Faculty and Staff News

George Mason coaching leaders hold first professional conference

Katarina Benson — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 18:20:38 +0000

George Mason coaching leaders hold first professional conference Katarina Benson Tue, 12/16/2025 - 13:20

Student Affairs and Academic Advising professionals from across the country attended the first Student Success Coaching Conference: Ignite Your Success Through Coaching in October. The conference, hosted by ��’s Student Success Coaching (SSC) unit, provided an opportunity for more than 400 coaching professionals from 100 institutions—including Columbia University, Johns Hopkins University, Purdue University, and others—to collaborate and learn from each other.

Envisioned by SSC associate director TJ Pegg and assistant director Michael Ward, the conference was born from a simple idea: to create a space for coaching professionals within higher education to come together. The main goals of the conference were to create a purposeful space for the student success coaching community to learn, share, and collaborate in an ever-changing field, and to offer dedicated time and opportunities to connect with peers and gain new insights.

“We wanted our team to have the chance to host a conference fully,” said Ward. “We envision George Mason becoming a global hub for the student success coaching field, much like Kansas State is for academic advising.”

“We wanted to make sure that we’re connecting with other coaching communities so that we can learn from each other, as success is a layered achievement,” Pegg said.

Success coaching has grown as a new functional area to support student success within the higher education. Since 2020, the university’s SSC unit has supported more than 20,000 students in achieving individualized success.

The need to support coaching professionals has grown into a collaboration with international associations like the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) and the American College Personnel Association (ACPA). NASPA’s Success Coaching Knowledge Community was cofounded by Adrienne White, former SSC director. Pegg and success coach Michael Rybak cofounded ACPA’s Task Force for Coaching.

Conference sessions addressed how to use coaching for student success, best practices of student assessment, and other trending topics. Attendees had opportunities to learn from one another and network through collaboration spaces, all online.

“Attending the sessions expanded my perspective and introduced new strategies and innovations that can be applied to my work,” said Tanzania Cooper, a presenter and attendee from Trinity Washington University. “I left the conference re-energized, connected to new colleagues, and motivated to continue bridging research, practice, and advocacy to elevate student success.”

Nena Rogers, two-time George Mason alumna and current deputy athletic director for Student Services and Performance, delivered the opening keynote speech focused on the power of coaching to help students thrive.

“This is the perfect time for higher education professionals to come together in this capacity to share the knowledge, tools, and the amazing results that success coaching has on students’ lives,” said Kelly Severo, director of Student Success Coaching. “I’m excited to see this conference grow into an even bigger event in 2026. Coaching in higher education is a rapidly growing field, and the impact on students’ lives cannot be overstated.”

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Ajay Vinzé, Costello College of Business Dean, appointed interim provost

Katarina Benson — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 21:27:56 +0000

Ajay Vinzé, Costello College of Business Dean, appointed interim provost Katarina Benson Wed, 12/10/2025 - 16:27

Costello College of Business dean Ajay Vinzé has been named interim provost at ��, effective immediately, President Gregory Washington announced Wednesday.

Ajay Vinzé. Photo by Office of University Branding

This follows Provost Jim Antony’s recent announcement that he will become provost of the University of San Diego as of March 1. Vinzé will serve alongside Antony from now through February to ensure a collaborative transition.

“Ajay, a distinguished scholar, is a respected voice among our deans,” Washington said. “I look forward to working closely with him during his time as interim provost. I ask that you extend to him your support and good wishes as he steps into this important role for George Mason.”

Since joining the university in 2022 as dean of the School of Business, Vinzé has overseen its rapid transformation to a named college, positioning the Costello College of Business as a nationally recognized leader in business education. Under his leadership the college has established a signature interdisciplinary and modular approach to workforce-ready degree delivery; championed student experiences with programs like Costello on Wall Street, Patriot Pitch, and the Camp Costello initiative for incoming first-year students; and a maintained a commitment to cross-campus research and curricular collaborations.

“While my heart remains firmly with the Costello College of Business—and I fully intend to return once a permanent provost is named—this interim role offers an important opportunity to support the broader university community that has championed our college’s growth and success over the past three years,” Vinzé said.

Cheryl Druehl, Costello’s senior associate dean for faculty affairs and research, will serve as interim dean during this time. 

James Anthony. Photo by Office of University Branding

Washington also offered appreciation for Antony’s work as provost, noting that he moved quickly to advance significant initiatives from the Provost’s Office, including implementing the new academic budget model, improving communication across senior teams, and establishing task forces and working groups focusing on several key university initiatives. He also hired Cody Edwards as dean for the College of Science and has put into motion the search for a new Scalia Law School dean, and worked with the Board of Visitors to advance important academic matters.

“I want to thank Jim for serving with such distinction in his time here. While I will miss Jim’s thought partnership, I know his appointment as provost of USD is the fulfillment of a significant life and career aspiration, and I am thrilled for him,” Washington said.

The process to conduct a national search for a permanent provost will be announced after the winter break.

“Please join me in congratulating Jim, Ajay, and Cheryl in their respective leadership roles,” Washington said.

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Off the Clock: Susan Kehoe unleashes the potential of service dogs in training

Lauren Reuscher — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 18:19:37 +0000

Off the Clock: Susan Kehoe unleashes the potential of service dogs in training Lauren Reuscher Wed, 12/03/2025 - 13:19

Susan Kehoe has worked at �� for more than 35 years. As executive director of academic strategies and senior executive producer for GMU-TV, Kehoe leads an award-winning educational television team whose work reaches audiences throughout Northern Virginia and around the globe. GMU-TV’s state-of-the-art facilities and staff provide the university with academic video content, live event production, and more.

A George Mason alum, Kehoe earned her doctorate in communication and serves as an adjunct faculty member in the Film and Video Studies Program.

Through her work with GMU-TV, Kehoe supports public access to George Mason’s learning opportunities, scholarship, and research enterprise.

Outside work, Kehoe opens doors and broadens the experiences of others in a different way. As a volunteer Puppy Raiser for Canine Companions for Independence (CCI), she (along with her family) raises and trains service dogs.

CCI provides service dogs to people with disabilities, professionals working in hospitals, schools, and law enforcement, veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, and individuals who experience life-threatening blood sugar fluctuations due to insulin-dependent diabetes.

Susan Kehoe (left) with GMU-TV staff and service-dog-in-training Enrique. Photo provided

How did you first get started training service dogs?

Over a decade ago, our high-school-aged son said he’d like a dog. We saw that request as an opportunity to teach responsibility, sacrifice, and charity. What appealed to us about CCI is the fact that their graduating dogs are provided to the recipients at no charge. My husband, son, and I drove to Medford, New York, to pick up Lennon. Since then, we’ve also raised Connor, Dawson, Carli, Colette, and Enrique.

How much time goes into training each dog?

We have each dog until they are one-and-a-half years old. Twice a month, we attend one-hour training classes. Between classes, our job is to teach and practice over 30 basic commands (example: sit, stay, down) and to introduce the pups to new people and experiences. Basically, share all the fun, love, and adventure life offers.

What is the next step for the dogs after you work with them?

After their time with us, we return the pups to CCI to work with professional trainers. Successful pups graduate in six to eight months and are placed in their forever homes.

Colette, service-dog-in-training, at the National Aquarium in Baltimore, Maryland. Photo provided

What has been the most meaningful or memorable experience you have had in this volunteer work?

My experiences range from the sad to the sublime. While raising Colette, my amazing husband passed away suddenly and unexpectedly. I found Mike and Colette in his office. Colette would not leave his side. She offered me peace of mind, knowing that Mike did not die alone.

The sublime is hearing from the forever homes. I receive cards and texts, updates on how the pups and their people are thriving together. These amazing pups change lives for the better.

What lessons have you learned?

Thanks to our involvement with CCI, my family—my children and grandson—and I have learned to treasure time—knowing you only have a year-and-a-half with each puppy makes every moment more special; that these pups open hearts—when we are out together, we are greeted with smiles and questions from folks wanting to know more about service dogs; that the amazing humans at GMU-TV are the world’s best dog aunts and uncles; and that the pain of saying goodbye is overshadowed by the pride of saying hello to the people with whom the pups match.

Learn more about GMU-TV

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Julie Hudson is December Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Sun, 23 Nov 2025 13:32:54 +0000

Julie Hudson is December Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Sun, 11/23/2025 - 08:32

Julie Hudson, executive assistant to Dean Mark J. Rozell at the Schar School of Policy and Government at ��, played an integral role in maintaining the school’s operations during the pandemic and has demonstrated exceptional flexibility as her position evolved over the years. For her leadership and outstanding work ethic, Hudson is being recognized as the December Employee of the Month.

President Gregory Washington with Julie Hudson. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Schar School faculty and staff have expressed their appreciation of Hudson. Colleagues spoke of her bringing fresh ideas to the table, contributing to process improvements, and guiding the team through the adoption of new technologies and methodologies.

“I have been impressed by Julie's commitment, professionalism, integrity, enthusiasm, and engagement in the job,” said Tojo Thatchenkery, professor and director of the Organization Development and Knowledge Management Program. “Supporting the dean of a large school requires attention to detail and highly developed interpersonal skills. On behalf of the dean, she works closely with staff and faculty who have been most appreciative of her friendly outreach and timely handling of various requests that come to her.”

Jack A. Goldstone, the Virginia E. and John T. Hazel, Jr. Chair Professor of Public Policy, also commends Hudson for her exceptional knowledge of the university and ability to get things done. “Julie has become my go-to person any time I need help with events, visitors, administrative issues, budget concerns, and overseas travel. She is always able to find the right person, connection, or way to get things done, and I’m always impressed with how quickly she does it,” he said.

“She is a fair and effective manager of staff, an impeccably organized executive assistant to the dean's suite, and she fills every possible void in the coverage of the Schar School's administrative needs,” said Professor Justin Gest, director of the school’s Public Policy Program. “She has a practical, no-nonsense approach to her management of affairs. There is no panic, no excuses, and usually a creative Plan B. When someone says, ‘Julie does that,’ you know it's going to get done. And that deserves great praise and recognition.”

How did you come to George Mason:

I came to George Mason after building a diverse background in higher education and organizational management. Before joining the university, I served as operations manager for the policy school at Virginia Tech, where I oversaw day-to-day processes and supported academic programs. Prior to that, I was the director of payroll and employee benefits for the Community College of Vermont. I also worked as an account manager for a direct mail company and as a conference and communication coordinator for a nonprofit organization. These experiences have provided a strong foundation which I bring to my work at George Mason.

Best day on the job:

The day I learned I would be receiving this award was unforgettable. It is not just an honor—it feels like a genuine acknowledgment of the effort and dedication I bring to my work.

What do you like best about working at George Mason:

The people—my colleagues are the best.

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

Spending time with my husband, Mark, and our Jack Russell terrier, Flynn. I enjoy reading, traveling, movies, music, and cooking.

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University Day Service Awards honor the service milestones of George Mason employees

Lauren Reuscher — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 18:12:50 +0000

University Day Service Awards honor the service milestones of George Mason employees Lauren Reuscher Thu, 11/20/2025 - 13:12

�� recognized faculty and staff for their years of service at the University Day Service Awards this week.

Photo by Cristian Torres/Office of University Branding

Faculty and staff celebrating 20–50 years of state service were honored at the Gold Day luncheon on Tuesday, Nov. 18.

Faculty and staff celebrating 5–15 years of state service were honored at the Green Day breakfast on Wednesday, Nov. 19. Both events took place on the Fairfax �� in the Johnson Center’s Dewberry Hall.

Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

The honorees were recognized at their respective ceremonies, and individuals honored at Gold Day took photos with President Gregory Washington.

President Gregory Washington (left) congratulates Daniel Rothbart (right), who was recognized for 45 years of service. Rothbart is the Druscilla French Chair in the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution. Photo by Cristian Torres/Office of University Branding

The program shared some of the honorees’ favorite George Mason memories, along with flashbacks to highlights from 5, 10, 15, 20 years ago—and beyond.

Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

A musical performance by Rick Davis, dean of the College of Visual and Performing Arts, and Linda Monson, director of the Dewberry School of Music, is a treasured tradition of these events. Their rendition of "One Day More" from Les Misérables honored all things George Mason and the perseverance of those celebrating service milestones.

Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

To the honorees: Thank you for your service to �� and the Commonwealth of Virginia!

Learn more about the University Day Service Awards and view the lists of honorees.

Photo by Cristian Torres/Office of University Branding

More about Reward and Recognition at George Mason

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Public health social worker appointed as regional representative to United Nations social work commission

Taylor Thomas — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 17:04:53 +0000

Public health social worker appointed as regional representative to United Nations social work commission Taylor Thomas Wed, 11/19/2025 - 12:04

In This Story

Evelyn Tomaszewski, MSW, ACSW

Evelyn Tomaszewski, divisional director of graduate programs and associate professor in the Department of Social Work. Photo provided.

Evelyn Tomaszewski, divisional director of graduate programs and associate professor in the Department of Social Work, has been appointed to a four-year term as a regional representative to the United Nations Commission for the International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW).

“This role aligns with George Mason’s Department of Social Work mission and allows me to bring real-time policy, practice, and advocacy experience back into the classroom. As a public health social worker, my hope is that this work highlights the essential role of social work in advancing health, human rights, and sustainable development around the world,” said Tomaszewski.

In this role, Tomaszewski oversees the IFSW team’s engagement with the United Nations in New York. She serves as liaison to the social work professional associations in Canada and the United States and represents the team to the IFSW UN Global Commissioner. She co-leads a team of five IFSW UN representatives and two content-expert advisors, along with Master of Social Work student representatives completing their practicum placements.

Through participation in forums such as the UN High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development and the Commission on Social Development, she aims to strengthen the visibility and impact of the social work profession within UN agencies and across global civil society.

Tomaszewski is also committed to expanding collaboration with regional representatives across IFSW’s five global regions to ensure the profession’s diversity, values, and community-rooted practice are reflected in global policy discussions. With IFSW representing social workers in more than 150 countries, she views this role as a unique opportunity to connect with colleagues worldwide.

Her responsibilities include helping navigate and interpret UN processes, reviewing and coordinating IFSW policy statements and interventions submitted to the UN, and identifying opportunities for social workers to contribute to UN initiatives.

The mission of the George Mason Master of Social Work program emphasizes preparing students for systems transformation, global citizenship, and community partnership. Learn more about the Master of Social Work program.

Tomaszewski’s appointment comes after over a decade of UN-focused service with IFSW. Learn more about her previous work here.

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Michael V. Hayden Inducted as Fellow of the National Academy of Public Administration

Andrew J Schappert — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 17:39:55 +0000

Michael V. Hayden Inducted as Fellow of the National Academy of Public Administration Andrew J Schappert Mon, 11/17/2025 - 12:39

In This Story

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��’s Schar School of Policy and Government proudly congratulates General (Ret.) Michael V. Hayden on his induction as a 2025 Fellow of the National Academy of Public Administration (NAPA). This prestigious honor recognizes outstanding contributions to the advancement of public service, and Hayden’s selection underscores his lifelong commitment to leadership, integrity, and national security.

Michael V. Hayden: ‘I’m grateful for the privilege of being named a Fellow. I look forward to contributing to the Academy’s important work.‘ Photo Creative Services/��

A Distinguished Visiting Professor at the Schar School, Hayden is the founder and namesake of the Michael V. Hayden Center for Intelligence, Policy, and International Security where he continues to shape the next generation of public servants through his teaching, mentorship, and informative live events.

Hayden joins other Schar School faculty members as NAPA Academy Fellows, including University Professors Emeritus Kingsley Haynes, Timothy J. Conlan, and James Pfiffner; Professor Alan Abramson and Associate Professor Alan R. Shark; and Visiting Professor of Public Policy David Brunori.

“I’ve spent my professional life in organizations where mission, service, and integrity matter deeply—the U.S. Intelligence Community and the United States Air Force,” Hayden said. “The National Academy of Public Administration embodies those same values, and I’m grateful for the privilege of being named a Fellow. I look forward to contributing to the Academy’s important work.”

Hayden brings to George Mason an extraordinary record of leadership and public service spanning more than four decades at the highest levels of government. A retired four-star Air Force general, he is the only person ever to have led both the CIA and the National Security Agency, overseeing some of the most complex intelligence and national security operations in U.S. history.

His career has been defined by a steadfast commitment to protecting the nation while advancing transparency, accountability, and professionalism within the intelligence community. At the Schar School, he continues to share that experience and perspective with students, faculty, and policymakers, enriching the university’s role as a leader in public policy and national security education.

“Congratulations to our founder General Michael V. Hayden on his induction as a NAPA fellow,” said Hayden Center Executive Director Larry Pfeiffer. “NAPA has recognized something we here have known for years—that General Hayden is one of our nation’s most respected leaders and insightful minds, and a voice for pragmatic, practical solutions to our most vexing challenges. Our country will benefit from his participation in this program.”

Election to NAPA is one of the highest professional honors in the field of public administration, recognizing leaders who have made significant and sustained contributions to the effectiveness of government. Hayden joins a distinguished class of new Fellows whose expertise and service exemplify the academy’s mission to build a more effective, accountable, and transparent government.

Founded in 1967 and chartered by Congress, the National Academy of Public Administration is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to improving the effectiveness, efficiency, and accountability of government. NAPA brings together top public administration professionals—scholars, practitioners, and leaders—to tackle the nation’s most pressing management and policy challenges and to strengthen the institutions of American governance.

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Meet the Mason Nation: Amanda Haymond Still

Katarina Benson — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 14:31:35 +0000

Meet the Mason Nation: Amanda Haymond Still Katarina Benson Mon, 11/10/2025 - 09:31

Amanda Haymond Still

Job: Director of Undergraduate Student Research Initiatives and Internships, College of Science

Amanda Haymond Still, BS Chemistry ’13, PhD Biochemistry ’17. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

Amanda Haymond Still, BS Chemistry ’13, PhD Biochemistry ’17, came to �� in 2009 as a University Scholar in the Honors College and never left. There are many reasons why she stayed, but she now has a new one: She’s leading the College of Science’s Aspiring Scientists Summer Internship Program (ASSIP). “As a postdoc and faculty member, I really enjoyed the mentoring process, so when a position opened up to do that full time, I decided to put my name in the hat.”

Founded in 2007, ASSIP provides opportunities for high school and undergraduate students to work one-on-one with faculty researchers across many disciplines. In summer 2025, nearly 400 students participated in person and remotely in the eight-week program. They came from the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area and about 17 states, including California, Texas, New York, and Washington State.

Embracing Online Access: Still said ASSIP’s pivoting to online during the pandemic had a plus side—they realized that, for certain types of research projects, remote works great. Now that people can participate from anywhere, applications have exploded—this year they received more than 3,300—and they have had interns from as far away as Hungary, Kazakhstan, and Mason Korea. “It's administratively challenging but also very exciting.”

Opportunity for Further Expansion: The number of participants each year is driven by researchers’ needs and capacity. When students apply to ASSIP, they read through a list of researchers and projects and rank who they would like to work with. Then those researchers go through the applications and make decisions. “Even with remote participants, there are only so many hours in a day,” she said. “The best way to grow the program is to involve more George Mason faculty.” Currently 23 academic departments at George Mason participate.

All in a Day’s Work: During those eight weeks, Still said she is tied her email, solving problems as they arise. There are also safety trainings and paperwork as many interns are working in labs. As director, Still conducts a weekly seminar for the interns where they learn how to be a scientist. Most of the topics she covers are basic research information like how to write an abstract or prepare a scientific poster, which interns do before the summer is over. Each session ends with a poster presentation where they present their findings. “They get very excited,” Still said. “And it's fun to see how much students can get done in eight weeks.”

Try and Try Again: Still also talks to the aspiring scientists about failure, “which they always love to hear,” she jokes. But the reality is, in research, you never know how things are going to go. She said week 5 is a critical point in the program. That’s when the students realize things aren’t working the way that they thought they would, and their resilience kicks in. “If you're working on something at the cutting edge of science, it might not go well, and that's okay,” Still said. “This is part of learning how real discovery and inquiry works.”

Not a Summer Camp: Still emphasizes that “internship” is an important part of the ASSIP title. “These aren't demonstration projects. This is real independent research,” she said. And hard work does pay off. Many participants have had their names included when the work is published in scientific journals and presented at research conferences. Some have even been named on patents.

Joining the Mason Nation: For the past two years, Still has run a pilot program in which students can get college credit for their ASSIP participation. About 10% participate. “Part of the reason we do this program is we hope that some of the students stay with us and come to Mason,” she said. “They're on campus, they’re getting credit, they are George Mason students for a little while.”

Inquiring Minds: Still’s research career started like many of the students she’s mentoring. There was an option in the chemistry major to do undergraduate research for course credit, which Still wanted to do but didn’t know anyone. So she consulted the department directory. “I was literally cold emailing all of the professors with research groups,” she said. When she got to the C’s, she connected to her mentor and dissertation director Robin Couch of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry.

Aiming for ‘Targets’: Still spent her George Mason career pursuing scientific questions in enzymology. “I was looking at enzymes found in bacteria that are not found in us, with the goal of using those as new antibiotic drug targets,” she said. “The field of antimicrobial drug discovery is really exciting. It's very much like you versus ‘the invaders.’” When Still was defending her dissertation, one of the people in the audience was Center for Applied Proteomics and Molecular Medicine codirector Lance Liotta. “He offered me a postdoc on the spot.”

An Inventor in Her Own Right: Through her work at George Mason, Still has garnered a few patents over the years. Her most recent application is for DNA protein hybrid molecules that Still built with Rémi Veneziano in the College of Engineering and Computing. “We built these really cool hybrid molecules for cancer drugs.”

Best Part of the Job: Still said one of the things she loves about running ASSIP is getting to see “kids get the bug for scientific research.” She also has never doubted her decision to remain at George Mason. “It doesn't grow old, no matter how many years you're here,” she said. “There's always something new happening.”

Learn more about ASSIP

Jacquelyn (Jackie) Nash is November Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 21:24:27 +0000

Jacquelyn (Jackie) Nash is November Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Tue, 10/28/2025 - 17:24

Jacquelyn (Jackie) Nash is the associate director for �� Undergraduate Education's University Studies Program and has been a part of the department since 2008. From teaching the first UNIV College to Career course in 1998 to her responsibilities today, she has been an essential part of University Studies. She is also an alumna, having earned her MEd in Counseling and Development from George Mason. For her ability to do it all, while championing kindness and positivity, Nash has been named November Employee of the Month.

Jackie Nash, November Employee of the Month, was recognized at a virtual ceremony with President Gregory Washington. Photo provided

“Having worked with Jackie for the past 15 years, I have seen firsthand her exceptional dedication, professionalism, and deep commitment to student success,” said Elena Chiru, director of career advising in University Career Services.

Rachel E. Lindsey, assistant director of career education in University Career Services, said, “Since I began in my role, Jackie has been my “go-to”—a source of expertise, sharing institutional knowledge and providing thorough, thoughtful (and timely!) answers to even my most frustrating and complicated questions. She remains an invaluable thought partner in navigating complex issues.”

“Jackie is a dedicated partner to many faculty and staff members who teach UNIV courses,” said Ann Garner, assistant director of career advising in University Career Services. “She deserves to be recognized for the commitment she exhibits every single day to George Mason students and the larger George Mason community!”

Katie Clare, director of well-being programs, said, “Jackie is a long-time George Mason employee who is an integral member of the community and who works tirelessly behind the scenes to make things happen.”

Nina Cox, career advisor and career preparation courses instructor, praised Nash’s commitment to making a lasting, positive impact on the George Mason community.

“Jackie has consistently demonstrated an exceptional commitment to ensuring the smooth operation of the career courses. Her prompt and reliable assistance has been invaluable to me and the students,” said Angelica Newham, career advisor in University Career Services. “Her ability to uplift and inspire those around her is a testament to the positive and collaborative work environment she fosters.”

How did you come to George Mason:

My first career was in corporate human resources for 11 years. In the fall of 1997, I contacted the University Career Services office to volunteer with job search preparation activities such as resume writing and interview preparation. I instantly loved it and immediately enrolled in [Counseling and Development’s] counseling master’s program. I piloted the first College to Career course in the spring of 1998 and have taught several career and transition UNIV courses since then. After completing the master’s degree, I went on to work toward my doctorate in holistic college student development. For the last 17 years I have been an associate director for the University Studies Program.

Best day on the job:

It is a tie between being thrilled to talk with anyone who will listen about our University Studies Program (this is our 36th year and we have served more than 65,000 George Mason students!), and any time that I have been able to assist students in their college journey!

What do you like best about working at George Mason:

Hands down, it is the connection with not only students, but especially with fellow Mason colleagues with whom I have built long-standing and very meaningful collaborations and friendships.

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

Along with being an avid reader (especially all things mystery) and a lifelong backgammon player (other board and card games, as well), I am a devoted sports championship enthusiast. It started with the famous 2006 Mason Patriots road to the NCAA basketball championship! My favorites are March Madness and the Little League World Series Championship. I also spend as much time with my three grown sons and family as possible.

Nominate a colleague for Employee of the Month

Off the Clock: Susan Kehoe unleashes the potential of service dogs in training
December 4, 2025
Julie Hudson is December Employee of the Month
December 1, 2025
Meet the Mason Nation: Amanda Haymond Still
November 10, 2025
Jacquelyn (Jackie) Nash is November Employee of the Month
November 1, 2025
Meet the Mason Nation: Rachel Spence
October 16, 2025

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Faculty and Staff News

Undergraduate Education

3 things to know about Microsoft 365 storage changes at George Mason

Lauren Reuscher — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 13:22:19 +0000

3 things to know about Microsoft 365 storage changes at George Mason Lauren Reuscher Thu, 10/23/2025 - 09:22

�� is updating its Microsoft 365 storage policies to ensure sustainability and security. For the most up-to-date information and full project details, see the Microsoft 365 Roadmap.

Here are some updates from Information Technology Services (ITS) about what’s changing for students, faculty, and staff.

Illustration by Getty Images

1. Unlimited storage is ending.

ITS conducted a formal review of George Mason’s Microsoft 365 (M365) system storage and is implementing rolling changes. Vendors are changing their service offerings and storage pricing, no longer offering free, unlimited storage to higher ed institutions.

2. There are new storage quotas by role.

More than 90% of George Mason users across OneDrive, Exchange, SharePoint, and Teams use under 5GB of storage. Therefore, the new quotas are designed to meet the needs of most users while encouraging better data management. New storage limits have already been implemented and vary based on your role:

Faculty and Staff: 50GB for OneDrive and Exchange; 100GB for SharePoint and Teams
Students: 50GB for OneDrive, 10GB for Exchange; 100GB for SharePoint and Teams
Part-time staff, emeritus faculty, contractors, and affiliates: Lower limits apply

To determine how much storage you are using and to better manage your data, see Managing Microsoft Storage Use.

3. Consider your data retention—and clean up!

To reduce risk and align with university and commonwealth policies, ITS is refining its data lifecycle and retention strategies in consultation with University Records Management.

It is always a good time to declutter. Keeping unnecessary data can pose security and compliance issues. Delete old, duplicate, or unused files to stay within your quota and avoid service disruptions.

Need more help?

These changes are designed to protect your data and ensure long-term sustainability for the university’s digital infrastructure. Reach out to the ITS project team, or join the Collaboration Collective on Microsoft Teams for guidance and updates.

If you would like a consultation on your storage options, request an appointment via the Data Storage Consultation Form.

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Julie Hudson is December Employee of the Month

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University Day Service Awards honor the service milestones of George Mason employees

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Public health social worker appointed as regional representative to United Nations social work commission

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Michael V. Hayden Inducted as Fellow of the National Academy of Public Administration

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Meet the Mason Nation: Amanda Haymond Still

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Jacquelyn (Jackie) Nash is November Employee of the Month

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3 things to know about Microsoft 365 storage changes at George Mason

1. Unlimited storage is ending.

2. There are new storage quotas by role.

3. Consider your data retention—and clean up!

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