Stacey Ellis, faculty and staff engagement program manager at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia, has received the 2025 Higher Ed Rock Star Award from the College and University Professional Association for Human Resources (CUPA-HR). The national award is presented to early-career professionals who are making a significant impact on human resources in higher education.
A George Mason staff member since 2022, Ellis has led several major projects that have strengthened institutional collaboration and engagement. She also serves as well-being mentor with the university’s Center for the Advancement of Well-Being and has taught as an adjunct professor for career readinesses and professional skills development. Earlier in her career, she was an adjunct professor with Laurel Ridge Community College in Middletown, Virginia.
A graduate of James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia, Ellis holds a master’s degree in health and wellness from California University of Pennsylvania, a master of education degree in kinesiology and exercise science from the University of Virginia, and a graduate certificate in student affairs administration from Colorado State University.