Faculty and Staff News

Shekila Melchior is February Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 18:11:47 +0000

Shekila Melchior is February Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Fri, 01/30/2026 - 13:11

For her efforts to ensure �鶹��Ƶ is an environment where all students can succeed, Shekila Melchior, director of strategic initiatives and partnerships in �鶹��Ƶ’s Office of Access, Compliance and Community, has been named February Employee of the Month.

February Employee of the Month Shekila Melchior with President Washington. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

“Through strategic institutional-wide initiatives, program development, mentorship, and community-building efforts, Shekila has demonstrated unwavering leadership in promoting a welcoming environment for students, faculty, and staff across all George �鶹��Ƶ campuses,” said Erikca Brown, associate director of professional development in the Office of Access, Compliance, and Community.

Colleagues in the Office of Access, Compliance, and Community applauded Melchior’s commitment to making sure all George �鶹��Ƶ students have access to the resources, mentorship, and support they need to thrive. Her leadership in coordinating access, inclusion, and well-being initiatives directly supports student retention and success.

Among her many responsibilities, Melchior facilitates outreach and recruitment efforts to ensure that George �鶹��Ƶ remains a welcoming institution for diverse student populations. She also provides one-on-one mentorship to students facing barriers in higher education, ensuring they feel heard, supported, and valued.

“Her efforts create a learning environment where all students feel empowered to succeed—truly embodying the philosophy that at George �鶹��Ƶ, our students come first,” said Brown.

Melchior is also valued by her colleagues university-wide as a partner and collaborator as she supports academic and administrative units. She also provides consultation, resources, and best practices to faculty and staff on fostering inclusive classrooms, workplaces, and research environments.

She provided support on a National Science Foundation grant to prepare recent PhD graduates to be leaders in quantum education and workforce development research, and also serves on the university’s Mental Health and Well-Being Executive Committee, which promotes mental health support for the campus community.

“One of Shekila’s most impactful contributions is her ability to build bridges across departments, disciplines, and communities,” said Sharnnia Artis, vice president for access, compliance, and community.

Melchior cultivates this culture of collaboration by fostering cross-campus partnerships between Academic Affairs, Enrollment Management, University Life, Human Resources, and other key stakeholders.

Melchior plays an integral role in accountability, ensuring university compliance with federal and state nondiscrimination laws and that George �鶹��Ƶ’s policies reflect this commitment. Her data-driven assessments to monitoring and improving the campus climate ensure that institutional efforts are transparent and impactful.

“Through her work, Shekila creates spaces where students, faculty, and staff feel valued, respected, and empowered, reinforcing the belief that our community thrives when we support one another,” said Artis.

How did you come to �鶹��Ƶ:

I came to �鶹��Ƶ in 2019 and joined the Counseling Program as an Assistant Professor. It was a return home for me as a Prince William County graduate.  

Best day on the job:

I have the privilege to merge my clinical experiences with the work I do now in the Office of Access, Compliance and Community. Thus, my best day is when we held a healing space for Junior Patriots Day. We normally hold these spaces for faculty, staff and students so it was a gift to see young people engage in well-being activities such as yoga, mindful coloring and destressing with Kinetic sand and fidget spinners. 

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

My colleagues, it is a privilege to be seen and known. We take good care of each other and it has allowed me to flourish in my work. I am so grateful. 

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

I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I love to craft, listen to audiobooks and play games at Dave and Buster’s.

Topics

Employee of the Month

Human Resources

Office of Access Compliance and Community

Faculty and Staff News

Jeffrey Kenney put himself on display at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

Katarina Benson — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 14:31:43 +0000

Jeffrey Kenney put himself on display at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts Katarina Benson Wed, 01/28/2026 - 09:31

In This Story

Jeffrey Kenney

Jeffrey Kenney is no stranger to showing art in Virginia—he is, after all, an associate curator for �鶹��Ƶ Exhibitions at �鶹��Ƶ. He regularly helps bring together world-class artists and their work in service of the College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) through the six galleries that the �鶹��Ƶ Exhibitions team oversees across Northern Virginia.

Kenney with his work. Photo provided

This time, however, it’s his work in the public eye. As a recipient of a 2025-26 Virginia Museum of Fine Arts fellowship, Kenney’s series of paintings, “Along the Inner Branches,” is on view in the museum’s fine-dining Amuse Restaurant.

“Significant artists over the history of Virginia’s art landscape have won the fellowship,” said Kenney, who joined George �鶹��Ƶ in 2013. “It’s an honor to be grouped in that lineage.”

The VMFA Fellows’ works are featured in many different areas around the commonwealth. Some are in different buildings around the museum complex; others are at Richmond International Airport. Kenney’s location in the restaurant means that he has a great position to capture the notice of high-end art lovers and fine diners.

“I've had a couple people send me notes saying that they saw my work while they were down there unexpectedly,” said Kenney. “They were visiting the museum and having lunch and suddenly like, ‘oh! I know him!’”

Kenney is especially excited about this body of work because it’s a departure from his roots. “I'm sort of an artist that's wandered between mediums,” he said. “I studied sculpture in undergrad and have a master's in photography.”

Seven years ago, however, he was feeling lost in his artistic journey and began playing with linocuts and painted patterns.

“My art has always involved a kind of process where half of the work is me trying to develop ways of working. To me that's the fun—the puzzle-solving of it,” he said. “So if you're looking at my work, you'll see there's a lot of repeated fragments.”

Kenney working on one of his pieces. Photo provided

In the 2022-23 academic year, Kenney won a Robert K. Purks Faculty Enrichment Fund grant from CVPA, a $2,500 prize that helped him develop his current body of work. His art combines painting and printmaking through rhythmic layers that blend a variety of graphic elements, which emerge from the study of diverse sources—historical and contemporary—such as early modern printed books, textiles, cartoons, and scientific diagrams.

“All of this work is new to the public,” said Kenney. “So the fellowship was definitely a boost to my confidence.”

The VMFA fellowship program recognizes some of the commonwealth’s most talented up-and-coming artists. Kenney has, in the past, used the fellowship to help him identify artists to use in �鶹��Ƶ Exhibitions, including Anikó Sáfrán, Sharon Shapiro, and Ricardo Vicente Jose Ruiz.

The fellowship comes with an $8,000 prize, some of which Kenney says he will put back into his studio. But most, he says, he will save for his eight-year-old son’s future.

“When you’re an artist, it can take away from other things that you cherish, especially when you have a full-time job. I see this as a way of paying it forward.”

View more of Jeffrey Kenney’s art here.

Topics

Faculty and Staff News

College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA)

�鶹��Ƶ Exhibitions

Off the Clock

University Libraries announces Samaine Lockwood is 2026 Fenwick Fellow

lclarkg — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 15:44:18 +0000

University Libraries announces Samaine Lockwood is 2026 Fenwick Fellow lclarkg Tue, 01/27/2026 - 10:44

University Libraries has named Samaine Lockwood, associate professor of English, the 2026 Fenwick Fellow.

Lockwood’s research project, Tituba Indian: The History of an American Cultural Figure, will further her work on a monograph of this title. Tituba Indian was the first person accused of practicing witchcraft in the Salem Witch Trials of 1692, and she was an enslaved woman of color.

Samaine Lockwood, associate professor of English and 2026 Fenwick Fellow. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

The Salem witch trials have been a popular subject for literary re-creation since the early 19th century. Lockwood's book will provide the first comprehensive account of this literary history by focusing on the role Tituba Indian has played within this body of literature and examining the cultural work that women of color are called on to perform in relation to theories of democracy, citizenship, and belonging.

Lockwood taught the English Honors seminar The Witches of American Literature in fall 2024, which explored representations of the witch in American culture from the Civil War to the 21st century, particularly in the long shadow of the Salem Witch Trials.

“The witch is a powerful and enduring cultural figure in large part because women continue to struggle with multiple and intersecting forms of structural discrimination, and the culture at large continues to grapple with questions of what is permissible in terms of womanhood and women's freedom,” Lockwood said.

The witch, according to Lockwood, is frequently cast as a figure of rebellion against existing power structures.

The course came about as a result of the research Lockwood was conducting on how Tituba Indian was represented in U.S. culture from 1820 to present.

“Tituba is an important figure through which to think about gender, race, and civic belonging as they coalesce in America,” said Lockwood. “Her presence in cultural representations of Salem witchcraft complicate the often white-dominant narrative about witches in the U.S. and women of color in New England history.”

Lockwood has gone on to develop and teach other courses based on this research, including a graduate-level course designed to introduce graduate students, many of whom are public school teachers, to new approaches for teaching Arthur Miller's play, The Crucible, which continues to form part of the public school curriculum.

Lockwood’s fellowship will include an immersive trip to Salem, Massachusetts, as well as the purchase of key works to enhance the University Libraries’ collections, supporting research and relevant courses for students.

Lockwood will present on the outcomes of this project at a future Fenwick Fellow Lecture.

Learn about University Libraries

Topics

University Libraries

English Department

College of Humanities and Social Sciences

Faculty and Staff News

Fairfax Campus Notice: Parking and Transportation Advisory

lclarkg — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 14:41:30 +0000

Fairfax Campus Notice: Parking and Transportation Advisory lclarkg Thu, 01/15/2026 - 09:41

As the spring 2026 semester starts, George �鶹��Ƶ students, faculty, and staff are reminded that traffic on and around the Fairfax Campus greatly increases during the first few weeks of the semester. We hope that the following campus parking and transportation guide will help minimize potential parking and traffic delays.

During the first few weeks of the semester, we suggest allowing an extra 30 minutes to arrive on campus. Though some parking spaces are more convenient to your destination than others, the Fairfax Campus has more than enough parking spaces to accommodate all vehicles. However, many General parking permit areas fill at peak class times. Lots L and K are usually the last to fill and the best places to look if arriving to campus after 10 a.m. with a general permit.

Permit Parking and Visitor Parking

A valid parking permit (virtual or hangtag) is required to park outside visitor areas. Those without permits should use visitor parking in the garages or in various lots with daily parking options. Virtual parking permits are sold online only at parking.gmu.edu. Permits are sold with daily, weekly, monthly, and semester options.

Permit regulations: “Where can I park?”

Traffic Supervision

At times during the morning, late afternoon, and early evenings, campus police cadets will direct traffic around campus. Please be alert and follow the cadets’ directions.

Share the Road

Please be mindful of sharing the road safely with an increased number of pedestrians and vehicles, including scooters, motorcycles, bikes, cars and trucks. Get more tips on safely sharing the road on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website. Shared mobility e-scooters should be parked in scooter corrals or bike racks. No matter where you go, on or off campus, never leave a scooter on a sidewalk or anywhere where it can be a tripping hazard or mobility issue for others. If you are riding a bike or scooter, be sure to wear a helmet.

Shuttle Service

Check the �鶹��Ƶ Shuttles webpage for spring semester schedules. Early in the semester, allow extra time to catch your shuttle, as buses may be full at peak times.

George �鶹��Ƶ IDs are required. No guest riders are permitted until further notice.
Every bus is outfitted with a bike rack, ADA accommodations, and Wi-Fi.
Shuttle Tracker: Get real-time arrival info for �鶹��Ƶ Shuttles and local public transportation. Download the TransLoc app from Google Play or the App Store.

Sandy Creek–Vienna Metro Shuttle—Runs between Fairfax Campus and Vienna Metro Station with buses every 30 minutes from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday–Friday, increasing to every 20 minutes from 4–11 p.m., and limited service on weekends from 10 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.

Fairfax–Science and Technology Campus Shuttle—Connects Fairfax Campus with the SciTech Campus, operating Monday–Thursday from 6 a.m. to 11:30 p.m., with departures every 30–40 minutes and Fridays with departures every 70 minutes. Weekend service is every two hours between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Gunston Go-Bus—Provides service between various locations including The RAC, Sandy Creek Transit Center, Fairfax Corner, Fair Lakes Shopping center and Fair Oaks Mall, among others.

Fairfax/�鶹��Ƶ Square (Arlington) Shuttle—Operates between Sandy Creek Transit Center and Van Metre/Hazel Hall, with hourly service Monday–Thursday from 7:15 a.m. to 3 p.m. and approximately every 30 minutes from 2:45 p.m. to 11:05 p.m. and limited Friday service; no weekend service.

West Campus Shuttle—Runs between West Campus Parking Lot and Presidents Park, with service every 20 minutes from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday–Friday, and every 40 minutes from 7–8 a.m. and 8–11 p.m. No weekend service; use the On-Demand Shuttle instead.

On-Demand Shuttles (weekends only)—Offers shared-ride service with designated pick-up and drop-off points focused around the Fairfax Campus; does not serve �鶹��Ƶ Square or the SciTech Campus.

Fairfax City CUE Bus—Students and employees can ride any of the four Fairfax City CUE routes to and from the Rappahannock River Lane stop. The CUE bus travels throughout Fairfax City and to the Vienna Metro station for free.

If you have any questions, reach out to shuttle@gmu.edu or via phone at 703-993-2828. Follow @�鶹��ƵShuttles on X.

Virtual Permits

Your license plate will serve as your parking permit. It is important that your vehicle is associated with your permit, not just your parking account. Read step-by-step instructions on how to assign your license plate to your permit here.

To remove vehicles that you no longer use, own, or possess, complete the Vehicle Deactivation Request form to remove the vehicles from your parking portal.

Short-Term Parking

Students, faculty, and staff who do not park on campus regularly may want to consider daily, weekly, and monthly options:

Fairfax Campus

Parking garage visitor parking: hourly starting at $5 to a maximum of $19 for the day
Lots L/K: $11.50/day
Lot P (Field House): $8.50/day
West Campus Lot/Rapidan River Road: $5.50/day
General Lot Evening (valid after 4 p.m.): $8.50/day
Lots L/K Weekly: $35
Lots L/K Monthly: $85

�鶹��Ƶ Square

Parking garage visitor parking: hourly starting at $5 to a maximum of $19 for the day

SciTech Campus

Surface lots: hourly starting at $3.50 to a maximum of $8.50 for the day

Daily permits are available online at parking.gmu.edu. You can purchase them in advance on the parking portal or via ParkMobile when you arrive. Pay stations are available in the visitor areas of parking garages and decks and in Lot O only. They accept �鶹��Ƶ Money, MasterCard, Visa, and American Express.

Science and Technology (SciTech) Campus Parking

Fairfax–SciTech General, Lot I, Lot J, Lot R, and reserved parking deck permits are valid in the Occoquan, King, Cannon, Discovery, Hylton, and Tower parking lots at the SciTech Campus.
- Please follow signage in these lots, as parking spaces may be designated for various uses or permits.
The Shops parking lot in front of Beacon Hall has faculty/staff, event permit, and 30-minute parking on the northwest side. The southeast side of the lot (facing the building) is for retail parking only.

At the SciTech Campus, daily parking permits are available online for $8.50/day, or via ParkMobile at $3.50 for the first hour to a maximum of $8.50 for the day.

�鶹��Ƶ Square Parking (Arlington)

You must work or be attending class at �鶹��Ƶ Square to be eligible to purchase a �鶹��Ƶ Square parking permit. The Van Metre and Vernon Smith garages use one’s license plate registration via the Metropolis system for garage access. Hourly visitor parking is available in all three garages. For more information, go to the �鶹��Ƶ Square parking webpage.

Fairfax–SciTech Campus permits are not valid at �鶹��Ƶ Square without authorization from Parking Services. To request access, please submit this form: �鶹��Ƶ Square Supplemental Permit/Access Request Form
In the Vernon Smith Garage, �鶹��Ƶ Square general permit faculty/staff and student parking is available on all levels in non-designated spaces.
- Please pay careful attention to signage, as some spaces are designated for non-George �鶹��Ƶ tenant use only.
No George �鶹��Ƶ permit parking is allowed in Fuse garage without prior approval from Parking Services.

Alternative Transportation Options

Bicycling
As a recognized bicycle-friendly university, George �鶹��Ƶ has more than 1,400 bicycle parking spaces around the Fairfax Campus, as well as plenty of bike racks at the regional campuses. Go to bike.gmu.edu for more information.

Covered bike parking is available under shelters around campus and on Levels 1 and 2 of Rappahannock River Deck.
George �鶹��Ƶ’s bicycle registration program offers registrants free bike locks and bike lights.
The Patriot Bikes check-out program is available at The RAC and the Aquatic and Fitness Center.
Three Capital Bikeshare stations are located on the Fairfax Campus. Discounted student memberships are available.

There is a dismount zone on walkways in the center of the Fairfax Campus between the East Building and Enterprise Hall. Golf carts are not permitted in the dismount zone, and those using bikes, scooters, skateboards, or skates must dismount and walk. This is for everyone’s safety.

Carpooling Options
Students and employees may qualify for a 20–40% rebate on their reserved parking permits by carpooling. Go to the carpool/vanpool page for more information.

The Carpool Zones provide designated locations for share riders to drop off between 7 a.m. and 11 a.m., Monday–Friday. To park in a carpool zone, you must have at least two people in the car, including the driver, and a general student or faculty/staff parking permit.

Lot A Carpool Zone: Accessed from Mattaponi River Lane
Rappahannock River Deck Carpool Zone: Located on the first level of the Rappahannock River Deck General permit area

�鶹��ƵCommutes
Find carpool partners or a bike or transit buddy within the George �鶹��Ƶ community. Propose a trip or request rides on �鶹��ƵCommutes, the go-to place for George �鶹��Ƶ ridesharing.

Sign up with your George �鶹��Ƶ Net ID and password on �鶹��ƵCommutes.
Carpooling can be a great way to save money and to reduce George �鶹��Ƶ’s carbon footprint.

Electric Scooter Parking
Electric personal scooters and shared mobility scooters do not require a permit. They must be parked at a designated scooter corral parking area located around campus or at or adjacent to a bike rack. Get more information.

Please remember that electric bikes, scooters, and other electric personal transportation devices cannot be brought indoors at George �鶹��Ƶ.

Zipcar
Zipcars are located on the first level of the Rappahannock Deck and in Lot R, and they are available for rental by the hour. Get more information and sign up for George �鶹��Ƶ discounts for Zipcar.

Questions? Contact Parking and Transportation:

Website: Transportation website | Office Hours and Locations

Email
Parking: transpo@gmu.edu or parking@gmu.edu
Shuttle: shuttle@gmu.edu

Follow �鶹��Ƶ Parking and Transportation on Facebook, X (@�鶹��ƵParking and @�鶹��ƵShuttles), and Instagram.

Topics

Fairfax Campus Notice

Campus Notice

Faculty and Staff News

Parking and Traffic Advisory

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

Human Resources

Employee of the Month

Faculty and Staff News

George �鶹��Ƶ coaching leaders hold first professional conference

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

George �鶹��Ƶ 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 �鶹��Ƶ’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.

George �鶹��Ƶ's Student Success Coaching team hosted its first professional conference, helping to facilitate professional development for a growing field in higher education. Photo provided

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 �鶹��Ƶ 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 �鶹��Ƶ 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.”

Student Success Coaching at George �鶹��Ƶ

Student consulting group brings expertise to business development in Fairfax City
February 6, 2026
George �鶹��Ƶ women’s basketball team named USBWA Team of the Week
February 3, 2026
�鶹��Ƶ named lead academic partner for Connected DMV’s spaceNEXT
February 2, 2026
CVPA Announces Recipients of the 2026 Young Alumni Commissioning Project Awards
February 2, 2026
Shekila Melchior is February Employee of the Month
February 1, 2026

Topics

Campus News

University Life

Faculty and Staff News

Student Success Coaching

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 �鶹��Ƶ, 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 �鶹��Ƶ.”

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.

Topics

Campus News

Office of the Provost

Faculty and Staff News

Costello College of Business

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

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

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

Susan Kehoe has worked at �鶹��Ƶ 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 �鶹��Ƶ 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 �鶹��Ƶ’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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Off the Clock

Faculty and Staff News

GMU-TV

Office of University Branding

Volunteerism

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

Human Resources

Employee of the Month

Schar School of Policy and Government

Faculty and Staff News

University Day Service Awards honor the service milestones of George �鶹��Ƶ employees

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

University Day Service Awards honor the service milestones of George �鶹��Ƶ employees lclarkg Thu, 11/20/2025 - 13:12

�鶹��Ƶ 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 Campus 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 �鶹��Ƶ 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 �鶹��Ƶ 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 �鶹��Ƶ 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 �鶹��Ƶ

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Faculty and Staff News

Human Resources

University Day

Faculty and Staff News

Shekila Melchior is February Employee of the Month

How did you come to �鶹��Ƶ:

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Julie Hudson is December Employee of the Month

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