Yali Pan is October Employee of the Month

Yali Pan, associate director for engagement and assessment in George Mason University’s Office of International Programs and Services (OIPS), started at George Mason in 2020. For her contributions to supporting international students, dedication to fostering an inclusive campus culture, and commitment to student well-being, Pan is recognized as the October Employee of the Month. 

Pan leads the engagement team in OIPS, managing programs such as International Student Graduation, the International Buddy Program, the International Advisory Board, and International Education Week. Pan also helped create a Lunar New Year event for the campus community. 

“Yali has done outstanding work welcoming new international students to George Mason," said Krista Uhrig, director of international enrollment partnerships. “She contributes to programs and initiatives that support the well-being, morale, and engagement of international students.”  

Jonathan Carmona, assistant director for international engagement in OIPS, said that Pan has made meaningful contributions through her facilitation of the “Working with International Students” and “Name Pronunciation” workshops for university faculty, staff, and students. 

"It is crucial that we foster an environment of inclusivity and respect, and Yali’s commitment to ensuring that names from diverse languages and cultures are pronounced correctly is a testament to her dedication to this mission,” said Carmona. 

Pan’s colleagues also praised her exceptional commitment to supporting students from Mason Korea. Last fall, she helped plan a celebration for Chuseok, a Korean holiday that is similar to Thanksgiving.   

“Yali and I had a chance to collaborate on an event celebrating Chuseok at the local home of Mason Korea’s former dean,” said Grace H. Lee, Mason Korea coordinator in the Office of the Provost. “Mason Korea students, Fairfax students who studied abroad at Mason Korea, faculty, and staff all joined to celebrate this important Korean holiday together." 

Pan operates with professionalism and a genuine ethic of care for the well-being of every student, according to Lori Cohen Scher, senior assistant dean of University Life. “This has been evident to me in her interactions with our Mason Korea Student Ambassadors,” said Scher. “Yali works closely with this student leadership team, empowering them to play an active role in program development, peer communication, and outreach.” 

Pan also demonstrates exemplary leadership within her team, according to Christina Lee, an associate director in the Office of Institutional Effectiveness and Planning. 

“She leads a team of eight staff members, providing guidance and mentorship while managing daily operations,” Lee said. “She thoughtfully considers her colleagues’ contributions and is always willing to go the extra mile to ensure the product is of the highest quality.”   

Melissa Thierry, director of regional campuses in University Life, commended Pan’s contributions toward creating a welcoming environment for all.  

“Her innovative programs and initiatives have enhanced cross-cultural understanding and inclusivity, making the university a more connected and supportive environment for all,” Thierry said. 

How did you come to George Mason? 

I came to George Mason University following my family’s relocation back to the area. What truly impressed me was George Mason’s strong commitment to its international community. As a former international student myself, I deeply relate to the unique challenges and opportunities that come with that experience. That’s why I wanted to join—to contribute meaningfully and help make a positive difference in the lives of international students.  

Best day on the job:  

When international students share with me how much our engagement efforts have positively impacted them, it’s incredibly rewarding. 

What do you like best about working at George Mason? 

I really appreciate the energy and inclusiveness at George Mason, where we’re encouraged to share our ideas and continuously explore new ways to support student success. 

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

I enjoy running, practicing yoga, cooking, and traveling.