Recognition round-up—sharing successes
It’s award season, and as you know from the many emails and news posts, our annual evaluation processes begin as well. It’s the perfect time to recognize colleagues for their exemplary work and activities that greatly impact their respective fields. In lieu of this week’s dean’s blog, we are taking time to highlight some significant accomplishments and honors bestowed to members of our Mason Science community that have been shared with us. We also thank those of you who take time to engage the broader community to share your passion for and knowledge of all things science.
Right on the heels of Hillary Hamm (Computational and Data Sciences) receiving the George Mason University Employee of the Month award in December 2024, congratulations to the upcoming George Mason Employee of the Month for March, Bonnie Madden (Biology). Known for fostering a creative and engaging learning environment while simultaneously flexibly opening labs for the numerous photo shoots, and dignitary/admissions tours, it’s great to see Bonnie receive this well-deserved recognition.
Rebecca Jones (Chemistry and Biochemistry, STEM Accelerator) and Karen Lee (OSCAR, Biology) were elected to the Council on Undergraduate Research. Having previously served as division representatives, they now bring their expertise to represent their disciplines in this interdisciplinary council, alongside faculty from across the nation. Together, they're committed to promoting and advancing undergraduate research experiences for all students.
On a global scale, Cristiana Stan (Atmospheric, Oceanic, and Earth Sciences), has been elected vice chair of the WMO World Climate Research Programme. And later this semester, Rainald Löhner (Physics, Center for Computational Fluid Dynamics), will receive an honorary doctorate from Technische Universität Braunschweig, Germany.
And in our backyards, thank you to all the faculty and students who are supporting the many science fairs and research presentations (great pic from Jules Goldspiel and the AOES folks at the Marshall High School Science fair). If you are interested in participating in similar engagement opportunities, let us know as there are more later this spring.
With one of the best acceptance speeches ever, congratulations to Kelly Knight (Forensic Science) who recently earned the 2025 Dominion Energy Strong Men and Women in Virginia History award (see the story below for details). In her speech, Knight encouraged us all to "take a chance on someone else" and emphasized the importance of supporting those who face barriers to achieving their full potential.
Ready to lead or make a difference? We are seeking nominations for the College of Science Faculty Senate. See details for this position in the article below and charges for the various committees.
There is a list of opportunities to nominate colleagues for their impressive work and innovative scientific accomplishments. Please continue to champion our Mason Science successes. Nominate a colleague for an award, send a note to someone’s supervisor letting them know how much your colleague contributes to the success of our college, to George Mason or even within their scientific discipline. You can send your successes and science sharing adventures to cosnews@gmu.edu or submit the form.
