HR News

HR News shares the latest well-being and compliance announcements. HR Liaisons, who are automatically subscribed, should share relevant items with their departments.

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Faculty-Staff Enrichment Day Session Highlight: “From Cubicle Mates to Lunch Break Legends!”

Get Ready for Faculty-Staff Enrichment Day on October 15! Join us on Tuesday, October 15, from 9 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. at the Fairfax Campus for Faculty-Staff Enrichment Day! Engage in workshops covering themes like professional development, well-being, and maximizing your strengths using the Gallup Q12 framework. This is a…

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Register Today for Canvas Day

HR News Register Today for Canvas Day 🗓️   Wednesday, October 16 at 12 to 4 p.m. 📍  HUB Ballroom & Online Bring your device and join us for George Mason University’s inaugural Canvas Day! Canvas Day is designed to provide hands-on experience, best practices, and innovative ways to use Canvas…

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Register for a Fall 2024 Faculty/Staff ProjectConnect Group

Register for a Fall 2024 Faculty/Staff ProjectConnect Group Sign up for the Faculty and Staff ProjectConnect Fall Session! Virtual Sessions: October 16 – November 13, Wednesdays at 12 p.m. Registration: Open from September 30 to October 9. Click here for more information on ProjectConnect ProjectConnect is sponsored by the Center…

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Q12 Article Series: Q2- Ensuring Access to Materials and Equipment 

Q12 Article Series: Q2- Ensuring Access to Materials and Equipment Having the right tools and resources is essential for employees to perform their jobs effectively. Gallup’s Q12 Question 2, “I have the materials and equipment I need to do my work right,” highlights the importance of equipping employees with what…

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Q12 Article Series: Q1-Understanding and Enhancing Clarity of Expectations at Work 

Q12 Article Series: Q1-Understanding and Enhancing Clarity of Expectations at Work In today’s dynamic and fast-paced work environments, clarity of expectations is paramount for both individual and organizational success. Gallup’s Q12 Question 1, “I know what is expected of me at work,” serves as a foundational element in assessing and…

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Learn About Mason HR Reports: MicroStrategy Training Sessions

Learn About Mason HR Reports: MicroStrategy Training Sessions 🗓️  Monday, September 23 at 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. 🗓️  Wednesday, September 25 at 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. 📍  Virtual (Zoom) HR Technology Services (HRTS) and ITS Business Intelligence Services (BIS) have partnered to offer another training session on accessing…

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Discover Workplace Appreciation Strategies

Discover Workplace Appreciation Strategies 🗓️  Tuesday, October 8 at 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. 📍  Merten 1204 🗓️  Thursday, November 7, 2 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. 📍  Virtual (Zoom) The Faculty and Staff Engagement Team is excited to announce upcoming professional development focused on Workplace Appreciation. Based on the book…

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Re-introducing Your GMU Retirement Representatives

HR News Re-introducing Your GMU Retirement Representatives We are pleased to reintroduce our GMU retirement plan representatives. These professionals are here to support you with financial planning, retirement readiness, and one-on-one counseling sessions tailored to your needs. Steven J. Scott Virginia Retirement System (VRS) With over 25 years of experience…

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Mid-Cycle Check-In Coming Soon

HR News Mid-Cycle Check-in Coming Soon The 2024 Mid-Cycle Check-In for A/P faculty and classified staff is approaching. This optional process reviews performance from April 1 to September 30, with feedback steps and one-on-one meetings available for performance discussions. While optional, the check-in is required for those who have not…

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Nominate a Kindness Ambassador

Nominate a Kindness Ambassador Mason Chooses Kindness (MCK) is excited to accept nominations for 2024-2025 Kindness Ambassadors through October 10! Nominate a friend, colleague, or yourself today, and let us celebrate kindness together! Use the nomination form to let us know who you are, your nominee(s), and why they should…

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Starbucks Northern Neck NOW OPEN!

Starbucks Northern Neck NOW OPEN! The wait is finally over! Starbucks in Northern Neck has reopened after a full renovation and is ready to welcome you back. With a fresh new look and mobile ordering available, it’s easier than ever to grab your favorite fall drinks and seasonal treats. Whether…

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The Search is Underway for Our Next CHRO

The Search is Underway for Our Next CHRO The search is underway for George Mason’s next Vice President for Human Resources! This role is an opportunity to make a lasting, positive, and transformative contribution to our vibrant and dynamic institution. George Mason’s employees are our best advocates, so please share…

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Fall Flu Shot Clinics

Fall Flu Shot Clinics Stay healthy and protect your community this flu season with the convenience of our on-campus flu shot clinics. Let’s keep our campus safe and thriving! Sign up below to receive your flu shot at one of our on-campus events. Please contact Employee Health & Well-Being at…

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MESA to M365 Migration Training Sessions

MESA to M365 Migration Training Sessions To support a smooth transition from the MESA on-premise file storage system to Microsoft 365 (M365), Information Technology Services (ITS) is offering multiple training sessions through September. These sessions will provide in-depth guidance on using M365 tools like OneDrive, Teams, and SharePoint to enhance…

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Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month

Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated annually from September 15 – October 15. The 2024 theme for Hispanic Heritage Month is “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together.” The observance of National Hispanic Heritage Week was proclaimed by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1968. It…

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Student Loan Repayment Information Session for Faculty and Staff (10/9)

Student Loan Repayment Information Session for Faculty and Staff (10/9) 🗓️   Wednesday, October 9 at 1 p.m. 📍   Zoom Human Resources and the Student Support and Advocacy Center have partnered together to hold an information session on how to repay student loans. This virtual event is open to all…

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Engagement in Action Trainings

Engagement in Action Training Join the Faculty and Staff Engagement team for upcoming Engagement in Action workshops. With the review of the Faculty and Staff Experience Survey data underway, we are pleased to offer sessions focused on the next steps of engaging our George Mason faculty and staff.    Training options…

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Join Us for Supervisor Boot Camp This Fall!

Join Us for Supervisor Boot Camp This Fall! Are you ready to elevate your leadership skills and connect with fellow supervisors at Mason? Join Supervisor Boot Camp (SBC) this fall! This 5-session program will take place from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. every other week beginning September 24. Supervisor Boot…

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Healing Space for Faculty, Staff, and Students

HR News Healing Space for Faculty, Staff, and Students The Office for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion will begin offering a monthly healing space for faculty, staff, and students. We will offer multiple stations that cater to various needs. Enjoy sensory-friendly tables, mindfulness and meditation areas, and creative spaces for activities…

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Upcoming Performance Management Training: Setting Performance Goals and Maintaining Momentum 

HR News Upcoming Performance Management Session: Setting Performance Goals and Maintaining Momentum 🗓️  Monday, September 16 at 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.  📍  Merten Hall, Room 2001 (Fairfax)  🗓️  Friday, September 27 at 2 p.m. – 3 p.m.  📍  Virtual  As we are preparing for the Mid-Cycle Check-In, consider joining a…

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Pats for Patriots August Round-Up

HR News Pats for Patriots August Round-Up August has been a time of vibrant energy and excitement on campus as we geared up for our students’ return. It is inspiring to witness the dedication and extra effort from everyone to kick off the semester on a high note. Thank you…

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Certified Applicant Pool Training: Fall 2024 Schedule

HR News Certified Applicant Pool Training: Fall 2024 Schedule To support Mason’s commitment to inclusive excellence, Talent Acquisition’s Outreach and Compliance Team is offering a course on how to certify the diversity of applicant pools for job searches. The Certified Applicant Pool (CAP) training is offered throughout the fall semester…

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First Fridays: Feast and Explore Campus Dining for Just $5

HR News First Fridays: Feast and Explore Campus Dining for Just $5 Mark your calendars – First Fridays kick off next week on Friday, September 6. All full-time faculty and staff can enjoy a meal at all campus dining halls, including Southside, Ike’s, The Globe, The Spot (our new vegetarian…

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Manager Meetup: Supervising Gen Z

Manager Meetup: Supervising Gen Z 🗓️   Thursday, September 19 at 2 p.m. – 3 p.m. 📍   Virtual (Zoom) Join us for this interactive session to build the skills and strategies necessary to lead and inspire Gen Z, ensuring a productive and harmonious workplace for all generations. The session will be…

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Child Development Center Enrolling for Preschool

Child Development Center Enrolling for Preschool The NAEYC-accredited Child Development Center at George Mason University is now enrolling for its preschool program! It is a full-day program for ages 3 and 4 and is designed to engage curiosity, nurture growth, and develop confidence in an inspiring and supportive environment. Through…

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Fall 2024 Queer Lunch Series for Faculty and Staff

HR News Fall 2024 Queer Lunch Series for Faculty and Staff  It is with Pride that we announce the Fall 2024 Queer Lunch Series! This semester we’ll be providing a mixture of in-person and virtual opportunities to connect. The Queer Lunch Series (QLS) aims to bring together queer-identifying faculty and staff…

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Register for a Fall 2024 Faculty/Staff ProjectConnect Book Discussion Group

Register for a Fall 2024 Faculty/Staff ProjectConnect Book Discussion Group 🗓️  Wednesday, September 25 at 12 p.m. – 1 p.m. 🗓️  Tuesday, October 29, 2024 at 12 p.m. – 1 p.m. 📍  Virtual via Zoom ProjectConnect Faculty/Staff small-group book discussions are designed to foster conversation around social connection, loneliness, sense…

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Onboarding Guidance for New Employees

Onboarding Guidance for New Employees Welcome to Mason! To help you get started, here’s a quick guide on important onboarding steps, including I-9 completion, obtaining your ID card, and securing parking. Follow the instructions below to ensure a smooth transition into your new role. Section 2 of your i9 can…

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Submit Your Bio and Photo for our HR Spotlight Series!

HR News Submit Your Bio and Photo for our HR Spotlight Series! We are excited to announce an engaging new feature for HR News – The HR Spotlight Series. This initiative aims to shine a light on the diverse talents and dedicated efforts of Human Resources professionals (both Central HR…

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Prepare for VRS Contribution Rate Changes Effective July 2024

HR News Prepare for VRS Contribution Rate Changes Effective July 2024 The Virginia Retirement System (“VRS”) has announced the defined benefit contribution rate for fiscal years 2025 and 2026. For all VRS Defined Benefit Plans (VRS Plan 1, VRS Plan 2, and Hybrid Retirement Plan), the new contribution rate of…

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Discover the Benefits of Byte Meal Plans!

Discover the Benefits of Byte Meal Plans! Enhance your work-life balance with Byte Meal Plans, now available for George Mason University faculty and staff. Take a break from your office to enjoy a meal with colleagues, fostering connections and networking opportunities. With plans starting at just $105 and swipes that…

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Submit Your Proposals and Register for Faculty-Staff Enrichment Day

Submit Your Proposals and Register for Faculty-Staff Enrichment Day Human Resources is excited to announce that Faculty-Staff Enrichment Day (FSED) will be held on Tuesday, October 15, 2024. This in-person event will focus on faculty and staff engagement, guided by the Gallup Q12 themes. We invite all Mason faculty and…

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Midcycle Performance Check-in for A/P Faculty and Classified Staff on October 1

HR News Mid-Cycle Performance Check-in for A/P Faculty and Classified Staff on October 1 The performance mid-cycle check-in will launch on October 1, 2024, for A/P Faculty and Classified Staff hired on or before June 30, 2024. This check-in is intended to review and reflect on the performance period of…

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New Procedures for Trash Collection and Cleaning in Campus Offices

HR News New Procedures for Trash Collection and Cleaning in Campus Offices George Mason University is implementing new procedures for trash collection and cleaning in campus offices. These changes support the university’s efforts to increase efficiency and cut costs. Starting on August 1, 2024, these changes will go into effect in…

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Leadership Opportunity in the Working Fathers Employee Resource Group 

HR News Leadership Opportunity in the Working Fathers Employee Resource Group Are you a dedicated father who values work-life balance and supports a thriving workplace culture? Would you like to meet other fathers and have an opportunity to network and share parenthood challenges? We are excited to announce a leadership…

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Pats for Patriots June and July Round-Up

HR News Pats for Patriots June and July Round-Up Campus can be a little quieter during summer break, offering a perfect time to reflect on how much we appreciate our Mason Nation colleagues. During the July 27, University Life Gives Back Day of Service, faculty and staff challenged themselves to…

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FSE Survey Data Review and Action Planning Support 

FSE Survey Data Review and Action Planning Support Supervisors are encouraged to share team/unit Faculty and Staff Experience survey results with their faculty and staff. Human Resources has facilitators available to support these data review conversations and the action planning process. Sharing results will engage faculty and staff and support…

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Implementing Chosen Names in MicroStrategy HR Reports

HR News MicroStrategy HR Reports: Chosen Name Updates In compliance with University Policy 1143-Chosen Name and Pronouns Policy, MicroStrategy HR Reports are being updated to reflect an employee’s Chosen Name rather than Legal Name. The implementation of this policy can be tracked on the Registrar’s Chosen Name Display and Uses…

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New Employee Resource Group for Hybrid/Remote Employees

HR News Join Us for the First Mason Throughout the Nation (MTN) Gathering 🗓️  Thursday, July 18 from 12 p.m. – 1 p.m. 📍  Zoom We’re excited to announce the launch of Mason Throughout the Nation (MTN), a new Employee Resource Group for hybrid and remote faculty and staff at…

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Get Involved with University Sustainability’s Greenhouse & Gardens Program

Get Involved with University Sustainability’s Greenhouse & Gardens Program There are a number of ways to get involved with University Sustainability’s Greenhouse & Gardens Program Enjoy our FREE fresh produce and decorative flowers – we deliver! Produce options include berries, tomatoes, lettuce, microgreens, and more! Let us know a good…

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Elevate Your Hiring: The Mason Talent Community is Now Live!

Elevate Your Hiring: The Mason Talent Community is Now Live! Human Resources is excited to announce the official launch of the Mason Talent Community! This innovative platform is designed to connect talented individuals with exciting career opportunities at George Mason University. What the Talent Community Offers Relevant Job Openings: Members…

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Attend an Upcoming VRS DCP Regional Education Meeting

Attend an Upcoming VRS Deferred Compensation Plan Meeting 📍 Virtual (Zoom) Register today for an online Commonwealth of Virginia 457 Deferred Compensation Plan Regional Education Meeting or a virtual one-on-one with your Defined Contribution Plans Retirement Specialists. Overview of the 457 Deferred Compensation Plan and Cash Match Plan Learn more…

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Important Information Regarding Your Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

HR News Important Information Regarding Your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) The current plan year for the FSA plans will end on June 30, 2024. You will have 3-months (until September 30th) to file claims and submit documentation. This 3-month period is known as the runout period. During the runout period…

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Simplified Defined Contributions Process Effective July 1, 2024

HR News Simplified Defined Contributions Process Effective July 1, 2024 Effective July 1, 2024, the Virginia Retirement System will simplify the way defined contributions are calculated and paid to the Hybrid Retirement Plan, following a 2022 legislative change. Employers will now manage payroll withholding for defined contributions separately from defined…

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Next Hybrid Retirement Plan Voluntary Contribution Deadline

HR News Next Hybrid Plan Voluntary Contribution Change Deadline Hybrid Retirement Plan members can adjust their voluntary contribution elections on a quarterly basis – contributing up to 4% of their creditable compensation each month – to help meet their savings goals. Members can maximize a 4% voluntary contribution and will…

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Compressed Schedules and the Holidays

Compressed Schedules and the Holidays If you use the compressed schedule work option, please be aware of the upcoming holiday. For the holiday, full-time employees with compressed schedules receive eight (8) hours of holiday pay and/or compensatory leave per day, depending on the situation, regardless of their compressed schedule hours. There…

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Changes to Mason Temps Billing Process Effective FY25

Changes to Mason Temps Billing Process Effective FY25 To simplify the Mason Temps billing process, effective FY25, all new temps in a department will have their wages charged directly to the department org via payroll. This change eliminates the previous recharge process, reducing billing delays and making payment similar to…

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Congratulations to the 2023-24 Faculty and Staff Book Scholarship Winners!

Congratulations to the 2023-24 Faculty and Staff Book Scholarship Winners! Human Resources is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2023-24 Faculty and Staff Book Scholarship, which grants each winner $250 in support of continued academic studies. The scholarship can be used for books and additional learning materials from the Mason…

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Pats for Patriots May Round-Up

HR News Pats for Patriots May Round-Up The end of the academic year is a busy time for the Mason community, yet many took the time to share words of appreciation to peers. Everyone appreciates receiving a little encouragement! Below are the Pats for Patriots received in May.   Tasneem…

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Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Deadlines

HR News Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Deadlines If you have a Health Care and/or Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account, please be aware of the following deadlines: Incur your eligible expenses by June 30, 2024 to be reimbursed for the 2023-2024 plan year. Submit your claims or verify your outstanding card transactions…

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June 2024 Salary Increases

HR News June 2024 Salary Increases Effective June 10, 2024, Mason will be implementing pay increases utilizing an increase in funding allocation approved by the Commonwealth. The funds support the following increases: Classified staff hired on or before March 10, 2024, with a performance rating of developing or higher will…

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Celebrating Mason Employees’ Degree/Certificate Milestones 

HR News Celebrating Mason Employees’ Degree/Certificate Milestones Human Resources celebrates the Mason faculty and staff who obtained degrees and certifications during the Summer 2023, Fall 2023 and Spring 2024 academic terms. These individuals are carrying out the Mason motto, “Freedom and Learning.” A list of employees who have shared their…

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Compensatory Leave Reminder

Compensatory Leave Reminder Have you earned compensatory leave? Make sure you’re aware of the compensatory leave limits and expirations: Exempt employees are limited to 96 hours of accrued compensatory leave. Non-exempt employees must be paid time and one-half for all hours worked more than 40 in a workweek (from 12:01…

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Mason’s Fulltime Remote Out-of-State/International Telework Request Form Updates

HR News Mason’s Fulltime Remote Out-of-State/International Telework Request Form Updates Mason faculty and staff provided feedback that led to process improvements in Mason’s Fulltime Remote Out-of-State/International Telework Request form. The changes include the following: The individual employee will now initiate the form, fill out employee information, and submit it. Previously,…

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Leave Balance Transfers

HR News Leave Balance Transfers Is your department or unit hiring an employee who is transferring within Mason or the state? Leave transfers are a complex matter when changing jobs within the state or within Mason. When hiring for a new position, please do not assume or agree to leave…

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CommonHealth: Virginia Employee Wellness Resources

HR News CommonHealth: Virginia Employee Wellness Resources CommonHealth is Virginia’s employee wellness program. According to the CommonHealth website, their “programs and campaigns cover a variety of health topics and are available in a range of formats to meet the needs of different workplaces. Our highly skilled Wellness Consultants provide the…

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Summer Camp Resources

Summer Camp Resources Start planning for summer now! To help families with kiddos, we compiled a list of summer camps and activities at George Mason and in the surrounding community. The list is organized by area and links directly to the activity page. If you have questions about a specific…

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WeightWatchers’ Summer Solutions: Maximizing Wellness During Summer Months 

HR News WeightWatchers® Summer Solutions: Maximizing Wellness During Summer Months WeightWatchers® helps you build healthy habits you can stick with. Join WeightWatchers® for a transformative webinar focused on maintaining your weight loss and wellness goals during the summer months, where routines are often disrupted by holidays and vacations.   Discover…

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New Employee Resource Group: Black Women of Mason!

HR News New Employee Resource Group: Black Women of Mason! Human Resources is excited to announce the newest Employee Resource Group (ERG) here at Mason: The Black Women of Mason!  The group has been informally meeting since Fall 2023 and has chosen to become an ERG in hopes of expanding…

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Hybrid Retirement Plan Webinars

HR News Attend a Hybrid Retirement Plan Webinar The quarterly Hybrid Plan Features and Benefits virtual presentation will be held on Monday, May 20. MissionSquare Retirement is hosting a series of retirement webinars to review the Hybrid Retirement Plan including features, benefits and investment options, and virtual one-on-one appointments. Hybrid…

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Standard Telework Form: Documentation Updates for Classified Staff 

HR News Standard Telework Form: Documentation Updates for Classified Staff Classified Staff are required to follow the Department of Human Resources Policy 1.61 (Teleworking). In accordance with DHRM Policy 1.61, “all (classified) employees applying for telework must submit a Standard Telework Agreement.”  The state has recently made an online platform,…

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Take Your Junior Patriot to Work Day 2024 Recap

HR News Take Your Junior Patriot to Work Day 2024 Recap 2024 Take Your Junior Patriot to Work event was a resounding success! 202 Junior Patriots were registered for activities on the Fairfax and Mason Square campuses.   Junior Patriots had the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities…

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Pats for Patriots April Round-Up

HR News Pats for Patriots April Round-Up This past April, the Mason community was showered with kindness. Below is a highlight of the Pats for Patriots submitted in April 2024.  Paul Allvin Office of University Branding “Thanks so much for coming in on Thursday to speak with Student Government! The…

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Open Enrollment is May 1-15

HR News Open Enrollment is May 1-15 Get ready for Health Open Enrollment from May 1 to May 15. Annual open enrollment is the time of year where you can make changes related to your health plan and flexible spending accounts. To participate in open enrollment this year, if you…

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Best Practices for New Employee Onboarding

Best Practices for New Employee Onboarding Welcoming new colleagues warmly is essential for a positive onboarding experience at Mason. Here are some top practices and resources from HR professionals across our campus: Prepare and Welcome the New Hire: Send a detailed welcome email before their first day, including parking recommendations,…

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Mason Degree and Certificate Milestones: Let’s Celebrate Your Success!

Mason Degree and Certificate Milestones: Let’s Celebrate Your Success! Mason Classified Staff, A/P Faculty, I/R Faculty, Adjunct Faculty, and Non-Student Wage employees are invited to share information on the degree/certificate (Trade certification/license, Associates, Bachelors, Masters, Graduate certificate, Doctorate, etc.) that they have earned during this current academic year. Human Resources…

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Ensuring Confidentiality: Faculty and Staff Experience Survey

Ensuring Confidentiality: Faculty and Staff Experience Survey Concerned about confidentiality? Here’s why you can trust the Faculty and Staff Experience Survey: We understand the importance of confidentiality in surveys, and we want to assure you that your responses are handled with the utmost care. Our partnership with Gallup ensures rigorous…

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The Faculty and Staff Experience Survey is Here!

The Faculty and Staff Experience Survey is Here! The Faculty and Staff Experience Survey is here! Team members in your department/unit received a unique link to the survey from Gallup. In addition to taking the survey yourself, please encourage your department or unit to take the survey. Participation in this…

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Achieve Escape Velocity with an MPS of Industrial-Organizational Psychology!

Achieve Escape Velocity with an MPS of Industrial-Organizational Psychology Do you want to launch a career building more productive, efficient, and safer workplaces? Apply your tuition benefit to earn an I-O degree at Mason! The I-O MPS program is an accelerated rigorous online offering with asynchronous and synchronous learning experiences. Mason’s…

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Pats for Patriots March Round-Up

HR News Pats for Patriots March Round-Up The campus is turning green and gold as the grass returns and daffodils bloom. The Mason community is also blooming – with kindness. Below is a highlight of the Pats for Patriots submitted in March 2024.  Thomas Ammazzalorso, Dorothy Hayden, Cedric Price and…

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Employee of the Month Call for Nominations

HR News Employee of the Month Call for Nominations Do you work with an extraordinary Mason administrative/professional faculty, classified staff member, or wage employee who goes the extra mile to support and uplift the university and its community? Nominate them for Mason’s Employee of the Month award! A digital form…

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Gallup Success Story: Shannon Jordan and Housing and Residence Life

Gallup Success Story: Shannon Jordan and Housing and Residence Life After the University Life All-Staff meeting, where UL-specific 2022 Gallup Faculty and Staff Experience survey data was revealed, Shannon Jordan, Associate Dean and Chief Housing Officer, together with Housing and Residential Life (HRL) leadership, set sail on a journey to…

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Announcing the Stars of 2024: Our Outstanding Achievement Award Winners!

Announcing the Stars of 2024: Our Outstanding Achievement Award Winners! Human Resources is excited to announce the recipients of the 2024 Outstanding Achievement Awards! Please join us for the awards ceremony on Tuesday, April 16 from 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. in Dewberry Hall. The ceremony will also be live-streamed…

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Faculty and Staff Experience Survey Launches April 3!   

Faculty and Staff Experience Survey Launches April 3! The Faculty and Staff Experience Survey (FSE) launches on Wednesday, April 3! Mason has contracted with Gallup to serve as our third-party survey vendor. Gallup’s employee engagement science and history researching the topic are unmatched. They have been studying employee engagement (including…

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Gallup Success Story: The College of Humanities and Social Sciences

Gallup Success Story: The College of Humanities and Social Sciences In response to the 2022 Gallup Faculty and Staff Experience (FSE) survey, the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS) took decisive action to amplify employee engagement. Under the visionary leadership of Dean Ann Ardis, the CHSS Staff and A/P…

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Updated Equal Employment Opportunity Poster from DHRM

Updated Equal Employment Opportunity Poster DHRM has just released an updated Equal Employment Opportunity poster. Please post this state-issued “Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law” poster with your other employment law posters. Those with poster boards will be receiving the updated poster via interoffice mail in the next week. Please…

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Gallup Success Story: Julie Zobel and the Risk, Safety, and Resilience Leadership Team

Gallup Success Story: The Risk, Safety, and Resilience Leadership Team After the 2022 Gallup Faculty and Staff Experience survey, Julie Zobel and the visionary RSR leadership team took the reins, delving deeper into their unit-specific survey results. Thus began the inception of a proactive, employee-centric approach to elevate engagement and…

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New Search Training E-learning is Now Available!

HR News New Search Training E-learning is Now Available! We are excited to announce that the new, fully asynchronous Search Training is now available in MasonLEAPS! Detailed information about search training requirements and procedures can be found in the Search tab on our Trainings page. HR Liaisons can continue to verify transcript details for anyone in their…

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Further Your Career with an MA in Higher Education at Mason!

Further Your Career with an MA in Higher Education at Mason! Are you looking to further your career in Higher Education? You can use your tuition benefit to pursue a degree with the Higher Education Program at Mason! Going part-time, you can complete the MA in Higher Education and Student Development in…

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Pats for Patriots February Round-Up

HR News Pats for Patriots Recipient February Round-Up Mason’s Intentional Kindness Day, celebrated on February 15th, set the stage for record numbers of Pats for Patriots to be submitted.  With over 1,000 Pats for Patriots submitted over the lifetime of the program, the Mason Nation is truly embracing the culture…

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Virginia State Employee Assistance Fund

Virginia State Employee Assistance Fund The Virginia State Employee Assistance Fund (VSEAF) provides grants to eligible state employees suffering from a financial crisis as a result of an unplanned emergency or other event that impacts the employee or family members residing with the employee. The VSEAF is a recognized 501c(3)…

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New Engagement Resource for Supervisors

HR News New Engagement Resource for Supervisors Mason supervisors are encouraged to check out the new Engagement at Mason page on our website. The page shares a variety of resources, including strategies for measuring employee engagement, tools for improving engagement, information on supervisor training and the faculty and staff experience…

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New Position Vacancy Report Now Available for HR Liaisons

HR News New Position Vacancy Report Now Available for HR Liaisons HR Technology Services and the Business Intelligence Services group continue to partner on the creation of new MicroStrategy reports to meet the business needs of HR Liaisons and other users across Mason. A Position Vacancy Report is now available…

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Reminder: Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting

Reminder: Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting While everyone should be concerned about child abuse and neglect, the law requires certain individuals to report suspected instances. In 2012, the Virginia General Assembly (SB 239) added “any person employed by a public or private institution of higher education” to the list of…

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Flexible Work Sessions

Flexible Work Sessions    Monday, March 11 & Thursday, March 14 at 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. EDT    Merten Hall, Room 2001 (Fairfax) & Virtual Join the Faculty and Staff Engagement Team for upcoming sessions on flexible work! This session is intended to provide an introductory overview of flexible…

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New Health Assessment for COVA Care Members

New Health Assessment for COVA Care Members At the beginning of 2024, Anthem transitioned to a new Health Assessment called My Health Check-in. Unlike the former WebMD Health Assessment, My Health Check-in is 85% shorter and only takes about five minutes to complete. COVA Care Members will no longer be…

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Empowering Employee Development: A SMART Approach to Success

HR News Empowering Employee Development Through SMART Goals In George Mason University’s quest for personal and professional growth, SMART goals have become a cornerstone of effective development strategies. SMART stands for: Specific: Set clear, precise targets that leave no room for ambiguity. Whether it’s mastering a new skill, completing a…

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Pats for Patriots Recipient Round-Up

HR News Pats for Patriots Recipient Round-Up Pats for Patriots is a Mason Chooses Kindness initiative designed to show appreciation for a Mason colleague. The program extends a figurative pat on the back to fellow Mason colleagues, students, faculty/staff, and alumni and supports Mason’s culture of gratitude, recognition, and appreciation.…

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Flexible Spending Account (FSA) is Now Inspira Financial

HR News Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Changes The current Flexible Spending Account Administrator, PayFlex, which administers the Commonwealth’s Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for state employees will be rebranded as “Inspira Financial” as of 2024. Here’s what employees can expect: Transitional messages added to the login page for PayFlex (payflex.com). The same…

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Kaiser Permanente Changed Dental Administrators

HR News Kaiser Permanente Changed Dental Administrators On January 1, 2024, Kaiser Permanente changed the Commonwealth of Virginia dental plan administrator from Dominion Dental to Liberty Dental Plan. Kaiser Permanente members with dental coverage were automatically transitioned from Dominion to LIBERTY with no changes to their dental benefits. Members received…

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Black Male Faculty and Staff Employee Resource Group Retreat 

HR News Black Male Faculty and Staff Employee Resource Group Retreat  The Black Male Faculty and Staff Employee Resource Group’s mission is to promote a sense of community among its members, improve their quality of life, and offer an atmosphere of cultural and social networking among its members. This group…

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W-2s Are Now Available Online

W-2s Are Now Available Online 2023 W-2s are now available online. Retrieving your electronic copy is easy and immediate!   How to Access Your Electronic W-2 Log in to Patriot Web Click “Employee Services” Click “Employee Dashboard” Expand the “Taxes” section Click “W-2 Wage and Tax Statement” Select the tax…

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Inclement Weather Policy Update

HR News Inclement Weather Policy Update As we navigate the winter season, we want to ensure everyone is well-informed of our Inclement Weather Policy, particularly regarding telework expectations. Your safety is our priority, and we have made some updates to better align with the evolving work environment.   Inclement Weather…

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Mason Mobile ID: Join the Eco-Friendly Wave in 2024!

HR News Mason Mobile ID: Join the Eco-Friendly Wave in 2024! Access your official university ID, campus services, buildings, spaces, meal plans, and Mason Money with ease on your iPhone, Apple Watch, or Android device. Here’s what you need to know: Choose Your ID: Mason students, faculty, and staff can…

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Reporting Accidents Reminder

Reporting Accidents Reminder We want to keep the Mason community safe! Please report all accidents, injuries, or conditions that may cause harm to an individual or the university. When dangerous or potentially dangerous conditions are reported, the university can take appropriate action to protect the community. Please report the following…

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Commuter Choice: Benefits for Northern Virginia-Based Employees

Commuter Choice: Benefits for Northern Virginia-Based Employees Save money this year! Full-time state employees in Northern Virginia qualify for up to $315 per month for public transit or vanpooling, thanks to an Executive Order. This a tax-free benefit. Visit the Mason Parking website for more details!

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Notice for Spring 2024 Mason Shuttles Operations

HR News Notice for Spring 2024 Mason Shuttles Operations Shuttle Operations Update for Winter Break and Spring Service Winter Break shuttle service is underway through Friday, January 12. For routes with weekend service (Fairfax/SciTech, Gunston Mason, Sandy Creek/Metro, and the On-Demand shuttle), Spring service will begin on Saturday, January 13.…

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Grubhub+: Exclusive Offer for Mason Employees

HR News Grubhub+: Exclusive Offer for Mason Employees Calling all Mason employees! Mason faculty, and staff receive unlimited $0 delivery fees on orders $18+ from Grubhub+ merchants. Order with Mason Money, and you can access endless food options, even in your hometown! Use your Mason email to register and explore…

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Performance Evaluation Updates

Performance Evaluation Updates The Performance Evaluation Resources page has been updated with new versions of Mason’s performance evaluation materials, including: 2023-2024 annual evaluation forms Performance capabilities (rated performance categories) Rating descriptions and rubric We invite you to review these resources and explore the guidance across our Performance Evaluation pages. A/P faculty and…

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Pats for Patriots Recipient Roundup

HR News Pats for Patriots Recipient Roundup World Kindness Day, celebrated annually on November 13, was an opportunity for faculty, staff, and students to promote kindness and compassion within the Mason community and beyond. But spreading kindness didn’t stop on November 13-many Mason faculty and staff took the time to…

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