When was the last time you saw your boss serve you lunch? George Mason employees had that chance recently when university president Dr. Ángel Cabrera donned an apron and chef’s hat to man the fajita station at a luncheon honoring faculty and staff who made charitable contributions to Mason in the past year.
More than one hundred Fairfax-campus employees gathered at Dewberry Hall inside the Johnson Center for a Tex-Mex feast served by Dr. Cabrera and several members of his executive team. While it was unclear who enjoyed turning the tables more—the professors or the president—the celebratory atmosphere underscored the event’s important purpose: thanking and recognizing faculty and staff who go above and beyond their job duties to support the university with voluntary gifts.
In his remarks to the group—with apron still in place—Dr. Cabrera emphasized the spirit of teamwork that makes George Mason a special place to work. Vice President of Advancement and Alumni Relations Dr. Janet Bingham noted how the power of participation helps build a culture of philanthropy within the university’s own ranks. And Dean of Admissions Amy Takayama-Perez (BA ’96, M.Ed ’02) honored faculty-staff giving as a commitment to the lives being changed every day in the classrooms and campuses of Mason.
Similar appreciation lunches will be held soon on the Arlington and Science and Technology campuses. Mason employees who wish to join the fun, and support the Faster Farther campaign, can do so conveniently through payroll deductions by clicking the button below, as well as through any standard giving mechanism.
February 4, 2016 / RR