Roddena I. Kirksey

Civic engagement and community service paved road to success for alumni legislators Wiley and McPike

Colleen Rich — Fri, 02 Aug 2024 14:55:24 +0000

Civic engagement and community service paved road to success for alumni legislators Wiley and McPike Colleen Rich Fri, 08/02/2024 - 10:55

As the saying goes “Once a Patriot, Always a Patriot,” and ��ӽ紫ý is proud to have a large group of Patriots serving the Commonwealth of Virginia in the General Assembly.

��ӽ紫ý’s General Assembly alumni include Majority Leader Delegate Charniele Herring (D-4), BA Economics ’93; Senators Jeremy McPike (D-29), BA Government and Politics ’97, MPA ’06; Stella Pekarsky (D-36), BA Government and Politics ’00, MEd ’03; Bryce Reeves (R-28), MPA ’99; Saddam Salim (D-37), BS Public Administration ’12, MPH ’15; and Glen Sturtevant (R-12), JD ’06; and Delegates Michael J. Webert (R-61), BA Communications ’10; and William “Bill” Wiley (R-32), BS Economics ’93, MEd ’98.

Majority Leader Herring and Senators Salim and Sturtevant were profiled in an article published earlier this year. Here is the second article in the series spotlighting Mason alumni in the legislature:

Bill Wiley

Bill Wiley. Photo provided

Delegate Bill Wiley represents Virginians in the City of Winchester and part of Frederick County. He’s been a member of the House of Delegates since 2020.

Wiley, a business development manager and associate real estate broker, credits his time at ��ӽ紫ý for preparing him for professional success and the university’s diversity for expanding his worldview.

“I graduated from a private high school and stepped into a different world [at ��ӽ紫ý],” he said. “Mason opened my eyes to all the great things our country offers. I met and became friends with many people of different backgrounds and cultures.”

He’s most proud of his work on the House Appropriations Committee during the 2024 General Assembly session, in which he championed a budget amendment that accelerated the timeline for construction projects on Interstate 81 in Winchester and Frederick County.

“I-81 is the main artery for traffic in my district. Without having this highway move traffic efficiently, our daily business and way of life would become stagnant,” he explained.

Civic engagement is a key element to Wiley’s personal and professional development. His path to the House of Delegates began with his service on the Winchester Planning Commission; he served on the board for five years and was chairman for three of those years. He also served on the Winchester City Council from 2014 to 2020, where he was vice president in 2015 and president in 2018.

He encourages fellow Patriots to explore community service. “You do not need to be a politician. Just do something that you are passionate about,” he said.

“Civic engagement and community service will open doors to many opportunities and give you a sense of gratification,” Wiley said. “ You will make contacts and build relationships that will become lifelong connections, some invaluable. Even better, it can enable your career ambitions to enhance your future success.”

Jeremy McPike

Jeremy McPike. Photo provided

Senator Jeremy McPike represents Virginians in parts of Prince William and Stafford counties. He’s been a member of the Virginia Senate since 2016.

For several years, McPike served as a member of the welcome wagon duo greeting Mason students at the General Assembly as part of Mason Lobbies, the annual lobbying campaign spearheaded by the Student Government.

He said he is immensely proud of the university’s commitment to diversity, innovation, and excellence. ��ӽ紫ý also instilled in him a strong commitment to public service and community engagement. McPike has served the citizens of Dale City as a volunteer firefighter and EMT for 20 years with the Dale City Fire Department, where he is an assistant chief.

He’s proud of his work with colleagues across the political aisle during the 2024 General Assembly session to increase teacher pay, protect the environment, and prioritize public education.

Mental health is also a top priority for McPike and his constituents. During the 2024 session, he secured an additional $4.6 million in funding for the Prince William County Crisis Receiving Center to expand to youth services. “The youth of our county and surrounding areas can receive the critical mental health care services they deserve,” he said.

As McPike reflected on his time at ��ӽ紫ý, he emphasize for current and future ��ӽ紫ý students the importance of learning outside the classroom.

“Remember that your time at Mason is a unique opportunity to build a strong foundation for your future career and personal growth,” he said. “Actively engage your professors, participate in internships, and enjoy the vibrant campus life. Stay curious, be resilient, and always strive to make a positive impact in your community.”

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��ӽ紫ý’s startup incubator puts CEO on path to developing accessible electronic health care records

Sarah Holland — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 19:23:15 +0000

��ӽ紫ý’s startup incubator puts CEO on path to developing accessible electronic health care records Sarah Holland Mon, 07/15/2024 - 15:23

Jourdan Saunders is a licensed speech-language pathologist and CEO of The Resource Key, which she founded to assist organizations in developing accessible marketing solutions for people with disabilities and facilitate compliance with regulations related to accessibility.

Saunders met Toni Andrews, senior associate director, Community and Local Government Relations at ��ӽ紫ý's Mason Square, via the Arlington Chamber of Commerce’s Education and Workforce Development Committee, who connected Saunders with Paula Sorrell, associate vice president, innovation and economic development, Mason Enterprise.

Sorrell suggested that Saunders participate in the Innovation Commercialization Assistance Program (ICAP), which helps Virginia’s inventors and entrepreneurs take the right steps in bringing new technologies and innovations to market. ICAP is part of Virginia’s Small Business Development Centers at ��ӽ紫ý and one of the many entrepreneurship programs offered at the university.

Jourdan Saunders. Photo provided

Saunders’ clinical experience exposed her to the need for industrial accessibility services. “As my clients transitioned into the workforce, there weren’t many opportunities due to a lack of accessibility and the perception that disabled people aren’t capable of working certain jobs.”

When Saunders met with Sorrell, they discussed the founding of her company and its next phase of growth—the development of a health care platform that would increase accessibility to electronic health records.

ICAP participants complete five three-hour sessions centered on customer discovery, conduct at least 20 customer discovery interviews, complete supplemental assignments, and meet with dedicated mentors.

Mentorship is a key component of ICAP. Each participant is paired with a dedicated mentor who provides feedback on each discovery interview, shares insight as an entrepreneur, and introduces mentees to connections that align with their goals.

“I’m grateful to have been introduced to ICAP,” Saunders said. “Having a dedicated mentor provide specific and actionable feedback following customer discovery interviews was very helpful.”

Program participants are also vital to network expansion. “Networking with my fellow cohort members expanded my reach,” Saunders said. “Many of my clients are in different states. However, through ICAP, I’ve made local connections that I can leverage as I grow my business.”

Once participants complete ICAP, they continue to have access to resources. The ICAP team stays engaged as a company progresses through its milestones, becoming a later-stage startup and eventually transitioning from a startup to a growth company and the unique needs this entails.

Since completing ICAP, Saunders has attended an industry conference and expanded her network. She expects to have a prototype of the accessible health care application ready for beta testing within the next six months.

“ICAP’s focus on customer discovery, mentorship, and resources are invaluable benefits for entrepreneurs,” Saunders said. “You become part of a community, an ecosystem, that’s continuous.”

��ӽ紫ý’s Small Business Development Centers offer ICAP free of charge as part of the Mason Virginia Promise, a pathway to a bachelor's degree or help starting a business for any Virginian who wants one.

Mason Enterprise Center is the place for innovation

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Virginia budget increases funding for ��ӽ紫ý students, infrastructure, and employee compensation

Colleen Rich — Fri, 17 May 2024 14:08:09 +0000

Virginia budget increases funding for ��ӽ紫ý students, infrastructure, and employee compensation Colleen Rich Fri, 05/17/2024 - 10:08

��ӽ紫ý received essential investments in its students, faculty and staff from Virginia’s biennium budget, which the General Assembly passed and Governor Glenn Youngkin signed on May 13, 2024. The funding goes into effect July 1, 2024.

��ӽ紫ý’s priorities included increased support for university operations, student financial aid, Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Program (VMSDEP) support, capital investments, and employee compensation.

“We are grateful to our partners in the General Assembly who have been tremendous supporters of ��ӽ紫ý’s mission to provide accessible and affordable education pathways,” said ��ӽ紫ý President Gregory Washington. “We look forward to continued collaboration in support of all students across the commonwealth.”

Students and Programs

From left, Sen. Mamie Locke, Del. Kannan Srinivasan, Sen. Louise Lucas, Sen. Saddam Salim, Mayor Derrick Wood (Dumfries), Sen. Jennifer Carroll Foy, and Sen. Dave Marsden take a tour of the MIX makerspace. Photo by Cristian Torres/Office of University Branding

The biennium budget provides ��ӽ紫ý an additional $11.5 million in each year of the biennium to maintain students’ affordable access to quality education, attract and retain faculty and staff in positions delivering critical services needed to serve students, and to increase degree completion. Senator L. Louise Lucas, President pro tempore of the Senate and chair of the Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee, and Delegate Luke Torian, chair of the Virginia House Appropriations Committee championed efforts to secure investments in higher education. These efforts were supported by Senator Dave Marsden and Delegates David Bulova and Paul Krizek, who carried budget amendments to increase operating support.

Student financial aid will increase by $2.9 million in FY25 and $3.3 million in FY26. Additionally, legislators retained $37.5 million in funding to enhance efforts to recruit and retain students eligible for Pell Grant assistance across all institutions.

The budget provides state support to help offset the cost of tuition waiver programs, such as the Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program, helping to ensure the sustainability of these programs going forward.

Infrastructure and Compensation

Delegate Michelle Maldonado and Senator Jeremy McPike sponsored budget amendments to authorize pre-planning for a facility to house interdisciplinary science and engineering programs on the Fairfax Campus. Senator McPike led efforts to secure funding for maintenance reserve, supporting existing capital projects and one-time funding for projects with more immediate need of repair and updates.

Additionally, state employees will receive a pay raise each year of the biennium.

Appropriators visited Fairfax Campus

From left, Sen. Saddam Salim, Del. Mark Sickles, Del. Holly Seibold, Sen. Louis Lucas, Sen. Jennifer Carroll Foy, Del. Luke Torian, Del. Paul Krizek, Sen. Mamie Locke, Sen. Barbara Favola, Sen. Dave Marsden, Del. Kannan Srinivasan, and Fairfax County Public Schools Board Member Marcia St. John-Cunning. Photo by Cristian Torres/Office of University Branding

On March 26, a delegation of state appropriators led by Senator L. Louise Lucas and Delegate Luke Torian visited the Fairfax Campus to hear directly from students and administrators about the impact of the state’s investment in higher education. They toured the Mason Innovation Exchange (MIX) Makerspace in Horizon Hall, stopping to speak with student innovators and entrepreneurs. Senators Barbara Favola, Jennifer Carrol Foy, Mamie Locke, Dave Marsden, and Saddam Salim, and Delegates Mark Sickles, Holly Seibold, Kannan Srinivasan, and Paul Krizek participated in the event.

“We’re at ��ӽ紫ý because we want our students to know how much we value them. We’re investing in them through this budget,” said Torian.

An investment in Mason students is an investment in the commonwealth’s robust economic prosperity. A recent study by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia found that 73% of in-state ��ӽ紫ý graduates reside in Virginia—3% higher than other Virginia public four-year institutions. For out-of-state ��ӽ紫ý students, 29% settle in Virginia after graduation, 9% higher than the state average.

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Students visit Richmond to advocate for Mason at annual Mason Lobbies event

Colleen Rich — Fri, 23 Feb 2024 19:26:59 +0000

Students visit Richmond to advocate for Mason at annual Mason Lobbies event Colleen Rich Fri, 02/23/2024 - 14:26

More than 70 ��ӽ紫ý students traveled to Richmond on Thursday, Feb. 15, to advocate for Mason’s legislative priorities during Mason Lobbies.

Mason students Charlotte Bell (left) and Adila Aghayeva (right) visited Delegate Holly Seibold (D-12). Photo provided

The eager group was welcomed to the General Assembly by Mason President Gregory Washington and Mason alumni—Majority Leader Charniele Herring (D-4), BA Economics ’93, and Senator Jeremy McPike (D-29), BA Government and Politics ’97.

Sporting their trademark green and gold scarves and filled with Patriot Pride, students dispersed through the legislative offices prepared to discuss their agenda items with lawmakers and their staff.

^{Mason Lobbies is an opportunity for students to use their voice to improve our university and learn about the Virginia legislative process,” said Adila Aghayeva, a first-year student from Azerbaijan studying government and international politics.}

The primary ask was for an additional $18 million to address historical underfunding concerning appropriations aid for undergraduate students, echoing the State Council of Higher Education of Virginia’s recommendation.

From left Mason student Honestie Kern, Delegate Patrick Hope, and Mason students Isabela Vieira and Griffin Crouch met during annual Mason Lobbies event. Photo provided

Other agenda items included additional funding for the Virginia Military Survivors and Dependent Education Program, increased funding for Mason’s 26 Small Business Development Centers serving the commonwealth, capital investment for the proposed Student Innovation Factory on the Fairfax Campus and Life Sciences and Engineering Building at Mason’s SciTech Campus, and maintenance reserve support funding.

Charlotte Bell, a first-year student studying government and international politics, visited Delegate Holly Seibold (D-12). Bell shared the insights she gained from participating in the lobbying campaign. “Lawmakers are working on many different bills and resolutions simultaneously, just like Mason’s Student Government. They’re also very open to listening to our voices and opinions.”

Legislators said they value the opportunity to meet with constituents.

^{As lawmakers, we need to hear from you,” Seibold said. “We need to know what’s important to you and how our work impacts your life. These visits are very critical to our work.”}

Student Government Vice President Nell Palumbo, a junior government and international politics major, helped plan last year’s Mason Lobbies. “Mason is extremely valuable to the commonwealth, and legislators know we are underfunded,” she said. “After having many great conversations with legislators, I think we are making actual progress toward closing the funding gap for Mason. Every year we get a little bit closer to our goal. I’m proud to be part of that change.”

Zayd Hamid, a senior studying public administration who is pursuing an accelerated master of public policy degree, said he believes students have a role in advocating for Mason. “A great deal of student complaints related to the cost of attendance, building conditions, etc. can be ameliorated through increased support from the commonwealth. Advocating for and ensuring the passage of Mason’s legislative priorities is important to me as a student. Students succeed when the university succeeds.”

Hamid said he encourages more students to get involved with next year’s event. “Help Mason achieve its goals, and it will be in a better position to support you.”

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Mason’s impact flourishes with alumni legislators in Richmond

Colleen Rich — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 18:57:19 +0000

Mason’s impact flourishes with alumni legislators in Richmond Colleen Rich Wed, 02/14/2024 - 13:57

The legislative session is underway in Virginia’s General Assembly. ��ӽ紫ý’s presence continues to make an impact in Richmond, with an increased number of proud Mason Patriots serving the commonwealth.

Mason’s General Assembly alumni include Majority Leader Delegate Charniele Herring (D-4), BA Economics ’93; Senators Jeremy McPike (D-29), BA Government and Politics ’97 MPA ’06; Stella Pekarsky (D-36), BA Government and Politics ’00, MEd ’03; Bryce Reeves (R-28), MPA ’99; Saddam Salim (D-37), BS Public Administration ’12, MPH ’15; and Glen Sturtevant (R-12), JD ’06; and Delegates Michael J. Webert (R-61), BA Communications ’10; and Bill Wiley (R-32), BS Economics ’93, MEd ’98.

Here is the first in an occasional series spotlighting Mason alumni in the legislature:

Charniele Herring. Photo provided

Majority Leader Delegate Charniele Herring

Majority Leader Delegate Charniele Herring exemplifies the alumni motto: Once a Patriot, Always a Patriot. She welcomed students at Mason Lobbies, served as the Winter 2020 Commencement speaker, and hosted ceremonies for President Gregory Washington’s investiture. She also volunteers as a member of the Schar Gender and Policy Advisory Board and University Life Advisory Board.

“��ӽ紫ý is unlike other universities,” Herring said. “We pride ourselves on the number of people accepted, not the number excluded. Mason pride runs throughout Virginia because of the love and dedication of its alumni. The university continues to fulfill its mission of inclusivity and preparing the next generation of leaders, in science, politics, education, and so much more. That’s why I’m proud to call myself a Mason alumna.”

One of Herring’s priorities this session is expanding broadband internet infrastructure. “Closing the digital divide would expand economic and educational opportunities to disadvantaged communities across Virginia.”

Herring takes pride in being a voice for her constituents. “I am an advocate for women’s rights, voting rights, and looking out for our most vulnerable populations. I’m lucky to be able to have the support of the communities in my district and be an advocate for their interests.”

She urges students to pursue their passion. “If you are passionate about what you do, success will follow. Make a plan, look for and experience opportunities, and do your best to enact change in the world around you.”

Glen Sturtevant. Photo provided

Senator Glen Sturtevant

Senator Glen Sturtevant’s journey to Capitol Square was nurtured at Mason. While pursuing his law degree, he worked to protect citizens by prosecuting crimes in the local Commonwealth Attorney's Office. After his Mason years, he was elected as a member of the Richmond School Board advocating for students and their families. A commitment to public service is at the core of Sturtevant’s legislative work.

His agenda for this session includes empowering parents in educational decisions, reducing taxes, supporting law enforcement, promoting employment opportunities, and ensuring that veterans receive their benefits.

True to his beginnings, Sturtevant challenges students to lean into service. “Advocate for your community, engage in the civic process, and embrace Mason’s spirit of innovation.”

Saddem Salim. Photo provided

Senator Saddam Salim

Senator Saddam Salim is the latest alumnus to join the green and gold contingent in Richmond.

Salim won his Senate seat in the recent 2023 election. His district encompasses the City of Fairfax and Mason’s Fairfax Campus, Falls Church City, and parts of Fairfax County.

“I’m a proud ��ӽ紫ý alumnus and honored to serve in the Senate of Virginia. This milestone underscores the exceptional quality of the education I received at Mason,” said Salim.

His Mason experience paved the way for his career. He’s a senior consultant providing financial advice to federal clients at 11th Hour Service. He previously worked at PenFed Credit Union, Kearney and Company, and the United States Institute of Peace.

His journey as a first-generation Bangladeshi immigrant adapting to life in America informs his views on issues everyday Virginians encounter. When his family settled in Northern Virginia, they endured unexpected hardships—homelessness, economic hardship, and a health care crisis. However, they overcame those barriers with the assistance of community organizations and government programs.

Salim has a history of advocating for the inclusion of diverse perspectives in the political process. Before his Senate run, Salim was active in local politics, where he was the founding member of the Fairfax County Democratic Committee’s Asian and Pacific Islander and Black Caucuses. His advocacy propelled him into public service.

“People like me were not adequately represented in public office. I felt a responsibility to step forward and be a voice for everyday people facing various challenges,” he said. In the current General Assembly session, he is championing legislation addressing affordable housing, public safety, and the overall well-being of all Virginians.

Similar to Herring, Salim encourages Mason students to “always pursue your dreams. Take advantage of opportunities in academics, extracurricular activities, or community engagement. By following your dreams and staying committed to your goals, you can make a meaningful impact on your life and the lives of those around you.”

Students get front-row seat to legislative process at Mason Lobbies

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Building community and connections in Arlington

Lauren Reuscher — Wed, 08 Nov 2023 18:44:02 +0000

Building community and connections in Arlington Lauren Reuscher Wed, 11/08/2023 - 13:44

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The Movers and Shakers Mixer event returned to Mason Square in late September, connecting ��ӽ紫ý students with Arlington’s business, government, and community leaders.

The Movers and Shakers Mixer gave students the opportunity to connect with leaders in the local Arlington community. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Since its inception in 2019, the Movers and Shakers Mixer has become a highly anticipated networking event for the Mason Square community. This year, more than 150 students, faculty, staff, and community members participated.

Bryanna Buker, a graduate student pursuing a master’s degree in international security, aspires to work in transnational crime at an intelligence agency. As a new resident, Buker said the event was an ideal opportunity to engage with other community-focused Arlingtonians. Her future career prospects also motivated her to attend.

Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

“I wanted to meet people who could help shape my ideas of potential career opportunities post-graduation,” Buker said. “I’ve been debating going to law school after I finish my program. Meeting the recruitment team from the Antonin Scalia Law School allowed me to learn how to transition to law school.”

Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Caroline Wesson, a doctoral candidate in political science, regularly attends Movers and Shakers. “I always leave with several business cards and excitement about ways I can get involved and engage my community through my research and skills,” Wesson said. “I was fortunate to speak with individuals from business and government who are passionate about economic growth and inclusion in our community, and those interested in how technology is transforming our society.”

Attendees had the opportunity to enter a raffle for one-on-one networking lunches with Arlington leaders. Amber Pittman, a graduate student in global commerce and policy, was one of the drawing winners. She recently connected with Jennifer Owens, president and CEO of Arlington Community Foundation, for their lunch meeting.

Owens expressed gratitude for the opportunity. “Thanks to the staff for creating events and opportunities, like Movers and Shakers, to foster connections between community members and students,” she said.

Wexton’s visit to Science and Technology Campus explores research and economic impact

Colleen Rich — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 20:18:31 +0000

Wexton’s visit to Science and Technology Campus explores research and economic impact Colleen Rich Wed, 08/30/2023 - 16:18

Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton visits the ��ӽ紫ý Science and Technology Campus
Photo by Evan Cantwell/��ӽ紫ý

U.S. Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton toured ��ӽ紫ý’s Science and Technology Campus on Tuesday, August 29. The campus is located in Virginia’s 10th Congressional District, which Wexton represents.

During her visit, Wexton delved into Mason’s economic impact and partnerships with Prince William County and the City of Manassas and explored SciTech’s research labs. Neuroscience PhD student Dylan Scarton was among the researchers presenting their work. Scarton shared his endeavors into developing a biomaterial for peripheral nerve regeneration. His findings could lead to optimized recovery outcomes and reduced healing time for those suffering from severe peripheral nerve damage.

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SciTech’s ‘social butterfly’ retires after 30 years of service

Lauren Reuscher — Wed, 05 Apr 2023 17:11:34 +0000

SciTech’s ‘social butterfly’ retires after 30 years of service Lauren Reuscher Wed, 04/05/2023 - 13:11

Molly Grove, SciTech Campus. Photo by Ron Aira

After more than 30 years of service, Molly Grove, the associate director for Community and Local Government Relations at ��ӽ紫ý’s Science and Technology Campus, is retiring.

Grove’s Mason journey began in 1992 as a part-time coordinator, planning the university’s Commencement and convocation ceremonies. Over the years, she has earned a reputation as a “social butterfly” and the “face of the SciTech Campus.”

“Molly has been the SciTech Campus’ lifeline to the community, working with business, government, and education leaders since its beginning. She’s left an indelible fingerprint on SciTech,” said Ron Carmichael, the campus’ director of administration and operations.

In addition to relationship-building, Grove leads event planning at SciTech. She was especially busy in the past year, coordinating the triple groundbreaking of the Life Sciences and Engineering Building, Innovation Town Center, and University Village in honor of Mason’s 50th anniversary.

“There have been so many wonderful memories during my time at Mason,” Grove said. “I will always look back at representing the university in the community with great affection.”

Grove served on many business and civic boards on Mason’s behalf. She was involved in the launch of Leadership Prince William, a nonprofit organization focused on training individuals and organizations to enrich the community through collaborative leadership. In 2008, she was a member of Leadership Prince William’s introductory class. She went on to serve as co-chair of its Board of Regents.

Mason’s rewarding relationship with the Prince William Chamber of Commerce is due largely to Grove’s efforts. As chair of the Prince William–Greater Manassas Chamber of Commerce, she co-managed the 2010 merger of that chamber with the Prince William Regional Chamber of Commerce.

“The Prince William Chamber has been a great partner for Mason,” Grove said. “Many of our efforts at SciTech were supported by the chamber including Mason’s 50th Anniversary Celebration that was held last fall.”

One of Grove’s chief accomplishments was the conceptualizing of a statue to honor former senator Charles J. Colgan for his 40 years of service in the Virginia Senate. Colgan was a staunch supporter of higher education and played a pivotal role in securing land for the establishment of the SciTech Campus.

The statue’s unveiling in 2016 coincided with Colgan’s 90th birthday. Seven former Virginia governors, two former lieutenant governors, and a congressman were among the distinguished guests in attendance at the dedication ceremony.

“Seeing the smile on the senator’s face when he stood next to his life-size statue at the installation was an unforgettable moment,” Grove said.

With retirement ahead, Grove plans to spend more time in her garden, crafting, and improving her golf game. She’s especially looking forward to doing some landscaping.

“I love getting on my John Deere to mow my three acres,” she said.

“Molly has provided me with advice and guidance every step of the way,” Carmichael said. “I wish her all the best in this new phase of her life. She will definitely be missed.”

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Students get front-row seat to legislative process at Mason Lobbies

Colleen Rich — Wed, 01 Feb 2023 18:05:20 +0000

Students get front-row seat to legislative process at Mason Lobbies Colleen Rich Wed, 02/01/2023 - 13:05

The 40 ��ӽ紫ý students who traveled to Richmond for Mason Lobbies on Jan. 26 shared their college experience with legislators and highlighted the need for increasing financial aid for Mason students, increased funding per student, and increased staff and faculty salaries for the university to be more competitive in the Washington, D.C., metro area. They also highlighted Mason’s diversity and production of STEM and workforce-ready graduates.

Mason Lobbies group poses for a group shot outside the State Capitol. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Creative Services

This was the first in-person Mason Lobbies since 2019 due to the COVID pandemic. The joint effort is led by the Office of Student Involvement and the Office of Government and Community Relations. Students were accompanied by Mason President Gregory Washington, Vice President for University Life Rose Pascarell, and members of Mason’s Community and Government Relations team.

“In addition to the policy positions Mason focuses on throughout the year, students brought their own anecdotes and experiences which drove those points home to legislators,” said Lauren Posey, associate director of state government relations at Mason.

Paul J. Wyche, a sophomore cybersecurity engineering major and speaker of Mason’s 43rd Student Senate, helped plan the day. “Our goal was not only to make legislators aware of the lack of funding Mason receives in comparison to similarly sized institutions but also get them energized and passionate about changing this,” he said.

Following the spirited welcome, students split up into groups and made their way to lawmakers’ offices.

Students met with Virginia Secretary of Education Aimee Rogstad Guidera and Mason alumni Delegate Charniele Herring, BA Economics ’93, and Senator Jeremy S. McPike, BA Public Administration ’97, MPA ’06.

Photo by Evan Cantwell/Creative Services

“Get engaged in the political process now,” McPike told the students. “Everything we, as legislators, do touches your lives. Policy, regulations, and education it’s all intertwined.”

Michele Adjei-Fah, a senior biology major who plans to attend medical school, said Mason Lobbies is a unique opportunity for students to use their voices to improve Mason. “It’s important for students to highlight their concerns and ensure Mason receives the support it needs from the state. Being able to address concerns directly to legislators is empowering.”

For freshman government and international politics major Gabriella Grabovska, a native of Ukraine, Mason Lobbies was a front-row seat to American democracy. “It was a great experience for students to look inside how government really works and how decisions are made, while legislators learned more about Mason. Hopefully, they will offer more support for our institution.”

“Legislators are just like us,” Wyche added. “They may seem like intimidating individuals who don’t have time to hear your concerns, but that’s certainly not the case. Most of them enjoy hearing from people, even if they aren’t their direct constituents.”

Delegate Michelle Maldonado said events like Mason Lobbies are valuable for legislators because they hear diverse perspectives that help them make better decisions. “No one group should be burdened with changing society. It’s all of our responsibility to make society better. Listening to diverse groups of people helps us to make better decisions.”

She encouraged students to believe in themselves. “You have all that you need to succeed,” she said “Surround yourself with people who will bring out your skills and talents. There are more people that want you to succeed than fail.”

Posey echoed Maldonado’s assessment.

“The students were professional, organized, and effective,” Posey said. I know we’re all going to be in good hands with this next generation of leaders and advocates.”

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Mason alum Debbie Jones reflects on 32 years of leadership at Prince William County Chamber

Colleen Rich — Fri, 09 Dec 2022 21:52:11 +0000

Mason alum Debbie Jones reflects on 32 years of leadership at Prince William County Chamber Colleen Rich Fri, 12/09/2022 - 16:52

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Business advocate. Connector. Artist. Proud Mason alumna.

Those are a few words that describe Prince William Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Debbie Jones, BA ’78. After more than 32 years of service in the Chamber of Commerce, Jones is retiring this December.

Debbie Jones. Photo provided

She began her Chamber career in 1990 as the communications coordinator at the Prince William County–Greater Manassas Chamber. She was promoted to president and CEO in 1993.

“As an art major who never took a business class, I never expected to spend most of my career running a business organization,” said Jones.

Mason’s hallmarks of innovative problem-solving and collaborative teamwork are universal, Jones said, and students across every discipline learn and carry them with them into the workforce.

Jones reflected, “I pride myself on always finding creative ways to solve a problem, work with others, and form a team to get things accomplished.”

In 2010, she faced one of the greatest challenges in her career—managing the merger of the Prince William–Greater Manassas and the Prince William Regional Chambers of Commerce. As chief operating officer, she worked to transition Chamber members, staff, and Board of Directors into the newly created Prince William Chamber of Commerce. In July 2014, she was promoted to the Prince William Chamber’s top job, president and CEO.

Jones is a renowned connector. “Over the years, I helped to connect the business community, governments, educators, and not-for-profit organizations.” She’s most proud of the work that’s been accomplished at the Prince William Chamber to make it a go-to resource for organizations seeking collaborative relationships and partnerships.

Her work with the Prince William Chamber expanded her relationship with Mason. She is the membership chair of Mason’s Science and Technology Campus Advisory Board, where she has been a member since the board’s inception in 1999.

The Prince William Chamber has also sponsored SciTech Campus events, such as the 50th Anniversary Celebration that was held earlier this fall.

“Debbie and the Prince William Chamber are big supporters of Mason,” said Molly Grove, associate director of community and local government relations at the Science and Technology Campus. “Through Debbie and the Chamber, we’ve been able to make connections to key regional partners that have positioned Mason for success in the years to come. She’s a real gem and a great partner. She’s a special friend!”

Jones’s impact also extends to Mason students. Mason School of Recreation, Health and Tourism students have held internships at the Chamber, where they can apply their classroom knowledge in the real world.

She encourages all students to “take advantage of every opportunity, take chances, do new things, and meet people. You never know whom you will meet and how they will change your life.”

In 2019, Mason’s Alumni Association recognized Jones’s accomplishments with the Thomas W. Iszard IV, Distinguished Alumni Award from the College of Visual and Performing Arts. She calls upon fellow alumni to, “Make a difference! Get out there, meet people, and give back—your time, treasures, and talent.”

What’s next on the horizon for Jones?

The next phase of her life, “Debbie 2.0,” features plenty of self-care, specifically walking and traveling, spending time with family and friends, devoting more time to her art, and making time to relax and regroup.

While her time at the Chamber is concluding, Jones plans to continue to use her connections and skills to make a difference.

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