Auxiliary and Business Services

Smart Locker Expansion

Print & Mail Services completed the installation and system configuration of new smart lockers in the mail hub, enabling students to conveniently access their packages by simply tapping their Mason ID. The enhanced system will provide a more secure, efficient, and seamless pickup experience ahead of the fall semester.

Fresh Flavors, Faster Delivery, and New Favorites: What’s New in Dining at George Mason This Semester

A new semester means new ways to eat, grab coffee, and satisfy your cravings at George Mason University. From upgraded food delivery to exciting new dining concepts, Mason Dining is serving up more convenience, more variety, and more reasons to explore campus.

Photo of the AVRide, the new delivery robot in front of the George Mason Statue

Food Delivery Gets an Upgrade with Avride + Grubhub

Food delivery on campus is getting a refresh. George Mason’s new autonomous delivery partner, Avride, is now rolling out across campus, bringing a seamless delivery experience powered entirely through the Grubhub app.

Even better, all George Mason students, faculty, and staff with an active Mason email account automatically receive a free Grubhub+ membership—a $9.99 monthly value—unlocking exclusive perks and savings. Getting started is easy with a few quick setup steps.

“We’re always looking for ways to make dining more convenient and accessible for the Mason community,” said Lou Christopher, Vice President of Operations for George Mason Dining. “By combining Avride’s innovative delivery technology with the Grubhub platform, we’re creating an easier, more connected dining experience that meets students where they are.”

 

TrueBurger offers classic American burgers, made with halal ingredients.

True Burger Brings Bold Flavor and Gives Back to the Mason Community

Burger fans have something new to celebrate this semester with the opening of True Burger, replacing Steak ‘n Shake. The new restaurant will serve a fully halal menu, expanding dining options while delivering fresh, made-to-order burgers, fries, and more.

Every meal also makes a difference. Chartwells will donate 2% of every True Burger purchase to George Mason’s Food Insecurity Fund, helping support students experiencing food insecurity.

Dreamery, new new ice cream and gelato concept opened fall 2026, located at the lower level of the Johnson Center

New Dining Destinations in the Johnson Center

The Johnson Center is welcoming several exciting additions this semester.

Dreamery will satisfy every sweet tooth with ice cream, desserts, and other delicious treats, while Ace Sushi will offer freshly prepared sushi and Japanese favorites in its new location across from Starbucks on the lower level.

Looking for something warm and comforting? Noodle District is also joining the lineup, serving up flavorful bowls of pho and ramen.

Noodle District is replacing the ACE Sushi at the first floor of the Johnson Center, offering a wide range of choice of ramen and noodle dishes.

Fresh Coffee Brewing in Engineering

Coffee lovers have something new to look forward to with LaCava Coffee opening in the Engineering Building. Replacing the Patriot Coffee Shop, the new café will offer handcrafted coffee beverages, grab-and-go items, and the perfect place to recharge between classes.

More Convenience on Campus

Need a quick snack, drink, or everyday essentials? A new campus convenience store is also coming soon, expanding grab-and-go options and making it even easier to pick up what you need between classes.

“Every enhancement we make is designed to improve the campus experience for our students, faculty, staff, and visitors,” said Jonathan Elwell, Director of Dining Services. “Whether it’s introducing innovative technology, expanding dining choices, or creating partnerships that support student success, we’re committed to delivering services that make life at Mason easier, more enjoyable, and more connected.”

Whether you’re ordering lunch through Avride, trying a new favorite at True Burger, grabbing a sweet treat at Dreamery, or fueling up with coffee between classes, there’s never been a better time to explore everything that’s new in dining at George Mason this semester.

More Ways to Use Your Dining Dollars

You can now link your Dining Dollars to the Starbucks app and use them to pay for mobile orders or in-store purchases while still earning Starbucks Stars and rewards. Limited to Starbucks on-campus locations.

Photo of the Starbucks app with the Dining Dollar payment method.

Patriot Perspectives Art Gallery

Student Centers and Mason Exhibitions partnered to launch the new Patriot Perspectives Art Gallery in the Johnson Center, creating a dedicated space to showcase artwork and photography by students, alumni, and staff. The inaugural, pilot exhibition features work by George Mason alumna and former staff member Sisc Johnson, with exhibits planned to rotate each semester.

National Recognition for Parking & Transportation

Parking & Transportation received an International Parking & Mobility Institute award for Excellence Honorable Mention for the implementation of the Metropolis parking system at Mason Square. Director of Parking Services, Josh Cantor, accepted the award at the annual conference in Milwaukee, which recognized George Mason’s leadership in parking innovation.

Drive-In Conference Comes to George Mason

In June, George Mason welcomed the Virginia Student Activities and Student Unions Drive-In Conference for the first time, welcoming nearly 100 higher education professionals from institutions across Virginia and the Washington, D.C., region. Hosted by Student Centers, the conference featured professional development, networking, and collaborative discussions focused on strengthening the student experience.

Teacher Appreciation Week at CDC

To celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week, Auxiliary and Business Services hosted a catered lunch for Child Development Center staff, recognizing the educators who support George Mason’s youngest learners every day. The Cinco de Mayo-themed event provided a well-deserved opportunity for appreciation and community-building for a team that is often unable to participate in campus events due to their caregiving responsibilities.

George Mason contracts with Rally House and eCampus.com for course materials and apparel

George Mason University announced plans to move its apparel, bookstore, and course materials operations to Rally House and eCampus.com, marking a new chapter in flexibility, affordability, and student success. Effective July 1, Rally House will oversee branded merchandise, delivering a broader selection of spirit wear and campus gear. eCampus.com will manage course materials, providing a streamlined, affordable, and student-focused approach to textbook access and delivery.

Mason Dining Halls Receive Green Restaurant Association Certification

Mason Dining achieved Green Restaurant Association (GRA) Certification across all dining halls, exemplifying the university’s commitment to sustainability and environmentally responsible operations. In addition, The Mason Mensch expanded its inclusive dining offerings by earning halal certification alongside its existing kosher certification, further supporting diverse dietary and cultural needs across campus.

George Mason Named the “Best Workplace for Commuters”

All three George Mason campuses were once again recognized as Best Workplaces for Commuters, highlighting continued excellence in commuter support, transportation programs, and sustainable commuting initiatives that benefit students, faculty, and staff.

Final Headband Drop for Record-Breaking Campaign

The final Collect the Spirit headband drop at Homecoming capped a memorable and record-breaking sales season. The mobile merchandise trailer more than doubled last year’s in-arena sales, demonstrating strong demand and the effectiveness of expanded retail strategies.