Category: Highlights

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 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.

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.

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.

Several hundred members of the George Mason community came together at the Johnson Center to support Ilia Malinin’s Olympic journey. The watch party, hosted by University Life, Student Centers, and other Auxiliary and Business Services units, featured themed catering and plenty of emotion from the energetic crowd to cheer on George Mason’s own gold medal olympian.

February marked seven years since George Mason became the first university in the nation to launch autonomous food delivery through Starship delivery robots. Mason Dining celebrated the anniversary of the program, which has grown to a fleet of over 60 robots, fulfilling dozens of delivery orders each day for the George Mason community.

Student Centers kicked off the Halloween events, starting with the second annual Graveyard Smash concert on October 29, featuring performances by three student bands and an a cappella group. On October 30, the Johnson Center Atrium hosted a Halloween Costume Contest in collaboration with shopMason’s Halloween Kiosk Day, along with a campus-wide Pumpkin Decorating Contest showcasing creative entries from faculty and staff departments. The winning department received a gelato party for their team, generously sponsored by Mason Dining (Chartwells). These events were part of the EPIC (Engaging Programs and Initiatives Committee) initiative, which provides students with hands-on, experiential learning opportunities.

shopMason hosted its annual AMPLIFY event on September 30 at Merten Hall Lawn, bringing together the George Mason community for an afternoon of engagement, entertainment, and connection. Almost 20 campus units and community partners participated, showcasing their services and offerings to students, faculty, and staff.

The event drew more than 1,000 attendees, making it one of shopMason’s most successful campus events this year. Highlights included a walking taco bar, a live DJ, and a variety of giveaways and interactive displays that encouraged attendees to explore all that shopMason and its partners provide.

In partnership with Athletics and the Office of University Branding, ABS Marketing and the Bookstore launched the new mobile merchandise trailer and the Collect the Spirit fan-engagement campaign. The initiative continues to debut exclusive game-day drops and amplify school spirit across home basketball games this season.

Parking & Transportation successfully transported more than 150 students to and from their Thanksgiving destinations via regional shuttle routes spanning from Virginia Beach to New York City. The service provided a safe, affordable, and convenient travel option for students heading home for the break.