Highlights

On November 23, George Mason completed the final step in a multi-year effort to modernize its core network, the high-speed data backbone that interconnects university campuses and buildings. Whether accessing Wi-Fi, wired connections, or university systems, this upgrade delivers dramatically faster connections across the university and between campuses. The new network provides a strong foundation for advanced research, digital learning, and seamless collaboration, positioning George Mason to confidently meet future technology demands. 

On November 6, Risk, Safety, & Resilience – Employee Health & Well-Being held a flu, COVID-19, pneumonia, and RSV vaccine clinic at the Population Health Center. Ninety-one people received vaccines at this free event for employees and their families. 

The Center for Collision Safety & Analysis has relocated to Katherine G. Johnson Hall and vacated the Commerce Building, which the university sold last year and has since leased. Led by Real Estate Strategy & Operations, the sale and subsequent move are part of the university’s efforts to leverage existing space and minimize external leases. The move was supported by ITS and Facilities in advance of the lease ending on December 15.  

ITS donated 15 laptops to the University's Office of Military Services in early November. These repurposed, fully functional laptops help the department continue its mission in the absence of the resources necessary to purchase new computers. This is part of ITS’s ongoing efforts to maximize the value and lifespan of existing resources while supporting the important work that is happening across the university. 

This new position is responsible for energy management, the combined heating & cooling plant, and sustainability within facilities & campus operations. Spader brings vast experience as a program and project leader for sustainability, energy efficiency, and decarbonization initiatives. She recently oversaw a $20 billion portfolio of innovative, high-impact decarbonization projects, including negotiations with Fortune 500 companies. 

It is now one step quicker to sign on at George Mason. In November, ITS removed the attribute release display from the single sign-on authentication process. User consent choices remain stored as a browser-specific cookie, and login processes are determined by each application vendor, so ITS determined that there was no impact on user security. 

ITS is simplifying George Mason University's Wi-Fi network this fall, fully transitioning to eduroam and retiring MASON-SECURE. Eduroam has been George Mason's primary Wi-Fi network since 2022, offering secure and seamless access across all campuses and at hundreds of participating institutions worldwide. While many users have already transitioned to eduroam, MASON-SECURE will be permanently shut down on Friday, December 19. For details, see MASON-SECURE Retirement FAQs.

In partnership with Athletics and the Office of University Branding, ABS Marketing and the Bookstore launched the new mobile merchandise trailer and the Collect the Spirit fan-engagement campaign. The initiative continues to debut exclusive game-day drops and amplify school spirit across home basketball games this season.

Parking & Transportation successfully transported more than 150 students to and from their Thanksgiving destinations via regional shuttle routes spanning from Virginia Beach to New York City. The service provided a safe, affordable, and convenient travel option for students heading home for the break.

Dining Services welcomed President Gregory Washington to Southside Dining Hall for the annual Thanksgiving turkey carving tradition. Students and staff enjoyed the festive experience, celebrating community and George Mason pride over a holiday meal.