Emma Michels

Ashley Byrum is May Employee of the Month

Colleen Rich — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 19:51:58 +0000

Ashley Byrum is May Employee of the Month Colleen Rich Fri, 04/28/2023 - 15:51

Ashley Byrum demonstrates the ��ӽ紫ý value “We Thrive Together.”

President Washington with May Employee of the Month Ashley Byrum. Photo by Cristian Torres/Strategic Communications

Colleagues say Byrum is a skilled and dedicated member of the Human Resources team and her contributions impact everyone at Mason. Byrum, a senior communication specialist, was commended in particular for her work during the pandemic, when the team relied on her to disseminate key information to all faculty and staff with precision and grace under tight deadlines. For taking on a multitude of responsibilities with compassion and her positive attitude, Byrum has been recognized as the May Employee of the Month.

“Ashley makes a difference at Mason with her strategic, thorough, and responsible approach to her work, and her empathetic and person-centered personal values are a great complement to that, creating communications that are clear, concise, and infused with humanity,” said Robyn Madar, director for Organizational Development and Learning in HR. “She negotiates edits with skill and heart, gives feedback with grace and positive intent, and can take anything from a set of Post-it notes to a carefully written draft and turn it into something that is clear, concise, audience-focused, and mindful of the culture we seek to create and sustain for our faculty and staff.”

“Ashley has the gift of taking someone’s thoughts/ideas/visions and crafting them into a reality,” said Bridget Peabody, training coordinator for Organizational Development and Learning, “I love that she always finds a way to make things fun, which is not always easy with the types of communication HR puts out.”

Byrum is also a two-time alum, earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees in communication at Mason.

How you got to Mason

I’ve been a part of the Mason community for 10 years now and have played the role of student, researcher, and staff. During this time, amongst a lot of other things, I earned my undergraduate degree here, my master’s degree here, and met my wonderful husband here. The university is still giving so much to me after all these years; all I’ve wanted to do, and still want to do, is give back to others the same way the university had given so much to me. I couldn’t be more grateful for the opportunities I’ve been given and the relationships I’ve built. I will forever be thankful for my time at Mason.

Best day on the job

The best day on the job for me was when we got to unveil the brand-new Human Resources website. I worked with my team for years to develop this new website and to see it come to fruition was a dream come true.

What do you like best about working at Mason

What I like best about working at Mason is how Mason encourages their faculty and staff to engage in new learning opportunities and develop their talents. I’m constantly learning and growing here, and it’s all because Mason has created an environment that fosters learning not only for their students, but also for their faculty and staff.

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

When I’m not working, you’ll find me volunteering at my local animal shelter, trying new recipes, going on walks in the park, hanging out with kitty cat Bella, and sharing a peaceful evening with my husband and a good movie.

Topics

Faculty and Staff News

Employee of the Month

Human Resources

Alumni

Off the Clock: Caroline Masakayan makes a difference as a court-appointed special advocate (CASA) for children

Lauren Reuscher — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 13:15:12 +0000

Off the Clock: Caroline Masakayan makes a difference as a court-appointed special advocate (CASA) for children Lauren Reuscher Thu, 04/13/2023 - 09:15

Life is much more than time spent on the clock. In this series, we highlight the unique hobbies and volunteer activities of Mason's talented faculty and staff.

Caroline Masakayan, student enrichment coordinator in the College of Education and Human Development and court-appointed special advocate (CASA) for children. Photo provided

As the student enrichment coordinator in ��ӽ紫ý’s College of Education and Human Development (CEHD), Caroline Masakayan helps organize a variety of student activities, including writers’ retreats, destress events, the CEHD Student Research Symposium, and the college’s Degree Celebration. She also supports student organizations and the college’s two learning communities. Before arriving at Mason in June 2022, Masakayan worked as a third-grade teacher.

Outside of work, Masakayan volunteers as a court-appointed special advocate (CASA), helping children experiencing tough living situations, abuse, and neglect. She has been volunteering since February 2022, helping kids in need and building strong relationships with them.

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

I learned about the Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program years ago when I was in college. A mentor mentioned that she was a CASA and explained that CASAs work to advocate for the best interests of children who have experienced abuse or neglect. I remember thinking how difficult the work sounded, and honestly didn’t think about it again for years.

Then, in my first year as a third-grade teacher, I had a student who was living in a foster care placement. I was contacted by the student’s CASA to provide information about how the student was doing in school—socially, academically, and behaviorally. The CASA was able to add that information to her report and use it to shape her recommendation of next steps for the child and family. Again, I thought how hard that work must be, but something stuck with me this time.

When I started thinking about leaving the classroom in the early months of 2022, I knew I still wanted to be able to work with kids somehow, and being a CASA seemed like a perfect fit.

What is the time commitment? Does it vary at different times of year?

The time commitment varies depending on what is happening in the case. The work consists of home visits, writing up notes and reports, and continuing education. Generally, it only takes a few hours a month. That being said, report writing is a lengthy process, so the commitment is a bit more in months when your case goes to court.

What has been the most meaningful or memorable experience you’ve had in this role?

The most meaningful part of this work is the relationships with the kids. Once the relationships are established, it’s fun to see the kids light up when you walk in the door. Stability is often a challenge for these kids, as they can sometimes be moved multiple times throughout the duration of their case. Being a steady, friendly, familiar face can be a real source of comfort for the kids, and it’s special to be able to play that role.

What lessons have you learned through this experience?

This experience has given me a lot of perspective. People experience very real, very difficult things all the time. You truly never know what someone is going through and a smile or a little kindness can go a long way.

What else do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

Exercise is my favorite way to clear my mind and relieve stress, so I’ve been really enjoying my time at the gym. Lately I’ve also been reading a lot and watching lots of good documentaries.

Submit a Nomination for Off the Clock

Topics

Faculty and Staff News

Off the Clock

College of Education and Human Development

Children and Youth

Volunteerism

Women's History Month

Katy Blackburn is April Employee of the Month

Colleen Rich — Mon, 03 Apr 2023 20:10:51 +0000

Katy Blackburn is April Employee of the Month Colleen Rich Mon, 04/03/2023 - 16:10

Meet more Employees of the Month

Amir Hasan is September Employee of the Month
September 2, 2024
Brianna Alford is August Employee of the Month
August 1, 2024
Sophie Donora is July Employee of the Month
July 1, 2024
Christopher Wagaman is the June Employee of the Month
June 3, 2024
Silke Vrouletis is May Employee of the Month
May 1, 2024

Kathryn “Katy” Blackburn hit the ground running in September 2021 when she joined ��ӽ紫ý as a program assistant for Division of Education Leadership and Policy in the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD).

President Gregory Washington with April Employee of the Month Katy Blackburn. Photo by Cristian Torres/Strategic Communications

In this role, she provides administrative assistance to faculty, helps the graduate program perform with efficiency, solves departmental roadblocks, and stays proactive in her communications. Colleagues say she’s a valued member of the division, and they are grateful to have her as a part of their team.

Blackburn, who is also a Mason alum with an MEd in curriculum and instruction, was commended for her willingness to learn new tasks and for taking the initiative to educate herself on functions of the division. For juggling multiple responsibilities with compassion and mindfulness of others, Blackburn has been recognized as the April Employee of the Month.

“Since Katy has been a member of our division team, I have found her to be intellectually curious, flexible, open-minded, solution-oriented, and up for a good challenge,” said Regina Biggs, associate professor and co-academic program coordinator of the Education Leadership Program. “She also demonstrates excellent interpersonal skills, is proactive in her communications, works well independently and as a team player, and has a precise eye for detail.”

“Her outstanding work with faculty, staff, and students demonstrates her many talents and speaks to her unwavering commitment to the division and CEHD,” said Farnoosh Shahrokhi, associate professor and director of the Division of Education Leadership and Policy. “She has been tireless in working with potential students and guiding them through the application process.”

“Katy has completely transformed the operation of our ed policy programs in terms of student-facing services, helping both current and prospective students feel welcome and supported, and ensuring their Mason experience is the best it possibly can be,” said Anne Holton, a professor for education policy and senior fellow in EdPolicyForward. “She is truly an unsung hero and a perfect candidate for the Employee of the Month award.”

How you got to Mason:

I am a former FCPS fourth grade teacher and retired from teaching in 2019 to pursue opportunities within my family business. At the time my husband and brother and sister-in-law owned an Orangetheory Fitness Studio and a Dogtopia DayCare in Falls Church. I transitioned to working part-time in order to have the flexibility to accommodate the needs of my 16-year-old son, who has autism. Then when the [COVID] shutdown occurred in 2020, my husband and I decided to sell our businesses and I stayed home full-time. Once the world was back open, I knew I wanted to work again and contribute to something meaningful and purposeful. I love the education field, but knew that teaching was just not possible. I looked into the next best thing…��ӽ紫ý!

Best day on the job:

The best day on the job was probably when our division held their 20th Annual EDLE Leader Launch Conference last fall. My team and I worked for months getting this event organized and planned for the 110+ people in attendance. The praise we received from students and staff on how informative, helpful, and professional it turned out was so rewarding and meaningful.

What do you like best about working at Mason:

The best thing about working at Mason is the challenge it provides me and the sense of purpose I feel within my department. Working with future leaders is so worthwhile and important, and I feel a part of something bigger that impacts the communities of our students. I also enjoy the people I work with and the friendships I’ve made within the college.

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

When I am not working, I enjoy exercising and being active. I grew up the youngest of three and would play sports with my brothers. My love for sports grew into a love for basketball, which I played throughout my school career on various teams. Once I got to college, I branched out into running and organized fitness. I ran the Marine Corps Marathon in 2005 and continue to run today…mostly at Orangetheory. I love lifting weights and pushing myself, and I am always down for an [Orangetheory Fitness] workout!

Topics

Faculty and Staff News

Employee of the Month

Human Resources

College of Education and Human Development

Carol McHugh is March Employee of the Month

Colleen Rich — Tue, 28 Feb 2023 19:40:19 +0000

Carol McHugh is March Employee of the Month Colleen Rich Tue, 02/28/2023 - 14:40

Carol McHugh defines what it means to be a well-rounded colleague and leader.

President Washington with March Employee of the Month Carol McHugh. Photo by Cristian Torres/Strategic Communications

McHugh is the academic program assistant for ��ӽ紫ý’s Bioengineering Department. Her day-to-day responsibilities include providing administrative support for students and faculty, coordinating events, supporting marketing and outreach efforts, and communicating with students and faculty on reminders and updates. Colleagues say her ability to take initiative on multiple tasks while always “bringing a smile to the office” is what makes her a great candidate for this award.

McHugh was also praised for her help with the two-day graduate recruitment open house event hosted by the College of Engineering and Computing. For exceeding expectations and upholding Mason values with positivity and kindness, McHugh has been recognized as the March Employee of the Month.

“To say that Carol has streamlined how our graduate program is administered is an understatement, and her efforts have allowed our doctoral students to finish their degrees in an average of under four years, making our program one of the best performers in this category at Mason,” said Parag Chitnis, associate professor in the Department of Bioengineering. “She is such an integral part of our department that we forget that she is a part-time employee.”

“She supports the administrative business functions of the department by creating brochures, flyers, and newsletters, as well as providing reception services, scheduling appointments and meetings,” said Kim Blackwell, professor and interim department chair. “Ms. McHugh supports our department with a kindness and grace that truly represents the Mason values of students first, acting with integrity, and being part of a team to make sure the job is done.”

“Carol is truly an exceptional and amazing person,” said Shani Ross, an assistant professor in the Department of Bioengineering, “She works with integrity and is a great team player, doing her part and jumping in wherever is needed to ensure that the department operations run smoothly.”

Carol McHugh's Employee of the Month ceremony attendees. Photo by Cristian Torres

How you got to Mason:

I worked for a long time at the K-12 school my kids attended, but once they graduated, I knew it was time for a change. Living in Fairfax, I’ve always seen Mason as part of our community, and since I enjoyed working in an educational environment, it was an obvious choice for me to look here.

Best day on the job:

I look forward to the days our department sponsors events–from being part of the event planning team to the satisfaction of seeing months of hard work come together in a successful event. In addition, our department is a bit spread out between Fairfax and SciTech [campuses] so these events bring faculty members and students together, and it’s nice to visit and catch up with everyone.

What do you like best about working at Mason:

My department! The Bioengineering Department is like a family where everyone helps and supports each other. Even through the pandemic, we held virtual happy hours. I have felt welcome and valued since my first day on the job and feel privileged to support the department. I find the research done by the faculty and students to be fascinating so I enjoy hearing about the work they are doing.

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

For the last several years, I’ve enjoyed gardening. I have a community garden plot in Fairfax and have grown a wide variety of vegetables. I’ve always enjoyed exploring and traveling as well. As a spouse of a retired foreign service officer, I got the chance to live in several different countries and to travel to many others. Next on the list is Arizona and Oman where my children are currently living and working.

Topics

Employee of the Month

Faculty and Staff News

Mason Recipe Box: Super Bowl Party Food

Lauren Reuscher — Thu, 09 Feb 2023 18:05:38 +0000

Mason Recipe Box: Super Bowl Party Food Lauren Reuscher Thu, 02/09/2023 - 13:05

The Super Bowl is a perfect opportunity to enjoy (and share) some of your favorite grub. We asked the Mason Nation for a play-by-play of their favorite Super Bowl party food. Try out these favorite recipes, submitted by ��ӽ紫ý faculty and staff. Thanks to all those who shared their recipes.

Chili Cheese Corn Salad

Submitter: Brandon Cantrell, College of Public Health

Ingredients:

2 cans of whole kernel corn (drained)
1 cup diced green pepper
1 cup mayonnaise
1/2 diced red onion
1 8 oz bag shredded cheddar cheese
1 bag Chili Cheese Fritos

Directions:

Mix corn, green pepper, red onion, mayonnaise, and cheese in a large mixing bowl.
Cover and refrigerate the mixture for at least two hours for best results.
Before serving, add crushed Chili Cheese Fritos to the salad and mix throughout. Serve with tortilla chips (preferably scoops).

Notes: Add jalapeno peppers for an extra kick.

Easy Sliders

Submitter: Kelly Chandler, Stearns Center for Teaching and Learning

Ingredients:

Slider buns (i.e. King's Hawaiian)
Sliced deli cheese (Swiss recommended)
Sliced deli meat (ham recommended)
1.5 sticks (12 tablespoons) salted butter
1.5 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
1.5 teaspoons of Worchestershire sauce
1/2 a yellow or white onion, diced

Directions:

Cut the slider buns in half (to form a top and bottom), if they don't already come sliced.
Place the bottom bun layer onto a cookie sheet or in any oven safe pan/dish.
Layer sliders with slices of cheese and meat slices. The thickness of the layers is up to you.
Place the top bun layer atop sliders to complete assembly.
Melt 1.5 sticks of salted butter in a microwave safe bowl.
Mix Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and diced onion with the melted butter in a mixing bowl.
Drizzle the mixture from the bowl on top of the assembled sliders.
Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15–20 minutes.
After they're baked, slice the sliders individually. (You can also slice the slides apart before drizzling and baking instead.)
Serve hot!

Note: Meat isn't required, but if you do want to include meat, go with thinly sliced deli meat.

Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls

Submitter: Sam Price, University Events

“Go Birds! Fly Eagles Fly! E.A.G.L.E.S EAGLES!” said Price.

Ingredients:

8–10 egg roll wrappers
1 lb thinly sliced steak, uncooked (ribeye or any cut you like)
1 white onion
8–10 slices white American cheese
1 egg
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying
Ketchup and Cheez Whiz for dipping

Directions:

Sauté onions until golden brown; set aside.
Cook meat in same pan until just cooked through; don't overcook.
Combine meat and onions and let cool.
Lay out egg roll wrappers. Stuff each wrapper with meat and onion mixture; don't overstuff. Break up the white American cheese and add to each roll.
Brush the edges and corners of each wrapper with egg wash (beaten egg and water), roll it up, tucking the sides in. Brush each roll with egg wash and put on a baking sheet.
Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until golden brown.
Serve with ketchup and Cheez Whiz for dipping.

Notes: Adjust the spice with the cayenne. Add more for more spice, or add hot sauce to your serving if you want more heat. Blend to your preferred consistency. You can also fry these in a pan with oil or fry in an air fryer for a crispier texture.

Tip: These can be made ahead of time or even frozen before frying.

White chicken chili. Photo by Melanie Balog

White Chicken Chili

Submitter: Melanie Balog, Strategic Communications

Credit and instructions: The Washington Post

Tips: The crispy tortilla topping gives the chili a chip-and-dip vibe. Kids can help with crumbling the baked tortillas. (But if you want to skip that step you can always use pre-cut tortilla strips from the salad aisle.)

Balog uses cannellini beans or Northern white beans instead of hominy. It's great with your favorite salsa on top, along with sour cream or yogurt, as suggested.

“This is not strictly a Super Bowl recipe, but it is a crowd-pleaser that my family asks for as soon as the weather turns cold. It's such a fan favorite at my house that we had it for dinner on Christmas last year!” said Balog.

Buffalo Chicken Roll-ups

Submitter: Lauren Reuscher, Strategic Communications

Ingredients:

8 tortillas
2 cups shredded chicken
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 8 oz packages of cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup Frank's Hot Sauce (add more or less, if desired)

Directions:

Combine cheddar and cream cheese with a hand mixer until creamy.
Add Frank's to desired taste.
Mix in the chicken.
Spread onto each tortilla in a thin, even layer. Leave an inch or so uncovered around the edges.
Roll up tight and wrap in plastic wrap. Repeat with all the tortillas.
Refrigerate and slice into 1-2 inch pieces after at least one hour.

"When you slice them up, you can just eat the end pieces that don't look as neat. Something for the chef. These are usually a hit at potlucks and parties," said Reuscher.

Topics

Mason Recipe Box

Faculty and Staff News

Jacqueline Connor is the February Employee of the Month

Emma Michels — Wed, 01 Feb 2023 17:03:38 +0000

Jacqueline Connor is the February Employee of the Month Emma Michels Wed, 02/01/2023 - 12:03

Jacqueline Connor exemplifies what it means to be a strong leader.

President Washington with February Employee of the Month Jacqueline Connor. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Creative Services

Connor is the corporate relations officer and development manager for the Hylton Performing Arts Center and the Science and Technology Campus. In this role, she not only manages relationships and corporate partnerships, she also represents the Hylton Center and the Science and Technology Campus by creating network opportunities and building participation through marketing and communications. Colleagues say her positive attitude, determination, and strong work ethic is what makes her an important member of the Mason community.

Connor was also commended for her work on SciTech’s 50th anniversary celebration held at the Hylton Center last fall. For going above and beyond and being a well-rounded team player, Connor has been recognized as February Employee of the Month.

“Jacque serves both the Hylton Center and the SciTech Campus by consistently developing strong relationships with the community and companies based in Prince William County on behalf of Mason,” said Mercedes Price, director of corporate and foundation relations in Mason’s Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations. “She is a delight to work with and is passionate about making a name for Mason in the region, and helping make Prince William County a better place to live, work, and play.”

“Jacque has continually looked for ways to expand her responsibilities and contribute more to the overall SciTech Campus’s mission success.” said Ronald Carmichael, director of administration and operations for the Science and Technology Campus. “She truly understands the importance of excellent corporate relations and demonstrates this quality at every opportunity.”

“Jacque has been the model of good preparation, effective execution, and thorough follow-up.” said Rick Davis, dean of the College of Visual and Performing Arts. “She does it all with a forward-looking, positive, can-do attitude that is so much a part of the Mason spirit.”

How you got to Mason:

I was looking for a part-time position when my children were in elementary school, so I would have more flexibility to attend school events and was hired by the Hylton Center as a development assistant. While I’ve been primarily with the Hylton Center since I began, in 2019, my role was expanded to support the entire SciTech Campus.

Best day on the Job:

Any time I can help give tours of the SciTech Campus! I love when people see the Hylton Center for the first time and get to stand on the stage. I also enjoy letting people know all great things we have to offer—on ALL Mason’s campuses!

What do you like best about working at Mason:

The pride I get representing the largest, most diverse university in the commonwealth, that really makes a difference in people’s lives. I truly enjoy sharing the Mason story with the community and corporate partners. I even managed to embarrass my daughter when we were on a tour of the State Capitol and the docent mentioned that ��ӽ紫ý was the 2nd largest university in the commonwealth. Of course, I had to correct her!

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

I spend most of my time cheering on my kids in track and volleyball. When we don’t have a meet or tournament, we like to travel, camp, hike, canoe, and generally spend time outside. My husband and I look forward to rediscovering other interests when our youngest heads to college in 2024!

Topics

Employee of the Month

Human Resources and Payroll

Hylton Center

Faculty and Staff News

Darren Rizzoli is January Employee of the Month

Colleen Rich — Mon, 09 Jan 2023 17:07:10 +0000

Darren Rizzoli is January Employee of the Month Colleen Rich Mon, 01/09/2023 - 12:07

Topics

Employee of the Month

Faculty and Staff News

Human Resources and Payroll

College of Education and Human Development

Off the Clock: Karen Lee, singing bass in a barbershop chorus for more than 30 years

Colleen Rich — Thu, 17 Nov 2022 13:27:42 +0000

Off the Clock: Karen Lee, singing bass in a barbershop chorus for more than 30 years Colleen Rich Thu, 11/17/2022 - 08:27

Submit a Nomination for Off the Clock

Life is much more than time spent on the clock. In this series, we highlight the unique hobbies and volunteer activities of Mason's talented faculty and staff.

Karen Lee performing in New Orleans in 2019. Photo provided

Karen Lee, assistant director of the Office of Student Scholarship, Creative Activities, and Research (OSCAR) at ��ӽ紫ý, helps coordinate funding for undergraduates to conduct research or explore creative projects. Working one-on-one with Mason students, Lee connects them with mentors and opportunities.

Outside of work, Lee sings bass in a women’s barbershop chorus called the Vienna-Falls Chorus, a chapter of Sweet Adelines International. She has been a part of the Sweet Adelines since 1991 and has performed with the Vienna-Falls Chorus at events and competitions for six years, since arriving at Mason.

How did you first get started singing in a women’s barbershop chorus? What made you get into this hobby?

My last year of graduate school, I was looking for something to do besides writing my thesis and job hunting, to get a break from all that. I saw an ad in the paper for a small women’s barbershop chorus looking for singers. I had done some singing in college and played in the high school band. Barbershop sounded like just what I was looking for. I have a pretty low singing voice for a woman, and I love harmonizing, so the bass part in women’s barbershop is perfect for me.

I joined the Island Grove Chorus of Sweet Adelines International in fall of 1991 and have been a member of Sweet Adelines ever since.

What is the time commitment? Does it vary at different times of the year?

The joke is that it’s only one night a week. We rehearse once a week, but we don’t hold music, so we spend some time outside of rehearsal learning the music on our own. If we are preparing for a show or contest, we might have an extra rehearsal here and there, and some times of the year we have more performances than other times. In December, we have several holiday performances, and in the summer, we often sing for Honor Flights. We have weekend-long retreats once or twice a year and regional education weekends, which are voluntary. If you’re in a quartet as well as a chorus, then you have separate commitments for quartet.

What has been the most meaningful or memorable experience you’ve had singing for a barbershop chorus?

There are so many. One year, my former chorus, the Greater Harrisburg Chorus, qualified for the Sweet Adelines International contest in Honolulu, and we spent 10 days in Hawaii.

We also competed at World Choir Games in Cincinnati. It was the first time barbershop was included. We decided to give it a try, and we won the category. They set up the awards ceremony like the Olympics and even played the national anthem. We met singers from all over the world. One of the children’s choirs from China ended up having lunch near us a couple of times and insisted on taking a picture with us on the last day.

And, singing for Honor Flights with Vienna-Falls is a great honor and privilege.

What lessons have you learned through this experience?

That you must have something in your life that is not an obligation, that allows you to be “you” away from work and other responsibilities. Some of the best friends you’ll ever make are when you share a hobby. I have so many friends who I sang with that I would never have met if it wasn’t for Sweet Adelines. It has kept music in my life and given me a place to call home every time I have changed locations for a new job. I have been in six choruses over my 31 years as a barbershopper, and having a chorus nearby is a requirement whenever I think about a move.

Do you have a favorite song you enjoy performing?

I have many songs that I really like, but it would be kind of like asking people who is their favorite child or favorite friend, to ask me to pick just one. I like songs for a variety of reasons. But a melodic bass line in the meat of my range, or a song with a great message, often rise to the top for me, especially if it’s well suited to the chorus. The joy of making music as an ensemble is the point.

What else do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I walk a lot, travel (especially to the beach), make jewelry, and watch way too much TV.

Topics

Faculty and Staff News

Off the Clock

Office of Student Scholarship Creative Activities and Research (OSCAR)

Emma Michels

Ashley Byrum is May Employee of the Month

Topics

Off the Clock: Caroline Masakayan makes a difference as a court-appointed special advocate (CASA) for children

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

What is the time commitment? Does it vary at different times of year?

What has been the most meaningful or memorable experience you’ve had in this role?

What lessons have you learned through this experience?

What else do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

Submit a Nomination for Off the Clock

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