Categories
December 2014

Senator Highlight: Susan Brionez, Office Manager, Assistant to Associate Dean, Volgenau School of Engineering

After a successful career in headhunting and then 10 years at home raising our children, I took a position at the elementary school in our neighborhood. When our youngest moved on to middle school, I craved a change to an environment that would build on my skills and challenge me. However, I felt a strong need to work close to home so I could be available to my family if needed. With Mason only 4 miles down Braddock Road, it seemed the likely choice.

Susan Brionez and Dr. Angel Cabrera at the November 2014 Annual Award Ceremony.  Photo by Creative Services/George Mason University
Susan Brionez and Dr. Angel Cabrera at the November 2014 Annual Award Ceremony. Photo by Creative Services/George Mason University

What I didn’t know then about Mason, and of the Associate Dean who hired me, is that this is the best place to work if you are family-oriented. Hands-down! I came to Mason because it was convenient geographically. I stay at Mason because this has become my home and I enjoy my job, co-workers, and colleagues across campus.

I joined the Staff Senate because of the opportunities to network across campus. Here in the Student Services Office we serve our students by helping them navigate the policies and procedures associated with special requests. At times it is necessary for students to be referred to other academic, service, or administration offices across campus. As a Staff Senator, I have had the opportunity to work beside individuals who later serve as a resource for our students.

Currently I serve on the Education and Outreach Committee. Our responsibility is to communicate and educate Mason staff about campus policies, programs, and services. We do this via a monthly newsletter, on our web page, and through email when necessary. In addition, I have served for several years on the University Dining Committee.

Outside of my day job, my daughter and I have a shop on Etsy, BBsBanners, where we sell one-of-a-kind custom and ready-made fabric banners, canopies for infant car seats, and Twirly Girly skirts. My daughter does the marketing and posting; I am the seamstress.

When I’m not working at Mason, or sitting behind my sewing machine, I enjoy the company of my husband, our four children, and five grandchildren (#6 will be here in March).