Human Resources

Honors College

Stacey Ellis honored with CUPA-HR’s National Higher Ed HR Rock Star Award

Lauren Reuscher — Wed, 23 Jul 2025 16:49:00 +0000

Stacey Ellis honored with CUPA-HR’s National Higher Ed HR Rock Star Award Lauren Reuscher Wed, 07/23/2025 - 12:49

Stacey Ellis, faculty and staff engagement program manager in �鶹��Ƶ’s Human Resources, has received the 2025 Higher Ed HR Rock Star Award from the College and University Professional Association for Human Resources (CUPA-HR). This national award recognizes early-career professionals who are making a significant impact in higher ed human resources.

Stacey Ellis, faculty and staff engagement program manager, Human Resources. Photo provided

Since joining George �鶹��Ƶ in 2022, Ellis has demonstrated leadership and a deep commitment to collaboration and engagement. Ellis led major updates to the university’s Outstanding Achievement Awards, which recognize the contributions of faculty and staff. She introduced new award categories to recognize part-time workers, early-career professionals, and those who help foster a positive campus culture.

“I’m inspired every day by the relationships I get to build with colleagues who are passionate, collaborative, and deeply committed to making a difference,” said Ellis. “There’s a real sense of community here at George �鶹��Ƶ, and it’s a privilege to support and grow alongside our incredible faculty and staff.”

Ellis has also launched a monthly human resources article series to spotlight faculty and staff engagement activities, expanded access to professional development, and co-founded �鶹��Ƶ Throughout the Nation, an employee resource group for hybrid and remote faculty and staff.

“Through these efforts, Stacey has not only strengthened institutional connections but has also been a source of inspiration, leading by example in service, leadership and collaboration across George �鶹��Ƶ’s campuses,” said Andrew Lane, director of performance management and employee engagement.

Ellis also volunteers as a well-being mentor with the university’s Center for the Advancement of Well-Being, contributes to events like the 9/11 Day of Service, and serves on several university-wide committees focused on well-being, service, and professional development.

CUPA-HR will recognize awardees in a virtual ceremony later this summer.

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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.

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The real bosses came to campus for Take Your Junior Patriot to Work Day

Lauren Reuscher — Wed, 07 May 2025 13:43:53 +0000

The real bosses came to campus for Take Your Junior Patriot to Work Day Lauren Reuscher Wed, 05/07/2025 - 09:43

�鶹��Ƶ welcomed 229 “Junior Patriots” to its campuses on April 24 for the annual Take Your Junior Patriot to Work event. Faculty and staff had the chance to bring the children in their lives to campus and experience life at George �鶹��Ƶ for a day.

Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

With more than 40 activities hosted across the Fairfax Campus, Science and Technology Campus, and �鶹��Ƶ Square, attendees learned about George �鶹��Ƶ and explored different parts of campus life.

At Fairfax, the event kicked off with musical entertainment from the Green Machine and a visit from the Patriot on Merten Lawn.

Photo provided

Other highlights at Fairfax included a soccer clinic, emergency preparedness training, Junior Patriot Pitch, tent-building and s’mores, video game design, a “Touch-a-Truck” experience with emergency vehicles, a stuffed animal wellness clinic, and ice cream and games at the Corner Pocket.

Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

�鶹��Ƶ Square activities included lawn games and story time on the plaza, a drone demonstration by the George �鶹��Ƶ Police, and more.

Storytime on the �鶹��Ƶ Square Plaza. Photo provided

The SciTech Campus offered a behind-the-scenes tour of the Hylton Performing Arts Center, swimming at the Freedom Center, a library tour, and picnic.

SciTech Campus participants at the Mercer Library. Photo provided

A wide range of activities hosted by campus partners allowed participants to choose their own adventure based on each child’s age and interests. The City of Fairfax Fire Department also joined the touch-a-truck event.

The George �鶹��Ƶ men's soccer team hosted a youth soccer clinic. Photo by George �鶹��Ƶ Athletics

“Human Resources extends a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to each campus partner who hosted an activity or provided an on-campus discount to engage our George �鶹��Ƶ faculty and staff during the event,” said Stacey Ellis, faculty and staff engagement program manager in Human Resources.

George �鶹��Ƶ Police and the City of Fairfax Fire Department brought vehicles for the touch-a-truck event. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Visit the Take Your Junior Patriot to Work webpage for full descriptions of the activities.

Take Your Junior Patriot to Work will return on April 23, 2026. Interested in hosting an activity next year? Contact engageHR@gmu.edu.

Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Photo provided

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Children and Youth

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.

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George �鶹��Ƶ Retirees: October 2024 to April 2025

Lauren Reuscher — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 13:47:31 +0000

George �鶹��Ƶ Retirees: October 2024 to April 2025 Lauren Reuscher Wed, 04/23/2025 - 09:47

Congratulations to the �鶹��Ƶ faculty and staff retirees from October 2024 to April 2025. The list below includes retirees, the department from which they retired, and years of service.

We hope you’ll come back to visit sometimes. Once a Patriot, always a Patriot!

Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

October 2024

Mary Liles, School of Art, 5 years, 6 months

Wendy Watkins, Office of University Audit, 7 years

November 2024

Robert Counts, Office of University Registrar, 30 years, 1 month

Stephen Morehouse, Student Centers, 16 years, 4 months

December 2024

Jane Barton, Antonin Scalia Law School, 32 years, 1 month

Daryl Corley, �鶹��Ƶ Enterprise, 5 years

Dennis Herring, Facilities and Campus Operations, 32 years, 5 months

January 2025

Corinne Hurst, Office of Research, Innovation, and Economic Impact, 32 years, 3 months

Julie Roberts, Department of Economics, 9 years, 3 months

February 2025

Maria Amaya de Amya, Housing and Residence Life, 15 years

John Arnett, Information Technology Services, 32 years, 11 months

Robert Baker, School of Sport, Recreation, and Tourism Management, 19 years, 5 months

Orrin (Tony) Barton, University Police, 25 years, 5 months

Michael Briggs, Information Technology Services, 20 years, 4 months

Magdaleno Castillo, Facilities and Campus Operations, 9 years, 7 months

Calvin Chandler, University Police, 21 years

Cheng Cheu, Information Technology Services, 25 years, 2 months

Manuel De Paz Hernandez, Housing and Residence Life, 15 years

Deborah Goodings, College of Engineering and Computing, 15 years, 4 months

Wally Grotophorst, University Libraries, 42 years, 5 months

David Hart, Schar School of Policy and Government, 20 years, 5 months

Nina Joshi, Counseling and Psychological Services, 27 years, 1 month

Mills Kelly, Department of History and Art History, 23 years, 4 months

Linda �鶹��Ƶ, Kellar Institute for Human disAbilities, 7 years, 4 months

Curtis McNay, Information Technology Services, 25 years, 10 months

Debbie Penny, Information Technology Services, 34 years, 9 months

Art Pyster, College of Engineering and Computing, 8 years, 5 months

Joyce Rose, College of Engineering and Computing, 21 years, 7 months

Louise Shelley, Schar School of Policy and Government, 17 years, 5 months

John Stout, Center for Earth Observing and Spatial Research, 26 years, 9 months

Clare Talbert, Kellar Institute for Human disAbilities, 29 years, 1 month

March 2025

Jeanette Blanchard, Information Technology Services, 39 years, 1 month

Timothy Caldecott, GMU-TV, 12 years

Christina Lehnertz, Office of International Programs and Services, 19 years

Susan Muller, Smithsonian–�鶹��Ƶ School of Conservation, 16 years, 6 months

April 2025

Naomi Arlund, Office of University Advancement and Alumni Relations, 18 years, 10 months

Dolores Horn, Department of Cyber Security Engineering, 19 years, 7 months

Dina Lozano, Freedom Aquatic & Fitness Center, 25 years, 5 months

Cheryl Medina, Department of Modern and Classical Languages, 17 years, 6 months

Warren Prescott, Freedom Aquatic & Fitness Center, 16 years, 11 months

Joyce Price, University Libraries, 19 years, 1 month

Dennis Stater, Biomedical Research Lab, 14 years, 8 months

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Retirement

Outstanding Achievement Awards honor the dedication of faculty and staff

Lauren Reuscher — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 18:52:55 +0000

Outstanding Achievement Awards honor the dedication of faculty and staff Lauren Reuscher Wed, 04/16/2025 - 14:52

�鶹��Ƶ’s Outstanding Achievement Awards celebrate the hard work and accomplishments of faculty and staff in support of the university's values and mission. Awards are sponsored by Human Resources and other university departments.

A ceremony honoring this year’s awardees was hosted on the Fairfax Campus on Tuesday, April 15. View the complete list of award recipients.

John Crocker of Risk, Safety, and Resilience received a Presidential Citation for his service to a fellow employee during a medical emergency. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

This year’s awards included several new categories and garnered a 146% increase in nominations compared to last year, reflecting the university’s culture of engagement and appreciation. Learn more about Reward and Recognition programs at George �鶹��Ƶ.

The Sustainability Hero Award acknowledges the contributions of individuals and teams who have gone the extra mile to seek creative solutions that have promoted healthy, sustainable living or reduced George �鶹��Ƶ’s environmental impacts.

Makenzie Gold Quiros, Housing and Residence Life, received the Sustainability Hero Award. Photo provided

Sustainability Hero Award

Makenzie Gold Quiros, Assistant Director of Housing Operations and Special Projects, Housing and Residence Life

Makenzie Gold Quiros was recognized for leadership, collaboration, and partnership with Patriot Packout, the annual campus move-out program that helps divert items from the waste stream and reallocates them to those who can use them. Donations include household items, food, clothing, and more.

Gold Quiros played an instrumental role in integrating Patriot Packout into Housing and Residence Life operations. Collaborating with members of the Patriot Packout planning committee to develop marketing and educational materials about the program, Gold Quiros' efforts helped spread the word among residential students.

The result was increased awareness and participation in the program. In 2024, Patriot Packout received more than 13,000 pounds of donations, more than double the amount received in 2023 (5,700 pounds).

“Makenzie’s incredible leadership to grow and integrate Patriot Packout within Housing and Residence Life operations dramatically improved the amount of goods and supplies diverted away from trash incineration, reducing the university’s environmental impacts while putting useful donations into the hands of George �鶹��Ƶ Patriots,” said Colleen Regan, zero waste specialist with University Sustainability.

New this year, the Wage Employee Service Award recognizes non-student wage staff who have consistently demonstrated excellence, dedication, and exceptional organizational citizenship, contributing significantly to the university's operations and mission.

Rose Aubery, Office of Admissions, received the Wage Employee Service Award. Photo provided

Wage Employee Service Award

Rose Aubery, Transfer Admissions Assistant, Office of Admissions

Rose Aubery has served as an invaluable resource for prospective transfer students, offering personalized guidance through the complex transfer process. Aubery’s unwavering commitment to supporting students—especially those balancing work, family, and personal challenges—has made a lasting impact.

Putting students first, Aubery ensures that every student she assists receives tailored support and clear, accurate information. She helps them understand the admissions process, explains pathways to a degree, and empowers students in their journey to higher education.

“Rose is a source of positivity and helps many students find their way to a bachelor’s degree at George �鶹��Ƶ, students for whom higher education might otherwise not be an option,” said Melissa Bevacqua, director of admissions for transfer recruitment in the Office of Admissions. “Her work is impactful and makes a difference for students, for our team, and our university.”

Wage Employee Service Award

Susan Bannan, Recruitment Specialist, Office of University Advancement and Alumni Relations

Susan Bannan, Office of University Advancement and Alumni Relations, received the Wage Employee Service Award. Photo provided

Susan Bannan has transformed talent recruitment in her office by streamlining operations, reducing external search costs, and improving the candidate experience. Her proactive, customer-focused approach has supported George �鶹��Ƶ’s billion-dollar campaign, �鶹��Ƶ Now, and contributed to long-term talent retention.

“One of Susan's most notable contributions is her unwavering commitment to ensuring that candidates have a positive experience with �鶹��Ƶ,” said Sara Snyder, associate vice president for administration and finance in the Office of University Advancement and Alumni Relations.

“She meticulously manages the recruitment process, providing clear communication and support at every stage. Her efforts have resulted in a seamless and enjoyable experience for candidates, which has been instrumental in attracting top talent,” said Snyder.

Learn more about Reward and Recognition at George �鶹��Ƶ

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Outstanding Achievement Awards

Strategic Direction

Johnnie Hall is April Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 13:59:41 +0000

Johnnie Hall is April Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Mon, 03/31/2025 - 09:59

Science and Technology Campus machine shop manager Johnnie Hall embodies �鶹��Ƶ value “students come first.” The machine shop is regularly used by registered student organizations, researchers, and students alike, and Hall frequently works evenings and weekends to work with their schedules. He is also a mentor to Mechanical Engineering Department’s capstone design students, who often comment that they would not be able to complete their projects on time if not for his assistance.

Employee of the Month Johnnie Hall and President Washington. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

Hall also helped facilitate the department’s move to the new Life Sciences and Engineering Building (LSEB). “It would not have been possible without Johnnie's efforts packing and labeling, disassembling equipment, fielding questions from the project team, fielding questions from faculty, students, and staff, all the while maintaining a positive, collaborative attitude and staying on top of his typical duties running the machine shop,” said Leigh McCue-Weil, professor and chair of the Mechanical Engineering Department.

One notable moment during the move was when the loading docks were snowed in, and he personally began clearing snow until he could flag down a snowplow to assist. “Rather than complaining, Johnnie simply grabbed a shovel and began digging out the loading dock before the movers and riggers arrived,” added McCue-Weil.

“Johnnie has been a reliable ‘jack of all trades’ for the College of Engineering and Computing always willing to step in where needed in support of our strategic goals,” said Arthur B. Pyster, professor and associate dean for research in the college. “He was one of the first technicians to lend his expertise to �鶹��Ƶ's Nanofabrication Facility and the College of Engineering and Computing's Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM).”

Joyce Rose, CEC’s operations manager, said, “Johnnie is exemplary. We wish we had more employees just like him! During Johnnie's time at �鶹��Ƶ, he has gone above and beyond what was expected of him.”

Johnnie Hall works in the machine shop at the Science and Technology Campus. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

“In my mind, Johnnie can be considered ‘employee of the day’ every day of the year. Whenever you ask him for a favor, you can count on him 100%,” said mechanical engineering professor Nathan Kathir.

Volgenau School of Engineering Divisional Dean Ariela Sofer said, “I constantly get comments about how great Johnnie is!”

How did you come to �鶹��Ƶ:

I started working at �鶹��Ƶ in August of 2018 as a part-time machine shop technician. Before working at �鶹��Ƶ, I had gone through a trades program focused on welding at my local community college on the Eastern Shore of Virginia. I jumped at the chance to apply my skills and learn more along the way. Since then, I have had the chance to be a part of some amazing student and research projects.

Best day on the job:

My favorite day has always been our Mechanical Engineering Department's senior Capstone Day. It's such a rewarding experience getting to showcase all of our students' hard work that I have had the opportunity to be a part of.

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

My favorite part about working at �鶹��Ƶ is being able to give students a chance to try new things they might have never had the chance to. It's such a great feeling seeing our students learn new skills in our workshop that they can take with them in life.

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

When I am not working, I enjoy playing music at home on my synthesizer. I also enjoy taking car rides in my 1985 Toyota Celica.

Nominate a colleague for Employee of the Month

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Bonnie Madden is March Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 15:32:03 +0000

Bonnie Madden is March Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Fri, 02/28/2025 - 10:32

Bonnie Madden, a two-time �鶹��Ƶ alum, joined the Biology Department as the microbial and phage lab manager almost a decade ago while working on her bachelor's degree in biology. Since then, she has been an integral part of the College of Science department. She is known for her dedication to both the lab and fostering student success.

George �鶹��Ƶ President Gregory Washington and March Employee of the Month Bonnie Madden. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

“Bonnie is an enormous asset to the Biology Department and to �鶹��Ƶ. She has a lot of great and innovative ideas that have enhanced the quality of the lab in many ways,” said Anne Scherer, term associate professor of biology.

Elisabeth Epstein, assistant professor of biology, said, “She is our go-to person to make our microbiology labs run smoothly and professionally and, importantly, on time and ready to go! Her extensive expertise is often relied on for producing high-quality lab materials. She often comes into the labs even on evenings and weekends to make sure the student experience runs smoothly.”

Along with managing the lab, Madden, who also has a master’s degree in biology from George �鶹��Ƶ, teaches a section of the Science Education Alliance-Phage Hunters Advancing Genomics and Evolutionary Science (SEA-PHAGES) discovery-based research course, which teaches undergraduate students how to isolate and analyze bacteriophage. She also teaches a next gen sequencing course in the spring semester.

“Bonnie is a mentor to each and every student,” said Scherer. “She trains undergraduates, learned how to use the transmission electron microscope for the course, and she walks around the classroom and fields questions that students might have and works one-on-one with those struggling.”

How did you come to �鶹��Ƶ:

I came to �鶹��Ƶ as an undergraduate. My goal at the time was to set an example for my sons and show them learning is an ongoing process regardless of age. Right before graduating with my BS in Biology [in 2015], I was offered the opportunity to become part of the Biology Department by Dr. Deborah Polayes as a replacement for Jo Mose, who was the microbiology lab manager back in 2015.

Best day on the job:

My best day on the job was when I graduated [in 2023] with my master’s degree as my students and assistant lab workers were graduating with their bachelor's degrees. I was so proud of them, as I am every year.

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

The thing I like about �鶹��Ƶ is all the opportunities it has to offer. The opportunity for growth and expanding your potential is limitless. Also, the opportunity to make lifelong connections is invaluable. It is up to the individual to decide what they are comfortable with and how far they want to expand their boundaries.

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

I have a broad range of activities that keep me busy throughout the year. Some hobbies tend to be seasonal. In the summer, I enjoy boating and gardening. Last summer, my husband and I were able to boat on Lake Windermere in England. In the winter, I tend to enjoy movies and painting. However, I enjoy concerts, traveling, and flameworking with glass year-round.

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Kenneth Darby is February Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 21:38:50 +0000

Kenneth Darby is February Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Mon, 02/03/2025 - 16:38

As the senior events manager at �鶹��Ƶ’s �鶹��Ƶ Square, Kenneth (Kenny) Darby is known as the one who can do it all. He has been a vital part of �鶹��Ƶ Square events since 2017 and has worked as senior events manager for the past five years. In their letters of support, his colleagues emphasized his ability to seamlessly manage complex high-profile events with precision and care, and his unwavering commitment, empathy, and attention to detail.

Employee of the Month Kenny Darby with President Gregory Washington. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

“As an outstanding leader and colleague, Kenny consistently enriches the �鶹��Ƶ Square community with his positive contributions, supporting event clients to bring their vision to a reality,” said Sara Hawes, director of Operations for �鶹��Ƶ Square administration. “His unwavering dedication to his responsibilities, coupled with the empathy and attention he extends to clients, colleagues, supervisors, and students sets a commendable example for all those who have the opportunity to interact with him.”

Mercedes Allsop, executive assistant to the Dean's Office in the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School, said, “Kenny’s dedication not only enhances our campus environment but also sets a commendable standard for others to aspire to, truly making him a deserving candidate for this recognition. “His ability to manage high-profile events with a calm, professional demeanor ensures that each event is executed flawlessly.”

Alison Price, director of operations and the Law and Economics Center at Antonin Scalia Law School, highlighted Kenny’s skill with high-profile clients. “Kenny is the role model for how customer service should be provided at this university,” she said.

“Kenny is the ‘go-to’ individual when having an event at �鶹��Ƶ Square. From beginning to end, I trust him to ensure that our events go smoothly,” said Una Murphy, director of donor relations in the Office of University Advancement and Alumni Relations. “He is friendly, assured, professional, inquisitive, caring and incredibly intuitive. I completely trust Kenny's judgement when it comes to a successful event.”

Colleagues have come to rely on Darby for his expertise. “Kenny has become an invaluable asset at �鶹��Ƶ Square,” said Frank Strike, vice president of Facilities. “He provides excellent customer service, and his attention to detail allows him to seamlessly integrate multiple complex tasks to deliver an exceptional experience to all stakeholders. His dedication and commitment to excellence is an inspiration to his colleagues and enhances �鶹��Ƶ's reputation.”

How did you come to �鶹��Ƶ:

I was hired as an event coordinator to help support events on the Arlington Campus. They were looking for a talented individual that had event experience and A/V knowledge, so I applied.

Best day on the job:

Every day is a good day on the job, but the best day was when I got hired.

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

The people I work with and those I collaborate with. This community is very close, and I appreciate each of the relationships that I have built.

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

That's a hard question. I enjoy quiet time. My days are busy when I'm at work and when I'm not at work, so the quiet times are the best times for me.

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