My goal is simple: To have class meetings that enable your ability to learn as much as possible. I strive for an environment that is positive, mutually supportive, and maximally collaborative. I expect us all to respect each other, regardless of gender and gender identity, ethnic and cultural background, academic background, and abilities. Please review Mason’s diversity statement for the university’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. Our courses are diverse by nature. My classes are always inclusive, but I try to go beyond inclusion to ensure that everyone belongs here. In my classes, differences are normal and an asset to us all.

You are welcome to share your name and preferred gender pronouns with me and indicate how you prefer I address you. I use he, him, and his and you may address me as Professor Offutt or Dr. Offutt. I’ll also respond to prof, coach, or teacher. I will do my best to pronounce your name correctly. We all know that can be challenging at Mason, so feel free to correct me and please be patient.

If the campus closes or class is canceled for any reason, I will send an email from piazza regarding how you can continue to learn and include any changes to the course deliverables or deadlines. If the closure is campus-wide, you will also be informed by the university.

All students are required to follow the university’s public health and safety precautions and procedures described on the Safe Return to Campus website. In particular, all students, faculty, and staff must be vaccinated and masks are required indoors on campus, whether we are vaccinated or not. Please refrain from eating in class.

I wish GMU could declare all major holidays or festivals for all of our students as university holidays, but that seems impractical. If you need to miss a class meeting or deadline due to a religious holiday, please let me know and we can make appropriate accommodations.

George Mason University is committed to provide an environment that is free from discrimination, sexual misconduct, bullying, and other acts of interpersonal violence. I personally will not accept any form of bullying in my classes. I encourage students who believe that they have been sexually harassed, assaulted, or subjected to sexual misconduct to seek assistance and support. Details about the process, resources, and options are described in University Policy 1202: Sexual Harassment and Misconduct.

As a faculty member, I am required to report all disclosures of sexual assault, interpersonal violence, and stalking to Mason’s Title IX Coordinator per university policy 1412. Within those constraints, I am happy to talk with you about any issues and will promise respect and confidentiality. If you wish to speak with someone confidentially, please contact the Student Support and Advocacy Center (703-380-1434) or Counseling and Psychological Services (703-993-2380). You may also seek assistance from Mason’s Title IX Coordinator (703-993-8730; titleix@gmu.edu).