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Judith (Judy) Herbert, a senior administrative assistant in the Dean’s Office in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS) is described by her colleagues as a caring listener and a calming presence in the office.

Her nomination received 13 letters of support, including several from student workers expressing their appreciation. For her hard work and dedication, she is being recognized as ���ӽ紫ý’s March Employee of the Month.

“Judy is a professional and team-player,” said Kim Dight, CHSS’s chief business officer. “She has a way of making every person she comes into contact with feel valued and special.”

“Judy was happy to listen to my frustrations and provide advice,” said Sarah Holland, communications officer in the Office of University Branding. “She asked after my cats, my partner, my vacations—I felt that when I told her something about my personal life, she remembered it and wanted to follow up.”

“What sets Judy apart is her proactive attitude and willingness to step in whenever and wherever there is a need,” said Kristen Koehler, assistant dean of strategic communications and marketing in CHSS.

“Judy goes above and beyond what is expected in her role,” said Jeanette Bush, CHSS faculty affairs assistant. “She frequently is seen attending to the needs of Mason students who find their way to the Dean’s Office in search of answers to questions or help with a problem.”

Craig Zaccaro, a software developer in CHSS, said, “Judy can always be counted on to bring a calm, positive outlook to any project. She is a wonderful colleague whose hard work and dedication has positive impacts across the college.”

Her care for the office’s student workers was frequently noted.

“It’s obvious to anyone who works with Judy that her passion is working with students. She manages our [work study students] and serves as a mentor to them, listening to their challenges and offering advice and support,” said Jill Bowen, curriculum, space, and technology manager at CHSS.

“I can confidently say that she is by far the kindest, most accommodating person I have worked with,” said student worker Garrett Martin. “She is a joy to work with, and her presence in the office never fails to make everyone’s day better.”

“Judy is the perfect person to receive this award,” said student worker Afreen R. “Since day one, she has always been there to willingly help me with anything. She treats everyone with respect, kindness, and has a humorous personality that makes working with her fun.”

“Yesterday’s Dean’s Office celebration of one of our front desk student worker’s 21st birthday, which Judy masterminded, is simply the latest example of how she makes each of our work study students feel seen, valued, and appreciated for their contributions,” said CHSS Dean Ann Ardis.

How did you come to Mason:

I came to Mason 13 years ago as a part-time employee, working in the Office of Admissions. After several years in that role, I decided to move to a full-time position with the College of Humanities and Social Sciences Dean’s Office when my boys headed off to college.

Best day on the job:

My best day on the job would be working at our college’s degree celebrations. The excitement and energy that comes with being a part of the student’s graduation is so fulfilling. I get the pleasure of making sure each student feels special and looks perfect before they walk on stage to get recognized.

What do you like best about working at Mason:

The colleagues I get to work with every day, who make my job so rewarding and make me feel valued for my work contributions in the office.

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

I enjoy going to concerts, musicals, biking and cooking with my family and friends.

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