For her efforts to ensure George Mason University is an environment where all students can succeed, Shekila Melchior, director of strategic initiatives and partnerships in George Mason University’s Office of Access, Compliance and Community, has been named February Employee of the Month.
“Through strategic institutional-wide initiatives, program development, mentorship, and community-building efforts, Shekila has demonstrated unwavering leadership in promoting a welcoming environment for students, faculty, and staff across all George Mason campuses,” said Erikca Brown, associate director of professional development in the Office of Access, Compliance, and Community.
Colleagues in the Office of Access, Compliance, and Community applauded Melchior’s commitment to making sure all George Mason students have access to the resources, mentorship, and support they need to thrive. Her leadership in coordinating access, inclusion, and well-being initiatives directly supports student retention and success.
Among her many responsibilities, Melchior facilitates outreach and recruitment efforts to ensure that George Mason remains a welcoming institution for diverse student populations. She also provides one-on-one mentorship to students facing barriers in higher education, ensuring they feel heard, supported, and valued.
“Her efforts create a learning environment where all students feel empowered to succeed—truly embodying the philosophy that at George Mason, our students come first,” said Brown.
Melchior is also valued by her colleagues university-wide as a partner and collaborator as she supports academic and administrative units. She also provides consultation, resources, and best practices to faculty and staff on fostering inclusive classrooms, workplaces, and research environments.
She provided support on a National Science Foundation grant to prepare recent PhD graduates to be leaders in quantum education and workforce development research, and also serves on the university’s Mental Health and Well-Being Executive Committee, which promotes mental health support for the campus community.
“One of Shekila’s most impactful contributions is her ability to build bridges across departments, disciplines, and communities,” said Sharnnia Artis, vice president for access, compliance, and community.
Melchior cultivates this culture of collaboration by fostering cross-campus partnerships between Academic Affairs, Enrollment Management, University Life, Human Resources, and other key stakeholders.
Melchior plays an integral role in accountability, ensuring university compliance with federal and state nondiscrimination laws and that George Mason’s policies reflect this commitment. Her data-driven assessments to monitoring and improving the campus climate ensure that institutional efforts are transparent and impactful.
“Through her work, Shekila creates spaces where students, faculty, and staff feel valued, respected, and empowered, reinforcing the belief that our community thrives when we support one another,” said Artis.
How did you come to Mason:
I came to Mason in 2019 and joined the Counseling Program as an Assistant Professor. It was a return home for me as a Prince William County graduate.
Best day on the job:
I have the privilege to merge my clinical experiences with the work I do now in the Office of Access, Compliance and Community. Thus, my best day is when we held a healing space for Junior Patriots Day. We normally hold these spaces for faculty, staff and students so it was a gift to see young people engage in well-being activities such as yoga, mindful coloring and destressing with Kinetic sand and fidget spinners.
What do you like best about working at Mason:
My colleagues, it is a privilege to be seen and known. We take good care of each other and it has allowed me to flourish in my work. I am so grateful.
What do you like to do when you’re not working:
I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I love to craft, listen to audiobooks and play games at Dave and Buster’s.