Brandon Cantrell

Graduation Spotlight: Laurel Jennings (MSN ’22) Rises as a Researcher

John Brandon Cantrell — Mon, 16 May 2022 12:46:23 +0000

Graduation Spotlight: Laurel Jennings (MSN ’22) Rises as a Researcher John Brandon C… Mon, 05/16/2022 - 08:46

In This Story

Jennings’ research in the Master of Nutrition program propelled her interest in incorporating scholarship with a career as a Registered Dietitian.

Laurel Jennings’ devotion to public health led her to Mason to better understand how the food system can impact social justice and health equity. She found the coursework and research opportunities at Mason to support and propel her goal of educating others on the power of micronutrients and how vitamins and minerals can aid disease prevention. As she graduates with a Master of Science in Nutrition degree in May 2022, she shares how she discovered an interest in research and how it will improve her future work as a dietitian.

“I am passionate about the pursuit of social justice in the food system, and I believed that an education at Mason would prepare me to meet the diverse demands of the world’s most vulnerable populations,” said Jennings. “As Mason prepares new health professionals to conduct innovative research to better domestic and global public health, I sought out this opportunity in the preparation of transforming nutrition interventions at all population levels.”

At Mason, Jennings’ aspirations for working in health equity and social justice were met and even exceeded with research opportunities that allowed her to have a role in strengthening public health.

Jennings began in the Master of Public Health program, but she transitioned into the Master of Nutrition program when she realized the program better aligned with her career interests. She soon became a graduate research assistant (GRA) to Raedeh Basiri, assistant professor of Nutrition, to help progress Basisri’s research on individualized nutrition therapy and type 2 diabetes. The opportunity gave Jennings insight into how to design research, apply for grants, conduct human studies, and conduct her own research for publication.

“I completed the process of submitting our protocols to Mason’s Institutional Review Board and the Institutional Biosafety Committee. I also completed the clinical trials application and worked rigorously to develop our questionnaires [for research participants],” Jennings said.

The experience of working with Basiri inspired Jennings to pursue her own research project. With Basiri’s supervision, Jennings wrote a review paper on the relationship between amino acids, B vitamins, and choline to study how they may influence Autism Spectrum Disorder. In April, Jennings’ research resulted in her winning a 2022 Celebration of Scholarship award.

Jennings said that the opportunities she obtained in the Master of Nutrition program grew her interest in pursuing research in her future career.

“A career goal of mine is to work directly with micronutrients, as they relate to vitamin and mineral deficiencies and to improve disease outcomes,” said Jennings. “Coming into the program, I intended to do this solely through a clinical focus, but after my GRA position and coursework, I’ve found the importance of research. Although I still hope to focus on clinical dietetics, my MS degree program has influenced my interests in incorporating research in my career.”

When asked what others should know about Mason’s Nutrition program, Jennings spoke about the value that the Nutrition Department’s teachers and staff provide. “I experienced a positive and encouraging environment at Mason, where peers and teachers aimed to assist my learning and provide me with constructive feedback,” Jennings said. “This was essential in my learning processes and improving my work without discouraging me.”

After graduating with her master's degree in nutrition, Jennings will attend North Carolina Central University in August to pursue the Future Education Model Dietetics Certificate Program.

Topics

Department of Nutrition and Food Studies

Graduation

Mason Researchers Create Digital Health Solution for Students Experiencing Academic, Mental Health Concerns

John Brandon Cantrell — Wed, 05 Jan 2022 14:33:33 +0000

Mason Researchers Create Digital Health Solution for Students Experiencing Academic, Mental Health Concerns John Brandon C… Wed, 01/05/2022 - 09:33

Topics

Center for Health Equity

In This Story

Lawrence J. Cheskin, MD

Hong Xue, PhD

The intervention tool uses machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms to detect a decline in undergraduate students' mental health and academic performance.

Students continue to feel the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has created additional barriers to their academic success and mental well-being. A team of researchers in the College of Health and Human Services is working to address these concerns with an early intervention tool specifically designed for students from underserved and underrepresented backgrounds.

The research team includes Lawrence Cheskin, Hong Xue, Erika Kennedy, Xiaolu Cheng, and Shuo-yu Lin.

The team has created a predictive mobile app that integrates machine learning and artificial intelligence algorithms to detect when students are encountering academic and mental health challenges. The app connects students who are exhibiting risk factors to appropriate resources, such as Mason’s Counseling and Psychological Services and students’ academic advisors.

Data suggests that minority and low-income students have a greater risk for developing a mental illness and a higher need for COVID-19 related interventions.

The research team leveraged data from the ongoing Health Starts Here research project to refine the machine learning analytics. The Health Starts Here cohort study collected information on 155 diverse undergraduate students’ mental health challenges caused by the pandemic. The team will compare that data with a new cohort of 582 Mason undergraduate students using the app throughout the fall 2021 and spring 2022 semesters.

"Offering earlier assistance through the app will increase retention rates of vulnerable populations, improve mental well-being, and provide new insight into the daily lived experiences of these groups," says Erika Kennedy, a Master of Public Health student and the user interface design editor for the app.

Lawrence Cheskin, chair of the Department of Nutrition and Food Studies, and Hong Xue, associate professor in the Department of Health Administration and Policy, serve as co-principal investigators for the research project. The research team also includes Mason alumna and former postdoctoral researcher Xiaolu Cheng and PhD candidate Shuo-yu Lin.

“Users are asked some pre-screen questions about their age, employment, how many credits they are taking, and so on,” says Cheng, who developed the app. “Upon completing the pre-screen, users access a survey about mental health within the app once per week.”

The app is programmed to detect inconsistencies in participants' survey responses, allowing for intervention if the app recognizes a student exhibits behavioral, emotional, and academic risk factors that will need addressing. All information that the app collects will be securely stored on Amazon Web Services (AWS).

“We chose to use the secure AWS environment to process, maintain, and store protected health information,” Cheng said.

The group of researchers examines the data to determine if the app is effective on undergraduate student success and mental well-being throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. The team is also analyzing demographic differences, such as race, in student success when accessing the digital health solution.

"Now that the app has been developed, the next step is focusing on [sharing] the tool so that other universities and students nationwide can access and benefit from it," says Kennedy.

CHHS Departments Compete in FACETS Donation Drive in Recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month

John Brandon Cantrell — Thu, 02 Dec 2021 15:37:25 +0000

CHHS Departments Compete in FACETS Donation Drive in Recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month John Brandon C… Thu, 12/02/2021 - 10:37

Topics

357 nonperishable food items and cleaning supplies were donated to local families in need

The School of Nursing and the Department of Rehabilitation Science came in first place with 103 items donated.

Members of the Master of Social Work Student Association (MSWSA) honored survivors of domestic violence during National Domestic Violence Awareness Month by organizing a donation drive competition. The month-long college-wide donation drive collected approximately 357 items across the College of Health and Human Service’s (CHHS) five departments, a testament to the CHHS community’s commitment to helping those in need.

Kendall Hunter, president of MSWSA, was motivated to organize the donation drive because many survivors of domestic violence experience financial and housing instability, which also impacts children who live in households with domestic violence and may need to relocate with a parent who is seeking safety.

Hunter said, "Through our studies, social work students have learned about the intersection between domestic violence, homelessness/housing instability, and financial instability. The MSWSA also recognizes the impact domestic violence has on children's emotional well-being, social functioning, and academic functioning."

Each CHHS department participated in the competition to collect the most nonperishable food items and cleaning supplies for FACETS, a Fairfax nonprofit organization that provides services to families, such as food, emergency shelter, medical care, and safe housing. MSWSA set up labeled donation bins in the lobby of Peterson Hall so participants could conveniently donate items for their department as they walk to class.

Thank you to MSWSA for organizing the donation drive and to the students, faculty, and staff who have participated in the competition to support survivors of domestic violence.

“I am moved by our students launching a competition in support of providing food and supplies for those most in need in our communities,” said Dean Germaine Louis.

Results of the Donation Drive Competition

School of Nursing & Department of Rehabilitation Science - 103 items donated, in addition to a $25 Amazon gift card
Department of Social Work - 83 items donated
Department of Nutrition & Food Studies - 64 items donated
Department of Global & Community Health - 57 items donated
Department of Health Administration & Policy - 50 items donated

Department of Nutrition and Food Studies Joins Partnership with Maseno University, Building on Long Relationship Fostered by Constance Gewa, Associate Professor

John Brandon Cantrell — Wed, 06 Oct 2021 20:15:12 +0000

Department of Nutrition and Food Studies Joins Partnership with Maseno University, Building on Long Relationship Fostered by Constance Gewa, Associate Professor John Brandon C… Wed, 10/06/2021 - 16:15

Topics

In This Story

Lawrence J. Cheskin, MD

Students, faculty, and staff from both institutions will benefit from the partnership by engaging in new research opportunities, exchange programs, and professional development activities.

The College is proud to announce the recent partnership between George Mason University and Maseno University (MSU), located in Kisumu, Kenya. Led by Constance Gewa, associate professor in the Department of Nutrition and Food Studies, the partnership aims to stimulate and support educational and intercultural projects between MSU and Mason's Department of Nutrition and Food Studies.

“This [partnership] will expand research and study abroad opportunities between faculty and students in the two universities,” says Gewa, who laid the foundation for the partnership.

The partnership is a result of relationships Gewa established with researchers and community members in Kenya. From 2016-17, Gewa collected data on food security among women and children in rural Kenya and returned in summer 2019 to share her findings. Since then, Gewa has collaborated with Maseno University and other Kenya institutions on a research study that examines childhood obesity rates in rural and urban Kenya.

“The Maseno University partnership builds on our department's ongoing relationship, spearheaded by Dr. Gewa, which seeks to address the growing problem of childhood obesity and related health problems in urban and rural Kenya,” says Lawrence Cheskin, chair of the Department of Nutrition and Food Studies.

The collaboration will enhance global scholarship and learning by inviting faculty and research personnel from Maseno University to participate in teaching and research activities and professional development opportunities. Faculty from each institution will work in areas such as organizing symposia, conferences, short courses, exchange programs, and meetings on research issues. In addition, the partnership will cultivate collaborative research, continuing education programs, and joint post-doctoral research activities for Mason and MSU students.

The College anticipates a successful collaboration with Maseno University and the Department of Nutrition and Food Studies. More information on the partnership will be available in the following weeks.

Learn more about Gewa’s research here:

Department Nutrition and Food Studies Faculty Teach Sustainable Food Practices

Mason Nutrition Students Gain Valuable Experience Helping Nonprofit Advance Core Nutrition Programs

John Brandon Cantrell — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 13:12:21 +0000

Mason Nutrition Students Gain Valuable Experience Helping Nonprofit Advance Core Nutrition Programs John Brandon C… Thu, 09/23/2021 - 09:12

Topics

Department of Nutrition and Food Studies

food insecurity

Food and Nutrition

CHHS News

In This Story

Lilian de Jonge, PhD

Mason Nutrition Students Prepare for Future Careers Through an Internship Opportunity with a Nutrition Advocacy Nonprofit.

Students pursuing an internship through Real Food for Kids have an opportunity to plan and participate in food advocacy events, such as Food Day.

Students pursuing a degree in the Department of Nutrition and Food Studies (NFS) are trained to address public health issues involving nutrition and food access in various settings, from hospitals and long-term care facilities to school districts and governmental agencies.

To ensure students gain valuable experience in these diverse settings, most students complete a practicum, which is an important and required component of NFS degree programs. The practicum provides experiential learning opportunities, so students can choose internships that align with their professional goals and interests and help develop the needed skills for future careers.

As a practicum advisor, Lilian de Jonge’s, associate professor in the Department of Nutrition and Food Studies, goal is to match students with internships that best align with their career interests and serve as a foundation to their future careers.

“Although internships in well-known organizations and companies show well on a CV, the majority of our students may learn more and have a more hands-on experience in smaller organizations, where they usually have a chance to touch on a wider range of activities and can work on projects that they have the sole responsibility for,” said de Jonge.

Real-world experience in food nutrition advocacy

Mary Porter, director of programs for Real Food for Kids, provides opportunities to gain non-clinical nutrition experience to Mason students.

Among these organizations is Real Food for Kids, a nonprofit located in McLean, Virginia that advocates for children’s wellness and academic success by instilling healthy food policies for school districts across the DC region.

“As a nonprofit working in nutrition insecurity, we cultivate interest in the non-clinical side of advocacy and education,” said Mary Porter, director of programs for Real Food for Kids. “Nonprofit work, especially with an organization as small as ours–we are a team of two people–means our interns have an opportunity to not only work on specific projects but manage administrative and operational duties as well.”

Internships at organizations such as Real Foods for Kids give Mason students opportunities to improve the nutritional quality of school lunches by building strong relationships with members in the field as well as being creative and adaptive when responding to new policy updates or research discoveries relating to nutrition.

In the past, Mason students have been integral to advancing the organization’s core nutrition programs, such as Fresh Food Explorers, which focuses on enhancing food literacy and nutrition education for preschoolers; Food Day, an elementary-level nutrition education program; and Culinary Challenge, a USDA school food culinary competition for middle and high schools.

Porter explained that Mason students’ eagerness to learn is what sets them apart from other schools that have interned with the organization. For Alyssa Wilson, who earned her Master of Science in Nutrition at Mason, her enthusiasm for learning new skills is one of the aspects that made the internship an enjoyable and memorable experience.

'An opportunity to develop my skills' - A Student Perspective

“Working on the Fresh Foods Explorers program during my internship at Real Food for Kids provided an opportunity to not only develop my skills in writing nutrition education programs specific to the needs of a particular community but also helped me to better develop important community engagement skills,” said Wilson. “Understanding the needs of the community and working directly with the preschoolers at a predominantly low-income school allowed me to create quality programming based on current behaviors. I worked directly with Arlington Healthy Communities Action Team to help educate the whole community about the benefits of eating fresh foods.”

“In fact, this work with children from low-income families, who are at higher risk of obesity and food insecurity, led to my current work with the Mason: Health Starts Here cohort study. We are comparing information from student cohorts across three time periods: those who started at Mason prior to the pandemic, those entering college in the midst of the pandemic, and those starting college shortly thereafter. The goal is to understand what impact it may have had on their health and behaviors during their college years,” said Wilson.

'The internship that suits you the best is the foundation of your whole career.'

According to de Jonge, students who are considering a degree in Nutrition and Food Studies should “take their time and explore all possibilities” before choosing their internship. “Do not see it as just a course to cross off the list,” de Jonge said. “The internship that suits you the best is the foundation of your whole career. You don’t want to rush that.”

For students who are interested in pursuing an internship in nutrition and not seeking a clinical experience, Porter encourages Mason students to consider Real Food for Kids.

“We can offer a unique nonprofit experience that will grow their professional skills in a different way,” Porter said. “We have just embarked on a new program to design a Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) pilot that offers incentives for fruit and vegetable purchases. The work requires a high level of community engagement, particularly in communities of color. We are hoping to engage interns in the formative work getting underway in the fall and through next year.”

Intermittent Fasting: Will it Work for You?

John Brandon Cantrell — Wed, 09 Jun 2021 14:15:50 +0000

Intermittent Fasting: Will it Work for You? John Brandon C… Wed, 06/09/2021 - 10:15

Topics

In This Story

Lilian de Jonge, PhD

Attention Media:
To speak with Lilian de Jonge and other faculty experts on topics related to obesity, nutrition, diabetes, food systems, and food insecurity, please contact Michelle Thompson at mthomp7@gmu.edu/703-993-3485.

Learn About Intermittent Fasting and Find Out if it is the Right Plan for You.

Lilian de Jonge, assistant professor of nutrition, shares insight and answers common questions regarding intermittent fasting.

According to The Washington Post and Healthline, the average weight gain during the pandemic was approximately 29 pounds per person. In America, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimates 42 percent of Americans have obesity, which is the second-leading cause of preventable death and is responsible for nearly 300,000 deaths per year. Obesity is also a risk factor for other chronic diseases, including diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and several cancers, making efforts for sustainable weight loss crucial to the public’s health.

With more parts of society returning to pre-COVID operations, many individuals are grappling with recent weight gain and are looking for ways to lose weight during the summer, including intermittent fasting. Dr. Lilian de Jonge, associate professor of nutrition at the George Mason University College of Health and Human Services, answers common questions and provides insight regarding this popular weight management trend.

What is intermittent fasting, and how does it work?

Intermittent fasting is a weight loss plan where individuals eat at certain times a day or on alternative days and can be a valid method to lose or maintain weight. Intermittent fasting works by manipulating how the body processes calories. There are three sources of calories: carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. During normal eating cycles, carbohydrates are readily available in the body, so the body processes carbohydrates first and stores fats, leading to weight gain. During periods of intermittent fasting, the body no longer has carbohydrates readily available, so the body will begin processing and burning fat instead of carbohydrates.

Are the different kinds or patterns of fasting (e.g., 16/8, 5:2, Eat Stop Eat) better than others?

There are different benefits for each fasting plan, and they all depend on the individual. Some individuals do well with fasting during certain times of the day, and others find fasting every other day more beneficial. The diet’s success is determined by how well someone can follow the diet and continue the diet until the desired weight is reached or maintained. There isn’t enough research to determine which type of fasting is better than the other.

The Internet is full of pictures showing that some forms of fasting are better for different body types. Is this true?

In general, it is best to be wary of diets that promise certainty, as all diets work differently for each person. Scientists cannot know if a diet plan works best for a certain body type until that specific study has been conducted. Typically, the studies focused on intermittent fasting involve subjects who have similar characteristics and are only conducted for a short period of time, making it difficult to determine a diet’s effectiveness for certain body types.

How much weight can someone expect to lose from intermittent fasting?

While the success rate for intermittent fasting varies from person to person, an average individual can expect to lose between 1 to 2 pounds of weight each week. For a healthy weight loss plan, the recommended amount of weight to lose is 1 to 2 pounds per week without experiencing negative health effects. For some, individuals can lose more weight within the first two weeks of intermittent fasting due to losing water weight.

Do you have to count calories during intermittent fasting?

The difference between a caloric restriction diet, where individuals consume a certain number of calories (typically 500 less than the body burns) each day, is that intermittent fasting allows individuals to eat normally during certain periods of time while restricting their eating during fasting times. Typically, individuals find intermittent fasting as an easier and more sustainable form of dieting than caloric restriction diets. However, practicing a healthy diet is still needed for individuals to see success from the dieting regimen.

How do you know if intermittent fasting is right for you?

Each person is different, so intermittent fasting is not a one-size-fits-all approach. While some people can handle periods of not eating, others can experience health concerns such as headaches or feeling like they may faint from going periods at a time without eating. If you find yourself struggling with intermittent fasting, reach out to a dietician or nutritionist to work on a diet plan that works for you.

What are the health benefits of intermittent fasting?

Aside from losing weight, individuals can experience several health benefits by going short periods at a time without consuming food. In some cases, the health trend can serve as a type of cleanse by feeling healthier and increasing a sense of clarity in the mind. In addition, following an intermittent fasting plan can help individuals make healthier choices when eating as well as being more mindful about what to eat and when to eat.

Can anyone try intermittent fasting?

There is more research that needs to be done to determine how intermittent fasting affects which populations or demographics differently. For the average adult, intermittent fasting can be a viable and healthy solution to lose weight. This form of dieting is not recommended for some individuals, such as growing children, athletes following a strict workout plan, or individuals with type-1 diabetes. For growing children, a diet plan is only recommended in certain situations. In most cases, children are taught how to eat healthier and make lifestyle changes to improve weight. For athletes following a workout plan, intermittent fasting can be difficult to follow by going certain periods without food and protein, given their level of activeness. Individuals with type-1 diabetes need to regulate their glucose intake and find that a consistent, daily diet is more beneficial to their health.

Individuals with questions about the best weight loss plan for them are encouraged to speak with their care provider and to consider working with a nutritionist to ensure long-term success.

What can I do to lose weight without trying intermittent fasting?

Practicing a healthy diet is beneficial for individuals who want to lose weight without practicing intermittent fasting. Tools such as MyPlate allow individuals to monitor their daily caloric intake and ensure that each meal meets the recommended requirements for fruits, vegetables, grains, and dairy. Individuals can also modify the plan based on their gender, age, weight, and height to get more personalized recommendations on healthful eating.

What determines if a diet plan is right for me?

The success of a diet plan is based on how sustainable it is for an individual to maintain the diet. In most cases, a lifestyle change needs to be made to successfully follow a diet. The important aspect of dieting is to determine if the diet feels right for each person. Every person will have different experiences and results with diets depending on how well their body adapts to the new change in eating and how long the individual can practice the diet. Speaking with a dietician or nutritionist can help answer questions about a certain diet as well as ensuring that the diet is the best plan for you.

What research still needs to be conducted on intermittent fasting?

Typically, studies regarding intermittent fasting are set in relatively short periods of time with specific subjects who share similar characteristics, such as gender and body mass index (BMI), and depend on what factors the scientists are looking to discover. Scientists are unable to determine the long-term effects of intermittent fasting or determine which type of person would have more success with this diet than others until the studies are completed. While there are still many unknowns, to ensure you are on the best track for your weight loss, it is best to consult with an expert who can answer questions and modify the plan based on what works for you.

About Dr. Lilian de Jonge

Dr. Lilian de Jonge has worked in several areas of nutrition, including nutritional support in burn patients and the effects of diet composition on body weight and chronic diseases, with a particular depth in human energy metabolism. Collaborations have interested de Jonge in the role of functional foods and nutraceutical compounds on health, determinants of weight gain, and the development of metabolic syndrome in children.

Some of her specific research interests include variability in the adaptation to changes in diet composition and energy balance; the role of sleep and circadian rhythms on the development of obesity and metabolic disorder and more specifically in the effects of disturbance of circadian rhythms on food intake, food preferences, nutrient metabolism, physical activity, and their interactions; and the effects of nutraceuticals with anti-inflammatory properties on the metabolic syndrome and weight regulation and lately school nutrition programs.

Attention Media:

To speak with Lilian de Jonge and other faculty experts on topics related to obesity, nutrition, diabetes, food systems, and food insecurity, please contact Michelle Thompson at mthomp7@gmu.edu/703-993-3485.

CHHS Faculty Constance Gewa to Present on Food Sustainability at 17 Rooms-U Summit

John Brandon Cantrell — Wed, 26 May 2021 21:19:54 +0000

CHHS Faculty Constance Gewa to Present on Food Sustainability at 17 Rooms-U Summit John Brandon C… Wed, 05/26/2021 - 17:19

Topics

Food and Nutrition

food insecurity

Constance Gewa Set to Speak on Food Sustainability in Upcoming 17 Rooms-U Summit.

Constance Gewa, associate professor in the Department of Nutrition and Food Studies, will be speaking on methods to increase food sustainability in an upcoming event, the 17 Rooms-U Summit, held by Mason’s Institute for a Sustainable Earth. Gewa will co-moderate Room 2, Zero Hunger, with Dann Sklarew, professor from the College of Science, and J. P. Singh, professor in the Schar School of Policy and Government. Mason’s 17 Rooms-U Summit will be held virtually on October 1, 2021.

Developed by The Rockefeller Foundation and the Brooking’s Institute, 17 Rooms is an event designed to help organizations identify partnerships and practical steps to accelerate progress on the United Nation’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. After the summit, insights and findings from each room will be communicated in a report to advance the steps toward reaching the U.N.’s Sustainable Development Goals.

For more information, please visit the Institute for a Sustainable Earth’s 17 Rooms-U Summit webpage.

In-Person Mini-Celebration Honors 2021 and 2020 Graduates

John Brandon Cantrell — Thu, 13 May 2021 22:32:32 +0000

In-Person Mini-Celebration Honors 2021 and 2020 Graduates John Brandon C… Thu, 05/13/2021 - 18:32

View the 2021 In-Person Mini-Celebration Recording

Topics

Commencement

Graduation

Graduation 2020; Coronavirus; COVID-19

CHHS News

In This Story

Kimberly Holmes, PhD, MEd

The College Celebrates 2020 and 2021 Graduates.

Graduates from 2020 and 2021 celebrated their achievements with an in-person ceremony.

Members of the College of Health and Human Services’ Class of 2020 and 2021 were honored during an in-person mini-celebration on Thursday, May 13. The in-person celebration gave 212 2020 and 2021 graduates an opportunity to be recognized for completing their degrees and walk across the stage. 2020 graduates were invited to return as they were not able to celebrate in-person last year due to statewide restrictions on large events due to COVID-19.

The College had a total of 790 (455 undergraduate and 335 graduate) spring 2021 graduates who received their degrees across 21 degree programs.

Kim Holmes, associate dean for academic affairs, hosted the in-person celebration and welcomed the graduates and their loved ones during opening remarks, followed by comments from Dean Germaine Louis, student speaker Caprecia Miller, and alumni speaker Kevin Cevasco.

In addition, Bridgett Nesfield, a graduating Music Performance major at Mason, and John Kim, a 2016 Mason alumnus with a Bachelor of Arts, performed the National Anthem and Mason’s Alma Mater during the celebration.

“The class of 2020 was invited to participate in this semester’s in-person events; therefore, today we will be recognizing both our 2020 and 2021 graduates,” Holmes said to the graduating classes. “We are proud of your accomplishments, and we applaud your resilience through the unexpected changes and challenges of the past year.”

Dean Germaine Louis spoke on the graduates’ resiliency as they completed their degrees, despite the changes brought on by COVID-19. “At Mason, we work very hard to ensure our graduates are career-ready,” said Louis.

Dean Germaine Louis addresses the 2021 and 2020 graduates during the In-Person Mini-Celebration.

“And I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge that you accomplished all this while navigating the COVID-19 pandemic and all the other aspects of your life. Your ability to successfully meet academic demands in the context of forces beyond your control is witness to all you can do in the future, and it is a part of your living legacy of what is possible,” Louis added.

After thanking the graduates, their loved ones, and the College’s faculty and staff for another successful year of preparing career-ready graduates, Louis spoke of her wishes for the future leaders in public health. “I remain hopeful that we will rebuild our communities and work in support of health for all people,” said Louis. “I ask our graduates to work in support of a world with health, not disparities; with safety, not violence; and with prosperity, not poverty. Continue to make Mason proud.”

Caprecia Miller (MSW '21), 2021 student speaker.

This year’s student speaker, Caprecia Miller (MSW ’21), echoed Dean Louis’ speech when saying, “You have shown unprecedented resilience, dedication, and strength during a defining pandemic, and quickly adjusted to online learning. And if the pandemic taught us anything, it taught us to be grateful for what we have.”

Miller went on to thank the professors who helped prepare graduates for their professional careers as well as graduates’ families and friends, who encouraged and supported them along the way.

“May you have a bright and prosperous future,” Miller said to the graduating classes. “I wish each of you success as you pursue your dreams.”

Kevin Cevasco (MPH '20), 2021 alumni speaker.

Two-time Mason alumnus, Kevin Cevasco, offered the graduating classes insight on the value a Mason degree brings by sharing experiences throughout his career. “I worked for 30 years between my Mason bachelor’s degree and MPH and am confident that what you learned here at Mason is valuable,” Cevasco said. “While your time as a student may be over, your relationship with Mason is just beginning.”

Cevasco concluded his speech by reminding the graduating classes on the importance of being in the Mason community and encouraged all to stay connected with one another as well as their professors and mentors.

To stay connected, all alumni are encouraged to become a part of the public health dialogue on the College’s social media channels: chhs.gmu.edu /news | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn | Instagram

2021 graduates are also invited to attend the Virtual Degree Celebration on May 14 at 2 pm, which will be live-streamed on the CHHS YouTube channel. Additional ways to celebrate the graduates can be found here.

The Washington Post-American Nurses Association and The Washingtonian Magazine Recognize Mason Nursing Excellence in Local Awards

John Brandon Cantrell — Mon, 10 May 2021 15:32:49 +0000

The Washington Post-American Nurses Association and The Washingtonian Magazine Recognize Mason Nursing Excellence in Local Awards John Brandon C… Mon, 05/10/2021 - 11:32

2021 Star Nurses Finalists

Excellence in Nursing Awards

Topics

In This Story

Caroline Sutter, DNP

Martha (Marti) Y. Kubik, PhD, RN, FAAN

Local Nursing Awards Recognize Mason Alumni.

As we continue to celebrate National Nurses Month, the American Nurses Association has dedicated the week of May 10 to May 14 as a time to recognize and celebrate the dedication, commitment, and contributions nurses provide to their patients, colleagues, and communities.

Caroline Sutter, Mason alumna, professor, and co-director of the Mason and Partners (MAP) Clinics, was named one of the 2021 Star Nurses from the Washington Post and American Nurses Association (ANA).

At George Mason University, the School of Nursing prepares nurses to become leaders in their field through extensive practical and academic training. Mason Nursing excellence has been recognized through two local awards.

This year, three Mason alumni (including one faculty member) were selected as 2021 Star Nurses finalists by the Washington Post, in partnership with the American Nurses Association.

With over one hundred nominees, the Washington Post and American Nurses Association (ANA) selected the top candidates who represent the “epitome of skill, professionalism, and care” as they work in the frontlines to provide care in the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia Metropolitan area. Of the 2021 Star Nurses, six nurses will be named as Nightingale Award winners on May 26.

Among the nurses selected is two-time Mason alumna, Caroline Sutter (MSN ’01, DNP ‘12), who is also the co-director of the Mason and Partners (MAP) Clinics and associate professor in the School of Nursing.

“I am humbled by this recognition and have loved every minute of my nursing career,” Sutter said. “I am proud to be a Mason nurse, where we encourage innovative thinking and allow ideas to blossom into initiatives that make a difference. I am particularly proud of the work we do at the Mason and Partner Clinics to improve the health of the most vulnerable in our communities and to offer hands-on learning opportunities that prepare our students to thrive in the health care workforce.”

Along with Sutter, Mason alumnus Kenneth Daniel (BSN ’00) and alumna Donna Thomas (MSN ’17) were selected as 2021 finalists.

“We’ve always known that Mason nurses are special and that they bring passion, competency, and resilience to their careers,” said Marti Kubik, director and professor of the School of Nursing. “I particularly want to congratulate Carrie Sutter for the well-deserved honor and to thank her for her tireless work in the community.”

In addition to the Mason nurses selected as the 2021 Star Nurses, eight Mason alumni were featured in the Washingtonian’s 50 Exceptional Nurses list to honor nurses who “go above and beyond every day for their patients and colleagues.” In this recognition, Mason alumni represented 16% of nurses on the list.

Laila S. Bailey, BSN ’85, MSN ‘10; Meghan K. Bozzelli, BSN ’07; Christine M. Chaney, BSN ’02; Susan E. (Sue) Frank, BSN ’78, MSN ’96; Lauren J. Keane, BSN ’11; Kimberly A. Miller, MSN ’15; Myra B. (Connie) Wisnaes, BSN ’93; and Michelle J. Vassallo, MHA ’15 were among those who received the Exceptional Nurses honor.

“It’s wonderful to see our faculty and alumni recognized in the community through initiatives like the Washington Post/ANA Star Nurses and Washingtonian Magazine Excellence in Nursing Award,” Kubik said. “Thank you to all nurses – we appreciate your many contributions.”

CHHS Students Committed to Giving Back to the Community

John Brandon Cantrell — Tue, 04 May 2021 13:03:28 +0000

CHHS Students Committed to Giving Back to the Community John Brandon C… Tue, 05/04/2021 - 09:03

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College of Health and Human Services

CHHS News

Graduating CHHS Seniors Reflect on Community Engagement.

Students who pursue public health-related fields are working to make an impact in their respective fields of study as well as their local communities. By applying skills they learned in their coursework, many students in the College of Health and Human Services work and volunteer for local organizations that support health, wellness, and social justice initiatives.

Tristan Corbett, a Bachelor of Social Work student, explains the importance of giving back to the community. “As a CHHS student, you learn across multiple classes [on] how important environmental influences are to both the health and well-being of an individual,” said Corbett. “It is easy to go about life and be a recipient of the benefits from the environment and [community], but I find it important to contribute to them as well; it is a group effort to sustain and improve our community, for our community.”

As a student studying social work, Corbett became involved with a local nonprofit, FACETS, while completing his practicum. “There are many opportunities to contribute to the community [at FACETS], from Hot Meals - a food distribution program for the local homeless population around NoVA - to the Education and Community Development branch, which seeks to enrich the lives of the subsidized housing communities around their offices.”

Many students find community engagement opportunities as a way to gain real-world experience by problem-solving, communicating, and collaborating with others to address issues facing their community.

"Giving back to your community is an opportunity for you to evolve as a person and understand how you fit into the world around you. Engaging with different communities will enhance your life and connect you to people and ideas that will positively influence you in different walks of life." - Pratishna Thapa

For Pratishna Thapa, a Bachelor of Social Work student in the College, giving back to the community is a way for her to help individuals through challenging situations while she earns her degree at Mason.

“I have had the privilege to work with different communities -- from working with children and adults with disabilities, organizing disaster relief programs for people affected by natural disasters, strategizing ways to enhance the well-being of marginalized women in developing countries, advocating for victims and witnesses of domestic violence to assisting formerly incarcerated women to get back into the society,” Thapa said.

Thapa has worked with the Alexandria Victim Assistance Program, a Virginia organization staffed by Crime Victim Advocates who provide support and services to crime victims during the aftermath of a crime and throughout the criminal justice process. While working as an advocate in the organization, Thapa attended court with individuals who have survivors of crimes and organized vigils for those who have died due to domestic violence.

Currently, Thapa serves as a case manager intern for Friends of Guest House, where she provides emotional support and coping strategies for formerly incarcerated women.

“My daily responsibilities entail helping the women identify their stressors, identify coping plans, document case notes for my clients, and lead psychoeducational groups like Interpersonal Skills and Seeking Safety weekly,” Thapa said.

Through her advocacy work, Thapa was inspired to pursue research opportunities relating to women's experiences in the prison system. “I have observed an inconsistency in the demographic of women being rehabilitated versus the actual prison population,” Thapa said. “This has piqued my interest in researching the gaps within the prison system while pursuing my Master's in Social work through the Advanced Standing Program at Mason.”

Kendal Chase, a student in the School of Nursing, also has a mission to help others in her community. Chase’s community engagement began at the macro-level by serving her country in the United States Army.

"Learning at Mason taught me that my education and experience were not about myself but about the needs of the community and where I can help out as an individual." -Kendal Chase

“I proudly served 8 years of Active-Duty service as a Pharmacy Technician,” Chase said. “I was stationed at Fort Hood, Texas and Fort Belvoir, Virginia, serving in both field exercise and hospital settings.”

While serving in the Army, Chase became the liaison for Fort Belvoir’s Hazardous Waste Program, where she educated healthcare professionals on the importance of medical disposal practices. This experience led to more opportunities to help others when Chase transitioned into a career outside of the Army.

While serving as an Outreach Coordinator for Fairfax County, Chase implemented strategies to help the community safely dispose of unused or expired prescription drugs. “I focused much of my work on researching and designing a pilot Drug Take-Back program for privately-owned pharmacies,” Chase said. “This program was then presented to the Virginia State Wastewater employees at the WaterJam conference in 2019.”

When she was accepted into the School of Nursing, Chase continued helping others by joining Mason’s Student Nursing Association (SNA) board. “My primary motivation for applying for the SNA board was to provide a better avenue for communication for the students and faculty,” Chase said.

As a board member, Chase helped navigate the group through a challenging year due to COVID-19. However, the pandemic didn’t stop Chase and her fellow board members from helping other nursing students.

“[Working together] during a COVID environment has proven to be difficult, but I’ve learned it’s only made us closer as a group, as we have to be creative, innovative, and dedicated to making it work,” Chase said. “It was because of our continued teamwork that our club was turned into a constituent at the national level. We’ve conducted coat drives, food drives, and promoted a mentorship program for pre-nursing and nursing students, to name a few [projects].”

Due to the global impact of COVID-19, there is a strong need for community engagement initiatives to help with the local implications of the pandemic. Mei Qiu, a Bachelor of Social Work student in the College, continued serving her community and expanding her professional skills by connecting others to helpful resources throughout the pandemic.

"Volunteering my time helps give me a purpose and improve social inequalities that are occurring in the area." -Mei Qiu

“During quarantine, I was able to help volunteer at many facilities to help detect COVID-19 in the Prince William county area with the Virginia Medical Reserve Corps,” Qiu said.

For Qiu, getting involved in community engagement is an important component of her future career. “It’s important to give back because, as a future social worker, I need to familiarize myself with my community and what resources and services are needed,” Qiu said. “Volunteering my time helps give me a purpose and improve social inequalities that are occurring in the area.”

In addition to working as a research assistant, Qiu has also focused on helping others who face food and housing insecurity. “Most recently, I have been volunteering my time with the Hot Meals program at FACETS as a driver and to help give out meals to people who are homeless in the Fairfax county area,” Qiu said.

Community engagement has offered these seniors opportunities to make meaningful contributions that improve the lives of those around them while completing their degrees. Through this type of advocacy work, Mason’s future leaders in public health are well-prepared to serve their communities and continue to better their communities.

Before graduating in May, Corbett, Thapa, Chase, and Qiu were honored as Community Engagement Medallion Awardees by Mason’s Social Action and Integrative Learning (SAIL) organization.