Dorothy Hayden sees the challenges and hard work pay off for George Mason University students and alumni as she guides them while they pursue their dream jobs.
Mason alum Xiaolong Fang, BS Electrical Engineering ’15, MS Electrical Engineering ’20, said with Hayden helping him update his resume and putting him through mock interviews, “I was able to land a perfect job.”
Hayden joined University Career Services in March 2019 and is an industry advisor for the engineering, cybersecurity, construction, and manufacturing industries. She often supports students in the College of Engineering and Computing with breaking into particular industries and works with a portfolio of 1,300 employers to design recruitment strategies and campus events around hiring engineering and tech-focused Mason talent. Hayden also coordinates targeted recruitment efforts for student veterans and their families.
She currently holds an additional temporary position as an industry advisor for consulting, business accounting, and retail, supporting the School of Business.
For her hard work, dedication, and generosity, Hayden is November Employee of the Month.
Being a Mason student herself, pursuing a master’s degree in learning design and technology with a certificate in learning technologies, has “really helped me to understand more about the student experience,” Hayden said.
An important part of her role, she said, involves engaging in discussions about equity and inclusion issues to improve the support provided to Mason's diverse student body.
“Her help to make sure opportunities are presented to us shows her commitment to make sure the world of engineering is held accountable to its commitment to becoming a more diverse and inclusive industry,” said SaidAhmed SaidAhmed and Charles Nmoh, officers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated and the National Society of Black Engineers at Mason.
“She really goes above and beyond to make sure the students are prepared for their future careers,” said Philip Wilkerson, an industry advisor for University Career Services.
Hayden will be formally presented with this award by Mason President Gregory Washington in his office, 5th Floor of Merten Hall, at 1 p.m. on Nov. 1. Hayden’s family, coworkers and friends are invited to the ceremony. Those unable to attend may watch the Facebook livestream at www.facebook.com/GMUHRandPayroll.
How she got to Mason:
I always found myself coming to Mason for different trainings and events. The Career Services staff here is known nationally for their expertise. I knew that coming to Mason would allow me to stretch and grow my skills.
Best day on the job:
There are so many best days in my job. Many times, I get to see the transformation a student makes as they prepare for their job or career search. My best days are by far learning about the success of Mason students and alumni in their internship and job searches.
What she likes best about working at Mason:
If I had to choose one thing, I would say that it is our commitment to creating access to excellence. Any university can provide access to education, but we go beyond the basics at Mason. Our students are purposeful, driven, and motivated for success. It makes me proud that Mason provides research, experiential learning, and hands-on transformational learning experiences.
What she does when she’s not working:
I enjoy volunteering. I have been volunteering as a career coach for survivors of domestic abuse and veterans. I am passionate about access to career opportunities. This led me to working on a second master’s degree at Mason in learning design technology. I love brainstorming and building programs to make career education attainable.