Each month, we will shine a light on our Patriot Connect Change Champions, giving you the chance to get to know the individuals who are here to support you and the George Mason community on the journey to Patriot Connect. Learn about their roles, what motivates and inspires them, and maybe even a fun fact or two.
Get to know Chris Williams!
Name:
Chris Williams
Role at George Mason University:
Associate Director of Graduate Recruitment and Admissions
I am a Patriot Connect Change Champion for:
College of Public Health
Q: What does being a Patriot Connect Change Champion mean to you?
A: To me, serving as a Change Champion means actively learning about Patriot Connect and sharing that knowledge within my unit. I view this role as a liaison, someone colleagues can rely on for accurate information, guidance, and support as we navigate new processes. It also means being a central point of contact for questions, feedback, and ongoing communication to help ensure a smooth and well‑informed transition.
Q: What excites you the most about Patriot Connect?
A: I am excited to learn a new system and to see how it supports the full student journey from initial inquiry through graduation. Having a single, unified platform that allows us to follow a prospective student from their first point of contact, through the application process, and throughout their time at George Mason will be incredibly valuable. I believe this integrated approach will strengthen how we track engagement, connect students with resources, and ultimately enhance the overall student experience.
Q: Ask me about…
A: George Mason or the Northern Virginia area! As a double alum with ten years of experience in various roles across campus, I am very familiar with George Mason’s resources, policies, events, etc. And if I don’t have the answer, I can usually point you to someone who does. I have also called Northern Virginia home for the past fifteen years, so I am well‑versed in the area’s best restaurants, local attractions, and hidden gems.
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus?
A: My favorite spot on campus is the Johnson Center. At the center of campus, it’s where I often run into colleagues and students throughout the day. It’s a great place to grab lunch or meet for coffee, and I frequently stop by Starbucks for a frappuccino!
Q: What is your favorite season on campus?
A: My favorite season on campus is spring. I enjoy walking across campus when the weather is warm and everyone is out and about. It’s great to see students and staff connecting with friends and colleagues, participating in events, and bringing so much activity to the university.
The Patriot Connect team has activated a change network of “Patriot Connect Release 2 Change Champions” to support the adoption of Patriot Connect at George Mason. Units, colleges, or schools impacted by Release 2 have a designated change champion who is here to make the transition to Patriot Connect smooth and successful. The Release 2 change network kicked off in October 2025 and will remain active throughout the implementation and launch of Patriot Connect: Recruitment and Admissions. Your first point of contact for questions should be your designated Patriot Connect Release 2 Change Champion.