Employee of the Month

Office of Access Compliance and Community

Oscar Ferrufino is January Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 19:27:15 +0000

Oscar Ferrufino is January Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Tue, 12/16/2025 - 14:27

January Employee of the Month Oscar Ferrufino is a member of �鶹��Ƶ’s Essential Employees group, so he is one of the first to respond when severe weather is forecasted. A heavy equipment operator in Facilities Management, he has been an integral part of the Facilities and Campus Operations department for almost 20 years. Since 2006, his work has helped make George �鶹��Ƶ’s campuses a better place.

President Washington with January Employee of the Month Oscar Ferrufino. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

“Oscar can always be counted on to support our team, even if it is 2 a.m. with wind howling and snow flying. He is there and at the forefront without any complaints,” said Erich Miller, grounds program manager.

“Oscar demonstrates a level of stewardship, commitment, and service to the university who consistently goes above and beyond the call of duty,” said Amy Millman, executive assistant to the vice president in Facilities and Campus Operations.

“Oscar has a wealth of grounds knowledge and professionally completes any assigned task. It is a pleasure to work alongside him, no matter what type of task we’ve been assigned,” said Archie Nesbit, senior grounds supervisor.

Kevin Brim, waste and recycling supervisor, said, “Every day, Oscar goes above and beyond in service to our university. I have never heard Oscar say he doesn’t have time to help a colleague or coworker.”

How did you come to �鶹��Ƶ:

I was looking to move back to the area after moving away for a few years. I had close to 20 years' experience in a university setting, so when I searched for openings, I was happy to see there were positions available at George �鶹��Ƶ. I applied and traveled here for the interview and was hired from there.

Best day on the job:

Any day, but the best days are when I get to help colleagues in other shops that need assistance.

What do you like best about working at �鶹��Ƶ:

Flexibility with my schedule. I was able to take time off when my kids were little.

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

I love fishing and biking.

Topics

Facilities

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 �鶹��Ƶ, 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 �鶹��Ƶ:

I came to George �鶹��Ƶ 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 �鶹��Ƶ.

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 �鶹��Ƶ:

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.

Topics

Schar School of Policy and Government

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 �鶹��Ƶ 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 �鶹��Ƶ. 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 �鶹��Ƶ students and the larger George �鶹��Ƶ community!”

Katie Clare, director of well-being programs, said, “Jackie is a long-time George �鶹��Ƶ 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 �鶹��Ƶ 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 �鶹��Ƶ:

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 �鶹��Ƶ 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 �鶹��Ƶ:

Hands down, it is the connection with not only students, but especially with fellow �鶹��Ƶ 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 �鶹��Ƶ 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

Shekila Melchior is February Employee of the Month
February 1, 2026
Jeffrey Kenney put himself on display at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
January 28, 2026
Oscar Ferrufino is January Employee of the Month
January 1, 2026
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

Topics

Undergraduate Education

Yali Pan is October Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 21:14:22 +0000

Yali Pan is October Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Fri, 09/26/2025 - 17:14

Yali Pan, associate director for engagement and assessment in �鶹��Ƶ’s Office of International Programs and Services (OIPS), started at George �鶹��Ƶ 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.

Yali Pan, October Employee of the Month, and George �鶹��Ƶ President Gregory Washington. Photo by Eduardo Macedo/Office of University Branding

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 �鶹��Ƶ," 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 �鶹��Ƶ 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 �鶹��Ƶ Korea’s former dean,” said Grace H. Lee, �鶹��Ƶ Korea coordinator in the Office of the Provost. “�鶹��Ƶ Korea students, Fairfax students who studied abroad at �鶹��Ƶ 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 �鶹��Ƶ 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 �鶹��Ƶ?

I came to �鶹��Ƶ following my family’s relocation back to the area. What truly impressed me was George �鶹��Ƶ’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 �鶹��Ƶ?

I really appreciate the energy and inclusiveness at George �鶹��Ƶ, 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.

Nominate a colleague for Employee of the Month

Topics

Office of International Programs and Services

Tyrone Johnson is September Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 18:27:25 +0000

Tyrone Johnson is September Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Mon, 08/25/2025 - 14:27

Tyrone Johnson has worked as the clinical laboratory manager in �鶹��Ƶ’s Student Health Services (SHS) for the past two years. For his dedication to putting students at ease, his work ethic, and his positive impact on the office overall, he is being recognized as the September Employee of the Month.

President Gregory Washington with September Employee of the Month Tyrone Johnson. Photo by Eduardo Macedo/Office of University Branding

Nandini Koka, SHS executive director, has found Johnson’s leadership in the lab invaluable. “He has streamlined our processes, improved the overall efficiency, and ensured that students’ needs are met promptly and accurately,” she said. “His dedication to student care reflects his strong sense of service and empathy, which is a hallmark of his work ethic.”

“Tyrone Johnson is all the things you want in a dedicated employee,” said Cameron Hoffman, nurse practitioner in SHS. “He immediately puts students at ease during typically stressful situations, such as blood draws or testing in general.”

Erin Wisman, associate medical director of SHS, said that “whether he is assisting students who are anxious about a blood draw or working with the clinical team to solve complex operational challenges, Tyrone's demeanor is consistently calm, thoughtful, and respectful.”

“Tyrone makes a positive impact just by walking into the room,” said Lois Doyle, lead nurse in SHS. “I appreciate his humor and ability to get along with everyone.”

How did you come to �鶹��Ƶ:

I followed a former co-worker here.

Best day on the job:

Every day is my best day because I get to do what I love doing. Today is pretty remarkable after receiving notification of this honor. I have worked as a laboratory professional for 37 years, and this is a first for me.

What do you like best about working at �鶹��Ƶ:

My daily interactions with the students that come to SHS for care. I also love working with my workers and training them to work in the lab.

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

I enjoy cooking, traveling, and spending time with my grandchildren.

Topics

Student Health Services

Telecia Taylor is August Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Wed, 30 Jul 2025 21:22:39 +0000

Telecia Taylor is August Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Wed, 07/30/2025 - 17:22

Telecia Taylor has been an integral part of the �鶹��Ƶ Honors College since 2019. Now the assistant director of student programming and engagement for the college, she has been awarded August Employee of the Month for her dedication to fostering community and providing support for her students.

"Every day I'm grateful to know that Telecia is there for our students,” Honors College Dean Zofia Burr said. “She designs fun and relaxing activities that bring our students together, and she makes them all feel they belong.”

Taylor and Dr. Washington during the award ceremony. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Anthony Hoefer, Honors College associate dean for student engagement, admissions, and administration concurs. “Telecia is responsible for developing and implementing co-curricular programs that both foster a vibrant and inclusive community and broadly support student success in the Honors College,” he said. “Particularly for our residential students, she is the daily face of the Honors College.”

Taylor also gets rave reviews for her programming from the Honors College students. One residential student wrote: “Telecia Taylor plans so many meaningful events that get residents engaged, and her presence is always so cheerful and welcoming. I can truthfully say that the events and trips that I have gone on with Telecia have changed my life.”

Her colleagues also emphasized the impact of the initiatives she has created.

"Telecia has worked tirelessly to enhance the first-year student experience within the Honors College. She has proposed and implemented many initiatives to promote inclusive and meaningful social connections and professional pathways for her students," said Nadeen Makhlouf, term assistant professor in the Honors College.

“Every semester she creates opportunities for our faculty, staff and administrators to engage with Honors College students beyond the classroom,” Assistant Dean John Woolsey said. “The interactive social events she plans really help to create a sense of community and contribute to a larger culture of inclusion on campus.”

“Telecia is the go-to person in our department when creating opportunities to engage with students. She has shaped an environment where our students feel supported and empowered,” said Jasmyne Rogers, associate director for student support and retention.

How did you come to �鶹��Ƶ:

I came to �鶹��Ƶ in 2019 after working in University Housing at Georgia Southern University. The work that I do with residential learning communities has a special place in

my heart, and with [this region] being home, I did not hesitate to apply for my position in the Honors College.

Best day on the job:

Witnessing moments of connection between students. No matter how big or small the interaction is, I like to see our students come together in community, especially while they are enjoying new experiences.

What do you like best about working at �鶹��Ƶ:

I enjoy the collaborative nature of campus life. While working with my colleagues in Honors and offices across campus, we recognize that we are here to support the students and help them grow into the best version of themselves.

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

I like to find new dessert spots, especially if ube or matcha is on the menu.

Topics

Honors College

Jenny Chism is the July Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 20:04:55 +0000

Jenny Chism is the July Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Wed, 06/25/2025 - 16:04

Jennifer (Jenny) Chism, assistant dean of Admissions, has been an integral part of �鶹��Ƶ’s Office of Admissions since 2021. She recently led the charge for the Office of Admissions to adopt new and better technology, which has greatly improved both George �鶹��Ƶ’s application process and the office’s efficiency. For her leadership, she is being recognized as the July Employee of the Month.

July Employee of the Month Jenny Chism with President Gregory Washington. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

In their nomination letters, her colleagues emphasized her hard work, dedication, and positive attitude, despite her heavy workload.

“From the moment Jenny arrived, her commitment to enhancing and improving the applicant experience through the application process has been evident,” said Crystal Buckley, director of graduate admissions. “We would not be where we are today without her vision and dedication.”

Stephanie Lowe, associate director of transfer operations, said, “Jenny is not only a forward-thinking innovator but also a compassionate leader. She consistently demonstrates empathy and understanding.”

“Jenny consistently displays strong leadership, tirelessly works to advance the processing efforts of our large team in Admissions, and selflessly gives of her time and her talent well beyond what is expected of her role,” said Melissa A. Bevacqua, director of admissions for transfer recruitment.

Byron Whitehead, document center manager in Admissions, said, “She leads with mutual respect, trusts and cares for her team, and speaks up the moment she has a concern or can see an area for improvement. To put it simply, she is the best boss I’ve ever had, and I cannot imagine what things would be like without her.”

How did you come to �鶹��Ƶ:

I joined George �鶹��Ƶ from St. Louis, Missouri, where I served as the associate vice president of enrollment management at a private liberal arts institution. My journey in higher education began at the University of Missouri – Columbia, and I’ve been passionate about expanding access and driving student success ever since.

Best day on the job:

It’s hard to pick one favorite day on the job. Every day feels like a win when you see your team thriving. Watching them grow in confidence, both personally and professionally, is incredibly rewarding. And when the team is clicking, and the energy is high—when the vibes are right, as the young people say—it’s pretty tough to beat.

What do you like best about working at �鶹��Ƶ:

I love being part of the education community because I know that each day, my work makes a meaningful impact in the lives of individual students and on a broader scale. I remain deeply committed, grounded in the belief in the transformative power of education and its ability to create lasting, positive change in the world.

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

When I’m not working, you’ll usually find me doing something that fills my cup; I love traveling to spend time with our friends and family. At home in Arlington, my husband and I dote on our elderly golden doodle, Bear, FaceTime with our nieces and nephews, and daydream about (or plan!) our next adventure, whether it's domestic or abroad. I also love to cook, bake cookies, dive into topics in counseling psychology and personal well-being, do yoga, and take long walks to unwind. Some of my favorite moments are the simple ones: sitting on our apartment rooftop with a charcuterie board or watching the sunset from the pool after most people have headed home for the day.

Nominate a colleague for Employee of the Month

Topics

Admissions

Joy Sobieralski is June Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Thu, 29 May 2025 17:08:42 +0000

Joy Sobieralski is June Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Thu, 05/29/2025 - 13:08

Since 2007, Joy Sobieralski has been an essential part of �鶹��Ƶ as the financial reporting manager. Before her transition to Fiscal Services, she worked as a senior internal auditor in the Internal Audit Office. For her expertise and dedication, she is recognized as the June Employee of the Month.

Joy Sobieralski's Employee of the Month ceremony took place virtually. Photo provided

Nusrat Sultana, director of financial reporting in Fiscal Services, emphasized the importance of Sobieralski’s work, saying, “she has played a pivotal role in launching several critical initiatives in the department and has consistently contributed innovative solutions. She ensures that we are careful stewards of university resources."

Amid significant changes in accounting regulations and the accounting department over the past few years, Teresa Klock-Taube, associate vice president and controller in Fiscal Services, and Claire Wurmfeld, associate controller, have found Sobieralski 's expertise and consistent dedication to be a testament to her resilience and unwavering commitment to George �鶹��Ƶ's success.

“Joy's expertise in navigating increasingly complex accounting standards and implementing new regulations with precision has firmly established her as a trusted leader,” Klock-Taube said.

“Joy is an asset to the unit and the university,” said Wurmfeld.

Colleagues also said they value Sobieralski 's willingness to go above and beyond to meet deadlines and to ensure that the university's accounting records and financial statements are accurate and complete.”

“Joy’s deep understanding of the university's and [�鶹��Ƶ] Foundation's complex financial data and rating agency ratios has been invaluable in ensuring successful communication of its financial situation to the rating agencies,” said Monica Michaud, now-retired director of Finance and Debt Management. “Her technical proficiency makes her an indispensable member of the team, and her work continues to have a significant, positive impact on the university’s and foundation's ratings.”

How did you come to �鶹��Ƶ:

I grew up in Reston and always knew about George �鶹��Ƶ, but it was after my husband started at the university and spoke so positively about the environment that I decided to explore opportunities here.

Best day on the job:

I look forward to the financial statement submission date each year because it is a culmination of a huge team effort and meeting the deadline provides a great sense of accomplishment.

What do you like best about working at �鶹��Ƶ:

Definitely the people. Being surrounded by supportive, driven, and talented colleagues makes every day enjoyable and rewarding. Their collaboration, encouragement, and shared sense of purpose creates an environment where I feel valued and motivated to contribute my best work.

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

My son plays baseball, so my husband and I spend a lot of time at the baseball field. He graduates from high school this year and will play in college, so we are looking forward to visiting new places and watching him compete. I also enjoy reading and spending time with our French bulldog, Cooper. If you’ve been on a call with me, you’ve probably heard him snoring in the background.

Topics

Patricia King is May Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 15:47:05 +0000

Patricia King is May Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Wed, 04/23/2025 - 11:47

For the past two years, Patricia King has been the office manager in Research and Innovation Initiatives in the Office of Research, Innovation, and Economic Impact (ORIEI). During that time, she has taken on incredible amounts of responsibility with ease and revolutionized the office. Her Employee of the Month nomination included nine letters of support from her colleagues.

President Gregory Washington with May Employee of the Month Patricia King. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

“If ORIEI had its own employee of the month award, Patricia would have been a worthy choice in almost any month over the last two years. As much as any employee I have worked with in 14+ years at George �鶹��Ƶ, Patricia's daily conduct and demeanor exemplify integrity, careful stewardship, and thriving together,” said Christopher DiTeresi, associate vice president for Office of Research Integrity and Assurance (ORIA).

Rebekah Hersch, associate vice president of Research and Innovation Initiatives, said, “You know when you interact with Patricia, you will be met with graciousness and an openness to address your question or concern.”

David Myers, animal care program manager for ORIA, echoed Hersch’s praise “For the two years I have been working with Patricia, I have been very fortunate to have the support she brings to my unit. Patricia is extremely hard-working, dedicated, friendly, and supportive. She has always responded with enthusiasm and a smile even when I knew she already had a bunch of other tasks on her plate.”

“Patricia listens attentively to our problems, engages in thoughtful discussions on best practices and solutions, and keeps us informed every step of the way,” said Peng Warweg, assistant director of research operations in the Center for Advancing Human-Machine Partnership. “On numerous occasions, we had faced situations where new knowledge and skills were needed. Patricia takes on these challenges by seeking advice from experts or learning new skills on her own.”

Andre Marshall, ORIEI vice president, said, “Ms. King has provided leadership during an incredibly difficult time of transition... She has been critical to our continued support of researchers throughout the university.”

“Patricia consistently demonstrates exceptional work ethic and integrity by going above and beyond to support and help her colleagues. When I reach out to Patricia with a question about a process or adjacent office matter, Patricia doesn’t simply tell me what I need to do, she initiates the legwork and provides a personal introduction to the person with whom I need to connect,” said Heather Arnold, research development associate, who also called working with Patricia “a bright spot in my work week.”

Alison Landsberg, a professor in the Department of History and Art History and director of the Center for Humanities Research (CHR), said, “I’ve worked on a range of tasks with Patricia and in every case she has performed above and beyond expectations. We at the CHR have benefited enormously from her ever-growing skillset, and her positive attitude. �鶹��Ƶ is lucky to have her!”“Over the years that we have worked together, I found Patricia to be a dependable, honest, and enthusiastic colleague. Even in these times of change and uncertainty, Patricia manages to stay on track with deadlines, ensuring the ORIEI units continue to operate efficiently. She is currently supporting three large units under ORIEI which is an incredibly heavy lift!” said Heather Aleknavage, administrative assistant and project coordinator in the Office of Risk, Safety, and Resilience.

How did you come to �鶹��Ƶ:

I came to �鶹��Ƶ after 12 years working in the Virginia Community College System. I was excited by the opportunity to work with and support research at �鶹��Ƶ. I grew up in Northern Virginia and was very much aware of George �鶹��Ƶ’s excellent reputation and was particularly attracted to the idea of supporting the amazing research work being done by the university.

Best day on the job:

My best day on the job was the day I found out I would be receiving this award. I was very surprised, and I am deeply touched that members of the team I support took time from their very busy schedules to submit nominations on my behalf. I am grateful to work with my team and deeply appreciate this award.

What do you like best about working at �鶹��Ƶ:

What I like best about working at �鶹��Ƶ would be the employees and students I work with. My colleagues are brilliant, professional, and kind people. Respect and kindness are modeled by the leadership in ORIEI, and they set the tone and serve as examples for our employee team. We support each other and work to help each other be successful in our jobs. I frequently work with other George �鶹��Ƶ offices, and I have been fortunate to meet many good people who are willing to help when needed and are happy to collaborate. Working with the student employees is also very rewarding. Our student employees bring energy and fresh ideas with them and are a joy to work with.

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

I love to read. I also enjoy puzzles and board games. I am a novice knitter. I love both cats and dogs, and enjoy spending time with my feline companion Louie, and my grand dog Rodeo. I love music and I collect vinyl records. I enjoy genealogy, and I am a big fan of Finding Your Roots with Dr. Henry Louis Gates Jr. I also enjoy UK comedy panel shows.

Nominate a colleague for Employee of the Month

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