April
2007

In this issue:

JCSU Administrative and Managing Staff

New Staff Welcomed!

Spring has Sprung!

Theft Prevention and Safety Tips

Hours of Operation

Did You Know?

Trying to Find Meeting Space?

Events Preview

Waffle Day

Procedure Updates

ACUI Region 4 Recreation Tournament

Student Employment

Leadership Awards Program

Staff Recognition and Training Program

ACUI - Atlanta Conference

New Video Conferencing Tool

Recent/Upcoming Building Enhancements

Anniversaries


Listservs

Web Information

 

 




JCSU Administrative and Managing Staff

David Atkins, Director
Mecca Marsh, Associate Director of Training and Programs
Aaron Hayes, Assistant Director of Building Services
Keith Ellis, Assistant Director of Events Production
Sally Mohle, Business Manager
Zeynep Uygur, Office Manager
Morgan Vandergrift, Facilities Supervisor
La Toya Bradley, Facilities Administrative Assistant
Gilberto Guerrero, JC Building Supervisor
DeMon Whitaker, SUB I Building Supervisor
Luis Aguirre, SUB II Building Supervisor
Ken Locke, Events Production Manager

Alonso Thelem, SUB I Operations Manager
Marc Moore, SUB II Operations Manager
Allison Bauman, Game Room Operations Manager

Events Preview


The time from March 25 through April 26 sparks a very exciting series of activities at Mason geared toward community involvement and education. Each week during that period has specific events designed to inform the Mason community about cultures represented here and to celebrate Mason's wonderful diversity. Starting with Greek Week, we move on to Pride Week, then International Week, and last but certainly not least Mason Week. During this time of year, any visitor to the university can easily gain an appreciation for what Mason truly has to offer.

From March 25-31 the Greek community competed in events to promote community awareness, philanthropy, sportsmanship, and Mason Spirit. Starting with the "Shack Building" competition to promote homelessness awareness, Mason's Greeks moved on to the Aquatics competition which featured races and synchronized swimming. Field Day events featured soccer matches and a tug of war. Thursday's "Quiz Show" tested knowledge about Mason and Friday's Flag Football and BBQ are always fun. Greek Week's highlight, Greek Sing, is a musical competition testing the bounds of creativity, humor, and organizational pride.

Pride Week is an opportunity for the Lesbian/ Gay/ Bi-Sexual/ Transgendered community to display their colors and educate the community about who they are. From April 2-6 the LGBT community held events designed to raise awareness and to demonstrate their contributions to society. On Monday an "Educate and Act" was held to inform us about the issues facing the LGBT community. Tuesday featured LGBT Faculty Staff lunch and "Nobody Passes" by Author/Speaker Matt Bernstein Sycamore. Wednesday's activity was a Career/Alumni networking reception. On Thursday Lenelle Moise performed "Womb-Words Thirsting" and the LGBT community had a chance to offer creative expressions of love, passion, and sexuality at "Queering the Mic". Friday's Drag Show proved entertaining as the DC Metro area's finest drag queens performed before a capacity crowd.

International Week had a fitting theme "Mason: A Global Gateway". Starting with the soccer tournament on April 7, "I" week features a cornucopia of world cultures that promise to educate, entertain, and captivate audiences. Sunday's Cricket Tournament is followed by Monday's "Parade of Nations", a beautiful display of solidarity as Mason's students, faculty and staff represent the nation whose flag they carry. After the parade the festivities get underway. Each day features a bazaar and mid-day performance. There are so many exciting events it's impossible to mention them all here. But, here's a few to whet your appetite: Monday has the Phi Beta Delta International Honor Society Induction and International Honors and Awards Ceremony, Tuesday has the international dance competition, Wednesday features an International Alumni career panel, Thursday has the international fashion show, Friday has the international field day with games from around the world, and Saturday closes the week with the international dinner dance.

Last but not least is Mason Day 2007 which features events to show your Mason Spirit. Monday April 23 is Saved By the Bell's The Max. Tuesday is the "Throw Back" talent show. Wednesday is "Field Day" for those who want to participate in athletic competitions. Then there's "Throw Back Thursday", Mason Day to be exact. The day features games, prizes, food and fun and the performers this year are "Bone Thugs In Harmony" and "Naughty by Nature".


Waffle Day

As it continues to be the Community Builder on the campus of George Mason University, the Johnson Center, hosted "Top That! - Waffle Day 2007". This was held on Tuesday, March 6 from 11am to 1pm in Dewberry Hall and it was hosted by Johnson Center and Student Union Operations along with the Freshman Center. Waffle Day 2007 was open to the entire University community - faculty, staff, and of course, students. There were give-aways, prizes, sing-a-longs, and most of all, waffles with your choice of toppings.

With great promotions, the first Waffle Day served over 1000 waffles, 300 French Toast Sticks, and 300 slices of French toast. If you did not attend, you missed the Waffle Day Song, free t-shirts and back packs. We are grateful for all those who supported and participated in Waffle Day. With your support, it was a huge success. We look forward to producing this great event again in 2008. So be sure to be on the lookout for the Second Annual Waffle Day. More waffles and more fun!!

Procedure Updates


Spring brings new changes and this April is no exception! We have recently updated our Vending Sales and Solicitation and Posting procedures that augment University Policies 1110 and 1109 respectively. The changes are not drastic, but more like a much needed tune-up. Of course, procedural updates equate to an overhaul of our forms too – every form has a new look! The intent of the new look is to simplify and standardize our forms for reserving advertising space in the JC, SUB I and II. If you have any questions, please contact Zeynep Uygur (zuygur@gmu.edu) at 703-993-2921.

ACUI Region 4 Recreation Tournament

On February 17-19, George Mason University was proud to send three students to the Region 4 Recreation Tournament which was held on the campus of the University of Maryland at College Park. Region 4 consists of Northern Virginia, District of Columbia, Maryland, West Virginia and Pennsylvania (except Philadelphia). There were over 75 contestants from the region. The three students representing the Patriots were Zheng Yang and Raxesh Patel (table tennis) and Drew Reid (Men’s Billiards). After two days of competition Zheng placed 4th and Raxesh placed 5th. The top 3 players in each category are eligible to advance to the National Competition to be held on the campus of Ohio State University March 29 – April 15. We were fortunate enough to send Raxesh Patel from George Mason University to the National Tournament. Raxesh was successful through Quarter Finals. Thanks to all the students for their Patriot Pride displayed during the tournaments!

Student Employment

Are you a shining star? Are you looking to take your place among the stars in the JCSU Operations Galaxy? JCSU Operations is currently looking for the shining stars of George Mason University. We offer flexible hours, great work experience, great pay and the opportunity to wear the coveted black shirt. We are seeking stars to fill the positions of Operations Managers, Assistant Operations Managers, Building Managers, and Recreation Assistants. We will accept applications on a rolling basis but priority will be given to applications that are submitted by April 23rd at 5:00pm.

Leadership Awards Program

"Leaders don't attain greatness by giving orders, but by serving others"-Anonymous

It is that time of year again, the birds are chirping, the flowers are blooming, and the end of the semester is within sight. It is also time for the Mission Possible: Annual Awards Luncheon. Johnson Center Student Union Operations will be hosting the 17th Annual Awards Luncheon on May 4th from 12pm to 1:30pm at Dewberry Hall North. This is an opportunity to show our student staff our appreciation for their hard work over the year. The following awards will be presented:

  • Teamwork

  • Volunteerism

  • Professionalism

  • Initiative

  • Mentoring

  • Exemplary Management Skills

  • Student Employee of the Year

  • EP Employee of the Semester

Thanks for a great year!

Staff Recognition and Training Program



"Leaders don’t attain greatness by giving orders, but by serving others"-Anonymous

In June our department will provide training, team building and customer service workshops (in English and Spanish) for our employees. After hearing feedback from our customers, we are translating that into appreciation for our staff. There will be unit-specific awards presented during the staff recognition and training program. If, on that day, we are moving a little slowly, please be patient for we are taking time out to recognize our staff. Your patience is appreciated
.

ACUI 87th – Common Bond

On March 25-28 2007, 1,200 Student Union representatives gathered in the Peach City, Atlanta, GA., for the 87th Annual ACUI (Association of Colleges and Unions International) conference. The theme for this year’s conference was "A Common Bond." It was a time to meet new friends, greet old friends, and learn and grow from each other. There were representatives from the East Coast to Hawaii. This was a great time to share with people the great things at Mason. Between the spring like weather and the arrival of the NCAA Final Four, some of the memorable moments of Atlanta were the three keynote speakers: David Coleman of The Original Hitch, Frances Lucas, the first female president of Millsaps College's 110 year history and Vernon A. Wall, Mr. Social Justice. There was also a time for a healthy competition among the 15 regions. We all look forward to the next conference that will be in New Orleans, LA.

New Video Conferencing Tool


Partnering with the Videoconferencing Center, Events Production has acquired a portable Video Conferencing unit. We offer this service so that Mason can continue to reach the world not only in the classroom but to be able to share the numerous events that take place within the Mason Community. Video Conferencing allows two or more locations to see, hear and interact with one another in real time. This equipment not only transmits voice and video of the presenter but also graphics. Our primary connection will be to the distributed campuses, but this will allow Mason to form partnerships with other Universities and organizations as well. This new technology will also aid us in web-streaming an event for those who cannot travel to the location. An example of this resource would be a lecture in Dewberry Hall in Fairfax can be distributed and watched live at Prince William, Arlington and Loudoun Campuses with classroom interaction at the distributed campuses. We have designed the system so that it can be moved from the classroom into event spaces, customizable to your event needs. This is another service Events Production offers to assist clients in making their events a success.

Recent/Upcoming Building Enhancements


Multimedia Podiums and new LCD projectors to be installed in JC meeting rooms A-G and Gold Room.
Multimedia
New carpet and chairs to be installed in George’s.
Additional seating and high top tables added to JC food court.

New bench seating to be installed in the Johnson Center.
JC 2nd and 3rd floor atrium knee walls repaired with new reinforced cove base.
Replaced and updated necessary ADA door signage throughout JC.

New traffic counters to be installed in the JC, SUB I and SUB II.

Anniversaries



Congratulations to the following JCSU Staff whose anniversaries are in the month of May and June: Morgan Vandergrift (23 years), Ken Locke (3 years), Joan Hickey (18 years), and Saul Menacho (22 years).

Congratulations to Luis Aguirre for 30 years of service and Aaron Hayes for 5 years of service.


Listservs

We have just created new listservs for our department so that we can keep you informed on announcements, closings, upgrades and improvements. If you know someone who is not on the listserv or if you have hired a new staff member please bring this to their attention. If you are receiving this e-newsletter, you are on the listserv.

You can subscribe to the listservs by using the links below:


JC Occupants Listserv

JCSU Student Staff Listserv

SUB I Occupants Listserv

SUB II Occupants Listserv


Web Information

To learn more about services associated with our department, consider visiting these websites:

Apple Credit Union http://www.gmu.edu/univserv/apple.html

Bookstore http://gmu.bkstore.com

Campus Link http://www.campuslnk.com/schools/gmu/index.cfm

Dining Services http://www.gmu.edu/univ_ctr/services/dining/

Events Management http://www.gmu.edu/departments/ur/events

Events Production http://www.gmu.edu/ep

Johnson Center and Student Union Operations
http://www.gmu.edu/operations


United Bank http://www.unitedbank-va.com


University Game Room http://www.gmu.edu/gmu/game_room

University Services http://www.gmu.edu/univserv

New Staff Welcomed!

Kevin Bowers is our newest staff member to join the Facilities Maintenance team. Kevin brings with him over 20 years of HVAC and refrigeration equipment experience and will be lending a helping hand to Morgan in the area of Food Services maintenance. Kevin is a proud father of two and coaches soccer in his spare time. Please give him a warm Mason welcome when you get the chance!

Spring has Sprung!


Flo
wers, trees, weeds, and grasses have begun to blossom. Spring also brings allergies. The following are some tips to control your allergies:

Clean every surface.
Wash rugs.

Keep indoor air clean.
Ask your physician if he or she recommends long-acting over-the-counter antihistamine medications.
Change the time and location of your exercise routine.

Theft Prevention and Safety Tips


Never leave personal belongings unattended.
Keep your purse, wallet, money and other valuables in a secure location such as a locked desk, closet or filing cabinet.
Lock your doors when you are leaving your room, office or lab.
If you are entrusted with a key to a specifi
c area, never loan it to anyone. Keys can be lost, stolen or duplicated.
Immediately
report any suspicious person loitering in your building to University Police (non-emergency: 703-993-2810, emergency: 911).
Report
broken or flickering lights, dimly lit corridors, doors or windows that don't lock properly, or broken windows.
Report any missing or stolen items to University Police immediately.

If you notice something suspicious happening on campus please contact University Police.

REMEMBER: Crime Prevention is a conditioning effort that is the responsibility of each and every one of us who is a member of our campus community.

Hours of Operation


Final exams and commencement is approaching. To see JC, SUB I and SUB II operating hours during this period please click here.

To see JC, SUB I and SUB II operating hours for the summer session please click here.

Did You Know?

The Johnson Center has a Quiet Meditation Space designed to support students, faculty and staff seeking a place for reflection and meditation throughout the day. This space is located in the Northeast Lounge on the third floor.
Foot Washing Basins are located in the East side restrooms on the atrium level of the Johnson Center.

A TTY Phone is located on the ground floor of the Johnson Center.
A limited number of wheel chairs are available to check out at the Johnson Center Information Desk.


Trying to Find Meeting Space?

The majority of meeting spaces in the Johnson Center are scheduled through the Office of Events Management. However, there are a few spaces that can be reserved for your meeting needs by specific departments. Below is a listing of them.

Meeting Room
Department
Contact
239A
Student Academic Affairs
993-9082
Alumni Conference Room
Alumni Affairs
993-8696
Paul Robeson Room
African American Resource & Research Room
993-4080
311 Conference Room
Media Lab
993-3371

These spaces accommodate groups from 8 to 30, depending on the setup requirements. Some are standard conference style setups.

George Mason University, Johnson Center & Student Union Operations, JC Room 324, MS 5A3,
Email:
jcsuops@gmu.edu, Tel: 703-993-2921, Fax: 703-993-2919,
Web: http://www.gmu.edu/operations