Mason Facilities and Housing & Residence Life (HRL) have recently partnered with HBCU school Virginia State University to transfer surplus furniture from Mason Housing buildings. Over 850 pieces of furniture were moved to Virginia State University to furnish newly acquired spaces for the student body.
In Summer 2023, George Mason University redistributed 855 pieces of surplus furniture to Virginia State University, a Historically Black College and University (HBCU). Along with being an HBCU, Virginia State is also a Publix State Agency.
This effort was orchestrated and supported by the following Mason staff:
- Dr. Shannon Jordan, Associate Dean & Chief Housing
- John Rogers, Associate Director of Housekeeping from Housing and Residence Life (HRL)
- Steven Pulis, Facilities Purchasing Manager
- Kevin Brim, Facilities Recycle/Waste Management Supervisor
- Daniel Castillo, HRL Procurement & Housing Operations Administrator
“As the Surplus Property Manager, any surplus property needs to be managed appropriately. This process is classified as ‘Re-Use’ and I am always looking to divert anything from a landfill,” said Pulis. “Finding a way to transfer the property from one agency to another as a viable solution and a ‘Win-Win’ for both Universities.”
The redistribution of furniture was surplus from Mason Housing buildings and consisted of couches, dining chairs, coffee/end tables, and other dorm furniture.
”Being able to repurpose materials versus landfill or incinerator is always best practice towards our Zero Waste Goals,” said Brim “Supporting [an] HBCU school was just the icing on the cake, with the cherry on top.”
Jane Harris (Assistant Vice President for Facilities and Capital Outlay) from Virginia State University responds to the donation, “Thank you for thinking of VSU!”
Pulis looks forward to seeking additional opportunities “to assist agencies in the future in the appropriate handling of surplus property.”
Dr. Shannon Jordan is pleased with the partnership stating, “I am so happy the furniture could be given a second life at Virginia State!”