Category: News

George Mason University has once again been recognized by Best Workplaces for Commuters (BWC) for its commitment to providing employees with high-quality commuter benefits and transportation options. For 2026, all three of George Mason’s campuses –  Fairfax, Mason Square, and SciTech – have earned BWC recognition, marking an important milestone for the university. 

This year is especially notable as the SciTech Campus has received BWC recognition independently for the first time, highlighting its continued growth and expanded commuter-focused programs that support faculty and staff. 

Best Workplaces for Commuters is a national program that recognizes organizations offering comprehensive commuter benefits that help reduce environmental impact, improve commuting experiences, and support employee well-being. George Mason’s continued inclusion reflects its ongoing investment in sustainable transportation, flexible commuting options, and a campus culture that prioritizes accessibility and quality of life. 

“This recognition reflects the intentional work happening across all of our campuses to make commuting easier, more flexible, and more sustainable for our employees,” said Josh Cantor, Director of Parking and Transportation at George Mason University. “We are especially proud to see the SciTech Campus recognized independently this year and to continue advancing innovative solutions, including new technologies at Mason Square, that improve the daily experience for our campus community.”

Auxiliary and Business Services, including Parking and Transportation, supports these efforts across all campuses through innovative commuter programs and technology-forward solutions. At Mason Square, this includes the implementation of the Metropolis parking system, which streamlines parking access and enhances the overall commuter experience. 

For more information about commuter programs and transportation options, visit the Parking and Transportation website.

 

Milestone Achieved Through Auxiliary and Business Services and Mason Dining’s Partnership with Chartwells Higher Education

FAIRFAX, Va. — George Mason University’s Auxiliary and Business Services (ABS), in collaboration with its dining partner Chartwells Higher Education, announced today that Mason Dining has earned a 3-Star Green Restaurant Association (GRA) Certification for all four residential dining halls. Southside, Ike’s, The Globe, and The Spot each achieved the 3-Star rating, which recognizes significant progress in sustainability practices across foodservice operations.

The Green Restaurant Association is a national nonprofit that evaluates dining programs on an extensive set of environmental criteria, including water and energy efficiency, waste reduction, sustainable food purchasing, and pollution prevention. Mason Dining’s certification reflects months of coordinated work between ABS and Chartwells to align each facility with the GRA’s high standards.

“This certification is an important step forward for the student dining experience at George Mason,” said Pascal Petter, Associate Vice President for Auxiliary and Business Services. “Our teams focused on improvements that reflect what matters most to our campus community, and we are proud to work with Chartwells to strengthen sustainable dining practices in a way that makes a real impact.”

Chartwells Higher Education supported the certification process with national expertise in sustainable operations, enhanced purchasing standards, and environmentally conscious culinary strategies. The Spot, George Mason’s newest dining hall, played a notable role in advancing plant-forward menu options that reduce environmental impact while expanding student choice.

“We are honored to partner with George Mason on this achievement,” said Lou Christopher, Vice President of Operations for Chartwells Higher Education. “A 3-Star Green Restaurant Association Certification across all residential dining halls demonstrates a deep and ongoing commitment to responsible operations. Our teams are already looking ahead to the next opportunities to further reduce waste, increase energy efficiency, and deliver an exceptional dining experience for students.”

Key sustainability improvements contributing to the certification include increased plant-forward menu options, expanded composting and food waste reduction practices, and upgrades to energy-efficient equipment throughout campus dining facilities.

The certification reinforces Mason Dining’s role as a leader in sustainable dining within higher education and supports the university’s broader commitment to environmental responsibility and student wellbeing.

For more information about sustainable dining at George Mason, visit Mason Dining’s Wellness and Sustainability Programs and initiatives.

Beginning Tuesday, December 9, the package delivery experience is getting an upgrade. George Mason University is teaming up with Canon, USA, to bring an enhanced, state-of-the-art smart locker system. This means:

• Mason Mobile ID Access: Open your locker just like you do when dining or printing—by tapping your Mason Mobile ID at the mail hub kiosk. That’s one less thing to track!
• Faster, More Efficient Pickups: Get multiple packages from a single locker—no more one-package-per-locker.
• Reduced Waiting: The system is smarter, streamlining the process so you can get in and out quickly.

What’s Changing?

• Locker Banks: You will continue to receive package notifications via e-mail, but going forward, you will also receive a locker bank number and a locker number. Think of the locker bank like a cluster of individual lockers.
• Pickup Process: When you arrive at the Mail Hub, go to the assigned locker bank and use the kiosk associated with your locker bank number:
  • Tap your Mason Mobile ID at the kiosk. The system will confirm the location of your packages and open the correct locker.

Three Ways to Pick Up Your Package

Smart Lockers allow students to retrieve packages quickly and securely using one of three convenient access methods. Follow the steps below based on your preferred method.

Option 1: Tap to Open with Your Mason ID

1. Go to the QTrak Package Pod kiosk.
2. Locate the RFID reader just underneath the kiosk screen.
3. Tap your Mason ID card or use your Mason Mobile ID on the scanner.
4. The kiosk will automatically authenticate your identity.
5. If you have packages ready, the system will automatically open the locker door that contains your package.
6. Remove your package and close the locker door firmly.

Option 2: Enter Your Kiosk Access Code

1. Check your George Mason email or text message for a QTrak pickup notification.
2. Locate the 4-to 6-digit access code in the message.
3. At the kiosk, tap the “Pickup Package” button, then tap “Enter Access Code” on the screen.
4. Type your code carefully and press “Submit.”
5. Once verified, the locker with your package will pop open automatically.
6. Retrieve your package and close the door completely.

Option 3: Use the MyMail Services App

1. Download and open the MyMail Services App on your phone.
2. Log in using your George Mason credentials.
   • Organization ID: 1093
   • Enter your George Mason email
   • Enter your G Number
3. Tap on your package notification awaiting pickup.
4. Approach the locker bank and once in range, the “Pickup Package” button will light up.
5. Press the “Pick Up Package” button.
6. The locker will open — remove your package and close the door.

For any questions or comments, please contact the Mail Hub at [email protected].

Auxiliary and Business Services (ABS) is excited to share that Canon Solutions America (CSA) will continue providing Mason’s mail and managed print services under a renewed contract.

Upgrades coming to campus include:

• A full refresh of 300+ multifunction printers (MFPs) with smaller, more energy-efficient models
• An upgraded Fairfax student parcel locker system over winter break
• Additional staffing to support the FUSE and other Mason Square needs
• Several technical enhancements and cost savings to support future ABS projects

“Departments will be contacted this fall to schedule replacement of their MFPs,” said Adam Basinger, contract manager. “The new devices keep all the same features—plus any saved address books—while using less space and energy.”

“We’re excited to roll out these enhancements,” added Pascal Petter, Associate Vice President for ABS. “This partnership with CSA keeps us aligned with emerging trends and ensures top-tier service for Mason students, faculty, and staff.”

Questions? Contact Adam Basinger at 703-993-6413 or [email protected].

New contract brings fresh innovation, sustainability, and student-first experiences to campus beginning July 1, 2025

Fairfax, VA — George Mason University has selected Chartwells Higher Education, a national leader in campus dining, as its new dining services provider, following a comprehensive and competitive RFP process. George Mason’s contract with Chartwells begins on July 1 and is expected to transform dining on campus.

Chartwells brings a strong track record of collaboration, creativity, and customized solutions to its work with over 320 colleges and universities across the country. As part of Compass Group, the world’s largest foodservice organization, Chartwells offers George Mason access to a broad network of culinary innovations, emerging technologies, and food service partnerships—including opportunities through its relationship with Thompson Hospitality, a Northern Virginia-based hospitality contract food service, restaurant, and catering company.

“At George Mason, we are always looking for new ways to enhance the student experience,” said Pascal Petter, Associate Vice President for Auxiliary and Business Services. “Chartwells demonstrated a strong understanding of our community’s needs and showed real excitement about the potential to bring innovation, inclusive dining, and sustainability to every dining location on campus. We’re confident this new partnership will elevate dining across all our locations and support the university’s Strategic Direction.”

Chartwells’ vision for George Mason includes exploring new culinary concepts, expanding access to technology and robotics, further elevating food variety and quality, and streamlining convenience for busy students, faculty and staff—all while embracing George Mason’s values around inclusion, health and wellbeing, and sustainability. As part of this vision, the existing fleet of Starship delivery robots will continue serving the campus community under the new contract. With a focus on authentic engagement, Chartwells also brings expertise in student-focused marketing, interactive events, and flexible meal plan options that will evolve over time to meet community needs.

“We are honored to build an inclusive, people-first dining experience for George Mason University,” says Nelson DeFigueiredo, divisional president at Chartwells Higher Education. “Our approach is to collaboratively create high-quality dining spaces that fuel a global student population, while also aligning with George Mason’s sustainability goals.”

As George Mason prepares to welcome its new dining partner, the university also recognizes and thanks Sodexo, who has served as its dining partner for more than 30 years. Sodexo’s contributions have touched every part of campus life, from daily operations to national recognition for innovation and inclusion. They helped Mason become the #1 allergen-friendly university in the nation (via Spokin), introduced a National Association of College and university Food Services (NACUFS) award-winning Future 50 Foods station, and made George Mason the first university in the country to launch autonomous delivery robots. Throughout their tenure, Sodexo also implemented robust composting programs and prioritized local sourcing—advancing sustainability and leaving a lasting legacy of service.

“Mason Dining has grown and evolved in meaningful ways thanks to Sodexo’s long-standing commitment to our students and community,” added Petter. “We’re deeply grateful for their years of partnership and service.”

Additionally, Chartwells plans to retain many of Sodexo’s current staff. “As an organization that values creating meaningful opportunities for their people, we have engaged with current dining employees and provided all those who expressed interest the change to apply for a position with the Chartwells team,” DeFigueiredo noted.

Further information will be shared in the coming months about the transition process, upcoming opportunities for community feedback, and ways for students to help shape the future of dining on.

For more information about the service updates, please visit the Dining Transition Plan page.

About George Mason
George Mason University is Virginia’s largest public research university. Located near Washington, D.C., George Mason enrolls more than 40,000 students from 130 countries and all 50 states. George Mason has grown rapidly over the past half-century and is recognized for its innovation and entrepreneurship, remarkable diversity, and commitment to accessibility. In 2023, the university launched Mason Now: Power the Possible, a one-billion-dollar comprehensive campaign to support student success, research, innovation, community, and stewardship. Learn more at gmu.edu.

Media Contact:
Aliya Rinaldi
Associate Director of Marketing and Communications
George Mason University Auxiliary and Business Services
[email protected]

Mason Dining has received the Gold award in the NACUFS Special Diet Program Nutrition Awards. The National Association of College & University Food Services (NACUFS) Nutrition Awards recognizes outstanding, innovative nutrition and wellness programs in collegiate dining that meet and exceed students’ diverse dietary needs. This includes accommodations for religious restrictions, allergens, and lifestyle preferences.

In Fall 2023, Mason Dining, operated by Sodexo, launched an expansive initiative to significantly improve the dining experience for students with dietary challenges. The addition of The Difference Baker, an allergen-free bakery—the first of its kind on a college campus—marked a significant advancement towards food and community inclusivity. This partnership helped George Mason become the first college in the nation to be Spokin-verified. Spokin is an app-based resource that helps students with various dietary needs find safe dining options through daily menus.

“Winning the NACUFS 2024 Nutrition Award for our Special Diet Program underscores our commitment to improving the Mason experience for faculty, staff, and students,” said Pascal Petter, George Mason’s Executive Director of Auxiliary Services. “By championing inclusivity over exclusivity through initiatives like The Difference Baker, we continue to cultivate a high-quality dining experience that embodies Mason’s values, promoting student success and well-being. This award is a testament to our dedication to fostering a culture of belonging and addressing disparities to support access, diversity, equity, and inclusion at Mason.”

These achievements demonstrate Mason Dining’s commitment to providing a diverse and inclusive dining program for the university community. By dramatically enhancing the menus available for students with dietary restrictions, the dining program has proven to be an industry leader, championing the ideals of a supportive and inclusive community.

Focus group participants expressed high appreciation for these inclusivity initiatives. One student said, “As someone with severe gluten and nut allergies, I often struggle to find safe food options on campus. The Difference Baker has been a game-changer for me. Their products are delicious and give me peace of mind.”

Spokin has also recognized Mason Dining’s achievements through their ranking of the best allergen-friendly schools. In 2023, George Mason was ranked 56th. In 2024, the university climbed to the 8th slot.

Sodexo
Sodexo North America is part of a global Fortune 500 company with a presence in 45 countries. Sodexo specializes in sustainable food service and valued experiences, in all 50 U.S. states, Canada, Puerto Rico and Guam, at every moment in life: learn, work, heal and play. Additionally, the company indirectly supports additional jobs through its annual purchases of goods and services from small to large businesses. Sodexo North America is committed to meeting the challenges of everyday life with a dual goal: to improve the quality of life of our employees and those we serve, and contribute to the economic, social, and environmental progress in the communities where we operate. Our purpose is to create a better everyday for everyone to build a better life for all.

George Mason University
George Mason University is Virginia’s largest public research university. Located near Washington, D.C., George Mason enrolls more than 40,000 students from 130 countries and all 50 states. George Mason has grown rapidly over the past half-century and is recognized for its innovation and entrepreneurship, remarkable diversity, and commitment to accessibility. In 2023, the university launched Mason Now: Power the Possible, a one-billion-dollar comprehensive campaign to support student success, research, innovation, community, and stewardship. Learn more at gmu.edu.

For more information, contact Sofya Vetrova at [email protected].

As we gear up for a brand-new semester, get ready to indulge in a mouthwatering culinary adventure like never before with Mason Dining! This fall, we’re unveiling a host of amazing changes that will take your campus dining experience to the next level. From fresh dining options to sustainability initiatives and fun events, we’ve got something for everyone!

Let’s dive into the top 10 updates to Mason Dining this fall:

#10: Additional Seating at Southside
Enjoy 150+ new seats at the Southside Dining Hall, designed for greater comfort and community vibes while you savor your meals. The new seating area promises a more enjoyable and comfortable environment for everyone.

#9: Mason Square’s New Venue – Mason Square Café
Patriots on the Mason Square campus, get ready for a fresh look at the Mason Square Café! Indulge in made-to-order options and unwind with build-your-own salads and “We Proudly Serve Starbucks” beverages. Whether you’re studying or on the go, this café will become your new hangout spot!

#8: Beverages Galore
Quench your thirst in style with our revamped beverage stations! Choose from an impressive array of beloved favorites and new intriguing flavors. Plus, we’re excited to introduce the Tractor Beverage Co., offering certified organic beverages. But it doesn’t stop there; Cocovibe’s low-sugar, low-sodium, high-potassium electrolyte drinks, made with only two ingredients: organic coconut water and organic fruit, are another great addition to the beverage line. And for coffee lovers, we’ve upgraded our machines to brew over 30 beverages, including hot cocoa and iced coffee. Sip, savor, and enjoy the world of flavors!

#7: Gold Rush is Now Simple Zone & Simple Servings Goes Sesame-Free + Halal Options!
Say hello to Simple Zone, your allergen-free pantry at Gold Rush (Gold Rush has been renamed to Simple Zone)! Enjoy meals free from gluten, tree nuts, and peanuts. And if you’re sensitive to sesame, don’t worry; Simple Servings now includes sesame-free options! Plus, we’re making sure there are always Halal options available at Simple Servings. Delicious and inclusive, that’s the way we roll!

#6: Meet The Difference Baker, NuVegan, Sweet Vegan, and Crave!
Get ready for a culinary explosion with these exciting additions! The Difference Baker specializes in allergen-free delights. NuVegan, an all-soul food vegan restaurant, will satisfy both vegans and non-vegans alike. Sweet Vegan caters to your sweet tooth cravings. And for late-night munchies, Crave is your go-to spot! Time to explore a world of deliciousness!

#5: The Teaching Kitchen @ Mason
Calling all aspiring chefs! Join us in the Teaching Kitchen for interactive classes with culinary masters. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, we’ve got something to elevate your cooking skills. Follow @mason_dining on social media or check out the dining halls for details on this exciting new feature.

#4: Crop Share Anyone?
Support local growers and join our crop share program! Partnering with Potomac Vegetable Farms, we’re offering the freshest produce the area has to offer. From bell peppers to root vegetables, it’s a delicious way to support local agriculture and enjoy mouthwatering dishes!

#3: Hunger Games…Willy Wonka…Seafood Boil…Events You’ll Need to Attend!
Get ready for a magical dining experience with themed events like Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, a mouthwatering Seafood Boil, and more! There’s something happening every day in the dining centers. Follow our passport game and join the fun!

#2: We Want to Hear From You!
Have a favorite dish? A suggestion to share? Text TellSouthside or TellIkes to 82257 and let your voice be heard! We’re all ears for your feedback, opinions, and even your love for Willy Wonka!

#1: The Spot – The Place for Plant Powered Dining!
Plant lovers, rejoice! The Spot is the ultimate destination for plant-powered dining. With a fresh, colorful look and a brand-new menu, it’s a sustainable and delicious haven. Satisfy your fruit and vegetable curiosity with a range of tantalizing options. The Spot is open Monday to Friday from 11 am to 3 pm.

With these amazing changes in store, Mason Dining is all set to make your campus dining experience extraordinary! We can’t wait to welcome you and serve up some unforgettable culinary moments. See you at the dining halls!

 

Students, faculty, and staff at George Mason University can now add their Mason Mobile ID to Apple Wallet and use their iPhone, Apple Watch, or Android device to seamlessly and securely access residence halls, offices, dining locations, and other campus facilities, as well as make contactless purchases on campus. Over 7,500 card readers throughout Mason’s multiple campuses have been upgraded to help enable this convenient, secure solution.

“Mason has been working hard to get us to a place to offer the Mason Mobile ID, and we are excited to bring this technology to campus,” said Danny Anthes, Director of Technology Services. “The Mason Mobile ID will enable more convenient access to on-campus spaces and amenities, as well as provide added security for students and staff.”

With Mason Mobile IDs, students can complete any action that would have previously required a physical ID card — both on and off campus — with just their iPhone, Apple Watch, or Android devices. Students simply hold their device near a reader to gain access to campus facilities and resources such as transportation and the gym, entry to residence halls, and more.

“Keeping with innovation by transitioning to a secure mobile credential brings an enhanced, convenient experience to our students — all with the seamless technology they know and love! On a personal note, I’m looking forward to using my Apple Watch for entry into the office,” said Laura Callahan, Director of the Mason Card Office.

iPhone and Apple Watch users who enable Express Mode do not need to unlock or even wake up their device to use their Mason Mobile ID in Apple Wallet – they can simply tap and enter. If an iPhone needs to be charged, students can still use their device to access campus areas with automatic Power Reserve.

The move from physical cards to Mason Mobile ID on iPhone, Apple Watch, or Android device allows for transactions that are safe, convenient, and secure, and helps students avoid handing their ID cards to someone else. Mason can also issue school IDs remotely without the need for students to request an Mason Mobile ID in-person, eliminating the need to print and mail physical cards and creating a safer, more cost-effective, and more environmentally friendly process.

“The new Mason Mobile ID program is a welcome advancement to my student experience at Mason,” stated junior, Zayd Hamid. “Speaking as someone who has frequented Piedmont Desk and the Card Office this semester for physical cards, this development is sure to bring down some of my replacement card costs that my friends and I always end up wracking up. Mason Mobile ID makes it easy and convenient for me to get around campus, and I’m grateful for OBS’ efforts to make this step forward to provide an accessible student ID option for the Mason student body.”

Mason is one of the first universities in Virginia to implement a Mason Mobile ID that can be seamlessly added to an Apple Wallet.

“The Mason Mobile ID will significantly enhance on-campus life by providing additional security and convenience to our Mason community,” said Patrick McCavitt, Interim Vice President of Operations and Business Services. “This initiative aligns with the university’s commitment to sustainability and innovation, and we are very excited to roll this out.”

Mason Mobile ID on iPhone and Apple Watch – Secure and Private

Mason Mobile ID on iPhone and Apple Watch take full advantage of the privacy and security built into iPhone and Apple Watch. If a student misplaces their iPhone or Apple Watch, they can use the Find My app to immediately lock their device and help locate it. Apple will not know when or where students are using their Mason Mobile ID on iPhone and Apple Watch, including locations accessed, what they buy with it, where they buy it, or how much they paid. Transaction history is never stored on Apple servers.

Operations and Business Services (OBS) is excited to bring this upgrade to the Mason community. For step-by-step instructions on how to enroll for your Mason Mobile ID, FAQs, or to learn more about the Mason Mobile ID program, visit: masonid.gmu.edu.

George Mason University (Mason) is thrilled to announce a momentous collaboration with The Difference Baker, marking a historic milestone in campus dining. The Difference Baker will be the first retail location on a college campus in the nation to offer a truly allergy-friendly experience, surpassing all expectations with its unparalleled dedication to allergen inclusivity. This innovative dining concept will be entirely free from seven of the top nine allergens, including fish, shellfish, soy, and sesame, setting a new standard for campus dining and catering to the diverse needs of its student community.

MenuTrinfo, a dedicated company providing allergen and nutritional information, as well as employee training and certification, applauds this progressive initiative in ensuring safe food service for the community. “Understanding clearly how to serve safe food in an independent retail store was a win for the food allergy community,” said Betsy Craig, President and CEO of MenuTrinfo. Craig went on to commend The Difference Baker for being an early adopter of the Certified Free From™️ accreditation. “Adding this to a wonderful campus dining service like George Mason University is truly groundbreaking and forward-thinking for the community,” Craig said.

 

 

The Difference Baker has a proven commitment to catering to various dietary requirements, and its new location on George Mason’s campus will be its second. Situated in the Nguyen Engineering Building, this new allergen-friendly retail concept represents an exciting partnership between George Mason University and The Difference Baker, driven by a shared vision of promoting inclusivity, innovation, and supporting the well-being of all Mason students.

“We could not be more honored to partner with the Mason Dining/Sodexo team at George Mason University,” said the owner of The Difference Baker, Alyssa Sobecki. “It is truly a dream come true. We are so excited to spread our love through allergen-friendly and safe food for those that can’t live without it!”

While some universities have introduced allergen-friendly initiatives, George Mason University’s commitment to excellence goes beyond, making it the first of its kind in the nation to offer this level of allergen inclusivity.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with The Difference Baker in pioneering this groundbreaking allergen-friendly retail concept,” stated Pascal Petter, Executive Director of Auxiliary Services at George Mason University. “Our goal is to provide a truly safe, innovative, and inclusive dining experience for all students. We recognize the significance of catering to a wide range of dietary needs and are proud to lead the way in this aspect of campus dining.”

Mason Dining/Sodexo has always strived to provide the highest quality dining experiences for their diverse community. The addition of The Difference Baker’s certified allergen-friendly retail concept reaffirms a commitment to excellence, well-being, and inclusivity. Mason believes that this innovative collaboration will elevate the campus dining experience and solidify the university’s position as a national leader in accommodating students with dietary restrictions.

The grand opening of The Difference Baker’s second location at Mason is an extraordinary milestone, symbolizing a landmark achievement in campus dining nationwide.

“We are delighted to embark on this historic journey alongside The Difference Baker, a shining example of our commitment to providing an unparalleled dining experience at George Mason University,” said Sodexo’s Vice President of Operations, John Teeple. “Sodexo takes immense pride in fostering innovation and inclusivity in campus dining, and this trailblazing collaboration reinforces our dedication to meeting the diverse needs of our student community.”

The introduction of this unprecedented allergen-friendly retail concept sets a new benchmark for other universities to follow and underscores a dedication to fostering an inclusive environment where every student can thrive.

For more information about George Mason University’s commitment to allergen-friendly dining and The Difference Baker’s certified menu, please visit dining.gmu.edu.