By Mary Frances Forcier
Attendees strike a pose during Alumni Weekend 2014. Photo by Evan Cantwell.
Beautiful weather and warm greetings welcomed alumni throughout the region as hundreds gathered for George Mason University’s annual Alumni Weekend, Sept. 19–21.
ABC 7 meteorologist Brian van de Graaff, BA Speech Communication ’97, had predicted a sunny fall weekend for the event, and he was right on target.
Alumni celebrated with friends from their schools and colleges, organizations, and affinity groups, and joined together for all-university events such as the festive Green and Gold Bash.
“We planned events throughout the area and on campus, giving alumni many choices,” said Christine Clark-Talley, associate vice president for alumni relations. Venues included downtown Washington, D.C., Tyson’s Corner and Loudoun County, as well as familiar campus sites.
“You rest, you rust,” said Patrice Winter, MS ’10, an assistant professor in the Department of Rehabilitation Science, as she shared tips for “aging successfully.” Part of the “Lunch and Learn” series, Winter’s talk was among several focused on useful information from George Mason faculty and alumni, including how to buy your first house, how to get a job in today’s market and how to find an edge as a woman in the workplace.
Alumni were reminded of the importance of Mason networks to future success, and were encouraged to reach out to fellow alumni and to current students, finding common ground and helping others.
The gorgeous fall weather lasted into the evening during Alumni Weekend events. Photo by Evan Cantwell.
Lauren Wagner, assistant director of admissions, walked alumni through the admissions process, noting the increasing number of Mason graduates whose children are now current students.
President Ángel Cabrera provided a look at today’s Mason in his “State of the University” talk and introduced new staff members Provost S. David Wu and Athletic Director Brad Edwards to their alumni constituents.
“Mason is becoming a more diverse university and an academically stronger university at the same time,” Cabrera said. “We see Mason as both a magnet for talent and a producer of talent: identifying potential in students, and creating an environment where that potential can do great things.”
When one alumnus asked how Mason graduates can help strengthen the university, Cabrera replied, “When you talk about where you went to college, make sure the world knows where you come from. Tell the Mason story.”