Vu Doan

Vu joined George Mason University in 2020 as a student wage employee while pursuing his bachelor’s degree in Information Technology. During this time, he held multiple positions with both George Mason Recreation and ITS. After earning his degree in 2021, Vu transitioned to a full-time role within the Workflow Automation team under Enterprise Applications. While working full-time, he continued his education and successfully completed a master’s degree in Software Engineering in May 2023. Currently, he is advancing his studies toward a PhD in Computer Science.

In line with Mason’s strategic decision to adopt Salesforce as its primary CRM platform, Vu obtained two Salesforce certifications in June 2024: Certified Salesforce Platform Developer I and Certified Salesforce JavaScript Developer.

As a Workflow & Software Developer/Analyst, Vu plays a vital role in providing both technical and functional support for the development and implementation of workflows and software solutions across various units. His expertise encompasses analysis, design, testing, and documentation for a range of Ellucian products, including Banner and Ethos/Informatica, as well as Salesforce and other enterprise systems, ensuring their seamless integration with the university's broader infrastructure.

Colleagues have said, “Vu's innovation has streamlined various workflows and laid the groundwork that enabled many of the newer workflows to function. For his direct work on Leave of Absence, Re-Enrollment, and Time Limit Extension, we have gained substantial time savings of over 750 hours for students and staff.” “Vu's proactive approach and swift turnaround time have been instrumental in maintaining smooth operations and ensuring user and owner satisfaction. His knowledge and expertise have been crucial in building and maintaining the high standards we have in the EWF Student domain.” “He is a really creative developer and problem-solver who has found a wonderful area to shine in.

Congratulations to Vu for being the September 2024 ITS Employee of the Month!

Nikolai Majorin

Nikolai joined George Mason in 2016 as a student, working towards a bachelor’s in Information Technology. With an interest to pursue a full-time career with the university, Nikolai joined the Mason Card Office in 2019 as a student wage, later holding a number of wage positions where he provided technical support and further enhanced his resume in the field of IT. Nikolai’s full-time adventure with ITS began in 2021 as a Telecom Technician, where he was instrumental in the telecom system replacement project to move from Avaya to Vonage, and which ultimately led him to another opportunity to expand his engineering capabilities in support of the broader scope of ITS-supported unified communications. In Nikolai’s current role as Unified Communications Engineer, he and the team are responsible for the implementation, maintenance, training, and administrative duties comprised as enterprise collaboration tools – inclusive of unified communications (UCaaS and CCaaS), telephony, O365 integration, and hardware/software conferencing.

Colleagues have said, “As a team player, Nikolai excels!! In meetings, no matter who is in attendance, Nikolai makes sure that he provides input, whether it is creative, constructive or in his opinion, not the best way to move forward. Nikolai is self-aware of those around him and makes sure his interactions are always portrayed in the best light.” “Being in ITS means being in a customer oriented environment, where at any time you can (and will) receive questions that may not always pertain to the task at hand. Having seen Nikolai as a telecom technician and now communications engineer, I have seen him around customers/vendors/peers when questions are asked. He never leaves anyone waiting for feedback or answers and is always willing to look into (and help solve) questions that may arise. This positive attitude is a big help to our ITS team and Mason as a whole.” “People who wait to be told to do something sometimes miss the mark. People who choose to work a problem as soon as they see it, bring success not only to themselves but to the whole. Nikolai is an ITS employee that brings to light the ITS values of communication, integrity, and respect. He believes in his job, himself, and his abilities. He believes in the ITS values and demonstrates them regularly to the ITS community.”

Congratulations to Nikolai for being the August 2024 ITS Employee of the Month!

Berhane Temelso

Berhane joined Mason in 2020 in his current role as Computer Systems Engineer where he is involved in the design, installation, operation, and maintenance of George Mason’s research computing infrastructure in collaboration with the Office of Research Computing (ORC). Berhane is versed in compute, storage, system virtualization, and cloud technologies with a focus on supporting the university’s research community.

Berhane has a Ph.D. in computational chemistry and has worked in many research and high-performance computing (HPC) roles prior to joining Mason. He was a research scientist and HPC system administrator at the College of Charleston (CofC), Furman University, and Bucknell University. Since joining Mason as a systems engineer, his focus has been geared towards supporting George Mason’s expanding research computing infrastructure and services alongside systems engineers in the Cloud, Compute and Storage Operations (CCSO) group and research scientists/facilitators within the ORC. These groups have overseen a rapid expansion of George Mason’s research computing footprint and are striving to meet the growing need moving forward.

Colleagues have said, “Berhane is very knowledgeable about the systems the Office of Research Computing makes available to GMU researchers. He is always eager to help the researchers while being cognizant of the security aspects and the need to protect George Mason systems and data at all times.” “Berhane embodies all of the ITS values. He is an excellent communicator and does so very respectfully with outside stakeholders, as well as the internal team. He has come up with many innovative solutions to problems we face while managing and supporting the various systems. Teamwork is part of his work ethic – the team knows that he is the person to go to when they need answers for technical problems. What he doesn't know he learns from peers at other institutions that also support researchers and in turn shares the knowledge with the team.” “I really can't overstate how unique, important, hardworking, kind, and respectful Berhane is. I've seen him excel when he was alone in the work and much was asked of him, and I've seen him lead others just as well. I've really not worked with anyone that has done both to the levels he's done these two often contradictory things.”

Congratulations to Berhane for being the July 2024 ITS Employee of the Month!

Michael Kramer

Michael joined Mason in 2021 as a wage employee with the ITS Support Center and within the following year applied for and was promoted to a full-time position. Michael’s primary role is to provide customer support to Mason’s faculty and staff in addressing their technical questions, and to help troubleshoot issues where possible for first-call resolution. Further, Michael is a front-facing team member for ITS with strong customer service skills and the ability to communicate at an appropriate technical level, avoiding jargon and ensuring the customer walks away feeling heard and sometimes, also with the additional knowledge and tools to more confidently find solutions on their own moving forward. Michael is well-versed in the incident management system and works closely with other ITS teams to provide updates on incidents and during unplanned outages.

Colleagues have said, “Since joining the ITS Support Center, Michael Kramer has had a positive impact on everyone he encounters. His professionalism and knowledge are equally matched by his kindness and the respect he shows his colleagues and customers.” “Michael is often called upon by his coworkers to help clarify answers, with things to check or try, and to just better understand how he solved a particular issue. He is very forthcoming with sharing his knowledge and is always willing to take the time needed to help or explain things.” “It is crystal clear that Michael is laser focused on solving any issue any customer has and they can tell that as well.” “Michael consistently strives for excellence in customer service, evident in his interactions with the Network group. He exhibits qualities of teamwork, customer service, professionalism, and technical proficiency. Overall, Michael checks all the boxes that align with ITS values.”

Congratulations to Michael for being the June 2024 ITS Employee of the Month!

Lauren Hutt

After graduation from James Madison University with a Bachelor of Arts in dance and minor in Spanish and translation, Lauren spent a summer in Mexico before moving to D.C. to kick-start her career. After gaining experience in web design and development, she joined Mason in 2007 as a contractor in the Housing department working for Campus Living Villages. In 2010, Mason assumed the Housing department as a state incorporated entity, moving Lauren from her contracting role into a full-time state employee role where she held various leadership roles culminating into that of Associate Director for University Life’s Technology Services unit in 2021. Feeling ready for a change and having the desire to pursue a focus on project management, Lauren decided to look for opportunities to work for a different part of the university. Leaning on the experience gleaned from her 10+ years of involvement in managing projects, coupled with her extensive IT knowledge, she jumped at the chance to further her career at Mason when the IT Project Manager job opened up in ITS. Lauren seamlessly transitioned into the role upon being hired in 2022.

As her title suggests, Lauren provides project management support and guidance across various IT projects, often times serving as the project lead and primary POC responsible for developing, fostering, and maintaining business relationships with project stakeholders and ITS customers across Mason. Lauren essentially serves as the glue that keeps projects, both big and small, focused and on track while working in close coordination with the various subject matter experts to combat challenges and ensure success.

Colleagues have said, “Lauren contributes to the success of ITS and Mason every day! Whether it’s leading an internal ITS meeting or presenting to ITS’s customers, like at SALT, Lauren ensures the information is presented in a clear and concise manner. Her calm and congenial nature makes everyone in the meeting feel comfortable, which keeps them engaged and encourages questions.” “Lauren efficiently manages many tasks for the MESA Migration project. She must manage the planning, technical, implementation, support, community education, outreach, and engagement, while acting on feedback from the project's steering committee, ITS leadership, and the President's Council. These demands require skill, determination, discipline, and courage. Lauren has what it takes to overcome the challenges and succeed.” “While Lauren embodies all ITS values, she really shines when it comes to teamwork and respect. She is a wonderful collaborator who welcomes all perspectives. She doesn't shy away from others' expertise and knowledge; she looks for it, and I believe it makes her and our team stronger in the process. Plus, she's just a delight to work with. Thank you for all you do, Lauren!”

Congratulations to Lauren for being the May 2024 ITS Employee of the Month!

Ashley Adams

Ashley is a Mason alum, having earned a Bachelor of Arts in Film and Video Studies in May 2021. While working towards her degree, Ashley also worked as a student wage on campus – first for the Mason Cable Network, the university’s student-run television station – followed by her various roles within ITS with responsibilities over other student wage employees in her capacity as STAR Lab Video Mentor and later as the lab’s Personnel & Lab Supervisor. Given her successful tenure in her student roles supporting and growing other students, in February 2020 Ashley seamlessly transitioned into a full-time position as the STAR Lab Administrator where she provides day-to-day coordination of available services. The STAR Lab is a state-of-the-art multimedia computer and equipment checkout facility that provides the space and resources to complete creative projects. STAR Lab offers Mac and PC stations equipped with specialized video, multimedia, and game design software. This facility also has a variety of video production equipment available for checkout, as well as a video production studio and sound-treated recording room. Ashley oversees the student mentors with a people-first mindset, provides training to ensure their specialized knowledge of the lab’s operating systems and applications, and serves alongside them to assist with troubleshooting. Additionally, Ashley is currently assisting with the Collaborative Learning Hub (CLUB) operations while they are short an administrator.

Colleagues have said, “As someone who manages a physical space, Ashley worked through continuous changes during COVID. More recently she has endured reduced staff – both full-time and wage – which is regularly pulling her in multiple directions. There is no question that Ashley goes above and beyond to ensure our users receive the service they deserve.” “As a supervisor for the CLUB, I adopted the responsibilities the previous admin had before she left. While there are times when these responsibilities can be cumbersome, Ashley has been an amazing outlet, answering any questions I may have and consistently reaching out to make sure everything is operating smoothly.” “Ashley has always been professional, innovative, and willing to go the extra mile whenever called upon to do so. She's an incredible asset to her organization.”

Congratulations to Ashley for being the April 2024 ITS Employee of the Month!

Tony Houdek

Tony, North Dakota born and raised, grew up with a passion for teaching and learning, which is what helped launch his career in higher education first working for the University of North Dakota. Upon relocating to Washington, D.C. that passion never waned, so when Tony was offered a job at Mason in 2013 he happily accepted. Tony started out as a Security Analyst and over the course of his 10+ years of service was promoted to lead and now serves as the supervisor over the growing IT Analyst team with whom he has the pleasure of working alongside. Tony works in partnership with IT leadership to set the direction for IT security operations and incident response functions, which includes not only assigning and managing project and operational work, but also in many cases serving as the face of the IT Security Office when working with internal and external constituents.

Colleagues have said, “Tony has built a deep understanding of Mason and possesses a vast range of institutional knowledge. I've been around a while myself, but I still find myself checking in with him to understand the historical context of a particular thing ITS does and why it was set up a certain way.” “Tony makes great effort to be available for the rest of the team whenever we have questions, concerns, or roadblocks. He guides and encourages each of us to work through a problem so that we can gain experience, while also being available to steer us in the right direction. When we collaborate on a task, Tony shares his knowledge and experience while also incorporating our viewpoints.” “I am grateful to have someone in the team who excels at communication at all levels. He always treats everyone with respect even in the most difficult of situations.” “Through his mentorship, collaboration, and genuine concern for his colleagues' well-being, Tony significantly enhances the success of our staff.”

As further testament to Tony’s incredible work ethic and reputation, it should be noted that this is his second time being awarded as the ITS Employee of the Month, the first of which took place in April 2016.

Congratulations to Tony for being the March 2024 ITS Employee of the Month!

Sarah Hamilton

Sarah joined Mason shortly before 2000 as a wage employee with the former University Computing and Information Systems (UCIS) division. After two short years, Sarah started in her full-time role as Information Services Technician, where she worked for almost 10 years supporting the SciTech Campus (formerly Prince William County Campus) with responsibilities ranging from audiovisual to desktop technician, doing phone installs and network wiring. When the Advanced Desktop Technologies group was created under ITS (formerly ITU), Sarah was given the opportunity to move to the Fairfax Campus to serve as the Advanced Desktop Mobile Support Specialist responsible for imaging and the delivery of software to Windows machines for customers on Mason’s managed desktop environment, utilizing technology solutions such as System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM). While Sarah continues to be a subject matter expert for SCCM, building Adobe packages for the labs and helping with the occasional troubleshooting, her day-to-day with Technology Management Service/Logistics now looks a little different. In her current role, Sarah manages all attributes of the cell phone program for Mason, provides the image for all Equipment Trust Fund (ETF) Windows machines, provides quotes for non-standard computer specifications requested across Mason, and among many other things, is responsible for some of the Adobe licensing.

Colleagues have said, “The amazing thing about Sarah isn't just that she's a wealth of knowledge, it's that she's a wealth of knowledge on topics that are always evolving.” “Sarah's work, demeanor, and knowledge all represent ITS Values but if one particular value had to be selected, I would highlight her integrity. Having integrity is a step beyond simply having the knowledge or experience. It lets people know you care and reflects more than just an ITS value, it reflects who she is as a person.” “During my time here at Mason, I have worked with a few people who are always willing to help others in a professional and courteous manner. Sarah is one of those people. The feedback from my team is always positive. She is very deserving of this honor.”

Congratulations to Sarah for being the February 2024 ITS Employee of the Month!

Reeti Bibhuti

Reeti joined Mason in 2020 in her current role, where she provides frontline technical administration and support of Salesforce, including: support of daily operations and change management, configuration changes, reporting, training, QA testing, troubleshooting, and working with stakeholders to ensure that applications meet their current and evolving needs. Reeti has a deep technical understanding of the Salesforce platform and its capabilities and is a major contributor for recommendations regarding the ongoing Salesforce deployment. Reeti regularly collaborates with the other Salesforce Developers, ITS teams, and functional units within the Provost’s Office to enhance and expand Salesforce operations and adoption. She also provides operational and technical support to end-users.

Colleagues have said, “Reeti works daily with her business counterparts with a high degree of level-headedness and empathy. When working on user stories it's clear how much time she dedicates to approaching the work from the standpoint of the user or Mason overall.” “As a person that is not in ITS, I am a happy user in the Enrollment Management area that appreciates that Reeti crosses departments so easily.” “Reeti is the ideal teammate – she is able to not only see technical things from a business perspective, but she also has a high degree of empathy and is not merely a ‘yes’ person.”

Congratulations to Reeti for being the January 2024 ITS Employee of the Month!