University Life

Confidence meets opportunity at Fall 2025 Career Fair

Katarina Benson — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 20:56:29 +0000

Confidence meets opportunity at Fall 2025 Career Fair Katarina Benson Thu, 10/23/2025 - 16:56

Over the three days of this fall’s Career Fair, more than 5,000 �鶹��Ƶ students filled Dewberry Hall in sharp professional attire and with polished résumés in hand—ready to take the next step toward their careers.

George �鶹��Ƶ’s Career Fair, held each fall and spring semester, is the university’s largest on-campus recruiting event, connecting students with representatives from more than 100 companies and organizations. The event offers students opportunities to explore internships, part-time roles, and full-time positions across a range of industries.

Wilkerson and fellow staff members at the career fair. Photo by Emily Campos/University Life

“These are opportunities to get right in front of the employers,” said Phillip Wilkerson, employer engagement consultant at University Career Services (UCS). “I like to tell students this is not a place where you can automatically get a job or a magic ticket; it’s a great way to build relationships, get business cards, and stay in touch.”

While the fair is about connections, success begins long before students step into Dewberry Hall. University Career Services offers one-on-one advising to help students refine résumés, craft cover letters, and practice introductions before the career fair.

“Confidence comes with preparation,” Wilkerson said. “The more prepared you are, the more confident you are.”

A students converses with an employer. Photo by Emily Campos/University Life

Mary Claire Kraft, employer outreach manager for University Career Services, recommended that students research before the fair to be even more prepared. “Number one, check Handshake, George �鶹��Ƶ’s job search web site,” she said. “When students meet an employer they’re interested in, they can then share one thing they already know about them.”

Each day of the fair is focused on a different area or industry. Day one was focused on science, technology, engineering and health; day two was a general day for all companies; and day three was mainly attended by business, government, education and nonprofit organizations.

Iman Chaudhry, a sophomore majoring in management information systems, approached the fair with an open mindset, something she credits with helping her make the most of the fair. “I think it’s important not to limit yourself, even if you have a specific major,” she said. “There are benefits to attending all days of the Career Fair.”

First-year student Lilliana Russell attended her first fair this fall eager to learn. The civil and infrastructure engineering major arrived early with a list of employers to meet and a curiosity about what her field has to offer. “I’m really just trying to scope out what the different companies in my field are and maybe score an internship,” she said.

Students meet with potential employers. Photo by Emily Campos/University Life

Russell added that her nerves faded once she began speaking with recruiters. “Once I got to know everyone and saw how excited they were to talk with students, I let go of any preconceived notions I had about the event,” she said.

University Career Services hosts a wide variety of career fairs throughout the year. Students can keep the momentum going a Clearance Ready event on October 28 at noon. Engineering Careers Week kicks off November 10. Learn more about these and other career opportunities.

Learn more about internships at George �鶹��Ƶ

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Fulbright awards expand George �鶹��Ƶ faculty and staff perspectives

Katarina Benson — Mon, 04 Aug 2025 14:50:52 +0000

Fulbright awards expand George �鶹��Ƶ faculty and staff perspectives Katarina Benson Mon, 08/04/2025 - 10:50

Each year, academic professionals teach and conduct research abroad through the highly competitive Fulbright Scholar Program. �鶹��Ƶ has a rich history of sending and hosting faculty and staff through the program, which is funded by the U.S. Department of State. This year, Frank Krueger of the College of Science, Nathalia Peixoto of the College of Engineering and Computing, and Yali Pan of the Office of International Programs and Services, received Fulbright awards.

Krueger is working with Tamagawa University.

Krueger, who is a professor of systems social neuroscience, received a Fulbright Scholars award to conduct social neuroscience research in Japan. Based at Tamagawa University in Tokyo, he will also be working on a project about cross-cultural relations to explore people’s perception of trust between the United States and Japan using epigenetic research.

“The interdisciplinary and cross-cultural nature of this Fulbright experience perfectly complements my research philosophy and will significantly advance my work,” said Krueger, who has previously collaborated with Tamagawa University.

“The George �鶹��Ƶ students participating in this research effort will develop a neurologically-based understanding of how individuals across cultures reflect the trust they do or don’t feel,” Krueger further explained.

Peixoto collaborated with Ugandan entrepreneurs. Photo provided

For Peixoto, spending a month in Uganda fulfilled a lifelong dream to go to Africa and has been incredibly rewarding. “I had never been to this continent, despite feeling like I belong here,” she said. “I am originally Brazilian, and I have always heard that Brazil has the largest population of people of African ancestry who live outside of Africa. Many Brazilians consider Africans our cousins, but I don’t know any Brazilians who have ever visited Africa. Now it is clear to me that I really needed to come.”

During her time in Africa, Peixoto, who holds a joint appointment in neuroscience with George �鶹��Ƶ’s College of Science, has also connected with the Ugandan business community, consulting on critical health and community projects.

Pan in a Korean hanbok during the program. Photo provided

In Pan’s role as assistant director of engagement and assessment in the Office of International Programs and Services, she provides programs and initiatives to help international students adjust and feel connected to the �鶹��Ƶ community. Pan was awarded an International Educator's Award to attend a two-week higher education administration seminar in South Korea.

“I saw this as a valuable opportunity to learn more about South Korea—a country that consistently ranks among the top five senders of international students to George �鶹��Ƶ,” said Pan. “I also have a deep appreciation for Korean culture and cuisine, and I was eager to experience it firsthand.”

Pan said she was grateful for the opportunity to participate in the Fulbright International Education Administrator program and believes it was valuable to her work at George �鶹��Ƶ. “Opportunities like this—designed specifically for higher education administrators to gain a systematic understanding of international education—are rare, and this experience was truly transformative.”

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Meet the �鶹��Ƶ Nation: TJ Pegg

Lauren Reuscher — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 15:08:43 +0000

Meet the �鶹��Ƶ Nation: TJ Pegg Lauren Reuscher Tue, 07/08/2025 - 11:08

TJ Pegg

Job: Associate Director for Student Success Coaching

TJ Pegg, Student Success Coaching. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

Starting college can be an exciting and sometimes overwhelming experience. Life at a university presents new opportunities, challenges, and ways for students to find personal pathways to success. At �鶹��Ƶ, the Student Success Coaching team helps students navigate the transition to college and make the most of their student experience.

TJ Pegg has been part of the Student Success Coaching team for five years. In May 2025, he became the associate director for the unit, working directly with the coaches who serve the general student population. In his prior role at George �鶹��Ƶ, Pegg provided oversight for marketing, communications, and staff training for the department.

Coaching the coaches: An interest in supporting the holistic student experience drew Pegg to student success coaching. Pegg leads and supports the group of success coaches who meet directly with students throughout their university experience. His responsibilities draw upon his previous work at other institutions, which focused on housing and residence life, as well as advising student organizations.

“The work of success coaching translated nicely for me,” said Pegg. “We help students create a sense of belonging and to see how various campus resources can support their success in navigating college and life.”

Goal-oriented: All incoming freshmen and transfer students are assigned a success coach, and all students are eligible to make an appointment with a coach at any point in their academic journeys. Students often reach out for coaching appointments if they are struggling with time management or trying to fostering their sense of belonging on campus, according to Pegg.

Some students naturally seek out success coaching, while others are referred to the office by other campus resources. Since fall 2020, Student Success Coaching has hosted more than 20,000 appointments.

“Student Success Coaching is here to help students make the most of their George �鶹��Ƶ experience inside and outside of the classroom,” said Pegg. “We actively work with students to understand their own definitions of success, create goals, implement action plans, and connect with university resources to best support them.”

TJ Pegg leads and supports the group of success coaches who meet directly with students throughout their university experience. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

Setting personal priorities: Appointments with success coaches can cover a range of discussion topics from academic to personal matters—anything a student brings forward that affects their needs and well-being as a student.

“One student I coached for about a year was highly engaged on campus and worked on campus, but was struggling with time management and their own well-being,” Pegg said. After Pegg helped the student reflect on their goals, the student said that the coaching experience truly helped them navigate campus life.

“This student shared that some of the questions I asked helped them evaluate how to prioritize which things they needed to continue, as well as activities or experiences that they have grown out of and are no longer serving the right purpose,” Pegg said.

Group effort: Students may meet with a Success Coach in addition to the academic advisor in their degree program. Student success depends on an entire network of faculty and staff across the university, and success coaches themselves can gain insights and skills by working with other specialists across campuses.

First impressions: To connect with students and campus partners, Student Success Coaching hosts a “Kickoff to Success Resources Fair” during Welcome2�鶹��Ƶ at the start of the fall semester. More than 20 university offices host tables during the event. Students can have an initial conversation with their coaches and speak with representatives from other units on campus. Campus partners can also take the opportunity to collaborate with success coaches on the best ways to support students.

“Students were energized and engaged with campus resources, and our team was activated and connecting with students,” said Pegg. “The event lets students know that they are not alone and have a lot of support behind them.”

Off the bench: Coaching is not just a resource when times are hard—but something Pegg encourages students to access throughout their academic journey.

“One of the biggest challenges is finding the best ways to connect with all students to help them understand the benefits of success coaching,” said Pegg. “We want students and staff to know that we’re here even when things are going well—not just when students need help.”

Can-do spirit: Outside work, Pegg enjoys spending time with his family and friends, traveling, and trying iced coffee at new coffee shops. A team player on and off campus, he also plays kickball and dodgeball in recreational sports leagues in Washington, D.C.

“This summer, I am pushing myself outside my comfort zone and playing volleyball,” Pegg said. Great coaches know that trying something new can open up a whole new set of possibilities.

Learn more about Student Success Coaching

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George �鶹��Ƶ is fighting food insecurity, one Empty Bowl at a time

Sarah Holland — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 16:37:51 +0000

George �鶹��Ƶ is fighting food insecurity, one Empty Bowl at a time Sarah Holland Mon, 04/07/2025 - 12:37

If you’re taking a bowl home from a party, most people leave with leftovers in hand. But at �鶹��Ƶ’s annual Empty Bowls event, the guests leave with just that: a handmade, and very empty, ceramic bowl.

Bowl selection at the inaugural �鶹��Ƶ empty Bowls in 2024. Photo provided

Empty Bowls is a global grassroots movement to support food-related charities and educate people on issues of poverty and hunger in their local communities. At Empty Bowls events, guests give a donation in exchange for a handmade ceramic bowl and a simple soup meal, leaving the event with an empty bowl as a reminder of how many people go without food in the local community.

The idea of Empty Bowls at George �鶹��Ƶ started in the least surprising of places: a pottery studio.

Maggie Daniels, professor of tourism and events management in the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD), and Lauren Long, executive director of Student Involvement, share a love for pottery. Both of them are long-time potters at Manassas Clay. Together, Daniels and Long decided to bring Empty Bowls to George �鶹��Ƶ, in support of the Food and Housing Insecurity Fund through the Student Support and Advocacy Center (SSAC).

In order for students to succeed, their basic needs must be met, including stable housing, physical safety, and access to food. The SSAC was started to help connect students with resources as they face life challenges, including ensuring their basic needs are fulfilled. The Food and Housing Insecurity Fund, a donor-generated fund, supports this work.

“�鶹��Ƶ one-third of all college students have experienced some type of food insecurity in the past year,” explained Margaret Olszewska, director of the SSAC. “Food insecurity covers a wide spectrum of situations in which a person lacks consistent access to nutritionally adequate and safe food. It ranges from not eating healthy food due to lack of resources, to missing entire meals.”

The fund supports students at all levels of food insecurity through various programs and resources. In 2024 in collaboration with Sodexo, SSAC distributed 2,400 meal swipes for George �鶹��Ƶ on-campus dining halls and had 818 unique users of the Patriot Pantry. Starting in fall semester, a new partnership with Capital Area Food Bank offered students a digital purchasing card so they could buy perishable foods at their local grocery stores. The fund also contributes to helping students find temporary housing on campus in the event of a sudden loss of shelter or safe living situation.

Long and Daniels were determined to make a no-cost event so 100% of the proceeds from ticket sales and the silent auction could go to the fund. Hosted in the Center for the Arts, guests enjoy a soup meal and dessert, music by Green and Gold Soul, and a silent auction with items from local vendors. Everything is donated, so every cent can go directly to the fund.

"The Center for the Arts and Student Involvement are great partners throughout the year, and this is one of our favorite collaborations,” said Julie Thompson, executive director for the Center for the Arts.

�鶹��Ƶ Dining contractor Sodexo, the caterer for the event, created a soup menu to reflect warmth, comfort, and inclusivity with locally sourced ingredients and a range of options for different dietary concerns. “Empty Bowls aligns perfectly with Sodexo’s mission to fight food insecurity and support sustainable food initiatives,” said Jenita Thurston, district manager for Sodexo.

Perhaps the most exciting part of the evening is the bowl selection. Each guest gets to take home a handmade ceramic bowl, crafted and donated by potters at Manassas Clay and other studios around Northern Virginia. From small teacups to large serving dishes in a rainbow of different glazes and finishes, there’s a bowl for everyone, and all of them are microwave, dishwasher, and oven safe.

“What’s really special about Empty Bowls is that this grassroots event was born out of the care and concern of our own George �鶹��Ƶ community members,” said Olszewska. “It’s one of many examples of how our faculty and staff care about the students we serve beyond just our jobs.”

“For a CEHD faculty member and a University Life director to come together, to be innovative and creative in order to meet the needs of our students, is really at the core of what makes George �鶹��Ƶ such an incredible place,” said Long.

Daniels agreed. “It showcases the best of who we are at George �鶹��Ƶ.”

Get tickets to the 2025 George �鶹��Ƶ Empty Bowls event.

�鶹��Ƶ Empty Bowls 2025

Learn more about the Student Support and Advocacy Center

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College of Education and Human Development

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�鶹��Ƶ Empty Bowls

Center for the Arts

Student Support and Advocacy Center (SSAC)

Patriot Pantry

Capital Area Food Bank

Sodexo

George �鶹��Ƶ has a “Knack” for tutoring

Sarah Holland — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 15:04:43 +0000

George �鶹��Ƶ has a “Knack” for tutoring Sarah Holland Wed, 02/26/2025 - 10:04

College courses are designed to challenge students and push them to new academic heights. And when dealing with difficult subjects and new materials, additional academic support can make all the difference.

Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

That’s where Knack comes in. Starting in fall 2024, �鶹��Ƶ entered a three-year partnership with Knack, a peer-to-peer tutoring platform. Through Knack, students in any of the 28 participating courses can get up to three hours of free virtual or in-person tutoring from their peers every week during the semester. Participating courses span math, statistics, biology, chemistry, business, economics, and public health.

“We are transforming the support for student success at George �鶹��Ƶ by fostering a collaborative learning environment that empowers students to excel academically,” said Vicki Dominick, associate director of George �鶹��Ƶ’s Learning Services office, which offers a variety of academic success supports for students, including academic success workshops, online resources and coaching.

Knack does not replace other tutoring services offered by George �鶹��Ƶ, Dominick noted. It is an additional resource, allowing more options for meeting times and places. Currently, close to 3,000 students are registered with Knack tutoring, and almost 1,500 tutoring sessions were completed in fall semester.

“This free support is directly in line with George �鶹��Ƶ’s mission of access to education,” said Keith Renshaw, senior associate provost for undergraduate education and professor of psychology.

“For my chemistry class, there’s always many students attending office hours, so I don’t get the one-on-one help I need,” said sophomore biology major Khushneet Kaur Kainth. “I’ve been able to get personalized support through Knack.”

There are benefits for the tutors as well. Tutoring through Knack is a paid position, and tutors are required to have passed the class for which they are a tutor with an A- or higher.

“It gives the tutors ‘high impact practice,’ as they gain hands-on experience teaching complex concepts and problem-solving strategies,” explained Renshaw.

Senior biology major Anahita Salehkhou is a tutor for BIOL 213 - Cell Structure and Function, and said of her tutoring experience, “it has given me the perfect opportunity to share my passion for teaching while strengthening my resume as I prepare to apply for dental school. It’s also helping me prepare for the dental admissions test as I get a good refresher on content I’ve already learned and studied.”

Learn more about Knack tutoring

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Keith Renshaw, PhD

Meet the �鶹��Ƶ Nation: Nandini Koka

Lauren Reuscher — Wed, 20 Nov 2024 17:37:27 +0000

Meet the �鶹��Ƶ Nation: Nandini Koka Lauren Reuscher Wed, 11/20/2024 - 12:37

Nandini Koka, MD

Job: Executive Director, Student Health Services

Dr. Nandini Koka, executive director of Student Health Services at �鶹��Ƶ. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

Nandini Koka joined �鶹��Ƶ in April 2023 as executive director of Student Health Services, where she leads a staff of nearly 50 that includes doctors, nurse practitioners, counselors, and nurses. As a medical doctor with training in family medicine and urgent care, she is passionate about helping patients get better quickly and enhancing access to care.

At the largest and fastest-growing public research university in Virginia, Koka has found a place where the need for that care continues to grow.

The doctor is in: In her role, Koka provides direction and leadership for Student Health Services to ensure students receive quality clinical care. She also serves as a medical advisor and resource to campus leaders on health-related matters. In a post-pandemic world, where many aspects of health care remain an urgent community need, her input is essential across George �鶹��Ƶ’s campuses.

Helping the student body: Koka knows that learning is not confined to the classroom, and some of the biggest lessons can address a fundamental part of students’ lives: their health.

“I am excited to work at George �鶹��Ƶ because of the opportunity to care for a diverse student population,” said Koka. “I want to help guide students as they become advocates for their own health and create goals to maintain a healthy lifestyle.”

Appointments on the books: Last year, Student Health Services had 16,500 student interactions—this includes in-person and telehealth visits, lab work, and nurse triage interactions across the Fairfax, �鶹��Ƶ Square, and Science and Technology campuses.

Koka knows this number could go even higher. One of her primary goals is to increase awareness of the health services available to students.

“One of the biggest challenges we face is creating awareness around Student Health Services and the fact that we are a full-service medical clinic,” said Koka.

Addressing the body and mind: “We continue to see the need for mental health care as a challenge in the community,” said Koka. “Student Health Services has a unique approach to behavioral health, as we utilize a collaborative care model.”

Dr. Koka leads a staff of nearly 50 that includes doctors, nurse practitioners, counselors, and nurses. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

In this model, medical providers partner with behavioral health counselors to co-manage the care of students. Koka says that this team approach has given students more touchpoints with clinicians and provides a more holistic care model.

Additionally, all patients who visit Student Health Services are given a mental health screening at their first visit, and once a year thereafter. Primary care providers are a key point to identify concerns related to mental health.

Finding ways to make it cost-free: Sexual and reproductive care is another critical area of need at Student Health Services. “We have partnered with a community organization to provide free sexually transmitted infection (STI) services to students throughout the semester,” said Koka. “We continue to look for ways to expand access to services for our students.”

Fostering a supportive community: A dynamic campus community is what brought Koka to higher education. “I have been able to interact with our students and see their excitement about being here at George �鶹��Ƶ and wanting to be a part of this community,” said Koka.

Rest as part of health: Outside of work, Koka enjoys spending time with her family. “Our two daughters keep us busy with soccer and dance, and we have fun going to the games and watching the performances,” said Koka. To relax, she might go for a run, play with her dog, or try out new recipes.

More about Student Health Services

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Panelists Dive Into Details During a ‘Presidential Election Debrief’ at �鶹��Ƶ Square

Andrew J Schappert — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 20:24:03 +0000

Panelists Dive Into Details During a ‘Presidential Election Debrief’ at �鶹��Ƶ Square Andrew J Schappert Tue, 11/12/2024 - 15:24

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University Life Arlington Director Melissa Thierry introduces the panel: From left, David Ramadan, Jennifer N. Victor, Terry McAuliffe, and Mark J. Rozell. Photos by Buzz McClain/Schar School of Policy and Government

Nearly 120 audience members—more than 30 of them students from the Schar School of Policy and Government’s undergraduate Democracy Lab Learning Community—filled the seats and dined on pizza at �鶹��Ƶ’s �鶹��Ƶ Square Monday evening to hear a panel of Schar School political pundits break down the results of the November 5 elections.

Distinguished Visiting Professor Terry McAuliffe: ‘Twelve of the last 14 [presidential] elections have been change elections.’

The Pizza & Perspectives: 2024 Presidential Election Debrief did not disappoint in providing the promised insights as to how and why national and regional elections transpired the way they did. The 90-minute event can be seen at the Schar School’s YouTube channel.

Schar School dean Mark J. Rozell, the moderator for the discussion, kicked off the event by asking Schar School associate professor Jennifer N. Victor what was different about this election cycle that set it apart from others and could it have lasting impact.

After explaining about political realignments and shifting of consensuses, “this was an anti-incumbent sentiment wave election and that explains how we got here,” Victor said.

Distinguished Visiting Professor and former governor of Virginia Terry McAuliffe added that “Twelve of the last 14 [presidential] elections have been change elections. People want to change the person who is in power. Forty percent of the people who voted said their number one issue was the economy and Donald Trump won that by 21 points.

“Twenty percent of those who voted said immigration was the number one issue, and Trump won that by 71 percent…Going into this election was going to be a hard thing for Vice President Harris: 70 percent of Americans thought the country is headed in the wrong direction. Kamala Harris was the partner of Joe Biden. She had a very tough hand to deal with.”

David Ramadan, foreground, and the panelists listen to a question from the audience.

Before taking questions from the audience, Rozell reminded the panel that politics never takes a year off in Virginia and that in 2025 the state will elect a new governor.

“The Democrats will have the advantage next year to win the governor’s mansion in Virginia,” said professor of practice and former state delegate David Ramadan, pointing out that traditionally—with the exception of McAuliffe, who broke the convention—the new governor is aligned with the sitting president’s opposing party.

“But it’s not just that,” he added. “They have the advantage on the ground. They have already chosen their nominee in current Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger. The Republicans haven’t made up their mind…Of course, the crazier things that come out of Washington will make it more and more appealing for Democrats to win the gubernatorial election next year.”

Among the lines that received audience applause, McAuliffe announced that during the event he had just received a text message announcing his daughter-in-law—finally, after 10 hours of labor—had given birth to his first grandchild, a boy. (See the announcement at the 32-minute mark on YouTube.)

Also receiving applause was Virginia Delegate Vivian Watts (D-39), the longest-serving woman in the House (she took office in 1996) and current chairman of the finance committee. Watts said she attended to hear the questions from the audience, including those from students, as the questions would reveal additional insights to how the commonwealth’s electorate is responding to the election.

The event was sponsored by George �鶹��Ƶ’s University Life and hosted by University Life �鶹��Ƶ Square. See this page for information about future �鶹��Ƶ Square events in Arlington, Virginia.

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Running, walking, and thriving together

Lauren Reuscher — Thu, 24 Oct 2024 15:35:17 +0000

Running, walking, and thriving together Lauren Reuscher Thu, 10/24/2024 - 11:35

The annual �鶹��Ƶ Nation Thriving Together 5K and 1-mile run/walk took place on �鶹��Ƶ’s Fairfax Campus on Saturday, Oct. 19. This year, more than 400 people registered for the event.

The race was open to students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members. Proceeds from the event will benefit student mental health and well-being programs.

Photo by Eduardo Macedo/Office of University Branding

The first Thriving Together 5K was hosted in 2020 as a “virtual” race during the pandemic. For the past few years, the event has been hosted on campus with the option to participate from anywhere.

�鶹��Ƶ President Gregory Washington helped kick off the race. Photo by Eduardo Macedo/Office of University Branding

The proceeds from this year’s race will benefit the following programs for students:

New and improved MindSpa spaces where students can relax, practice self-care, and improve their overall wellbeing.
Installing soundproof pods that students can use for telehealth appointments in locations where more private, quiet space is needed.
Providing funding to offset the costs of psychological testing for students who are seeking accommodations.
Scholarships for students who serve in the Peer Empowerment Program, a volunteer opportunity for students to help promote mental health awareness at George �鶹��Ƶ.

Photo by Eduardo Macedo/Office of University Branding

The Thriving Together 5K planning committee included faculty and staff from across the university, including University Life, �鶹��Ƶ Recreation, the College of Education and Human Development, Parking and Transportation, and �鶹��Ƶ Police.

Learn more about mental health and well-being resources at George �鶹��Ƶ.

Photo by Eduardo Macedo/Office of University Branding

Learn more about mental health and well-being resources

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9/11 Day of Service was a day of reflection and community service—for all ages

Lauren Reuscher — Thu, 19 Sep 2024 14:12:01 +0000

9/11 Day of Service was a day of reflection and community service—for all ages Lauren Reuscher Thu, 09/19/2024 - 10:12

�鶹��Ƶ students, faculty, staff, and alumni gathered on Wednesday, Sept. 11, for the 12^th annual �鶹��Ƶ Nation 9/11 Day of Service. Since its inception, the day of service has been an opportunity to reflect on the value of individual contributions toward social change and the ways in which individuals can support their community through service projects.

The �鶹��Ƶ Nation 9/11 Day of Service took place across locations on the Fairfax Campus, with an opening ceremony and luncheon in the Johnson Center. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Over 200 George �鶹��Ƶ students, faculty, staff, and alumni joined the day’s activities. Service activities occurred across campus, a service fair provided a chance to learn about year-round volunteer opportunities, and a luncheon honored first responders, active members of the military, veterans, and volunteers.

The event was hosted by University Life, and the planning team included campus partners from departments and offices around the university.

George �鶹��Ƶ ROTC's Patriot Battalion Color Guard at the 9/11 Day of Service ceremony. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Service activities included a clothing, diaper, and wipe drive for Women Giving Back; a book drive to benefit the City of Fairfax Regional Library; assembling blankets and chew toys for the Prince William Animal Shelter; creating cards and flower pots for a local assisted living community, working in the campus Greenhouse and Gardens, and more. In partnership with Van Metre Companies, volunteers put together almost 300 snack bags to support children at Pattie Elementary School in Prince William County.

Volunteers work in the Innovation Food Forest for the 9/11 Day of Service. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

Fourth and fifth grade students from Pattie Elementary also participated in the event. Members of the school’s P.O.P. Club (Paws of Positivity), a before and after school service club, visited George �鶹��Ƶ for the day. Thanks to a grant from the Harvey S. Lowe, Jr. and Susan Hitchcock-Lowe Foundation, the university provided transportation, lunch, and project supplies for the students.

Students from Pattie Elementary School shared remarks on stage. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

During the opening ceremony and luncheon, students from Pattie Elementary took the stage to share what 9/11 means to them—children who, like many of today’s college students, were not born before September 11, 2001.

Students from the Pattie Elementary School P.O.P. Club joined the service activities. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

“In the P.O.P. club, we give back to our community through acts of service. Service is a way to show kindness and make our communities better. Whether it’s helping a friend, cleaning up trash, or doing something nice for someone, every little act of service counts. When we serve others, we spread positivity and help make the world a better place. So today, let’s think about how we can help out and make a positive change, just like so many people did on that day. Together, we can make a big difference.” –Trey, Pattie Elementary School student

Watch a video from Prince William County Public Schools to learn more about the P.O.P. Club and their visit to George �鶹��Ƶ.

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�鶹��Ƶ ROTC

Community Service

Off the Clock: Volunteering at a community farm, Carissa O’Neill is a good seed

Lauren Reuscher — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 16:11:10 +0000

Off the Clock: Volunteering at a community farm, Carissa O’Neill is a good seed Lauren Reuscher Wed, 07/17/2024 - 12:11

Carissa O’Neill started her job at �鶹��Ƶ as an office assistant in University Life one year ago. In this role, she manages schedules, plans events, and more. Outside the office, O’Neill volunteers to do a different variety of tasks: planting seedlings, sinking stakes, laying out irrigation hose, harvesting crops, and weeding greenhouses.

O’Neill volunteers at The JK Community Farm in Purcellville, Virginia—a 150-acre working farm that donates 100% of its produce to local food pantries. The farm is managed by three staff members, and most of the farm work is done by volunteers. Produce is donated for distribution to community members facing food insecurity.

Carissa O'Neill (with husband Justin O'Neill) volunteers at JK Community Farm in Purcellville, Virginia. Photo provided

How did you first get started with this volunteer activity? How long have you been doing it?

I had never worked on a farm before! But I like to work with my hands, have a great desire to learn about growing and harvesting food, and there are a good number of small farms around this part of Virginia. I found JK Community Farm when I was looking for farming jobs one day. I didn’t find a job that made sense for me, but volunteering has been a great alternative. I’ve been doing it since 2021. It's a great way to get outside, and what a boost to know that you're helping someone get access to fresh fruit and vegetables.

What's a typical day look like when you volunteer at the farm? How many different crops have you harvested?

I spend a few hours a month there, usually on a Saturday or Sunday. When you get there, you gather with the other volunteers and wait for one of the staff members to assign you a task. They take time to show you how to do it, and off you go! I've helped harvest produce like potatoes, asparagus, and sunflowers, and I've planted crops like onion and bell peppers.

O'Neill did not have any prior experience working on a farm, but she wanted to learn about growing and harvesting food. Photo provided

What has been the most memorable experience you’ve had in this volunteer work?

Harvesting asparagus for the food banks—I never knew how it grew, or that it can regrow itself from the stalk you cut.

What lessons have you learned?

I’ve learned the importance of addressing the lack of fresh produce available for those who need food assistance. Of course, food banks have shelf-stable items, but what a blessing to also have fresh fruit and veggies to offer.

What else do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I also love to sew, cross stitch, watch television, and do escape rooms.

Did you know? George �鶹��Ƶ’s Greenhouse and Gardens Program offers volunteer opportunities for students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members. The program partners with the Patriot Pantry to help address food insecurity within the George �鶹��Ƶ student population. Volunteers grow food sustainably, harvest and distribute produce, and more. Visit the University Sustainability website for more information.

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Off the Clock

University Life

Faculty and Staff News

Volunteerism

food insecurity

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Off the Clock: Volunteering at a community farm, Carissa O’Neill is a good seed

How did you first get started with this volunteer activity? How long have you been doing it?

What's a typical day look like when you volunteer at the farm? How many different crops have you harvested?

What has been the most memorable experience you’ve had in this volunteer work?

What lessons have you learned?

What else do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

Related News

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