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George Mason �鶹����’s Outstanding Achievement Awards celebrate the hard work and accomplishments of faculty and staff in support of the university's values and mission. Awards are sponsored by Human Resources and other university departments.��

A ceremony honoring this year’s awardees was hosted on the Fairfax Campus on Tuesday, April 15.��.

This year’s awards included several new categories and garnered a 146% increase in nominations compared to last year, reflecting the university’s culture of engagement and appreciation.��.

The Sustainability Hero Award acknowledges the contributions of individuals and teams who have gone the extra mile to seek creative solutions that have promoted healthy, sustainable living or reduced George Mason’s environmental impacts.��

Sustainability Hero Award

Makenzie Gold Quiros, Assistant Director of Housing Operations and Special Projects, Housing and Residence Life

Makenzie Gold Quiros was recognized for leadership, collaboration, and partnership with��, the annual campus move-out program that helps divert items from the waste stream and reallocates them to those who can use them. Donations include household items, food, clothing, and more.

Gold Quiros played an instrumental role in integrating Patriot Packout into Housing and Residence Life operations. Collaborating with members of the Patriot Packout planning committee to develop marketing and educational materials about the program, Gold Quiros' efforts helped spread the word among residential students.��

The result was increased awareness and participation in the program. In 2024, Patriot Packout received more than 13,000 pounds of donations, more than double the amount received in 2023 (5,700 pounds).��

“Makenzie’s incredible leadership to grow and integrate Patriot Packout within Housing and Residence Life operations dramatically improved the amount of goods and supplies diverted away from trash incineration, reducing the university’s environmental impacts while putting useful donations into the hands of George Mason Patriots,” said Colleen Regan, zero waste specialist with �鶹���� Sustainability.

New this year, the Wage Employee Service Award recognizes non-student wage staff who have consistently demonstrated excellence, dedication, and exceptional organizational citizenship, contributing significantly to the university's operations and mission.

Wage Employee Service Award

Rose Aubery, Transfer Admissions Assistant, Office of Admissions

Rose Aubery has served as an invaluable resource for prospective transfer students, offering personalized guidance through the complex transfer process. Aubery’s unwavering commitment to supporting students—especially those balancing work, family, and personal challenges—has made a lasting impact.

Putting students first, Aubery ensures that every student she assists receives tailored support and clear, accurate information. She helps them understand the admissions process, explains pathways to a degree, and empowers students in their journey to higher education.

“Rose is a source of positivity and helps many students find their way to a bachelor’s degree at George Mason, students for whom higher education might otherwise not be an option,” said Melissa Bevacqua, director of admissions for transfer recruitment in the Office of Admissions. “Her work is impactful and makes a difference for students, for our team, and our university.”

Wage Employee Service Award

Susan Bannan, Recruitment Specialist, Office of �鶹���� Advancement and Alumni Relations

Susan Bannan has transformed talent recruitment in her office by streamlining operations, reducing external search costs, and improving the candidate experience. Her proactive, customer-focused approach has supported George Mason’s billion-dollar campaign,��Mason Now, and contributed to long-term talent retention.

“One of Susan's most notable contributions is her unwavering commitment to ensuring that candidates have a positive experience with George Mason �鶹����,” said Sara Snyder, associate vice president for administration and finance in the Office of �鶹���� Advancement and Alumni Relations.��

“She meticulously manages the recruitment process, providing clear communication and support at every stage. Her efforts have resulted in a seamless and enjoyable experience for candidates, which has been instrumental in attracting top talent,” said Snyder.

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