Mason Staff Senate

Ethan Gardner

Ethan Gardner, headshot

Title: Associate Director of Community and Local Government Relations

Department: Government and Community Relations

Phone: +1 (703) 993-8376

Groups: Communications Committee, SciTech Campus

I joined Mason in 2026.

I was elected to the Staff Senate in 2026. My current term ends in 2028.

I love Mason because of the work of the university truly matters to our students and larger community. As someone working in government and community relations, I recognize the significant impact that Mason has in our region.

I joined Staff Senate because I want to deepen my relationships within the university and build connections with my peers. I feel strongly about the importance of the SciTech Campus for George Mason and seek to represent fellow staff well.

Rizza Villacorte

Rizza Villacorte, headshot

Title: Administrative Assistant, Operations & Finance

Department: Virginia Serious Game Institute, CVPA

Phone: 703-993-9415

Groups: Communications Committee, SciTech Campus

I joined Mason in 2013.

I was elected to the Staff Senate in 2026. My current term ends in 2028.

I love working at Mason because I enjoy the people and the work I do. I feel trusted to contribute ideas, encouraged to learn new things and supported in achieving my goals.

I joined the Staff Senate to expand my leadership opportunities, build connections across George Mason University, and serve as an advocate for the Science and Technology campus community. I look forward to representing staff perspectives, fostering collaboration, and helping create a positive and inclusive environment for all employees.

Lorraine MacBride

Lorraine MacBride, headshot

Title: Technology Support Specialist, Learning Support Services

Department: Information Technology Services

Phone: 703-993-6866

Groups: Communications Committee, SciTech Campus

I joined Mason in 2022.

I was elected to the Staff Senate in 2026. My current term ends in 2028.

I love Mason because I have met some wonderful people here.

I joined the staff senate because I want to help make Mason a fantastic place to work!

Profile of a Senator: Lorraine MacBride (October 2026)

Sarah Alharshan

Title: Administrative Specialist

Department: College of Engineering and Computing

Phone: 703-993-4871

Groups: Awards and Engagement Committee, SciTech Campus

I joined Mason in 2022.

I was elected to the Staff Senate in 2025. My current term ends in 2027.

I love Mason because of its diverse and inclusive community. I don’t feel different here—I feel welcomed and appreciated. Working with both students and colleagues from many backgrounds enriches my day-to-day experience and fosters a sense of collaboration, learning, and mutual respect. The supportive environment and teamwork within the department truly reflect the spirit of Mason.

I joined the Staff Senate because I want to support Mason staff at a broader level. I believe in advocating for our needs, sharing our voices, and contributing to a more connected campus. I want to help address concerns, learn from others, and offer my own experience as part of a meaningful and supportive community. I also enjoy the opportunity to be involved in initiatives that positively impact the university.

Profile of a Senator: Sarah Alharshan (January 2026)

Kerry Hentges

Kerry Hentges, headshot

Title: Programming and Administrative Coordinator

Department: University Life SciTech

Phone: 703-993-7514

Groups: Events Committee, SciTech Campus, Executive Committee

I joined Mason in 2015.

I was elected to the Staff Senate in 2024. My current term ends in 2028.

I love Mason because it is a welcoming place that is open to hearing new ideas.

I joined the Staff Senate because I wanted to represent the staff on the SciTech Campus and be a resource for staff with questions. I love to help others and Staff Senate is the perfect place to do so.

Profile of a Senator: Kerry Hentges (April 2025)