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 Rick Gray!
Name:
Rick Gray
Role at George Mason University:
Assistant Dean for Access and Transitions, University Life
I am a Patriot Connect Change Champion for:
New Student and Family Programs
Q: What does being a Patriot Connect Change Champion mean to you?
A: While being a champion for Patriot Connect I have been able to generate buy-in and galvanize colleagues and partners to see this platform as an opportunity to enhance student success by creating a more seamless process for students. In my work helping new students and families transition to the university, Patriot Connect has the potential to transform how we work across departments and campus boundaries to provide high quality customer service and communication to our community.
Q: How do you see Patriot Connect helping you and your team?
A: George Mason is such a large institution and many students and families find it challenging to locate information and connect with the right resources on campus. Our office tries to help reduce the “Mason shuffle” and we use our knowledge of campus resources to get individuals to the best support. Patriot Connect has the ability to make it easier for students to engage with their network and get help, which is always beneficial to the transition of our new students and families. With features like checklists, appointments, and referrals, students can learn the important actions and tasks that will help them move through their college experience.
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus?
A: My favorite spots on campus are the bridges that run through the foliage of campus, like behind the Hub or the Commons. They are always so peaceful and beautiful. When the weather is nice I love taking a break and wandering through these paths to escape the hustle and bustle of campus.
Q: What is your favorite George Mason tradition?
A: My favorite George Mason tradition is Family Weekend each fall! I love seeing campus come alive with families and watching them experience the place their students now call home. Many families are returning for the first time since Orientation, so Family Weekend gives us a chance to reconnect while giving them a deeper sense of belonging to George Mason. There is something special about seeing students proudly show their families around campus and introduce them to the people and places that have become part of their college experience.
Q: What is something you like to do outside of work?
A: Outside of my work at George Mason, I am an avid travel junkie and photographer! If you catch me exploring a new city or country chances are I am seeing it through the lens of a camera!
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.