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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Inclement Weather and Telework: Policy 2207

HR News Inclement Weather and Telework: Policy 2207 With snow expected next week, employees are encouraged to review the Inclement Weather/Emergency Closure Policy and discuss flexible work options with supervisors prior to the weather event.    All employees are expected to perform their work remotely during inclement weather closures, regardless of…

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New Year, New Goals: How Workplace Coaching Can Help You Succeed

New Year, New Goals: How Workplace Coaching Can Help You Succeed With the start of a New Year, it’s the perfect time to reflect, set goals, and take action toward achieving them. George Mason’s Workplace Coaching Program is here to support you with a self-motivated, future-focused approach to gain clarity,…

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DHRM Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

DHRM Employee Assistance Program (EAP) The stressors of life and work can be overwhelming, and finding support for coping with these challenges can be difficult. For assistance, as an enrolled health plan member under the State Health Benefits program, the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provides the necessary resources needed to…

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Recognition Leave Updates: Introducing 2- and 4-Hour Increments

Recognition Leave Updates: Introducing 2- and 4-Hour Increments We’re thrilled to announce a new way to celebrate the hard work and achievements of our George Mason University employees: the addition of 2- and 4-hour increments to our Recognition Leave program! These new options allow supervisors to recognize and reward contributions…

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Increased Gift Card Limits for Student Wage Employees

Increased Gift Card Limits for Student Wage Employees Human Resources is excited to announce increased gift card limits for student wage employees! Units now have the capacity to recognize and appreciate student employees with $10 gift cards. All student gift cards are subject to payroll tax. Taxes will be applied on…

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New OAA Award Category Feature: Mentorship Excellence Award

New OAA Award Category Feature: Mentorship Excellence Award Successful navigation of a new career, a challenging project, a professional development activity, etc. Is often supported by a trusted colleague and mentor.  The newly created Mentorship Excellence Award is intended to recognize those colleagues who have made a positive impact through…

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Performance Evaluations for A/P Faculty and Classified Staff Launch February 17

Performance Evaluations for A/P Faculty and Classified Staff Launch February 17 The annual performance evaluation process for A/P Faculty and Classified Staff is launching on February 17. This evaluation period will cover April 1, 2024 – March 31, 2025, and includes all A/P Faculty and Classified Staff hired on or…

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Acknowledgment of Extraordinary Contribution Forms for Classified Staff Due March 1

Acknowledgment of Extraordinary Contribution Forms for Classified Staff Due March 1 DHRM policy requires that any classified employee who qualifies for an overall Outstanding rating (equivalent to the Commonwealth’s “Extraordinary Contributor” rating) must have an Acknowledgement of Extraordinary Contribution (EC) form on file. The EC form must be completed and received…

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Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program

Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program State employees may be eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program. The PSLF Program forgives the remaining balance on your Direct Loans after you have made 120 monthly payments under a qualifying repayment plan while working full-time for a qualifying employer. For more…

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Classified Staff: Telework Form Renewal Process Updates

HR News Classified Staff: Telework Form Renewal Process Updates Classified staff are now required by the Commonwealth to use the Commonwealth of Virginia (COV) Application system when renewing their telework agreements. Previously renewals for the same number of days of telework went through dynamic forms. Going forward, all renewals will…

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W-2s Are Now Available Online

W-2s Are Now Available Online 2024 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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Register for a ProjectConnect Faculty/Staff Book Discussion

Register for a ProjectConnect Faculty/Staff Book Discussion 🗓️  Tuesday, February 4, February 11, February 18, February 25, March 4 ⏰  Noon 📍  Virtual via Zoom ProjectConnect faculty/staff small-group book discussions are designed to foster conversation around social connection, loneliness, sense of belonging, and other topics related to social well-being. This spring, ProjectConnect…

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New OAA Award Category Feature: Wage Staff Award

New OAA Award Category Feature: Wage Staff Award George Mason wage employees contribute significantly to the mission of the university. The following Outstanding Achievement Award recognizes their service.  Nominate a non-student wage employee today! Wage Employee Service Award  Description: This award celebrates a non-student wage staff employee who has consistently…

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Apply for the Leadership Legacy Program

Apply Now: 2025-2026 Leadership Legacy Program Are you ready to take your leadership skills to the next level? The 2025-2026 Leadership Legacy Program (LLP) is now accepting applications for passionate George Mason faculty and staff ready to make a lasting impact! This transformative program is designed for those eager 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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Transform Your Work Experience with Workplace Coaching

Transform Your Work Experience with Workplace Coaching Mason’s Workplace Coaching Program offers personalized support to help you grow, lead, and thrive in your role. But don’t just take our word for it-here’s what fellow employees have shared about their experiences: “Because of coaching, I feel that Mason gets my best,…

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Join DEI’s Monthly Healing Space

Join DEI’s Monthly Healing Space The Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is holding 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 like painting and coloring. Interested…

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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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RSVP to Help Shape the Future of Mason Dining

RSVP to Help Shape the Future of Mason Dining You are invited to attend a 90-minute presentation with one of Mason Dining’s prospective dining contractors. This is your opportunity to hear directly from a potential partner and share your valuable feedback on the future of dining at Mason. Space is…

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New OAA Award Category Feature: Rising Star and Lifetime Legacy Awards

New OAA Award Category Feature: Rising Star and Lifetime Legacy Awards Nominations for the Outstanding Achievement Awards are currently being accepted. Over the next several weeks, each of the newly created OAA award categories will be highlighted. Perhaps one of your colleagues or direct reports is a fit for the…

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Virginia Minimum Wage Increase Effective January 1

HR News Virginia Minimum Wage Increase Effective January 1 Effective January 1, 2025, Virginia’s minimum wage will increase to $12.41 per hour. Mason employees who currently earn less than this new minimum wage will see their pay automatically adjusted to meet the updated rate. This adjustment ensures compliance with Virginia’s…

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Expectations Unlocked: Developing Your Supervisor User Manual for Team Clarity

Expectations Unlocked: Developing Your Supervisor User Manual for Team Clarity Register today for this dynamic in-person workshop, scheduled for Wednesday, February 5, designed to empower supervisors to effectively communicate their expectations to team members. First offered at last year’s Faculty and Staff Enrichment Day, participants will learn in this interactive…

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The “High-Performing” Rating Returns

The “High-Performing” Rating Returns Over the next two weeks, our annual performance evaluation guidance website will be updated to reflect upcoming enhancements to our annual evaluation process, which will launch Friday February 17. The most notable enhancement is the return of the high-performing rating. This rating has not been included…

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Facilitating Inclusive Practices: Become an ASPIRE Facilitator

Facilitating Inclusive Practices: Become an ASPIRE Facilitator The Office for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion seeks to equip George Mason faculty and staff with the tools and knowledge to lead impactful workshops that foster inclusive workplace environments. Faculty and staff are invited to receive training and become facilitators for the ASPIRE…

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2025 Outstanding Achievement Awards: Call for Nominations

2025 Outstanding Achievement Awards: Call for Nominations The Outstanding Achievement Awards (OAA) embody a cherished George Mason tradition, bringing faculty and staff together to honor the hard work, dedication, and achievements of their colleagues.  Celebrating Brilliance with NEW! Award Categories While carrying on the tradition of recognizing our faculty 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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Prepare for W-2s: Verify Your Permanent Address in Patriot Web

Prepare for W-2s: Verify Your Permanent Address in Patriot Web As we prepare to issue your 2024 Form W-2 in the new year, we’d like to remind you to verify your permanent mailing address in Patriot Web. It is important that your permanent mailing address is reflected accurately on your…

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Q12 Article Series: Q12. “This Last Year, I Had Opportunities At Work to Learn and Grow.”

Q12 Article Series: Q12. “This Last Year, I Had Opportunities At Work to Learn and Grow.” Gallup’s final Q12 question measures the degree to which an employee feels they are given opportunities to learn and grow. Having opportunities to continuously develop is a basic human need, one that stays with…

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2025 Retirement Planning: Contribution Limits and Beneficiary Update

2025 Retirement Planning: Contribution Limits and Beneficiary Update As the year comes to a close, now is a great time to review your retirement contributions and plan for any adjustments in the new year. The IRS has announced increased contribution limits for 2025, giving you an opportunity to boost your…

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Register for Performance Management Sessions

HR News Register for Performance Management Sessions As we prepare for the Annual Performance Evaluation launch, consider registering for upcoming performance management and evaluation training sessions. Training sessions will be hosted in January and February 2025 and include the following topics: Performance Evaluation Updates for 2025 Setting Performance Goals and Maintaining Momentum…

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Pats for Patriots November Round-Up

HR News Pats for Patriots November Round-Up November is a month that brings gratitude and thankfulness into the spotlight, reminding us of the power of kindness and generosity. It’s the perfect time to celebrate the incredible Pats for Patriots recipients, whose commitment to supporting others inspires us all to give…

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Overtime Rule Vacated by U.S. District Court

HR News Overtime Rule Vacated by U.S. District Court On November 15, 2024, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas vacated the Biden administration’s proposed changes to the federal overtime rule. As of now, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has not issued updated guidance or announced any changes in…

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Update to HR Data and Technology Assistance TDX

HR News Update to HR Data and Technology Assistance TDX Our partners on the HR Technology Services team have updated their Team Dynamix (TDX) ticketing form. All HR Data and HR Technology Assistance Requests should now be submitted through the HR Information Requests & Technology Services Assistance form.

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Degree and Certification Recognition Bonus Form Added to Dynamic Forms

HR News Degree and Certification Recognition Bonus Form Added to Dynamic Forms Human Resources has streamlined submission processes for the Degree and Certification Recognition Bonus program.  For units who participate in the program, HR Liaisons are now asked to utilize the Degree and Certification Recognition Bonus Dynamic Form to make…

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Q11. “In The Last Six Months, Someone at Work Has Talked to Me About My Progress.”

Q12 Article Series: Q11. “In The Last Six Months, Someone at Work Has Talked to Me About My Progress.” Gallup Q11 emphasizes the importance of meaningful feedback conversations surrounding professional growth and progress towards goals, and it invites us to reflect on a crucial question: How often do we connect…

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Q12 Article Series: Q10. “I Have a Best Friend at Work.”

Q12 Article Series: Q10. “I Have a Best Friend at Work.” In the workplace, having a trusted friend can enhance daily experiences, build a supportive work environment, and make challenging tasks feel lighter. Gallup Q10, “I have a best friend at work,” emphasizes the importance of these connections.   The following…

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Q12 Article Series: Q9. “My Colleagues Are Committed to Doing Quality Work.”

Q12 Article Series: Q9. “My Colleagues Are Committed to Doing Quality Work.” At George Mason University, quality isn’t just a goal-it’s a commitment that shapes our daily efforts and interactions. “My colleagues are committed to doing quality work” speaks to our shared dedication as a university community to ensure our…

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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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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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Pats for Patriots October Round-Up

HR News Pats for Patriots October Round-Up As October comes to a close, we celebrate the outstanding Pats for Patriots recipients who exemplify the George Mason core values of “our students come first” and “we thrive together.” The overwhelming number of “pats” from both students and colleagues highlights how these…

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Q12 Article Series: Q8. “The Mission or Purpose of My Institution Makes Me Feel My Job Is Important.” 

Q12 Article Series: Q8. “The Mission or Purpose of My Institution Makes Me Feel My Job Is Important.” Question 8 challenges us to consider if our daily work feels connected to the broader mission, vision, purpose, goals, and strategic priorities of George Mason University, helping us see our roles as…

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Q12 Article Series: Q7. “At Work, My Opinions Seem to Count.”

Q12 Article Series: Q7. “At Work, My Opinions Seem to Count.” Gallup’s Q7 question “At work, my opinions seem to count” highlights the importance of employee voices and inclusivity, which are critical drivers of engagement and workplace satisfaction.  Benefits of Making Employees Feel Their Opinions Count Empowerment & Ownership: When…

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Q12 Article Series: Q6. There is someone at work who encourages my development.

Q12 Article Series: Q6. There Is Someone at Work Who Encourages My Development Gallup’s Q6 statement “There is someone at work who encourages my development” highlights the importance of employees having a mentor, coach, or supervisor who actively fosters employee growth. Employees develop faster and engage more effectively when they have…

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ITS Technical Support Now Available 24/7

HR News ITS Technical Support Now Available 24/7 Information Technology Services (ITS) is pleased to announce 24×7 technical support. Effective immediately, George Mason students, faculty, and staff can receive technical support any time-day or night, on weekends, and even holidays. ITS has partnered with Anthology, a market leader in education…

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Pats for Patriots September Round-Up

HR News Pats for Patriots September Round-Up In addition to our traditional Pats for Patriots initiative, George Mason faculty, staff, and students took time during the month of September to honor the memory of those we lost on September 11, 2001, through participation in acts of kindness and service. At…

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Q12 Article Series: Q5. My supervisor, or someone at work, seems to care about me as a person. 

Q12 Article Series: Q5 – My Supervisor, or Someone at Work, Seems to Care about Me as a Person Thriving workplaces are built on trust, empathy, and connection. Gallup’s research highlights that employees who believe their supervisor genuinely cares about them tend to be more engaged, loyal, and productive. When people…

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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 MissionSquare With over 25 years of experience in retirement and…

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State Health Benefits Program Offers Online EAP Resources to Wage and Waived State Employees

State Health Benefits Program Offers Online EAP Resources to Wage and Waived State Employees In an effort to address the recent natural disaster events that many state employees may be facing, wage and waived state employees not covered under a state health plan will have access to online Employee Assistance…

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Q12 Article Series: Q4- In the Last Seven days, I Have Received Recognition or Praise for Doing Good Work

Q12 Article Series: Q4- In the Last Seven days, I Have Received Recognition or Praise for Doing Good Work Appreciation involves acknowledging the value of a person, event, or behavior and creating a positive emotional connection. In the workplace, it extends beyond recognizing performance metrics and celebrates the overall value…

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Q12 Article Series: Q3 – At Work, I Have the Opportunity to Do What I Do Best Every Day 

Q12 Article Series: Q3 – At Work, I Have the Opportunity to Do What I Do Best Every Day As we move on to Q3, we’re exploring Individual Contributions, which Gallup refers to as “Know Me.” Question 3, “At Work, I Have the Opportunity to Do What I Do Best…

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Join the SWANA/Middle Eastern Affinity Group

Join the SWANA/Middle Eastern Affinity Group We invite you to join a new faculty/staff affinity group started by Austin A. Deray and Holly Mason Badra. As an official group under the university’s affinity groups, this gathering is for SWANA/Middle Eastern faculty and staff to connect, socialize, share stories, enjoy food,…

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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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2024 Holiday Schedule

2024 Holiday Schedule Mason’s 2024 holiday schedule is here! View the full 2024 holiday schedule on the Human Resources website. Guidance on holiday timesheet and pay procedures can be found on the Fiscal Services website. As a reminder, employees in 24/7 operational units (e.g., Mason Police, Facilities, and Housing &…

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Pet Insurance Discount for State Employees

HR News Pet Insurance Discount for State Employees Did you know that Commonwealth of Virginia employees can get a discount on pet insurance with Spot Insurance? Check out the employee discounts page on the Department of Human Resource Management (DHRM) website to learn more!

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Religious Holidays and Inclusive Scheduling

HR News Religious Holidays and Inclusive Scheduling As part of Mason’s commitment to inclusive excellence, please be sure to consult University Life’s Religious Holiday Calendar when scheduling important activities. Please use this resource to avoid scheduling events, meetings, or major deadlines on religious holidays observed by individuals across our campuses.…

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Pats for Patriots: Celebrating Kindness and Bringing Gratitude to Work

Pats for Patriots: Celebrating Kindness and Bringing Gratitude to Work At the start of a semester and throughout the busy academic year, it’s easy to overlook the simple yet profound acts of kindness that brighten our days. The workplace, often a hub of activity and collaboration, is the perfect setting…

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Sign Up for VRS Member News

Sign Up for VRS Member News Stay updated on the latest announcements from the Virginia Retirement System (VRS). This newsletter is published quarterly and includes information about upcoming deadlines, webinars, and policy changes. Sign up at the VRS website.

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Recognition and Appreciation Toolkit

Recognition and Appreciation Toolkit As part of our comprehensive recognition program, a refreshed Recognition and Appreciation Toolkit is available to all Mason employees. The revamped toolkit includes: Tips for celebrating an employee using their workplace appreciation language; Virtual appreciation tools, including Pats for Patriots, printable cards, e-cards, and virtual backgrounds…

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State Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

State Employee Assistance Program (EAP) All health plans offered to state employees and their dependents have employee assistance programs (EAPs). Included are up to four sessions at no charge for such services as mental health, alcohol or drug abuse assessment, child or elder care, financial, grief counseling, and legal services…

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Shared Savings Incentive Program for COVA Members

Shared Savings Incentive Program for COVA Members COVA Care, COVA HDHP, and COVA HealthAware members are eligible for the Shared Savings Program. These incentive programs offer cash rewards to members when they shop for better-value health care services. Not every facility will bring a reward. The programs are strictly voluntary.…

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