Off the Clock

Kristina Ryder has worked as an administrative specialist in George Mason University’s Office of University Advancement and Alumni Relations for almost two years, where she supports the Advancement communications team. Outside work, Ryder has spent time on the basketball court at EagleBank Arena—but not shooting free throws. Ryder is a singer, and she has performed “The Star-Spangled Banner” at sporting events at George Mason and beyond.

Debbie Cohen started working in George Mason University’s Office of University Advancement and Alumni Relations in fall 2023. Before coming to George Mason, she worked in another realm of education: as a middle school teacher. Her passion for education fueled her involvement with another activity outside work: Cohen serves as a volunteer mentor with College Bound, Inc., a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit serving public and charter school students in grades 8–12.

Carissa O’Neill works at George Mason University as an office assistant in University Life. Outside the office, O’Neill volunteers at The JK Community Farm in Purcellville, Virginia—a 150-acre working farm that donates 100% of its produce to local food pantries.

As an Institutional Review Board (IRB) compliance manager in George Mason University’s Office of Research Integrity and Assurance, Kim Paul ensures that research projects involving human subjects comply with all regulations. Outside of work, one of her hobbies revolves around nonhuman subjects: dogs eligible for adoption.

As a photographer in Creative Services at George Mason University, Evan Cantwell spends his time at work capturing moments across the university. Cantwell is also a 25- year survivor of colorectal cancer. He has found ways to connect with other survivors and help spread awareness of colorectal cancer, which is now affecting more and more young people in the United States.

Stacey Schwartz works as a digital strategist for the Center for the Arts and the Hylton Performing Arts Center at George Mason University. A Mason alum, Schwartz brought her capstone research project to life when she opened a Free Little Art Gallery (FLAG) in her community.

As employer engagement consultant with University Career Services at George Mason University, Jneva Norfleet connects organizations with qualified talent from Mason, helping Mason students and graduates achieve their career goals. Outside work, Norfleet hones other talents of her own—she is a Toastmasters champion and a spoken word artist who shares her poetry to inspire others.

Liza Wilson Durant wears many hats at George Mason University. Outside her work at Mason, though, Wilson Durant makes a different impact on her community as an emergency medical technician (EMT).

As term associate professor of statistics, Kenneth Strazzeri stays busy teaching about 300 students each semester. Beyond his passion for teaching, Strazzeri discovered two new interests in recent years: running and biking. This hobby is now his major mode of transportation, as well: commuting to Mason by bike has offered Strazzeri motivation and an opportunity to improve as an athlete.

As assistant professor and online Master of Health Administration coordinator in Mason’s College of Public Health (CPH), Maria Uriyo teaches courses on Contemporary Issues in Health Systems Management and co-manages the Master of Health Administration Program's capstone research class.