On Monday, April 28 at EagleBanke Arena, senior student-athletes gathered for a unique professional development experience—a formal Etiquette Dinner hosted as part of the university’s Patriot Pathways program. The event provided soon-to-be graduates with valuable life skills designed to aid their transition from college athletics to their professional careers.
This exclusive dinner was part of a larger, class-specific initiative under the Patriot Pathways umbrella, a comprehensive program aimed at enhancing career readiness for student-athletes at every stage of their college journey. Monday’s event was tailored specifically for seniors, equipping them with real-world etiquette knowledge essential for navigating formal business settings.
“The etiquette session with our student-athletes was a tremendous success,” said Senior Woman’s Administrator and Deputy Athletic Director for Student Services & Performance Nena Rogers. “Mastering etiquette enables you to interact confidently with potential employers, strengthening their personal brand and opening doors for future opportunities. Whether you’re attending a recruiting dinner, a team banquet, a donor event, or even a future job interview, how you carry yourself at the table speaks volumes before you ever say a word.”
Leading the evening was Kaleb Gajeton-Lewis, Director of Career Services and an adjunct faculty member within the Information Systems and Operations Management Area of the Costello College of Business. As the featured guest host and etiquette expert, Gajeton-Lewis guided student-athletes through the nuances of professional dining—providing insights into everything from place settings to conversational etiquette—ensuring participants left feeling more confident and prepared for future networking and career opportunities.
The evening’s success was made possible thanks to the generous support of Matt Vahue from Financial Growth Partners. His sponsorship not only elevated the experience for attendees but also reinforced the importance of investing in student-athletes’ development both financially and professionally.
As graduation approaches, events like the Etiquette Dinner serve as a testament to George Mason University’s commitment to holistic student-athlete development, ensuring Patriots are prepared to lead both on and off the field.