Paul Bazzano has worked for Mason Recreation for more than 30 years. He started as a student worker while pursuing his bachelor’s degree in communication at George Mason University and is now assistant director of competitive sports and athletic training.
Colleagues have applauded Bazzano for his outstanding leadership, innovation, and dedication to advancing Mason Recreation’s mission. He has made numerous contributions that have strengthened Mason Recreation’s programs, elevated its visibility across campus and beyond, and deepened the university’s commitment to inclusive and adaptive recreation. For these reasons, Bazzano was selected as the March Employee of the Month.
In their nominations, many of Bazzano’s colleagues talked about how he went above and beyond in coordinating two major university events that brought together campus and community partners in meaningful ways.
The first event was the National Beep Baseball All-Star Tournament, which brought more than 70 blind and visually impaired athletes, coaches, and volunteers from across the country to George Mason. In addition to the tournament, Bazzano organized a Learn-to-Play Clinic, giving about 25 visually impaired students and community members the opportunity to experience Beep Baseball for the first time.
“Paul has continued to elevate the profile of our department and the awareness of a wonderful adaptive sport,” said Sheldon Tate, executive director of Mason Recreation. “He has poured himself fully into the Beep Baseball movement and is quickly becoming the quintessential ally for individuals with disabilities. We are proud to follow his lead, and there are dozens of colleagues across campus who would absolutely agree that Paul is raising the bar.”
“Through his leadership, Paul has strengthened partnerships with organizations such as Game One, MindsEye, Lighthouse for the Blind, and the Metro Washington Association of Blind Athletes,” said Ethan Carter, associate director of programs, well-being, and assessment. “He also began discussions with the Junior Tennis Champions Center to host a wheelchair tennis event in Spring 2026, expanding George Mason’s reach and reputation in adaptive sports.”
In addition to forging new opportunities for differently abled athletes, Bazzano supports all the students who participate in Mason Recreation’s programs, said Jennifer Tolson, head athletic trainer at Mason Recreation
“Paul works day and night to help our club teams and intramurals succeed both on and off the field,” said Tolson. “He’s always finding ways to make things happen—even when it seems impossible. A great example of this is when our football team had an opponent forfeit. Paul immediately searched for another team to play, ensuring our athletes still got the experience they deserved. That’s who Paul is—he never gives up on our teams and always fights to give them the best opportunities possible.”
How did you come to Mason:
I started at George Mason in 1995 as an undergraduate student and never really left. I worked in athletics and recreation as a student, and after graduation I was offered the chance to continue doing work I loved. Mason has been home ever since.
Best day on the job:
It is hard to narrow it down to one day. March 2006 during the Final Four run stands out. I was responsible for supervising the student bus to Dayton, Ohio, for the first round, and what was supposed to be a quick trip turned into something much bigger. The pride on campus during that stretch is something I have never seen before and have not seen since.
What do you like best about working at Mason:
Watching students grow and move on to do great things. What means the most is when they come back and reconnect. Knowing you played even a small role in their experience stays with you.
What do you like to do when you’re not working:
I enjoy staying active. Whether it is playing a sport or just finding ways to stay healthy, that has always been an important part of my life. I have also taken up sports photography, which has been a fun creative outlet and another way to give back to our students.