Student Success Blog

Category: Student highlight

2026 Outstanding Mid-Level Professional Award

Demarcus Merritt, Sr. is a student in our PhD in Education Program. Demarcus recently received the 2026 Outstanding Mid-Level Professional Award from the Association of College and University Housing Officers. Keep reading to learn more about his experience and advice he has for prospective and current students.

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Fields Road Elementary School 2025-26 Rising Star Award

Jenna Lewaren is a graduate student in George Mason University’s Mathematics Specialist Leadership Program. While working toward her degree, Jenna also teaches at Fields Road Elementary School, where she recently received their Rising Star Award for 2025-2026. Keep reading to learn more about her experience and for advice she has for prospective and current students.

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My first school psychology conference: Lessons learned

Jamie Vaughan headshot

As a graduate student, it is essential to find moments to reconnect to a broader purpose, as the demands of coursework, practica, and deadlines can easily become overwhelming. The Virginia Academy of School Psychologists (VASP) hosts an annual conference for aspiring and practicing school psychologists around the state. This year, I attended for the first time as a second-year graduate student preparing for internship placements. The experience offered professional insights and refreshed my motivation and confidence as I prepare to enter the field. 

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Family of the Year Award winner: Eun Kyung Choi

Family of the Year 2025

Eun Kyung (EK) Choi is a full-time graduate student in the Inclusive Early Childhood Education Program at George Mason University, and a student parent. EK is also the winner of the Dr. Alan and Sally Merten Family of the Year Award! Keep reading to learn more about EK’s family, and their experience at George Mason.

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Meet Henrico Virtual Academy’s Teacher of the Year

Claire Hsieh celebrating her Teacher of the Year award with colleagues

Claire Hsieh is a graduate student in George Mason University’s Mathematics Specialist Leadership Program. While working toward her degree online, Claire also teaches math at Henrico Virtual Academy, where she was recently named their Teacher of the Year for 2025-2026. Keep reading to learn more about her experience and for advice she has for prospective and current students.

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