In the heart of a quiet, sweltering summer at George Mason University’s Fairfax campus, more than 150 faculty, staff and students from the College of Humanities and Social Sciences packed the ballroom inside of The Hub (formerly known as Student Union Building 2) to meet with new Mason President Angel Cabrera.
Cabrera met with CHSS on July 25 as part of his self-described “listening tour.” He began by introducing himself to the audience – many in the room had not met him, nor had they seen him speak – and immediately expressed enthusiasm for the university’s accomplishments. He cited the large number of “interesting people,” the Mason culture and the environment as some of the many deciding factors he considered when coming to the university. He pledged to listen and learn.
“My plan over the next few months is to listen a lot,” he said. “Hopefully, this will transfer into Mason’s new vision for the next decade.”
Cabrera addressed a number of topics, both consequential and modest. He spoke about reduced state funding and higher tuition costs, the importance of social sciences and the humanities, and the large undergraduate student body of CHSS. Notably, Cabrera dispelled one of the university’s longtime identity concerns: whether Mason is a “residential” or “commuter” campus. Being able to aptly serve both types of students is a significant achievement, Cabrera stated.
Finally, Sharon Leon, director of public projects at the Roy Rosenzweig Center for History and New Media, asked a question that was on everyone’s mind: whether President Cabrera values the humanities and social sciences?
The president replied by describing how, as an undergraduate student, he would break away from his business courseload into philosophy class, seeking a better-rounded education. He professed that this interest has continued to guide him, even into his professional life.
Leon said later that she was pleased by the way Cabrera responded.
“I was encouraged by President Cabrera's openness and willingness to listen to the concerns of the CHSS faculty,” Leon said. “Training in the arts and humanities has been a central part of the historical mission of the university, and it continues to be essential to preparing well-rounded citizens in the 21st century. I look forward to the ways that President Cabrera will work to maintain Mason's commitment for this work, both in research and teaching.”
Gary Kreps, chair of the Department of Communication, also attended the meeting and left with a favorable impression of the new president.
“I was impressed with President Cabrera's candor and responsiveness during our meeting,” Kreps said. “He did a good job answering questions and connecting with the audience. His enthusiasm for the university was infectious and I am looking forward to working with him.”
College dean Jack Censer thought the meeting turned into a very productive session.
“The sessions with President Cabrera were marked by his accessibility and flexibility, as well as the commitment and thoughtfulness of the students, staff, and faculty,” Censer said. “I thought that college members were able to adequately express their hopes and concerns.”