talk to faculty and partners, and enjoy light refreshments. Rain site is the Johnson Center, Dewberry Hall.
Annual Grad Fair
George Mason will host its annual Grad Fair on Wednesday, Sept. 18, from 4–6 p.m. in the Johnson Center on the Fairfax Campus. Current George Mason undergraduate students and anyone considering attending George Mason for a graduate degree or certificate are invited to explore the options at the Grad Fair.
Laurence Bray, senior associate provost for graduate education and leader of the Graduate Division, will be available to answer questions and discuss the power of George Mason’s research and educational opportunities. View the full list of colleges and schools attending the fair and RSVP.
Posting Events on the Today@Mason Calendar
Planning an event on campus? Faculty and staff are responsible for ensuring their events are included on the university calendar, Today@Mason, for both scheduling and promotional purposes. All events listed on Today@Mason or any other published calendar must be scheduled in 25Live, the university's scheduling software.
On the 25Live event request form, select one audience from the "categories" section of the form. The form provides information on important fields for calendar postings. Please read all instructions and be sure to enter a detailed description of the event to be shared on the calendar. Include any RSVP links or website links related to the event. The scheduler will review each submission and add the event to a calendar when processing the request.
Don’t have a 25Live account? Request one today. Contact University Events at gmuevent@gmu.edu with questions.
New Traffic Pattern at Prince William Parkway and University Boulevard
New traffic patterns will go into effect in mid-September at the intersection of Prince William Parkway and University Boulevard near the Science and Technology Campus. To improve traffic operations and safety, left turns will no longer be permitted at this intersection. This will affect the way drivers enter and exit the SciTech Campus from these routes. Get more details about the changes.
Training and Professional Development
Apply to be a Fenwick Fellow
The Fenwick Fellowship is awarded annually to a Mason faculty member to pursue a research project that uses and enhances the University Libraries' resources, while advancing knowledge in their field. Tenured, tenure-track, and term (multi-year appointment) faculty at George Mason are eligible to submit proposals. Project proposals that specifically align with the University Libraries’ ever-increasing activities in the area of digital scholarship (e.g., digital humanities, data-focused research, development of digital content and curation) are encouraged, and, as always, the selection committee will be especially interested in research projects that make substantial use of the libraries' resources and services.
The fellowship provides:
- One award of $5,000 to be used for the acquisition of library research materials that may be needed for the research project, as well as associated research costs
- Use of an office in Fenwick Library for the term of the fellowship (Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2025)
The application deadline is Friday, Oct. 4. The 2025 Fenwick Fellow will be announced at the end of the fall academic term. University Libraries will sponsor a public lecture by the fellow in the spring term following the completed fellowship. Get more details. Contact library@gmu.edu with questions.
Aspire: Inclusive Excellence Professional Development Opportunities
Understanding diversity, equity, and inclusion through embracing diverse perspectives and ensuring access to opportunity is crucial for creating an inclusive workplace for faculty and staff. George Mason employees can promote a sense of belonging in a learning environment that empowers learners to navigate cultural complexities, cultivate empathy, and develop the necessary skills to thrive in a diverse and interconnected global economy.
In support of Mason’s broader strategic goals and academic units’ Inclusive Excellence Plans, the Aspire learning and development opportunity offers multiple pathways for individuals and teams. Learn more. To schedule professional development for yourself or your team, contact Inclusive Excellence at masonIE@gmu.edu.
Fall Faculty Grant Writing Resources
Faculty are invited to participate in grant writing resources from Research and Innovation Initiatives. For questions, contact Leslie Frieden, associate director, Research Development.
- Proposal Editing Support: Graduate student teams from English 489–509 (Proposal Writing and Development) will provide feedback on near-final or previously submitted proposals in terms of how the proposal meets the requirements of the proposal solicitation. Learn more and sign up.
- Strategic Request for Proposal (RFP) Analysis: Graduate student teams from English 489–509 (Proposal Writing and Development) will provide strategic feedback on previously submitted proposals or articles in terms of how they might match upcoming request for proposal solicitations (RFPs). Learn more and sign up.
Register for the 16th Annual Innovations in Teaching and Learning Conference
George Mason faculty, graduate instructors, and staff are invited to register for the 2024 Innovations in Teaching and Learning Conference. This year’s conference is hybrid, with online sessions via Zoom on Thursday, Sept. 19, and in-person sessions on Friday, Sept. 20, on the Fairfax Campus. View the at-a-glance program. Register using the Sched app to review the entire program and receive updates about the conference.
Manager Meetup: Supervising Gen Z
Join University Life for an interactive session to build the skills and strategies necessary to lead and inspire Gen Z, ensuring a productive and harmonious workplace for all generations. The session will be facilitated online by the University Life Supervision Collective on Thursday, Sept. 19, at 2 p.m.
The online session will provide tips, strategies, and a conversation space to share challenges and successes working with the youngest generation in the workforce. Learn more and RSVP.
Resources for You
Scalia-Ginsburg Colloquy to Explore Biden SCOTUS Legislation on Constitution Day
The Antonin Scalia Law School commemorates Constitution Day with its fifth Scalia-Ginsburg Colloquy exploring both sides of President Biden’s proposed major changes to the U.S. Supreme Court. The colloquy is titled, “Biden’s SCOTUS Proposal: Crucial Reform or Constitutional Crisis?” All three participants served on Biden’s Presidential Commission on the Supreme Court.
The Colloquy, which will be held online on Tuesday, Sept. 17, from 5:30–6:45 p.m., brings together two constitutional law scholars who will present both sides of this legislation. The event is free. Read more information and register.
The speakers for this program are Caroline Fredrickson, former president of the American Constitution Society and senior fellow at the Brennan Center for Justice, and Adam White, executive director of Scalia Law’s C. Boyden Gray Center for the Study of the Administrative State and resident scholar at the American Enterprise Institute. Tara Leigh Grove, the Vinson & Elkins Chair in Law at the University of Texas School of Law, will moderate.
Amplify is Back
Amplify, shopMason's signature fall event, is back and bigger than ever. Stop by Merten Lawn on the Fairfax Campus on Tuesday, Sept. 10, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for a day of community, free food, and exciting giveaways. Engage with fellow Patriots, a variety of shopMason units, campus partners, and off-campus Mason Merchants and Patriot Perks members, who will be giving out free swag and prizes. RSVP.
Kick-Off Fall with Tuesday Treks: A Journey to Well-Being
Join the launch of Tuesday Treks on Sept. 17 from noon to 1 p.m. on the Fairfax Campus, Fenwick Library Lawn. Enjoy a Blender Bike smoothie, get a blood pressure screening, and check out resources from the Center for the Advancement of Well-Being. Treks around campus will leave at noon and 12:30 p.m.
Can’t attend in person? Join a 30-minute virtual Mindfulness Meditation session at 10:30 or 11 a.m. via Zoom. Tuesday Treks continue every week through Dec. 17 (except on Election Day), from noon to 12:30 p.m. at Merten Wellness Circle. For more details, contact engagehr@gmu.edu.
Child Development Center Enrolling for Preschool
The NAEYC-accredited Child Development Center at George Mason University is now enrolling for its preschool program. With limited spots available and a 10% discount for Mason faculty and staff, don’t miss this opportunity. Learn more.
Online “Intro to Mindfulness” Sessions
Mason students, faculty, and staff are invited to learn mindfulness, meditation, and stress management in ways they can integrate into daily life. Join the Center for the Advancement of Well-Being for online “Intro to Mindfulness sessions” during the fall semester. Learn more.
Upcoming Performances and Arts Events at George Mason
Arts Alive! 2024
Saturday, Sept. 14, at noon
SciTech Campus, Hylton Center
Co-produced by the Prince William County Arts Council and the Hylton Performing Arts Center, this annual family-friendly arts festival features Prince William County Arts Council members and other community performers and fine artists. Enjoy activities for all ages, multiple stages of performances, food and craft vendors, and more. Come out and celebrate your local arts community. Free; no tickets required.
An Evening with Lea Salonga
Saturday, Sept. 28, at 8:30 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Tony and Olivier Award-winning singer and actress Lea Salonga headlines the 2024 ARTS by George! benefit concert performing songs she has made famous throughout her extraordinary four-decade career on Broadway and in animated movie blockbusters. Born in the Philippines, Salonga originated the lead role of Kim in the West End and Broadway productions of Miss Saigon, and she was the first Asian cast member to perform the role of Eponine in Les Misérables on Broadway. Recognized by fans of all ages as the singing voice for two animated Disney princesses—Jasmine in Aladdin and Fa Mulan in Mulan—Salonga was named a “Disney Legend” by the Walt Disney Company in 2011.
Mason Wind Symphony and Symphonic Band Concert with The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own"
Tuesday, Oct. 1, at 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
The Mason Bands are joined by The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own," commanded by Colonel Bruce R. Pulver, in the Mason Wind Symphony and Symphonic Band's season opener. The Mason Bands are conducted by Director of Concert Bands William L. Lake Jr. This performance is free and open to the public.
Ballet Hispánico
Mason Artist-in-Residence
Saturday, Oct. 5. at 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Recognized as one of America’s cultural treasures, Ballet Hispánico celebrates the ever growing and multifaceted Hispanic diasporas through vibrant dance in this Hispanic Heritage Month performance. As a Mason Artist-in-Residence, the company will engage the community and Mason students through a variety of events, classes, and discussions during the week surrounding their performance.
Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra with Jeff Hamilton
Saturday, Oct. 5, at 8 p.m.
Science and Technology Campus, Hylton Performing Arts Center, Merchant Hall
Join world-renowned jazz drummer Jeff Hamilton and audience favorite, Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra, for an evening that places the musicality of the drum set front and center. Founder, artistic director, and virtuoso saxophonist Jim Carroll leads the Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra, comprising some of the area’s finest musicians, and is also joined by vocalist Darden Purcell, George Mason University’s director of jazz studies.
Encanto: The Sing-Along Film Concert
Sunday, Oct. 6, at 4 p.m.
Science and Technology Campus, Hylton Performing Arts Center, Merchant Hall
Disney Concerts and AMP Worldwide Present Encanto: The Sing-Along Film Concert national tour. Encanto lovers of all ages can sing along with their favorite Grammy Award-winning songs performed by a live band while watching the full film. Encanto: The Sing-Along Film Concert will include all the music of the Academy Award-winning film, including iconic hits like “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” and “Surface Pressure.” Fans are encouraged to dress up as Mirabel, Luisa, Isabela, or any of their favorite characters from the film and to use their voices to transform the Hylton Center’s Merchant Hall into one big celebration of the Madrigal family.
Mason Symphony Orchestra Concert
Monday, Oct. 7, at 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Join the Reva and Sid Dewberry Family School of Music's Mason Symphony Orchestra for its opening concert of the 2024–25 season, conducted by Soo Han and Michael Stern.
Mason Choirs Concert
Tuesday, Oct. 8, at 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Join the Mason Choirs, led by Guest Conductor Thomas Colohan, in their annual fall concert featuring fun folk songs from Britain to Brazil, popular American favorites, and choral classics. The performance will include works by Lauridsen, Rheinberger, BIlly Joel, and others.
Erinys Quartet
Wednesday, Oct. 16, at 1:30 p.m.
SciTech Campus, Hylton Center, Jacquemin Family Foundation Rehearsal Hall
Though named after the Furies from Aeschylus’s The Oresteia, the Erinys Quartet aims to captivate with heavenly string music. Comprising violinists Elizabeth Stewart and Joosep Reimaa, violist Marja Räisänen, and cellist Stergios Theodoridis, the ensemble formed at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki. They are currently the quartet in residence in the Nina von Maltzahn String Quartet program at the Curtis Institute of Music. The ensemble will perform Bartók's String Quartet No. 3, Sz. 85 and Beethoven’s String Quartet No. 12, Op 127.
Manassas Ballet Theatre: Dracula
Oct. 18–20, multiple performances
Hylton Performing Arts Center, Merchant Hall
The classic vampire tale Dracula opens Manassas Ballet Theatre’s season with this chilling and bloodcurdling production. Be transported to Transylvania with Dracula’s quest for eternal life and love leading the way. The original score by Kim Reynolds is performed by The Kim Reynolds Band and will draw you into this chilling and sensual performance.
Mark Morris Dance Group and Music Ensemble
Saturday, Oct. 19, at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Over the years, choreographer Mark Morris has created more than 150 dance works that have earned him the title of “the most successful and influential choreographer alive, and indisputably the most musical” (New York Times). This program features audience favorites and rare gems, including Pacific (1995), “a beautiful, contemplative piece” (Dancetabs), set to music of Lou Harrison; Going Away Party (1990), which Critical Dance dubbed "thoroughly enjoyable, a little risqué and laugh-out-loud funny at times;” Rock of Ages (2004), set to music by Franz Schubert; and Castor and Pollux (1980).
American Roots Series: Balsam Range
Saturday, Oct. 19, at 5 p.m. and 8 p.m.
SciTech Campus, Hylton Center, Gregory Family Theater
The 2018 International Bluegrass Music Association’s Entertainer of the Year, Balsam Range makes its Hylton Center debut in an evening of mountain music. Named for the place where the Great Smokies meet the Blue Ridge Mountains, Balsam Range has vaulted itself to one of the bluegrass genre's most award-winning acts.
Family Series: Laurie Berkner Band
Sunday, Oct. 20, at 3 p.m.
Fairfax Campus, Center for the Arts
Welcome "the undisputed queen of kindie rock" (USA Today), Laurie Berkner and her band, in a concert event for the whole family. One of the most popular children’s entertainers in the United States, Berkner’s music shines a light on what it means to be a kid, and the kids can’t get enough of her folk-pop melodies made especially for them. Recommended for ages 2–8.
Hylton Artist-in-Residence: Villalobos Brothers
Saturday, Oct. 26, at 8 p.m.
SciTech Campus, Hylton Center, Merchant Hall
Celebrate Día de los Muertos early with Hylton Center Artist-in-Residence and the Grammy Award-winning Villalobos Brothers, who are redefining contemporary Mexican music while delivering positive messages of brotherhood, equity, and love. This lively trio of virtuoso fiddlers, singers, and songwriters blends Mexican folk music with Latin, jazz, rock, and classical, creating a fun-loving and cheerfully expressive sound that has delighted audiences across the U.S. and around the world.