George Mason University

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Recreational Sports Updates

Aquatic Programs Offered at the Aquatic and Fitness Center

Mason Students Eager to Work on Campus

Fiscal Services Announces eVA Performance Recognition Awards

Extended Hours for Spring Parking Decal Sales

Staff Senate Outstanding Supervisor Awards - Call for Nominations

ITU Employee of the Month

Apple FCU Happenings

Fighting Frostbite

Assistant Vice President, University Services Selected

Are You Assigning Papers? Schedule a Writing Center Roadshow

EVENTS

Internet Pioneer Bob Kahn to Speak on Campus

The Future of Human Rights Education

Department of Music Events

Mason's Army ROTC Sponsors Freedom Team Salute Luncheon

National Symphony Orchestra Music Director Conducts Mason's Symphony Orchestra

Russian Cosmonaut and Russian Head of Foreign Relations Visit Mason

TRAINING

Banner Navigation

eVA Walk-in Assistance

General Purchasing

Fiscal Basics

Cash Transactions

eVA

PI Financial Reports for Faculty with Sponsored Projects

PI Financial Reports for Grant Administrators

Banner Finance Self Service

Travel

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mason E-Files

Posted January 29, 2007

Announcements
 

Recreational Sports Updates

To kick off the basketball season, The Rec Sports Office will offer a 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament. The tournament will be held on Friday, February 2, from 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm in the PE Building. Teams must register by Thursday February 1. For more information, use the following link: http://recsports.gmu.edu/intramural/3on3Basketball_Tournament.html

The Rec Sports Office will accept rosters for 5 on 5 Intramural Basketball until January 31. New for this year is a Co-Rec Basketball League in addition to our Men's and Women's leagues. For more information use the following link: http://recsports.gmu.edu/intramural/Basketballhomepage.html

Once again this year, the Rec Sports Office in conjunction with the Program Board will offer the Every Freakin' Friday series of Poker Tournaments. This will kick off on Friday, February 9, starting at 8:30 pm in the SUB I Lobby. To sign up, fill out one of the Free Agent Forms online at: http://recsports.gmu.edu/intramural/forms.html#

All events are open to any Mason student, faculty, or staff with a valid Mason ID.

If you have any questions or concerns about any programs that the Rec Sports Office offers, contact the office at 993-3290 or recreate@gmu.edu

 

Aquatic Programs Offered at the Aquatic and Fitness Center

Have you ever done yoga in the pool? How about deep water aerobics? Do you like kickboxing? Do you want your children to improve on their swimming skills?

Then check out the Aquatic and Fitness Center’s Aquatic Programs being offered in the spring 2007. Aqua Aerobic classes begin January 22. Swim lessons start February 5.

Access our website, aquatics.gmu.edu, for further details on swim lessons and to see more information about our new aqua aerobic classes being offered. Make the Aquatic and Fitness Center apart of your New Year's resolution.

 

Mason Students Eager to Work on Campus

Get the student help you need. Post your student wage position with University Career Services office. We will post your job on-line for easy student access. Send your job announcements to Pat Williams at pwilliam@gmu.edu.

 

Fiscal Services Announces eVA Performance Recognition Awards

Fiscal Services is pleased to award gift cards to the following individuals for their contributions to Mason's eVA program:

Erica Barber, Intercollegiate Athletics
Vicki Day, School of Management
Mary Frances Forcier, Provost Office
Chris Freas, Registrar
Debbie Gladden, Internal Audit
Jonathan Goldman, Volgeneau School of Information Technology & Engineering
Greg Justice, Center for Field Studies
Deborah Keene, School of Law
Erin Kemper, College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Rachel Lindsey, Wellness Education Resources Room
John Lowes, Freedom Aquatic and Fitness Center
Ginnie Mahoney, Technology Systems Division
Erin Markey, Office of Continuing Professional Education
Erin McSherry, Institutional Assessment
Lisa Meier, Psychology
Karla Posselt, University Services
Stephanie Rochford, Development Office
Marie Scanlon, School of Management
Kelley Shillingburg, College of Education and Human Development
Suzy Wiedemann, Information Services

For the credit card billing period ending November 15, they completed all MasterCard purchases in eVA and properly documented those purchases on the new GE MasterCard Payment Approval form.

This eVA Performance Recognition Award program continues through Fiscal Year 2007 to recognize the efforts of Mason faculty and staff who contribute to Mason's success in meeting the newly established eVA benchmarks. To be eligible for the monthly drawing, GE MasterCard holds should complete all MasterCard purchases in eVA or process confirming order by the 15th of the month. They should then properly complete the new GE MasterCard Payment Approval form indicating either yes or no in the Entered in eVA or Exempt column and send the approval form to Accounts Payable by the tenth of the month.

Assistance with eVA is available on a walk-in basis on Wednesday afternoons from 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm (see announcement under Training).

 

Extended Hours for Spring Parking Decal Sales

Parking Services will have special office hours for the sale of spring parking decals. The hours are from January 29 through February 2.

Monday and Tuesday - 8:30 am - 9:00 pm
Wednesday and Thursday - 8:30 am - 7:00 pm
Friday - 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
There will be no Saturday or Sunday hours.

Regular office hours resume on February 5. Any questions, call Parking Services at 993-2710.

 

Staff Senate Outstanding Supervisor Awards - Call for Nominations

The Staff Senate is calling for nominations for its twice-annual Outstanding Supervisor Award. An employee who reports directly to a supervisor may submit the supervisor's name for consideration by filling out the nomination form and including a letter of support. Other staff may add letters in support of the nomination. The letters should describe how the supervisor meets the award criteria, being as specific and thorough as possible.

The award will be presented on March 8, at 2:00 pm in the Johnson Center, Dewberry Hall during the HR Outstanding Achievement Award ceremony. The recipient will receive an award and gift on behalf of the Staff Senate.

This award is given out by the Staff Senate twice a year, spring and fall, in coordination with the Human Resources award and recognition ceremonies. Last autumn's Outstanding Supervisor Award went to Barbara Gomperts, office administrator for the English Department. The Senators look forward to giving this award to another notable supervisor in March.

The deadline for submitting nominations is close of business, Friday, February 9. Email Donna George, Recording Secretary of the Staff Senate, at dgeorge@gmu.edu, or call 993-4141, to have a nomination form emailed or faxed to you. The form may also be printed from the Staff Senate webpage, http://www.gmu.edu/senate/staff.

 

ITU Employee of the Month

Kevin Gibson is February’s ITU Employee of the Month. Kevin is a Field Services Technician for TSD’s Technology Support Services. He works with faculty and staff who need assistance with technology concerns and is part of the MESA Migration. His co-workers describe him as an invaluable resource and a “highly valued colleague” who is always willing to go the extra mile. He is “always cooperative, friendly, energetic, and extremely knowledgeable in his work” and all this without “losing his patience or showing frustration.” All who know him agree that his dedication and responsiveness make their work life easier.

Join Kevin on Friday, February 2 at 11:30 am in Mason Hall, Room D105, as he receives his award as ITU Employee of the Month.

 

Apple FCU Happenings

Apple’s Fast Track IRA Certificate has the horsepower to rev-up your retirement savings with a high 6.3% APY for 14 months. Make a break for the finish early, as this offer is only available for a limited time.

Stop the cycle of debt in 2007 with a 0% APR Balance Transfer Rate to an Apple Platinum Visa® card. Offer valid January 1 - February 28.

Use your Apple Visa® Check Card this month and win up to $1000. With each non-PIN purchase made in January, you’ll be automatically entered into a drawing to have Apple refund your total month’s check card transactions, up to $1,000. Exclusions apply.

Get a .25% APR discount simply for submitting your application online and transacting all business related to the application and disbursement of the loan remotely. Offer not valid on Apple Visa® Credit Cards. If you choose to transact this loan via our Call Center or a Branch Office you will not qualify for the rate discount.

For information on all Apple promotional offers, visit www.applefcu.org or stop by the Johnson Center Apple branch.

 

Fighting Frostbite

While we've yet to experience really cold weather this winter, it is probably just a matter of time.

Prolonged exposure to harsh winter conditions can cause damage to the skin and underlying tissues, or frostbite. During the cold weather months, those who work outdoors and winter sports enthusiasts are particularly vulnerable. Serious cases of frostbite have been known to lead to amputation of a limb or even death. At the very least, the sufferer can experience severe numbness and pain as the area thaws.

Warm towels and water should be used to warm the affected area at the first sign of numbness. The person should then see a doctor, who can determine if there's any tissue damage.

The elderly, smokers, caffeine drinkers and people with illnesses characterized by poor circulation, such as diabetes, hypothyroidism and arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), are all prone to this type of injury. Alcohol and the use of certain drugs or medications can put a person at risk by hindering his or her ability to recognize the warning signs.

Dressing properly is the best defense against problems from severe weather. Proper foot gear is just as important as a warm coat, hat and gloves. Extreme cold and wet clothes put exposed areas such as the feet and toes in jeopardy. Wearing well-insulated shoes and boots are a must, as well as socks made from acrylic keep feet dry by slicking away perspiration from inside shoes and boots.

If you have any safety concerns or concerns about this article, contact the Safety Office, 993-2479.

 

Assistant Vice President, University Services Selected

We are pleased to announce that Chris Chisler has been selected as Assistant Vice President, University Services, effective January 25. Chris has been serving as Interim Assistant Vice President since August, 2006, replacing John Spaldo who was promoted to Associate Vice President for Operations.

Chris has been at Mason since 1995 and served as the Director of University Services since 1999 with the majority of her responsibilities focusing on Housing, Dining, and the ID Office. Her previous responsibilities also included setting the direction in security, laundry, the bank, and credit union. During this time Chris chaired and served on various committees and with Facilities Planning, co-chaired the planning processes for Liberty Square, Potomac Heights, and the NE Sector.

As Assistant Vice President for University Services, in addition to her previous areas Chris will oversee the bookstore, Patriot Center, Johnson Center and Student Unions, Hemlock Overlook, Child Development Center, Print Services, Mail Services, and other smaller contracts. Chris will have responsibility for and authority to affect strategic policies and plans for all University Services areas. She will continue to serve as University Ombudsman for non-academic issues, co-chair the planning process for the next phase of housing, and serve on the Capital Outlay and Finance committees, Johnson Center Policy Board, AEMC, HR Benefits committee and various other committees.

Prior to her time here Chris had her own management consulting business for several years, specializing in the design, construction, and development areas. According to Associate Vice President John Spaldo, "We are pleased Chris has accepted this position and look forward to the University Services programs growing and developing under her guidance."

Over 30 applications were received for this search. The Search Committee interviewed 10 applicants and selected three for in-person interviews.

 

Are You Assigning Papers? Schedule a Writing Center Roadshow

Writing Center tutors are available to visit your class for 5-10 minutes to introduce your students to our services. Roadshow times are available during Writing Center hours on the Fairfax, Arlington, and Prince William campuses. To schedule a roadshow, email Sarah Baker at sbaker@gmu.edu and include the name and number of your course, the date and time you would like a tutor to visit, and your classroom location.

We also hope you will encourage your students to use the Writing Center Web site at http://writingcenter.gmu.edu/. Many resources are available both on-site and on the Web, and students now can conveniently register online for appointments.

 

Events
 

Internet Pioneer Bob Kahn to Speak on Campus

On Tuesday evening, February 6, the Hot Topics in Technology Management Speaker Series will present a conversation and Q&A with Internet pioneer Robert Kahn. In the mid-70's, Kahn and Vinton Cerf developed the common computer language that gave birth to the Internet. Today, as Chair, CEO and President of the Corporation for National Research Initiatives, Kahn continues to nurture the development of the medium he helped create. Join us as he shares his insights and answers questions on the future of the Internet and network-based communication technologies. Free event. Speaker's reception at 6:30 pm; presentation at 7:15 pm in Mason Hall, Edwin Meese Conference Room.

To register, go to som.gmu.edu. Made possible by the Masters of Science in Technology Management (School of Management) in conjunction with the Internet Society. Contact jpalmisa@gmu.edu for details.

 

The Future of Human Rights Education
Bridging Theory and Practice: Education, Policy and Advocacy

IHREC Washington Forum is co-sponsored by the Center for Global Studies. In the past decade, interdisciplinary human rights programs have proliferated at colleges and universities throughout the world. The International Human Rights Education Consortium (IHREC) was formed in 2000 both to promote this trend and to provide a forum for human rights professionals. In order to do so, IHREC is convening a series of forums around the world with a view to promoting the institutionalization of human rights programming. This will be Washington, DC's first IHREC Forum.

February 16
Morning Session: 2200 Rayburn House Office Building
9:30 am - 11:00 am - Congressional Briefing with Congressional Human Rights Caucus (TBC) Ruben Brigety, Public and International Affairs, George Mason University: Advancing Humanitarian and Human Rights Norms in the National Interest.

Afternoon Session: United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, Classroom B
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm - Tour of Museum, Dr. Peter Black, Senior Historian
3:00 pm - 3:30 pm - Brief Presentations
• Mark Ensalaco, IHREC Past President
• Raymond A. Roesch, Chair in Social Sciences, University of Dayton: Promoting Human Rights after 9/11
• Raymond W. Copson, Lecturer in African Politics, Johns Hopkins University/SAIS and George Washington University: Human Rights in Bush Administration Africa Policy
3:30 pm - 5:00 pm - Facilitated discussion, Dr. Matthew Levinger, Director, Academy for Genocide Prevention, USHMM (Session may be broadcast)

The forum is free of charge and open to IHREC members and human rights educators and advocates who are not members of IHREC. Registration is limited to 50 participants. To register, contact Mark Ensalaco at Mark.Ensalaco@notes.udayton.edu or Marcel Kitissou at mkitisso@gmu.edu. Deadline for registration is February 6.

 

Department of Music Events

February
Sunday, February 25 - George Mason University Symphony Orchestra with Leonard Slatkin, guest conductor, 3:00 pm in the Concert Hall. $10 adults; $7 students/seniors.

Wednesday, February 28 - George Mason University Band and Wind Symphony at 8:00 pm in the Concert Hall. $10 adults; $7 students/seniors.

March
Thursday, March 8 - George Mason University Symphony Orchestra at 8:00 pm in the Concert Hall. $10 adults; $7 students/seniors.

Wednesday, March 21 - George Mason University Chamber Ensembles at 8:00 pm in Harris Theater. $10 adults; $7 students/seniors HT.

Wednesday, March 21 - George Mason University Jazz Ensemble at 8:00 pm in the Concert Hall. $10 adults; $7 students/seniors.

Sunday, March 25 - George Mason University Chorale at 4:00 pm in Harris Theater. $10 adults; $7 students/seniors.

Tickets are available through tickets.com, 888-945-2468 or in person at the Center for the Arts Ticket Office. For information, 993-8888, www.gmu.edu/cfa or www.gmu.edu/departments/music.

 

Mason's Army ROTC Sponsors Freedom Team Salute Luncheon

Army ROTC is sponsoring a Freedom Team Salute luncheon. The luncheon is scheduled to begin at 12:00 noon on Thursday, February 22 in Student Union II, Ballroom. The Freedom Team Salute is an official program sponsored and funded through the office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Manpower and Reserve Affairs intended to honor those U.S. Army veterans who have served this nation, including U.S. Army active-duty soldiers, reservists, and guardsmen. All Army veterans will receive: Official Army Lapel Pin, Official Army Decal, Certificate of Appreciation signed by both the Chief of Staff and Secretary of the Army, and a Letter of Thanks signed by both the Chief of Staff and the Secretary of the Army.

The luncheon is free to all Army veterans. If you would like to attend, e-mail your name, current rank (or rank when you left service) and dates of service to George Mason University Army ROTC at: arotc@gmu.edu. RSVP is required by January 31.

 

National Symphony Orchestra Music Director Conducts Mason's Symphony Orchestra

National Symphony Orchestra Conductor and Music Director Leonard Slatkin will make his fourth guest appearance with the Mason Symphony Orchestra on February 25 at 3:00 pm in the Concert Hall.

The concert features Dvorak’s crowd-pleasing New World and Vincent Oppido’s Celebrations, commissioned by Professor Maiello specifically for this performance.

Critics and audiences around the world have praised Leonard Slatkin for his imaginative programming and interpretations in a vast repertoire, particularly prominent in his years with the National Symphony. His tenure has included highly lauded European, Asian, and US tours; numerous national broadcasts; and intriguing themed festivals, among them Soundtracks and Journey to America, which have drawn national attention. Mr. Slatkin makes regular appearances with virtually all of the major international orchestras and opera companies.

Tickets are $10, adults; and $7, students/seniors. Charge by phone at 888-945-2468 or visit www.tickets.com.

 

Russian Cosmonaut and Russian Head of Foreign Relations Visit Mason

Come hear about life in space and the future of space exploration: The Russian Perspective. Guests include Yuriy Usachev (Russian cosmonaut) and Alexander Martynov (Head of Foreign Relations, Russia). Two presentations will be held February 5.

2:00 pm in Harris Theater
6:00 pm in Mason Hall, Edwin Meese Conference Room

For further information contact Debbie Williams, 993-8825

 
Training
 

Banner Navigation

Wednesday, January 31, from 10:00 am - 11:30 am, Innovation Hall, Room 215-G.

This hands-on workshop introduces users to the Internet Native Banner (INB) environment for use with all INB products (HR, Finance, Student, etc.). Banner Navigation is required for all Banner student users (it is not intended for faculty using Patriot Web self-service to access rosters and enter grades).

Those interested may register at: http://ittraining.gmu.edu/

eVA Walk-in Assistance

Every Wednesday from 1:30 pm until 3:30 pm faculty and staff are welcome to stop by Innovation Hall, Room 215-G for assistance with any eVA transaction including confirming orders, eVA access requests, new orders and quick quote requests.

Although no registration is required, eVA users may contact Rob Parker at rparker7@gmu.edu or call 993-2089 to reserve a time.

 

General Purchasing

Tuesday, January 30, 9:30 am to 12:00 noon, Innovation Hall, Room 215-G.

This workshop on procedures for purchasing goods and services includes instruction on using a Purchase Requisition form for purchases that cost more than $2,000, how and when to use the Check Request form, using the GE MasterCard for most routine purchases less than $2,000, and a brief overview of eVA, Virginia's electronic procurement system.

Those interested in the workshop may call Rob Parker at 993-2089 for information or register online at: http://ittraining.gmu.edu/

 

Fiscal Basics

Thursday, February 8 from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon, Innovation Hall, Room 215-G.

This training provides an overview of fiscal processes at George Mason University including an introduction to procedures for purchasing, food and beverage expenditures, travel and Banner financial reports.

Those interested may call Rob Parker at 993-2089 for information or register online at: http://ittraining.gmu.edu/

 

Cash Transactions

Thursday, February 8 from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm, Mason Hall, Room D3 A and B.

This workshop provides a review of cash handling policies, departmental deposit processes, credit card procedures and processes for handling returned checks.

Those interested in the workshop may call Rob Parker at 993-2089 for information or register online at: http://ittraining.gmu.edu/

 

eVA

Tuesday, February 13, 9:00 am to 12:00 noon, Innovation Hall, Room 215-G.

This hands-on workshop provides an overview of Virginia's electronic purchasing system for individuals who purchase goods and services costing less than $2,000. Obtaining a state-issued eVA user name and password is recommended. The eVA log-in request form, available in the eVA Resources section of the Fiscal Services web site, may be used to request an eVA user name and password.

Those interested in the workshop may call Rob Parker at 993-2089 for information or register online at: http://ittraining.gmu.edu

 

PI Financial Reports for Faculty with Sponsored Projects

Thursday, February 15, 9:30 am to 10:30 am, Innovation Hall, Room 215-G.

This workshop is for George Mason University faculty who review financial transactions related to sponsored projects. It includes hands-on training to view two standard Discoverer reports, PI Reports and PI Reports by Month Range, to obtain a high level summary of financial transactions for projects with the ability to drill for details of all charges, including personnel charges. An Office of Sponsored Programs representative will be available to answer questions.

Those interested may call Rob Parker at 993-2089 for information or register online at: http://ittraining.gmu.edu/

 

PI Financial Reports for Grant Administrators

Thursday, February 15, 11:00 am to 12:00 noon, Innovation Hall, Room 215-G.

This workshop is for George Mason University Grant Administrators and other staff who review financial transactions related to sponsored projects. This hands-on workshop will provide an overview of the Discoverer PI Reports and PI Reports by Month Range that present a high level summary of financial transactions for projects, with the ability to drill for details of all charges, including personnel charges.

Those interested may call Rob Parker at 993-2089 for information or register online at: http://ittraining.gmu.edu/

 

Banner Finance Self Service

Thursday, February 22, 9:00 am to 12:00 noon in Innovation Hall, Room 215-G.

This workshop is for individuals who work with budget and financial activity. It provides an overview of the University's Banner Finance system and chart of accounts. It includes hands-on training to view and utilize reports generated by the system.

Those interested may call Rob Parker at 993-2089 for information or register online at: http://ittraining.gmu.edu/

 

Travel

Tuesday, February 27, 9:00 am to 12:00 noon in Innovation Hall, Room 215-G.

This workshop will provide an overview of Administrative Policy No. 2101, Travel Authorization and Reimbursement Policies as well as detailed information concerning processing travel authorizations before a trip and travel reimbursement requests at the conclusion of a trip. Procedures for purchasing airline/train tickets and hotel accommodations will also be covered. The workshop will also include a demonstration of the Travel Request System, the Mason web-based application for preparing authorizations and reimbursement requests.

Those interested may call Rob Parker at 993-2089 for information or register online at: http://ittraining.gmu.edu/

Mason E-Files Archives
 
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Bobbie Fuller, Information Services
(703) 993-1005
Last updated: January 30, 2007
http://www.gmu.edu/departments/infoservices/efiles.html