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91���� Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Marion Underwood today announced that Andre Marshall, vice president for research, innovation, and economic impact, has accepted an assignment with the National Science Foundation (NSF) as program director, Strategic Partnerships Hub. 

Since joining George Mason in 2021, Marshall has played a pivotal role in advancing the university’s research enterprise and entrepreneurial ecosystem and strengthening the university's reputation as a leading public R1 institution, including launching the Grand Challenge Initiative and empowering institute-driven initiatives like Nexus234 and the Virginia Climate Center. 

During Marshall’s tenure, George Mason expanded research activity and strategic partnerships, increased engagement with federal agencies and industry partners, strengthened innovation and technology commercialization efforts, and elevated the university's national visibility in several emerging areas of research and discovery, including quantum research and space exploration. 

“Andre has been instrumental in accelerating George Mason’s research excellence and economic impact. He has been a pivotal partner with me in driving our investments in quantum and the innovation district anchored by the Science and Technology Campus,” said President Gregory Washington. “Through the Grand Challenge Initiative, Andre has brought together faculty, researchers, students, and external partners through interdisciplinary collaboration and impactful scholarship, helping to solidify George Mason as a leader in driving innovations that will transform lives and the planet.” 

To ensure continuity of leadership, Provost Underwood has appointed Aurali Dade as interim vice president for research, innovation, and economic impact, effective August 31. 

"I want to thank Andre for leading the research enterprise, central to George Mason’s mission and future, and transforming our internal infrastructure to drive excellence and increased support to local units. We remain committed to faculty research, strengthening partnerships, and advancing the discoveries that serve our students, our communities, and the world," Underwood said. “Aurali’s leadership experience and commitment to research excellence make her exceptionally well suited to guide the enterprise during this transition.”  

Dade brings extensive experience in research administration, strategy, and operations and previously served as interim vice president for research, innovation, and economic impact in 2020-21. She currently serves as the vice president for enterprise risk management and chief risk officer, which she will continue in during this interim period, and recently spent 3.5 years at the NSF as a program director in the Technology, Innovation and Partnerships (TIP) directorate. 

The university will launch a national search for the next vice president for research, innovation, and economic impact. Additional information regarding the search process and timeline will be shared in the coming months.