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�������� President Gregory Washington recently recognized four faculty and staff from the with a Presidential Citation for their bravery and quick actions to save a colleague’s life during a medical emergency.

The Presidential Citation is a noncompetitive award recognizing an individual or group who performed an exceptional deed or service that may or may not be related to their job responsibilities, took a personal risk or sacrifice to perform the deed or service, and displayed good citizenship and a sense of public responsibility.

The Costello faculty and staff recognized at the ceremony included Cheryl Druehl, senior associate dean for faculty and research; Cameron Harris, foundations area chair; Mako Honda, executive assistant to the dean; and Margaret Kébé, director of fiscal management.

The group’s acts of heroism occurred in May 2025, when they discovered a colleague unconscious in their workplace. The team of four quickly provided lifesaving care before emergency medical services arrived. They performed CPR, retrieved and applied an automated external defibrillator (AED), called 911, directed first responders to the faculty member upon arrival, and assisted with initial triage and support. 

"You were there when somebody needed you, and that is the ultimate testament, in my opinion, in terms of what being a Patriot means,” Washington said. 

President Washington praised their willingness to take first-aid training and act upon it. 

The quick response, lifesaving actions, and teamwork of these four individuals saved their colleague’s life. Their exemplary conduct embodies the compassionate and action-driven spirit that defines the George Mason community.

Training related to CPR, first aid, AEDs, and emergency preparedness is available to the �������� community through and .