Mason Now: Power the Possible / en Take your Patriot Pride on the road with a George Mason license plate /news/2026-08/take-your-patriot-pride-road-george-mason-license-plate <span>Take your Patriot Pride on the road with a George Mason license plate</span> <span><span>lclarkg</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-08-25T10:04:11-04:00" title="Tuesday, August 25, 2026 - 10:04">Tue, 08/25/2026 - 10:04</time> </span> <div class="layout layout--gmu layout--twocol-section layout--twocol-section--70-30"> <div class="layout__region region-first"> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:body" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasebody"> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Body</div> <div class="field__item"><p><span class="intro-text">Show your Patriot pride every mile of the journey: New </span><a href="https://brand.gmu.edu/license-plates"><span class="intro-text">91°”Íű license plates</span></a><span class="intro-text"> are now available through the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), and every license plate purchase helps support student scholarships.</span></p> <p><a href="https://brand.gmu.edu/license-plates"></a></p> <div class="align-right"> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/2026-08/26-191_license_650x400.png?itok=GnC54IGg" width="560" height="345" alt="Graphic illustration says Support student scholarships with an official university license plate. Gets yours today at licenseplates.gmu.edu"> </div> </div> <p> </p><p>Two George Mason license plate designs are available at select Northern Virginia DMV locations and online. As part of a revenue-sharing program, $15 of every $25 license plate fee goes straight to George Mason student scholarships. Plates can be personalized for an additional $10 annually.</p> <p>Anyone registering a vehicle in Virginia can purchase a George Mason license plate. Alumni, faculty, staff, current students, community members—all are welcome to make their vehicles stand out as <em>All Together Different</em>.</p> <p>The first George Mason license plate was released in 1996, and by 2025, the program had raised more than $346,000 for George Mason student scholarships. Under a new agreement with DMV, license plate proceeds will be directed to the 91°”Íű Foundation, enabling matching funds to be applied that can amplify the impact of the scholarship donations. Scholarships will be awarded by the 91°”Íű Alumni Association.</p> <blockquote><p>“These&nbsp;license&nbsp;plates are a wonderful way&nbsp;for&nbsp;our alumni and friends to share what&nbsp;George&nbsp;Mason University means to&nbsp;them,” said Trishana&nbsp;E.&nbsp;Bowden, vice president of university advancement and alumni relations and president of&nbsp;the&nbsp;George&nbsp;Mason University Foundation. “Even&nbsp;better,&nbsp;the&nbsp;license&nbsp;plate&nbsp;campaign&nbsp;provides critical dollars for the scholarships that make a&nbsp;George&nbsp;Mason education accessible&nbsp;for&nbsp;even more students.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> </blockquote> <p>Redesigned by graphic designers in the <a href="https://brand.gmu.edu/">Office of University Branding</a>, the license plate promotion includes support of partners across George Mason, including alumni, Intercollegiate Athletics, Advancement, Parking Services, University Life, and Integrated Enrollment Management.</p> <blockquote><p>“Over the past five years, public support for 91°”Íű has soared to record levels. That community pride can now be expressed in a way that directly helps students,” said Paul Allvin, vice president and chief brand officer. “These new plates showcase our new brand expression, which has proven very popular to wear and display since its debut two years ago.”</p> </blockquote> <p>George Mason has grown from a small regional college in the 1970s into Virginia’s largest public research university. George Mason was named to the Carnegie Foundation and American Council on Education (ACE) highest tier of Opportunity Colleges and Universities: Higher Access, Higher Earnings, in recognition of the university’s commitment to accessibility, return on investment, and upward mobility—one of only 21 schools in the country to receive this designation.</p> <p>George Mason license plate purchases showcase the Mason Nation’s Patriot Pride and help the next generation of students achieve their dreams. For more ways to support the university, visit <a href="https://giving.gmu.edu/mason-now/">Mason Now</a>.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="layout__region region-second"> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:feature_image" data-inline-block-uuid="a0288034-d817-4c46-8236-ece38a2c1e11" class="block block-feature-image block-layout-builder block-inline-blockfeature-image caption-below"> <div class="feature-image"> <div class="narrow-overlaid-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_medium/public/2023-06/resize%202.jpg?itok=g6kiC6Xe" srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_small/public/2023-06/resize%202.jpg?itok=JxRX6Cus 768w, /sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_medium/public/2023-06/resize%202.jpg?itok=g6kiC6Xe 1024w, /sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_large/public/2023-06/resize%202.jpg?itok=9lYsSgF8 1280w" sizes="(min-width: 1024px) 80vw,100vw" alt="The World Needs Mason Now. It's time to power the possible."> </div> <div class="headline-text"> <div class="feature-image-link"> <div class="field field--name-field-feature-image-link field--type-link field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://giving.gmu.edu/mason-now/">Power the Possible</a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:news_list" data-inline-block-uuid="dd06fc8e-156c-4983-8880-1b8392e96a98" class="block block-layout-builder block-inline-blocknews-list"> <h2>Read More Like This</h2> <div class="views-element-container"><div class="view view-news view-id-news view-display-id-block_1 js-view-dom-id-305d1c923bb5d0539f44c9c586ea30ff6dd2abe1b133d9ce1a526bd0ff74193e"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="news-list-wrapper"> <ul class="news-list"> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-08/take-your-patriot-pride-road-george-mason-license-plate" hreflang="en">Take your Patriot Pride on the road with a George Mason license plate</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">August 25, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-08/visitor-shawn-chambliss-purvis-honors-family-legacy-investment-future-engineers" hreflang="en">Visitor Shawn Chambliss Purvis honors family legacy with investment in future engineers </a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">August 24, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-08/athletics-celebrates-record-breaking-year-philanthropic-support" hreflang="en">Athletics celebrates record-breaking year of philanthropic support </a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">August 24, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-08/northern-virginia-entrepreneur-anil-sharma-and-his-wife-anupama-provide" hreflang="en">Northern Virginia entrepreneur Anil Sharma and his wife, Anupama, provide transformational support for Costello College’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship </a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">August 21, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-07/making-every-drop-count-campus-greenhouse" hreflang="en">Making every drop count at the campus greenhouse</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">July 29, 2026</div></div></li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:field_content_topics" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasefield-content-topics"> <h2>Topics</h2> <div class="field field--name-field-content-topics field--type-entity-reference field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Topics</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/19331" hreflang="en">Mason Now: Power the Possible</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/116" hreflang="en">Campus News</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/15871" hreflang="en">Office of University Branding</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/21860" hreflang="en">Alumni</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/4056" hreflang="en">Scholarships</a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="layout layout--gmu layout--twocol-section layout--twocol-section--30-70"> <div class="layout__region region-first"> </div> <div> </div> </div> Tue, 25 Aug 2026 14:04:11 +0000 lclarkg 346096 at Visitor Shawn Chambliss Purvis honors family legacy with investment in future engineers /news/2026-08/visitor-shawn-chambliss-purvis-honors-family-legacy-investment-future-engineers <span>Visitor Shawn Chambliss Purvis honors family legacy with investment in future engineers </span> <span><span>Katarina Benson</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-08-24T12:47:36-04:00" title="Monday, August 24, 2026 - 12:47">Mon, 08/24/2026 - 12:47</time> </span> <div class="layout layout--gmu layout--twocol-section layout--twocol-section--70-30"> <div class="layout__region region-first"> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:body" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasebody"> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Body</div> <div class="field__item"><p class="Paragraph SCXW175348446 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun intro-text" lang="EN-US">Where can a degree from 91°”Íű take you? For students in the </span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW175348446 BCX0" href="https://cec.gmu.edu/" target="_blank"><span class="TextRun Highlight Underlined SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun intro-text" lang="EN-US">College of Engineering and Computing</span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun intro-text" lang="EN-US"> (CEC), Board of Visitors member Shawn Chambliss Purvis, MS Information Systems ’99, offers a powerful example.</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW175348446 BCX0 intro-text">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW175348446 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Purvis is president and CEO of </span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW175348446 BCX0" href="https://www.sabelsystems.com/" target="_blank"><span class="TextRun Highlight Underlined SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Sabel Systems</span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">, a leading provider of digital engineering, acquisition, manufacturing, supply chain, and logistics solutions. Her career spans 30 years of leadership and corporate governance at organizations including QinetiQ US, Northrop Grumman, SAIC, and Lockheed Martin.</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW175348446 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <figure role="group" class="align-right"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/2026-08/shawn_chambliss_purvis_and_spencer_purvis_senior.jpeg?itok=fmvOvewg" width="560" height="395" alt="Shawn Chamliss Purvis and her father"> </div> </div> <figcaption>Purvis and her father. Photo provided</figcaption> </figure> <p class="Paragraph SCXW175348446 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Now, Purvis has made a gift to George Mason </span><span class="TextRun SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed" lang="EN-US">that honors</span><span class="TextRun SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> one of the exemplars in her life: her father. Established through her generous $50,000 gift, the Spencer Chambliss Sr. Scholarship Endowment will support students in the </span><span class="TrackedChange SCXW175348446 BCX0 TextRun NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering</span><span class="TextRun SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">, with preference given to student leaders in CEC-affiliated student organizations.</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW175348446 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW175348446 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Like Purvis, Spencer Chambliss Sr. was an engineer. A graduate of Norfolk State University in the 1960s, he moved his young family from their hometown of Portsmouth, Virginia, to the Northern Virginia region for a position at IBM Federal Systems in the company’s Manassas facility. He worked at IBM for more than 20 years as a chief engineer before retiring.</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW175348446 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW175348446 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Purvis recalled her father’s trademark curiosity—and his remarkable ability to repair anything electronic in their family home. “He had a spirit of being able to look at something to understand its interconnections and then be able to go and build it, with this mindset that he could solve anything,” she said. “It’s just bringing the right solutions and the right kind of combinations together to get to the answer you’re trying to reach, whatever it is you’re trying to fix.”</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW175348446 BCX0"> &nbsp;</span></p> <figure role="group" class="align-left"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/2026-08/spencer_chambliss_senior.jpeg?itok=G6rOI4yj" width="334" height="473" alt="Headshot of Spencer Chamliss Sr."> </div> </div> <figcaption>Spencer Chambliss Sr. was an engineer at IBM. Photo provided</figcaption> </figure> <p class="Paragraph SCXW175348446 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Chambliss’s tenacity served him both as a pioneer at IBM, where he designed microchips on a production line, and more broadly. “Both my parents were among the first Black people to integrate IBM,” said Purvis. “It was rare to have a person of color in a technical field</span><span class="TextRun SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun AdvancedProofingIssueV2Themed" lang="EN-US">, in particular, and</span><span class="TextRun SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> to be an engineer in that environment, to show up with professionalism and to be able to handle all that was presented to him. He was a quiet soul; he was patient. He built camaraderie, and he tried to make those who were around him better. It’s something that I will always admire.”</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW175348446 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW175348446 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">By endowing a scholarship in her father’s name, Purvis hopes to create opportunities for aspiring engineers who share the courage and curiosity that he embodied. The scholarship will help attract and support talented students in electrical and computer engineering while advancing the commonwealth’s Tech Talent Investment Program, which aims to expand the number of graduates in computer science, computer engineering, and software engineering.&nbsp;</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW175348446 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW175348446 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Purvis’s endowment also supports </span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW175348446 BCX0" href="https://giving.gmu.edu/mason-now/" target="_blank"><span class="TextRun Highlight Underlined SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Mason Now: Power the Possible</span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">, the university’s $1 billion comprehensive campaign to expand student opportunity, strengthen academic and research programs, and address complex challenges facing communities in Virginia and beyond.</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW175348446 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW175348446 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">“The College of Engineering and Computing is deeply grateful to Visitor Shawn Chambliss Purvis for this visionary endowment supporting electrical and computer engineering students,” said </span><span class="TextRun Highlight SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Dean Kenneth Ball</span><span class="TextRun SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">. “This scholarship, which honors her father’s life and work, will open doors to opportunity, easing financial burdens and empowering students to pursue research, internships, innovation, and leadership experiences. Visitor Purvis’s generosity will help talented students thrive, graduate with confidence, and shape the future of engineering and technology.”</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW175348446 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW175348446 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">A member of the university’s Board of Visitors since January 2026—and previously from 2015 to 2019—Purvis has long supported George Mason students and programs. She is a member of the CEC Advisory Council and has served as a speaker at the college’s degree celebration ceremony. In 2022, she was named </span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW175348446 BCX0" href="https://cec.gmu.edu/news/2022-11/shawn-purvis-honored-masons-celebration-distinction" target="_blank"><span class="TextRun Highlight Underlined SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">CEC Distinguished Alumna</span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">, and in 2025, she was inducted into the CEC Academy of Engineering and Computing Excellence as part of its charter class.</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW175348446 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW175348446 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Purvis earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Hampton University and a master’s degree in information systems from George Mason. Her time at George Mason coincided with former Virginia Gov. Douglas Wilder’s and then-president George Johnson’s efforts to strengthen technological innovation at the university. “I really liked the idea that Mason was emerging into this next phase: implementing a strategy to produce top technologists in the field of engineering,” she said.</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW175348446 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW175348446 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Purvis also valued her campus experience. “It feels like home,” she said </span><span class="TextRun SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed" lang="EN-US">of</span><span class="TextRun SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> her alma mater. “And when I worked with President [Ángel] Cabrera and now with President [Gregory] Washington, I appreciate the George Mason vision to serve all that desire to further their education. The inclusiveness of George Mason is unprecedented in the state of Virginia.”</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW175348446 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW175348446 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Through the Spencer Chambliss Sr. Scholarship Endowment, Purvis is creating a lasting tribute to her father while investing in the next generation of George Mason engineers. Her gift will help students pursue their ambitions, </span><span class="TextRun SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed" lang="EN-US">develop as</span><span class="TextRun SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> leaders, and carry forward the qualities that </span><span class="TextRun SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed" lang="EN-US">defined</span><span class="TextRun SCXW175348446 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> Chambliss’s life and career. As Purvis said of those who follow, “I hope that they will embody my father’s love for engineering, his passion for helping others and his tenacity to improve the world, one innovation at a time."</span><span class="EOP SCXW175348446 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="layout__region region-second"> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:feature_image" data-inline-block-uuid="d4ea611c-6c95-44cd-9af9-f6b367fce9d4" class="block block-feature-image block-layout-builder block-inline-blockfeature-image caption-below"> <div class="feature-image"> <div class="narrow-overlaid-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_medium/public/2026-02/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2a.jpg?itok=zxkyZpjn" srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_small/public/2026-02/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2a.jpg?itok=QV6DKHx2 768w, /sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_medium/public/2026-02/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2a.jpg?itok=zxkyZpjn 1024w, /sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_large/public/2026-02/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2a.jpg?itok=sk8_A85w 1280w" sizes="(min-width: 1024px) 80vw,100vw" alt="Creative graphic reads Mason Now, Power the Possible. Meeting the Challenge. "> </div> <div class="headline-text"> <div class="feature-image-link"> <div class="field field--name-field-feature-image-link field--type-link field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://giving.gmu.edu/mason-now/">Power the Possible</a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div><div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:text" data-inline-block-uuid="d5f71d0b-19b5-4bf1-a0b7-c8e3e8e593fd" class="block block-layout-builder block-inline-blocktext"> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p><br>&nbsp;</p> <hr> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:news_list" data-inline-block-uuid="fb9ef37c-c54c-48af-9e0c-34660940e750" class="block block-layout-builder block-inline-blocknews-list"> <h2>Related Stories</h2> <div class="views-element-container"><div class="view view-news view-id-news view-display-id-block_1 js-view-dom-id-c9f58a5fe0188781ad165638fbe961df53579500ccce50463f0dcf2fc0413642"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="news-list-wrapper"> <ul class="news-list"> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-09/george-masons-first-grand-challenge-exchange-day-builds-connections-across-disciplines" hreflang="en">George Mason’s first Grand Challenge Exchange Day builds connections across disciplines</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">September 16, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-09/summer-campers-blast-interstellar-research" hreflang="en">Summer campers blast off with interstellar research</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">September 16, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-09/george-mason-showcases-data-center-research-leadership-japanese-delegation" hreflang="en">George Mason showcases data center research leadership to Japanese delegation</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">September 15, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-09/george-mason-alum-rhea-seehorn-wins-emmy-portrayal-carol-appletvs-pluribus" hreflang="en">George Mason alum Rhea Seehorn wins Emmy for portrayal of Carol in AppleTV’s Pluribus</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">September 15, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-09/new-george-mason-professor-connects-weather-water-and-communities-they-affect" hreflang="en">New George Mason professor connects weather, water, and the communities they affect </a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">September 11, 2026</div></div></li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="layout layout--gmu layout--twocol-section layout--twocol-section--30-70"> <div class="layout__region region-first"> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:field_content_topics" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasefield-content-topics"> <h2>Topics</h2> <div class="field field--name-field-content-topics field--type-entity-reference field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Topics</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/116" hreflang="en">Campus News</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/3071" hreflang="en">College of Engineering and Computing</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/5411" hreflang="en">philanthropy</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/19331" hreflang="en">Mason Now: Power the Possible</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/841" hreflang="en">Board of Visitors</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/21860" hreflang="en">Alumni</a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div> </div> </div> Mon, 24 Aug 2026 16:47:36 +0000 Katarina Benson 346093 at Athletics celebrates record-breaking year of philanthropic support /news/2026-08/athletics-celebrates-record-breaking-year-philanthropic-support <span>Athletics celebrates record-breaking year of philanthropic support </span> <span><span>Katarina Benson</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-08-24T09:34:27-04:00" title="Monday, August 24, 2026 - 09:34">Mon, 08/24/2026 - 09:34</time> </span> <div class="layout layout--gmu layout--twocol-section layout--twocol-section--70-30"> <div class="layout__region region-first"> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:body" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasebody"> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Body</div> <div class="field__item"><p class="Paragraph SCXW77284906 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW77284906 BCX0 NormalTextRun intro-text" lang="EN-US">Over the past fiscal year, 91°”Íű Athletics raised a record $4.4 million, the highest fundraising total in department history</span><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW77284906 BCX0 NormalTextRun intro-text" lang="EN-US">,</span><span class="TextRun SCXW77284906 BCX0 NormalTextRun intro-text" lang="EN-US"> topping last year's record $3 million. The milestone represents a significant investment in the future of George Mason Athletics and will provide critical resources that enhance the student-athlete experience, strengthen competitive excellence, and position the department for long-term success.</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW77284906 BCX0 intro-text">&nbsp;</span></p> <figure role="group" class="align-right"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/2026-08/2025-26_athletics_fundraising_highlights.jpeg?itok=h9oVskrE" width="560" height="315" alt="Graphic reads Athletics reached an all-time fundraising record at $4.4 million."> </div> </div> <figcaption>Athletics reached an all-time fundraising record at $4.4 million.</figcaption> </figure> <p class="Paragraph SCXW77284906 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW77284906 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">"Our success is built on the incredible generosity of our alumni, donors, fans</span><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW77284906 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">,</span><span class="TextRun SCXW77284906 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> and friends," said Marvin Lewis, assistant vice president and director of athletics.</span><em><span class="TextRun SCXW77284906 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> </span></em><span class="TextRun SCXW77284906 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">“Surpassing last year's historic total</span><em><span class="TextRun SCXW77284906 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> </span></em><span class="TextRun SCXW77284906 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">demonstrates the growing momentum behind our mission and the continued strength of NOVA's Team.”&nbsp;</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW77284906 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW77284906 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW77284906 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">The year's fundraising efforts were punctuated by a historic Giving Day in April when more than 1,200 supporters came together to contribute $2,057,632 in just 24 hours. The total marked the largest single-day fundraising effort in George Mason Athletics history and showcased the collective power of the university community. This philanthropic momentum contributed to Mason Now: Power the Possible, the university's $1 billion comprehensive campaign to expand student opportunity, strengthen academic and research programs, and address complex challenges facing communities in Northern Virginia and beyond.</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW77284906 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW77284906 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW77284906 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Patriot Club membership increased from 622 to 926 members, a nearly 50% increase over the previous year. The expansion of the Patriot Club reflects a growing base of supporters committed to providing transformational opportunities for George Mason student-athletes.</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW77284906 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW77284906 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Donor support continues to fuel several key initiatives that directly impact student-athlete success across all 22 varsity sports programs. These include:</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW77284906 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <ul> <li> <p class="Paragraph SCXW77284906 BCX0"><span class="TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW77284906 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"><strong>Basketball Greatness</strong></span><span class="TextRun SCXW77284906 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">—Advancing championship-level resources for George </span><span class="TextRun SCXW77284906 BCX0 NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed" lang="EN-US">Mason</span><span class="TextRun SCXW77284906 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> men's and women's basketball programs through investments in facilities, recruiting, player development, and competitive excellence.</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW77284906 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> </li> <li> <p class="Paragraph SCXW77284906 BCX0"><span class="TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW77284906 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"><strong>Athletics Opportunity Fund</strong></span><span class="TextRun SCXW77284906 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">—Providing flexible resources that address the department's greatest needs while enhancing the overall student-athlete experience.</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW77284906 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> </li> <li> <p class="Paragraph SCXW77284906 BCX0"><span class="TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW77284906 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"><strong>Patriot Pathways</strong></span><span class="TextRun SCXW77284906 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">—Supporting career development, leadership programming, internships, networking opportunities, and life skills initiatives that prepare student-athletes for success beyond graduation.</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW77284906 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> </li> <li> <p class="Paragraph SCXW77284906 BCX0"><span class="TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW77284906 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"><strong>Sports Performance Ecosystem</strong></span><span class="TextRun SCXW77284906 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">—Investing in cutting-edge strength and conditioning programs, sports medicine, nutrition, mental performance, and recovery resources that allow Patriots to perform at their highest level.</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW77284906 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> </li> </ul> <p class="Paragraph SCXW77284906 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW77284906 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">The record-breaking fundraising year comes during a period of significant momentum for George Mason Athletics. Philanthropic investments continue to play a vital role in strengthening the department's ability to recruit, develop, and support more than 500 student-athletes.&nbsp;</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW77284906 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW77284906 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW77284906 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Learn how you can support George Mason student-athletes through the Patriot Club.</span><span class="LineBreakBlob BlobObject DragDrop SCXW77284906 BCX0">&nbsp;</span><br><span class="TextRun EmptyTextRun SCXW77284906 BCX0" lang="EN-US"></span></p> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="layout__region region-second"> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:feature_image" data-inline-block-uuid="bb4ff7d8-2bfa-43b2-af25-dccceaed552b" class="block block-feature-image block-layout-builder block-inline-blockfeature-image caption-below"> <div class="feature-image"> <div class="narrow-overlaid-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_medium/public/2026-03/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2b.jpg?itok=XU4teW47" srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_small/public/2026-03/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2b.jpg?itok=X8xc_OM0 768w, /sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_medium/public/2026-03/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2b.jpg?itok=XU4teW47 1024w, /sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_large/public/2026-03/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2b.jpg?itok=3tq0I_e9 1280w" sizes="(min-width: 1024px) 80vw,100vw" alt="Mason Now: Power the Possible. Meeting the Challenge"> </div> <div class="headline-text"> <div class="feature-image-link"> <div class="field field--name-field-feature-image-link field--type-link field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://giving.gmu.edu/mason-now/">Power the Possible</a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div><div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:text" data-inline-block-uuid="5d453503-c30f-4ea6-92d7-eac37a794772" class="block block-layout-builder block-inline-blocktext"> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:news_list" data-inline-block-uuid="bfa4d1fe-3241-4018-877b-1d721c651c85" class="block block-layout-builder block-inline-blocknews-list"> <h2>Related Stories</h2> <div class="views-element-container"><div class="view view-news view-id-news view-display-id-block_1 js-view-dom-id-3128d6e249ed1899d2538ed9b14a91b9cad1a23d3a1df83643d92d749b23a99d"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="news-list-wrapper"> <ul class="news-list"> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-09/george-masons-first-grand-challenge-exchange-day-builds-connections-across-disciplines" hreflang="en">George Mason’s first Grand Challenge Exchange Day builds connections across disciplines</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">September 16, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-09/george-mason-showcases-data-center-research-leadership-japanese-delegation" hreflang="en">George Mason showcases data center research leadership to Japanese delegation</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">September 15, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-09/george-mason-alum-rhea-seehorn-wins-emmy-portrayal-carol-appletvs-pluribus" hreflang="en">George Mason alum Rhea Seehorn wins Emmy for portrayal of Carol in AppleTV’s Pluribus</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">September 15, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-09/game-set-content-george-mason-student-athlete-brings-followers-inside-division-i" hreflang="en">Game, Set, Content: This George Mason student-athlete brings followers inside Division I tennis </a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">September 14, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-09/george-mason-partners-oxford-based-treq-bring-first-open-architecture-quantum" hreflang="en">George Mason partners with Oxford-based TreQ to bring the first open-architecture quantum computing system to Virginia</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">September 2, 2026</div></div></li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="layout layout--gmu layout--twocol-section layout--twocol-section--30-70"> <div class="layout__region region-first"> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:field_content_topics" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasefield-content-topics"> <h2>Topics</h2> <div class="field field--name-field-content-topics field--type-entity-reference field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Topics</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/761" hreflang="en">Mason Athletics</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/5411" hreflang="en">philanthropy</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/19331" hreflang="en">Mason Now: Power the Possible</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/116" hreflang="en">Campus News</a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div> </div> </div> Mon, 24 Aug 2026 13:34:27 +0000 Katarina Benson 346090 at Northern Virginia entrepreneur Anil Sharma and his wife, Anupama, provide transformational support for Costello College’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship /news/2026-08/northern-virginia-entrepreneur-anil-sharma-and-his-wife-anupama-provide <span>Northern Virginia entrepreneur Anil Sharma and his wife, Anupama, provide transformational support for Costello College’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship </span> <span><span>Katarina Benson</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-08-21T12:23:47-04:00" title="Friday, August 21, 2026 - 12:23">Fri, 08/21/2026 - 12:23</time> </span> <div class="layout layout--gmu layout--twocol-section layout--twocol-section--70-30"> <div class="layout__region region-first"> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:body" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasebody"> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Body</div> <div class="field__item"><p class="Paragraph SCXW65375569 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun intro-text" lang="EN-US">Anil Sharma </span><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed intro-text" lang="EN-US">is</span><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun intro-text" lang="EN-US"> many things: an entrepreneur, cybersecurity expert, angel investor, </span><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed intro-text" lang="EN-US">and &nbsp;philanthropist</span><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun intro-text" lang="EN-US">.</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW65375569 BCX0 intro-text">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW65375569 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Although the </span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW65375569 BCX0" href="https://www.tscti.com/" target="_blank"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">22nd Century Technologies</span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> CEO and his wife, Anupama, are not 91°”Íű alumni, they have strong ties to the university through Anil’s membership on the President’s Innovation Advisory Council and the 91°”Íű Foundation Board of Trustees.&nbsp;</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW65375569 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <figure role="group" class="align-right"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/2026-08/anil_and_anupama_sharma_visit_0.jpg?itok=ASFOPBO9" width="560" height="550" alt="Anupama and Anil Sharma meet with Costello College of Business leaders to discuss their vision for the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship that will bear their names."> </div> </div> <figcaption>Anupama and Anil Sharma. Photo by Duane Bailey/Costello College of Business.</figcaption> </figure> <p class="Paragraph SCXW65375569 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">They believe in education, entrepreneurship, and creating </span><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed" lang="EN-US">opportunity</span><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> for the next generation. And that commitment has led them to commit to a gift that will name the </span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW65375569 BCX0" href="https://business.gmu.edu/centers/center-for-innovation-and-entrepreneurship" target="_blank"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship</span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> (CIE) at the </span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW65375569 BCX0" href="https://business.gmu.edu/" target="_blank"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Costello College of Business</span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> in their honor. The center supports local innovators and entrepreneurs by providing resources and connecting regional stakeholders.</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW65375569 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW65375569 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">“</span><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed" lang="EN-US">Today’s</span><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> </span><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed" lang="EN-US">college</span><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> students are graduating at one of the most transformative moments in modern history,” Anil Sharma said. “Artificial intelligence, automation, and digital transformation are reshaping every industry
 and the future will belong to those who can learn faster, adapt continuously, think critically, and stay resilient during change.”&nbsp;</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW65375569 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW65375569 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Anil Sharma came to the United States from India in 1997 with $100 and the determination to build a future in a new country. Later that year, he founded McLean-based 22nd Century Technologies. What began as an IT consulting business has grown into a $600 million government contracting firm providing IT, cybersecurity, cloud, and digital transformation solutions to federal, state, and local government agencies across all 50 states, Canada, and Mexico.&nbsp;</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW65375569 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW65375569 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">That experience has shaped the </span><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed" lang="EN-US">Sharmas</span><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">’ desire to give back by helping others pursue opportunities of their own.</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW65375569 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW65375569 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">With the </span><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed" lang="EN-US">Sharmas</span><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">’ gift, the center is poised to advance into a nationally recognized hub where innovation, entrepreneurship, and partnership-driven impact converge. By building on programs like the Patriot Pitch Competition, the </span><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed" lang="EN-US">Honey Bee</span><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> Initiative, and the SOAR Initiative, the investment will allow the center to help strengthen the region’s innovation economy by creating a space where students, faculty, entrepreneurs, and partners collaborate, mentor one another, and develop new ventures.</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW65375569 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <figure role="group" class="align-left"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/2026-08/the_sharmas_with_cie_faculty_and_staff_0.jpg?itok=NGz19Jmj" width="560" height="374"> </div> </div> <figcaption>The Sharmas with CIE faculty and staff. Photo by Duane Bailey/Costello.</figcaption> </figure> <p class="Paragraph SCXW65375569 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">“This is a significant milestone for both the Costello College of Business and the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, and one that will ensure our center’s role as the preeminent place at George Mason where the future takes shape for innovators, aspiring entrepreneurs, and industry leaders,” said Costello Dean Ajay VinzĂ©. “I know I speak on behalf of all of us at Costello when I say how grateful we are to Anil and Anupama for their leadership in strengthening the regional entrepreneurial ecosystem, expanding opportunities for our students, alumni, and community members, and creating an engine of innovation that will fuel long-term value and opportunity for generations to come.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span class="EOP SCXW65375569 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW65375569 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">For Anil Sharma, that connection between opportunity and responsibility is an important part of what comes next.</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW65375569 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <blockquote><p class="Paragraph SCXW65375569 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">“Building a business taught me that success is never only about one person,” Sharma said. “People give you opportunities, people trust you, people teach you, and communities create the conditions in which you can grow. At some point, you have a responsibility to help create those opportunities for someone else. That is what Anupama and I hope this center will do.”</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW65375569 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> </blockquote> <p class="Paragraph SCXW65375569 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">As the Costello College of Business approaches its 50th anniversary in 2027, the </span><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed" lang="EN-US">Sharmas</span><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">’ gift represents an investment in the college’s next 50 years, supporting expanded opportunity, greater access, and the real-world impact that will continue to shape its future. Their gift is part of </span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW65375569 BCX0" href="https://giving.gmu.edu/mason-now/" target="_blank"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Mason Now: Power the Possible</span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">, the university’s one-billion-dollar comprehensive campaign.</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW65375569 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW65375569 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">The Costello College of Business plans to hold a formal naming event and celebration this fall.</span><span class="EOP Selected SCXW65375569 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW65375569 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW65375569 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"></span></p> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="layout__region region-second"> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:feature_image" data-inline-block-uuid="56df8a33-81e3-46dc-94fc-043210e2b6b6" class="block block-feature-image block-layout-builder block-inline-blockfeature-image caption-below"> <div class="feature-image"> <div class="narrow-overlaid-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_medium/public/2026-02/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2a.jpg?itok=zxkyZpjn" srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_small/public/2026-02/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2a.jpg?itok=QV6DKHx2 768w, /sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_medium/public/2026-02/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2a.jpg?itok=zxkyZpjn 1024w, /sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_large/public/2026-02/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2a.jpg?itok=sk8_A85w 1280w" sizes="(min-width: 1024px) 80vw,100vw" alt="Creative graphic reads Mason Now, Power the Possible. Meeting the Challenge. "> </div> <div class="headline-text"> <div class="feature-image-link"> <div class="field field--name-field-feature-image-link field--type-link field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://giving.gmu.edu/mason-now/">Power the Possible</a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div><div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:text" data-inline-block-uuid="3261b288-0765-4829-b9f4-fd1948f9deed" class="block block-layout-builder block-inline-blocktext"> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p><br>&nbsp;</p> <hr> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:news_list" data-inline-block-uuid="41ef57cc-3ee9-40b4-a038-61b0dd0fb1af" class="block block-layout-builder block-inline-blocknews-list"> <h2>Related Stories</h2> <div class="views-element-container"><div class="view view-news view-id-news view-display-id-block_1 js-view-dom-id-57b89fd0c8361aacb27f7b72e93a49ba1a33304ed1328b7ef399160ce4ad6526"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="news-list-wrapper"> <ul class="news-list"> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-09/george-masons-first-grand-challenge-exchange-day-builds-connections-across-disciplines" hreflang="en">George Mason’s first Grand Challenge Exchange Day builds connections across disciplines</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">September 16, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-09/george-mason-showcases-data-center-research-leadership-japanese-delegation" hreflang="en">George Mason showcases data center research leadership to Japanese delegation</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">September 15, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-09/george-mason-alum-rhea-seehorn-wins-emmy-portrayal-carol-appletvs-pluribus" hreflang="en">George Mason alum Rhea Seehorn wins Emmy for portrayal of Carol in AppleTV’s Pluribus</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">September 15, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-09/game-set-content-george-mason-student-athlete-brings-followers-inside-division-i" hreflang="en">Game, Set, Content: This George Mason student-athlete brings followers inside Division I tennis </a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">September 14, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-09/gci-catalyst-project-aims-tackle-human-rights-issues-help-ai" hreflang="en">GCI Catalyst Project aims to tackle human rights issues with help of AI </a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">September 10, 2026</div></div></li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="layout layout--gmu layout--twocol-section layout--twocol-section--30-70"> <div class="layout__region region-first"> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:field_content_topics" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasefield-content-topics"> <h2>Topics</h2> <div class="field field--name-field-content-topics field--type-entity-reference field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Topics</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/116" hreflang="en">Campus News</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/1061" hreflang="en">Costello College of Business</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/19331" hreflang="en">Mason Now: Power the Possible</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/6691" hreflang="en">entrepreneurship</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/1806" hreflang="en">Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/5411" hreflang="en">philanthropy</a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div> </div> </div> Fri, 21 Aug 2026 16:23:47 +0000 Katarina Benson 346087 at Making every drop count at the campus greenhouse /news/2026-07/making-every-drop-count-campus-greenhouse <span>Making every drop count at the campus greenhouse</span> <span><span>lclarkg</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-07-29T13:03:01-04:00" title="Wednesday, July 29, 2026 - 13:03">Wed, 07/29/2026 - 13:03</time> </span> <div class="layout layout--gmu layout--twocol-section layout--twocol-section--70-30"> <div class="layout__region region-first"> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:body" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasebody"> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Body</div> <div class="field__item"><p><span class="intro-text">A new rainwater harvesting system is coming to 91°”Íű’s Presidents Park Greenhouse, thanks to a donation from the </span><a href="https://www.societyforscience.org/"><span class="intro-text">Society for a&nbsp;</span></a><a href="https://www.s4sswf.org/home"><span class="intro-text">Secure and Sustainable Water Future</span></a><span class="intro-text">, a nonprofit organization based in James City County, Virginia, and dedicated to advancing long-term water sustainability through practical solutions, sound policy, and public education.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span class="intro-text">The Presidents Park Greenhouse, located on the Fairfax Campus, is managed by&nbsp;University Sustainability's </span><a href="https://green.gmu.edu/campus-sustainability/campus-gardens/"><span class="intro-text">Greenhouse and Gardens</span></a><span class="intro-text"> program. Alexander Jarvis, a graduate student in George Mason’s </span><a href="https://science.gmu.edu/academics/departments-units/environmental-science-policy"><span class="intro-text">MS in Environmental Science and Policy</span></a><span class="intro-text"> Program, founded the nonprofit and runs it with his parents, Leslie and Tyrone Jarvis.</span></p> <hr> <figure role="group" class="align-right"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/small_content_image/public/2026-07/greenhouse_rainwater_install_3_thumb.jpg?itok=ZFfMqxJC" width="350" height="350" alt="Tyrone Jarvis works on the rainwater harvesting installation at the greenhouse"> </div> </div> <figcaption>The Jarvis family is installing the rainwater harvesting system themselves, in collaboration with Facilities and Campus Operations. Photo by Ariba “Zoa” Sharin/Facilities and Campus Operations</figcaption> </figure> <p><span>“The project is intended to help demonstrate practical sustainability implementation while contributing to broader conversations surrounding resilience, infrastructure demand, and future environmental planning,” said Jarvis.</span></p> <p><span>The rainwater harvesting system will collect, store, and filter rooftop runoff through a solar-powered pumping system. The nonpotable water will be used to water the nonedible plants at the greenhouse and will be transported to other campus gardens during drought. The Jarvis family is completing the installation themselves in coordination with Facilities and Campus Operations staff.</span></p> <p><span>The amount of rainwater recovered by the system will vary, depending on rainfall amounts, but George Mason students or staff could collect data on the system in the future.</span></p> <p><span>In addition to the donation from Jarvis’s nonprofit, the project received approximately $2,000 from the&nbsp;</span><a href="https://green.gmu.edu/patriot-green-fund/"><span>Patriot Green Fund</span></a><span>, an sustainability fund that George Mason’s Facilities and Campus Operations unit administers to support sustainable infrastructure improvements and student research projects on campus.</span></p> <figure role="group" class="align-right"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/2026-07/250722001.jpg?itok=oEIUNNZR" width="560" height="373" alt="Solar array at the Presidents Park Greenhouse"> </div> </div> <figcaption>A solar array was installed at the Presidents Park Greenhouse last year. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding</figcaption> </figure> <p><span>The Presidents Park Greenhouse, which uses hydroponics and aquaponics to grow produce, has other sustainable features.&nbsp;With support from student researchers and the Patriot Green Fund,&nbsp;</span><a href="/news/2025-04/campus-greenhouse-powered-sun-and-student-innovation"><span>a solar array was installed last year</span></a><span> to offset the energy consumption for the equipment and temperature controls in the greenhouse.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>The rainwater harvesting system further advances the greenhouse as a model for sustainable agriculture and infrastructure.</span></p> <p><span>“This project brings together sustainability, education, and community partnership in a meaningful way,” said Christine Powell, project manager in Facilities and Campus Operations. “This installation will serve as a living demonstration of how rainwater can be captured, treated, and reused, providing educational value for students, faculty, staff, and visitors.”</span></p> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="layout__region region-second"> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:feature_image" data-inline-block-uuid="c3a87e24-f56b-4fd5-a838-8e6ec4da6fb8" class="block block-feature-image block-layout-builder block-inline-blockfeature-image caption-below"> <div class="feature-image"> <div class="narrow-overlaid-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_medium/public/2026-03/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2b.jpg?itok=XU4teW47" srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_small/public/2026-03/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2b.jpg?itok=X8xc_OM0 768w, /sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_medium/public/2026-03/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2b.jpg?itok=XU4teW47 1024w, /sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_large/public/2026-03/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2b.jpg?itok=3tq0I_e9 1280w" sizes="(min-width: 1024px) 80vw,100vw" alt="Mason Now: Power the Possible. Meeting the Challenge"> </div> <div class="headline-text"> <div class="feature-image-link"> <div class="field field--name-field-feature-image-link field--type-link field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://giving.gmu.edu/mason-now/">Learn more</a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:news_list" data-inline-block-uuid="5d365ba8-3305-4df8-92ca-b045445c1472" class="block block-layout-builder block-inline-blocknews-list"> <h2>Read more like this</h2> <div class="views-element-container"><div class="view view-news view-id-news view-display-id-block_1 js-view-dom-id-eddd0ad6b2167529bd8362969a9ffa8a8dfbecae7c23f60ee146ba3c149efa8e"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="news-list-wrapper"> <ul class="news-list"> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-08/take-your-patriot-pride-road-george-mason-license-plate" hreflang="en">Take your Patriot Pride on the road with a George Mason license plate</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">August 25, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-08/visitor-shawn-chambliss-purvis-honors-family-legacy-investment-future-engineers" hreflang="en">Visitor Shawn Chambliss Purvis honors family legacy with investment in future engineers </a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">August 24, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-08/athletics-celebrates-record-breaking-year-philanthropic-support" hreflang="en">Athletics celebrates record-breaking year of philanthropic support </a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">August 24, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-08/northern-virginia-entrepreneur-anil-sharma-and-his-wife-anupama-provide" hreflang="en">Northern Virginia entrepreneur Anil Sharma and his wife, Anupama, provide transformational support for Costello College’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship </a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">August 21, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-08/sustainability-commitments-have-serious-consequences" hreflang="en">Sustainability commitments have serious consequences</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">August 17, 2026</div></div></li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:field_content_topics" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasefield-content-topics"> <h2>Topics</h2> <div class="field field--name-field-content-topics field--type-entity-reference field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Topics</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/116" hreflang="en">Campus News</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/19331" hreflang="en">Mason Now: Power the Possible</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/911" hreflang="en">Sustainability</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/6826" hreflang="en">Facilities</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/17766" hreflang="en">Greenhouse and Gardens Program</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/5411" hreflang="en">philanthropy</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/291" hreflang="en">College of Science</a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="layout layout--gmu layout--twocol-section layout--twocol-section--30-70"> <div class="layout__region region-first"> </div> <div> </div> </div> Wed, 29 Jul 2026 17:03:01 +0000 lclarkg 346021 at Faculty philanthropy fuels quantum innovation with $3 million gift /news/2026-07/faculty-philanthropy-fuels-quantum-innovation-3-million-gift <span>Faculty philanthropy fuels quantum innovation with $3 million gift</span> <span><span>ckearney</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-07-10T14:50:35-04:00" title="Friday, July 10, 2026 - 14:50">Fri, 07/10/2026 - 14:50</time> </span> <div class="layout layout--gmu layout--twocol-section layout--twocol-section--70-30"> <div class="layout__region region-first"> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:body" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasebody"> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Body</div> <div class="field__item"><p><span class="intro-text">Quantum science is a revolution in the making, and a recent donation by&nbsp;</span><a href="https://science.gmu.edu/academics/departments-units/physics-and-astronomy-department"><span class="intro-text">Department of Physics and Astronomy</span></a><span class="intro-text"> Professor&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:https://science.gmu.edu/directory/paul-so"><span class="intro-text">Paul So</span></a><span class="intro-text"> has placed 91°”Íű at the forefront of understanding and harnessing its capabilities.</span></p> <figure role="group" class="align-right"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/2026-03/paul_so_hamiltonian_artists_head_shot.jpeg?itok=mIFqWx0A" width="493" height="493"> </div> </div> <figcaption>Paul So. Photo by Hamiltonian Artists</figcaption> </figure> <p><span>Through a generous $3 million gift from So’s SYYK Foundation, George Mason’s College of Science will be able to advance the education of the next generation of quantum scientists. The gift will establish an endowed professorship within the Department of Physics and Astronomy. The university seeks an esteemed faculty member to fill this role, with a preference for a scientist who has expertise in quantum sciences, “someone with new ideas,” said So, “who will create a vibrant space in the department.”</span></p> <p><span>“It’s important to think about quantum as a revolutionary and game-changing leap ahead in our ability to compute, to sense the world around us, and to communicate with each other,” said&nbsp;</span><a href="https://science.gmu.edu/directory/patrick-vora"><span>Patrick Vora</span></a><span>, associate professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy, and director of George Mason’s&nbsp;</span><a href="https://qsec.gmu.edu/"><span>Quantum Science and Engineering Center</span></a><span>.</span></p> <p><span>The goal of the professorship is to build a community of learning around quantum technology, said Vora. “It will catalyze new collaborations between faculty members, but always, at the end of the day, our biggest impact is going to be in training our students.”</span></p> <p><span>Quantum mechanics describes the behavior of subatomic particles and their properties. Understanding and controlling those properties could drive significant advances in engineering and technology, said Vora, who is leading </span><a href="https://science.gmu.edu/news/science-focus-five-seven-grand-challenge-initiative-first-round-projects-selected"><span>George Mason’s Quantum Leap</span></a><span>, one of seven newly funded catalyst projects in the university’s </span><a href="/grandchallenge"><span>Grand Challenge Initiative</span></a><span>.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>“Your phone runs on quantum science, your computer runs on quantum science,” So added. “New materials, new technologies, and new applications will all rely on quantum.” That could include enhanced weather prediction as well as faster drug discovery and development.</span></p> <p><span>So founded SYYK with his brother Peter, a professor of mechanical and biological engineering at MIT, to continue their mother’s philanthropic efforts after her death in 2021. The charitable nonprofit has a broad mission but prioritizes gifts to educational and cultural institutions.</span></p> <p><span>“Even when we were growing up in Hong Kong, my parents supported local schools,” So said. “They appreciated that education was the foundation of a kid’s future, the foundation of society’s future.”&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>So believes that strengthening the quantum science program at George Mason will attract top students to the university and encourage more cross-pollination between disciplines like math, computer science, and engineering.</span></p> <p><span>“One of the biggest challenges of realizing quantum technology is less about the ‘quantum’ and more the people,” Vora said. “Developing the science into an industry will require a significant expansion of the workforce. The only way that you can do that is by expanding representation in the workforce. And there are few things that George Mason does as well as providing opportunity for people who may not have had it before.”</span></p> <p><span>So is optimistic that the investment in quantum will better position students to take advantage of the unique opportunity George Mason offers. “We’re right here in the National Capital region, near so many tech companies,” he said, “and there’s a lot of support from the government to develop quantum.”</span></p> <p><span>Indeed, the federal government recently announced that it would inject $2 billion into quantum development, funding nine domestic computer companies to build quantum infrastructure. The White House, meanwhile, also issued executive orders to accelerate the migration of federal computing systems to systems that can protect them from quantum cyberattacks. Quantum-related job postings have tripled in the last 15 years with an average salary of $131,000.</span></p> <p><span>The structure of the new professorship is a novel one at George Mason. The professor’s salary will be covered by the College of Science, while proceeds from the endowment will serve as discretionary funding to support graduate students. The donation also includes a percentage of the gift applied as “current use” funds, available now to provide support while the endowment yield grows.</span></p> <blockquote><p><span>“Paul So’s extraordinary generosity gives George Mason the ability to move with both urgency and ambition in quantum science,” said Cody W. Edwards, dean of the College of Science. “This endowed professorship will help us recruit a field-shaping scholar, support graduate students, and accelerate the collaborations needed to prepare the next generation of quantum scientists and innovators. It is a gift with immediate impact, long-term vision, and profound significance for the College of Science, George Mason, and the commonwealth.”</span></p> </blockquote> <p><span>Given the surge in quantum investment and jobs around the country, So hopes the gift will encourage additional giving to support quantum at George Mason. “Compared to what is needed, this is just the start,” he said.</span></p> <p><span>“We’re talking about a generation-scale technological shift,” said Vora. “Bringing on this new faculty member, around which our current and future faculty members can collaborate and coalesce, will really change what it looks like to be a quantum scientist in the future.”</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="layout__region region-second"> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:feature_image" data-inline-block-uuid="a3e1ca37-2b90-45aa-8152-78171ee3acec" class="block block-feature-image block-layout-builder block-inline-blockfeature-image caption-below"> <div class="feature-image"> <div class="narrow-overlaid-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_medium/public/2026-03/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2b.jpg?itok=XU4teW47" srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_small/public/2026-03/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2b.jpg?itok=X8xc_OM0 768w, /sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_medium/public/2026-03/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2b.jpg?itok=XU4teW47 1024w, /sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_large/public/2026-03/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2b.jpg?itok=3tq0I_e9 1280w" sizes="(min-width: 1024px) 80vw,100vw" alt="Mason Now: Power the Possible. Meeting the Challenge"> </div> <div class="headline-text"> <div class="feature-image-link"> <div class="field field--name-field-feature-image-link field--type-link field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://giving.gmu.edu/mason-now/">Learn More</a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:news_list" data-inline-block-uuid="f660cb3f-5131-476d-bc10-a03d37fe4451" class="block block-layout-builder block-inline-blocknews-list"> <h2>Related News</h2> <div class="views-element-container"><div class="view view-news view-id-news view-display-id-block_1 js-view-dom-id-51734da7a979e355783b906a14f020f2d8ec29cee736184fa259dc2f9c62a246"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="news-list-wrapper"> <ul class="news-list"> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-09/george-mason-partners-oxford-based-treq-bring-first-open-architecture-quantum" hreflang="en">George Mason partners with Oxford-based TreQ to bring the first open-architecture quantum computing system to Virginia</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">September 2, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-08/take-your-patriot-pride-road-george-mason-license-plate" hreflang="en">Take your Patriot Pride on the road with a George Mason license plate</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">August 25, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-08/visitor-shawn-chambliss-purvis-honors-family-legacy-investment-future-engineers" hreflang="en">Visitor Shawn Chambliss Purvis honors family legacy with investment in future engineers </a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">August 24, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-08/athletics-celebrates-record-breaking-year-philanthropic-support" hreflang="en">Athletics celebrates record-breaking year of philanthropic support </a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">August 24, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-08/northern-virginia-entrepreneur-anil-sharma-and-his-wife-anupama-provide" hreflang="en">Northern Virginia entrepreneur Anil Sharma and his wife, Anupama, provide transformational support for Costello College’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship </a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">August 21, 2026</div></div></li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:field_content_topics" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasefield-content-topics"> <h2>Topics</h2> <div class="field field--name-field-content-topics field--type-entity-reference field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Topics</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/116" hreflang="en">Campus News</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/271" hreflang="en">Research</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/18691" hreflang="en">quantum</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/291" hreflang="en">College of Science</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/5411" hreflang="en">philanthropy</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/19331" hreflang="en">Mason Now: Power the Possible</a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> Fri, 10 Jul 2026 18:50:35 +0000 ckearney 345983 at George Mason’s Dwayne Hamilton Jr. makes room at the table for students facing basic needs insecurity /news/2026-07/george-masons-dwayne-hamilton-jr-makes-room-table-students-facing-basic-needs <span>George Mason’s Dwayne Hamilton Jr. makes room at the table for students facing basic needs insecurity</span> <span><span>lclarkg</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-07-08T10:01:29-04:00" title="Wednesday, July 8, 2026 - 10:01">Wed, 07/08/2026 - 10:01</time> </span> <div class="layout layout--gmu layout--twocol-section layout--twocol-section--70-30"> <div class="layout__region region-first"> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:body" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasebody"> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Body</div> <div class="field__item"><p><span class="intro-text">Students at colleges and universities experience basic needs insecurity at higher rates than the general population, sometimes facing difficult choices between paying for their academic expenses—or paying for their basic needs.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span class="intro-text">91°”Íű’s&nbsp;</span><a href="https://ssac.gmu.edu/"><span class="intro-text">Student Support and Advocacy Center</span></a><span class="intro-text"> offers programming and individual consultations to support student well-being across a spectrum of services, including basic needs, as well as sexual and interpersonal violence, financial well-being, substance use, and more.</span></p> <p><span class="intro-text">To serve the increasing number of students experiencing basic needs insecurity, the center hired Dwayne Hamilton Jr. in 2023 as the university’s first assistant director for Basic Needs Services.</span></p> <hr> <figure role="group"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/extra_large_content_image/public/2026-07/260611004.jpg?itok=ry-mqntT" width="1480" height="987" alt="Dwayne Hamilton in the Patriot Pantry"> </div> </div> <figcaption>Dwayne Hamilton manages programs and resources that help students facing basic needs insecurities, including the&nbsp;<a href="https://ssac.gmu.edu/patriot-pantry/">Patriot Pantry</a>. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding</figcaption> </figure> <blockquote><p><span>“An institution having full-time staff members dedicated to addressing basic needs insecurity is rare in the current higher education landscape,” said Hamilton. “The creation of this position demonstrates George Mason’s dedication to supporting this population of students.”</span></p> </blockquote> <p><a href="https://hope.temple.edu/research/hope-center-basic-needs-survey"><span>The Hope Center Student Basic Needs Survey</span></a><span>, which surveyed students at 91 colleges and universities across 16 states between spring 2023 and summer 2024, found that 59% of students experienced some form of basic needs insecurity, with 41% experiencing food insecurity, 48% experiencing housing insecurity, and 14% experiencing homelessness.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>At George Mason, Hamilton manages programs that address these insecurities, including the&nbsp;</span><a href="https://ssac.gmu.edu/patriot-pantry/"><span>Patriot Pantry</span></a><span>. He serves as a case manager for students experiencing food, housing, and other basic needs insecurities, providing direct support services through one-on-one consultations and resource allocation.</span></p> <blockquote><p><span>“My role’s dual emphasis on case and project management fosters a continuity of care, minimizing gaps in support as students transition from case management meetings to enrollment in basic needs programs,” said Hamilton.&nbsp;</span></p> </blockquote> <p><span>For example, when a student discloses basic needs insecurity during a meeting, Hamilton can immediately enroll them in eligible programs, creating a seamless, direct connection between services.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>“This model not only prioritizes efficient student services but also prevents students from having to disclose their experiences to multiple parties,” said Hamilton.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>Students may experience food insecurity when facing challenges like tight budgets, balancing school and work, lack of transportation or access to affordable food within the reach of campus, limited food storage space in dorms, and the requirements to qualify for food assistance.</span></p> <p><span>Students attending an institution of higher education more than half-time are eligible for the Virginia </span><a href="https://ssac.gmu.edu/patriot-pantry/snap/"><span>Supplemental Nutrition Assistance program (SNAP)</span></a><span> only if they meet an exemption and meet all other SNAP eligibility requirements.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>Currently, about one in four George Mason students is in the first generation of their family to attend college, and 34% of George Mason students qualify for federal Pell Grants, which are awarded to undergraduates with exceptional financial need.</span></p> <p><span>The need for on-campus basic needs services has increased in recent years. At George Mason, the Patriot Pantry experienced a 16% increase in student usage during the 2025–26 academic year. A survey of Patriot Pantry users during that time revealed that in the past 12 months,&nbsp;90% of respondents reported worrying that their food would run out before they had money to buy more. Eighty-six percent of respondents indicated they could not always afford to eat balanced meals, and 83% reported eating less than they felt they&nbsp;should&nbsp;due to lack of money for food.</span></p> <p><span>Eight out of 10 of these students said that hunger or lack of food negatively&nbsp;impacted&nbsp;their academic performance, including attendance, focus, and assignment completion.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>“Beyond the already high cost of living in Fairfax County, rising food and housing costs further intensify students’ basic needs insecurity, increasing reliance on support services,” said Hamilton.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>The university is addressing this growing need by expanding the Patriot Pantry on the Fairfax Campus, which is scheduled to open at a new location in the Johnson Center in fall 2027; adding an additional Patriot Pantry at Mason Square; and using funding sources awarded by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV), like the&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.schev.edu/Home/Components/News/News/746/263"><span>Hunger-Free Campus Food Pantry Grant Program.</span></a></p> <p><span>Hamilton loves seeing projects evolve from ideas to actions that support students. He is particularly proud of the Digital Purchasing Card program, which provides students with monthly monetary support that can be spent at grocery retailers nationwide. The Food and Housing Insecurity Fund, a donor-generated fund, supports this work. University Life recognized Hamilton with an Outstanding Service Award for his work on this program and broader contributions to the basic needs area.</span></p> <p><span>Before working at George Mason, Hamilton completed his MEd in student affairs administration in higher education at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro while serving as a case manager for students experiencing bias/discrimination, financial instability, basic needs insecurity, Title IX incidents, and health concerns. He is now pursuing a PhD in education in George Mason’s College of Education and Human Development.</span></p> <p><span>The work supporting basic needs services can be intense at times, according to Hamilton. Outside work, he stays busy with his church’s educational organizations and music ministry.</span></p> <p><span>“With the heaviness of this role, my church serves as a space to decompress, center my well-being, and reconnect to my calling to continue this work.”</span></p> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="layout__region region-second"> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:feature_image" data-inline-block-uuid="ec22252b-88ce-4ca5-bd60-96aad91ad9f7" class="block block-feature-image block-layout-builder block-inline-blockfeature-image caption-below"> <div class="feature-image"> <div class="narrow-overlaid-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_medium/public/2026-02/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2a.jpg?itok=zxkyZpjn" srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_small/public/2026-02/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2a.jpg?itok=QV6DKHx2 768w, /sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_medium/public/2026-02/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2a.jpg?itok=zxkyZpjn 1024w, /sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_large/public/2026-02/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2a.jpg?itok=sk8_A85w 1280w" sizes="(min-width: 1024px) 80vw,100vw" alt="Creative graphic reads Mason Now, Power the Possible. Meeting the Challenge. "> </div> <div class="headline-text"> <div class="feature-image-link"> <div class="field field--name-field-feature-image-link field--type-link field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://giving.gmu.edu/mason-now/">Learn more</a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:call_to_action" data-inline-block-uuid="36c732f4-dc40-4681-8cb8-ddf706d1fec8"> <div class="cta"> <a class="cta__link" href="https://ssac.gmu.edu/"> <p class="cta__title">More about the Student Support and Advocacy Center <i class="fas fa-arrow-circle-right"></i> </p> <span class="cta__icon"></span> </a> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:text" data-inline-block-uuid="f04ba21a-a4a2-45fe-a960-5251d8272003" class="block block-layout-builder block-inline-blocktext"> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p><br>&nbsp;</p> <hr> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:news_list" data-inline-block-uuid="d6c2eb3b-5fa8-4f08-818d-5be5b5c3fe45" class="block block-layout-builder block-inline-blocknews-list"> <h2>Read more like this</h2> <div class="views-element-container"><div class="view view-news view-id-news view-display-id-block_1 js-view-dom-id-356e31edb7d454207ad3ecbc52ec41dc0ec696f8cebf5b8b76e28b0871340021"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="news-list-wrapper"> <ul class="news-list"> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-09/meet-mason-nation-chef-george-charbel-has-recipe-success" hreflang="en">Meet the Mason Nation: Chef George Charbel has the recipe for success</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">September 15, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-09/george-mason-professor-and-alum-tapped-help-shape-virginias-economic-future" hreflang="en">George Mason professor and alum tapped to help shape Virginia’s economic future</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">September 4, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-09/feedback-sparks-action-faculty-and-staff-experience-survey-results-be-shared-sept-22" hreflang="en">Feedback sparks action: Faculty and Staff Experience Survey results to be shared at Sept. 22 town hall</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">September 3, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-09/nelson-granados-september-employee-month" hreflang="en">Nelson Granados is September Employee of the Month </a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">September 1, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-08/rare-green-heron-george-mason-conference-center-highlights-biodiversity-along-occoquan" hreflang="en">Rare green heron at George Mason conference center highlights biodiversity along the Occoquan River </a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">August 27, 2026</div></div></li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:field_content_topics" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasefield-content-topics"> <h2>Topics</h2> <div class="field field--name-field-content-topics field--type-entity-reference field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Topics</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/206" hreflang="en">Faculty and Staff News</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/16781" hreflang="en">Meet the Mason Nation</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/4336" hreflang="en">Student Support and Advocacy Center (SSAC)</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/3461" hreflang="en">Patriot Pantry</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/366" hreflang="en">University Life</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/10301" hreflang="en">food insecurity</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/19331" hreflang="en">Mason Now: Power the Possible</a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="layout layout--gmu layout--twocol-section layout--twocol-section--30-70"> <div class="layout__region region-first"> </div> <div> </div> </div> Wed, 08 Jul 2026 14:01:29 +0000 lclarkg 345966 at Honoring achievement, generosity, and impact at the 2026 Scholarship Celebration /news/2026-06/honoring-achievement-generosity-and-impact-2026-scholarship-celebration <span>Honoring achievement, generosity, and impact at the 2026 Scholarship Celebration </span> <span><span>Katarina Benson</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-06-12T17:00:51-04:00" title="Friday, June 12, 2026 - 17:00">Fri, 06/12/2026 - 17:00</time> </span> <div class="layout layout--gmu layout--twocol-section layout--twocol-section--70-30"> <div class="layout__region region-first"> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:body" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasebody"> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Body</div> <div class="field__item"><p class="Paragraph SCXW158481435 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW158481435 BCX0 NormalTextRun intro-text" lang="EN-US">For many university students, scholarships are more than financial support. They represent a bridge to opportunity, enabling students to pursue their dreams and aspirations. At 91°”Íű, scholarship donors help pave the way for education that will shape students’ futures and prepare them to serve their communities.</span><span class="EOP SCXW158481435 BCX0 intro-text">&nbsp;</span></p> <figure role="group" class="align-right"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/2026-06/jwb_042326_gmu-scholars-866-final.jpg?itok=zgb8xDYx" width="560" height="374"> </div> </div> <figcaption>President Washington with scholarship recipients. Photo by John Boal Photography.</figcaption> </figure> <p class="Paragraph SCXW158481435 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW158481435 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">“As president, I have the privilege of seeing that long arc of what you all are a part of. A single act of generosity becomes a chain of impact for generations,” said Gregory Washington. “When you sow into George Mason soil, the outgrowth is tremendous.”</span><span class="EOP SCXW158481435 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW158481435 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW158481435 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">The 2026 Scholarship Celebration, hosted on April 23 by the Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations, brought together scholarship donors and extraordinary students who are the recipients of those scholarships, giving all attendees the chance to connect and hear firsthand how scholarships have made a difference in students’ lives. These students showcased how scholarship support can open doors, remove barriers, and create pathways to experiences that empower both personal growth and future impact.</span><span class="EOP SCXW158481435 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW158481435 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW158481435 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">“Being a scholarship recipient has shaped my college experience and who I am,” said Avery Shippen, BA Art and Visual Technology, BS Conflict Analysis and Resolution ’26, a University Scholar who has also received the Oxford Consortium Scholarship, the </span><span class="TextRun SCXW158481435 BCX0 NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed" lang="EN-US">Peraton</span><span class="TextRun SCXW158481435 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> Scholarship, and the Noah J. Seidenberg Endowed Scholarship.&nbsp;</span><span class="EOP SCXW158481435 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <figure role="group" class="align-left"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/2026-06/jwb_042326_gmu-scholars-380-final.jpg?itok=_GggYw6H" width="560" height="374"> </div> </div> <figcaption>Avery Shippen graduated with dual degrees in Art and Visual Technology and Conflict Analysis and Resolution. Photo by John Boal Photography.</figcaption> </figure> <p class="Paragraph SCXW158481435 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW158481435 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">In May, Shippen completed two degrees with a concentration in building peace in divided societies. Her story illustrated how scholarships can connect academic ambition with life-changing opportunities beyond the classroom. Citing her study-abroad experience at Oxford University, Shippen said that her scholarships allowed her to pursue her undergraduate degrees and provided her with opportunities that otherwise would not have been available.</span><span class="EOP SCXW158481435 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW158481435 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW158481435 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">That same sense of opportunity through support was echoed in the arts. Honors College student Lena Rice, who is pursuing </span><span class="TextRun SCXW158481435 BCX0 NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed" lang="EN-US">dual</span><span class="TextRun SCXW158481435 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> </span><span class="TextRun SCXW158481435 BCX0 NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed" lang="EN-US">bachelor of music</span><span class="TextRun SCXW158481435 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> degrees in classical piano performance and jazz studies in steel pan, is a recipient of the Dr. Linda Apple Monson Scholarship. She performed piano and steel pan selections as part of the Scholarship Celebration.</span><span class="EOP SCXW158481435 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW158481435 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW158481435 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">“As a Monson Scholarship recipient, I have been given something incredibly meaningful
the ability to fully invest in my music, which has really helped me grow as an artist,” Rice said.</span><span class="EOP SCXW158481435 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <figure role="group" class="align-right"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/2026-06/jwb_042326_gmu-scholars-553-final_1.jpg?itok=yGZJg32Q" width="560" height="476"> </div> </div> <figcaption>Katey Funderburgh, MFA Creative Writing ’26. Photo by John Boal Photography.</figcaption> </figure> <p class="Paragraph SCXW158481435 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW158481435 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">For graduate students, scholarship support can also provide the freedom to deepen their craft and expand their impact. Katey Funderburgh, MFA Creative Writing ’26, pursued poetry while teaching creative writing, serving as lead teacher in the Poetry Alive! program, and co-coordinating the Incarcerated Writer’s Project.&nbsp;</span><span class="EOP SCXW158481435 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW158481435 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW158481435 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">She said that receiving the Mary Roberts Rinehart Award allowed her “to breathe and focus on [her] passions.” Funderburgh read her own award-winning poem and spoke of how scholarship support enhanced her education.</span><span class="EOP SCXW158481435 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW158481435 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW158481435 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">“As a recipient, I was able to attend a literary conference to learn about art, community through art, and how to make my own art better,” she said.</span><span class="EOP SCXW158481435 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW158481435 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW158481435 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">91°”Íű Foundation trustee Jason Howell, BS ’97, hosted the event. “Scholarships,” Howell said, “create the conditions for students to discover who they are, pursue what they love, and ultimately make an impact far beyond even their own expectations.”</span><span class="EOP SCXW158481435 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="layout__region region-second"> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:feature_image" data-inline-block-uuid="d7442aff-bf99-46d1-8f8b-6497249262ce" class="block block-feature-image block-layout-builder block-inline-blockfeature-image caption-below"> <div class="feature-image"> <div class="narrow-overlaid-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_medium/public/2026-02/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2a.jpg?itok=zxkyZpjn" srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_small/public/2026-02/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2a.jpg?itok=QV6DKHx2 768w, /sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_medium/public/2026-02/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2a.jpg?itok=zxkyZpjn 1024w, /sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_large/public/2026-02/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2a.jpg?itok=sk8_A85w 1280w" sizes="(min-width: 1024px) 80vw,100vw" alt="Creative graphic reads Mason Now, Power the Possible. Meeting the Challenge. "> </div> <div class="headline-text"> <div class="feature-image-link"> <div class="field field--name-field-feature-image-link field--type-link field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://giving.gmu.edu/mason-now/">Learn more</a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div><div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:text" data-inline-block-uuid="9b461e90-6b84-4224-88b8-98d45adee10d" class="block block-layout-builder block-inline-blocktext"> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p><br>&nbsp;</p> <hr> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:news_list" data-inline-block-uuid="d683e12c-16ba-418f-bce0-e72c9634b415" class="block block-layout-builder block-inline-blocknews-list"> <h2>Related Stories</h2> <div class="views-element-container"><div class="view view-news view-id-news view-display-id-block_1 js-view-dom-id-eb09faf26825ff70a72e625e76a08c6709e45ea8c377a972f33c2911d68c3e31"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="news-list-wrapper"> <ul class="news-list"> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-08/take-your-patriot-pride-road-george-mason-license-plate" hreflang="en">Take your Patriot Pride on the road with a George Mason license plate</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">August 25, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-08/visitor-shawn-chambliss-purvis-honors-family-legacy-investment-future-engineers" hreflang="en">Visitor Shawn Chambliss Purvis honors family legacy with investment in future engineers </a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">August 24, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-08/athletics-celebrates-record-breaking-year-philanthropic-support" hreflang="en">Athletics celebrates record-breaking year of philanthropic support </a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">August 24, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-08/northern-virginia-entrepreneur-anil-sharma-and-his-wife-anupama-provide" hreflang="en">Northern Virginia entrepreneur Anil Sharma and his wife, Anupama, provide transformational support for Costello College’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship </a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">August 21, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-08/food-medicine-six-insights-george-mason-nutrition-expert" hreflang="en">Food as medicine: Six insights from a George Mason nutrition expert</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">August 17, 2026</div></div></li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="layout layout--gmu layout--twocol-section layout--twocol-section--30-70"> <div class="layout__region region-first"> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:field_content_topics" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasefield-content-topics"> <h2>Topics</h2> <div class="field field--name-field-content-topics field--type-entity-reference field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Topics</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/336" hreflang="en">Students</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/821" hreflang="en">Honors College</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/1701" hreflang="en">University Scholars</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/4056" hreflang="en">Scholarships</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/19331" hreflang="en">Mason Now: Power the Possible</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/5411" hreflang="en">philanthropy</a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div> </div> </div> Fri, 12 Jun 2026 21:00:51 +0000 Katarina Benson 345913 at Wrap up for April 30 BOV meeting /news/2026-05/wrap-april-30-bov-meeting <span>Wrap up for April 30 BOV meeting </span> <span><span>Katarina Benson</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-05-11T14:52:50-04:00" title="Monday, May 11, 2026 - 14:52">Mon, 05/11/2026 - 14:52</time> </span> <div class="layout layout--gmu layout--twocol-section layout--twocol-section--70-30"> <div class="layout__region region-first"> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:body" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasebody"> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Body</div> <div class="field__item"><p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun intro-text" lang="EN-US">At its final meeting of the academic year, the 91°”Íű Board of </span><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed intro-text" lang="EN-US">Visitors&nbsp; saluted</span><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun intro-text" lang="EN-US"> graduates from the Early Identification Program, received an update on the men’s basketball program from Coach Tony Skinn, and passed a six-year capital plan, among other actions, </span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW191847078 BCX0" href="/news/2026-05/george-mason-board-visitors-approves-modest-tuition-and-fees-increase-2026-27" target="_blank"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun intro-text" lang="EN-US">including approval of a tuition and fees increase for 2026-27</span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun intro-text" lang="EN-US">.</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0 intro-text">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Andre Marshall, vice president for </span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW191847078 BCX0" href="https://provost.gmu.edu/about/administrative-units/research-innovation-and-economic-impact" target="_blank"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">research, innovation, and economic impact</span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">, reported that 41 proposals (16 large, 25 small) had been submitted for the </span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW191847078 BCX0" href="/research/grandchallenge" target="_blank"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Grand Challenge Initiative</span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">. The initial funding recipients were announced in </span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW191847078 BCX0" href="/news" target="_blank"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">The George</span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> on May 6.</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Faculty from all colleges and schools, including Mason Korea, submitted applications. Marshall noted that 38 of the proposals included more than one George Mason college or </span><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed" lang="EN-US">school</span><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> and six proposals involved five or more colleges and schools.&nbsp;</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">“This initiative strengthens George Mason's competitiveness for large interdisciplinary awards,” Marshall said. “It also reshapes how we organize our institutional research. Finally, most importantly, it positions us to lead solutions to some of our most urgent societal needs, living up to our responsibility as a top-tier research university.”</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">=</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Marvin Lewis, assistant vice president and director of </span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW191847078 BCX0" href="https://gomason.com/" target="_blank"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Intercollegiate Athletics</span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">, shared successes from his department and brought along a special guest—</span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW191847078 BCX0" href="https://gomason.com/sports/mens-basketball" target="_blank"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">men’s basketball</span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> coach Tony Skinn. Women’s basketball coach Vanessa Blair-Lewis will be a guest at a future Athletic Committee meeting.</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Lewis reported significant increases in corporate sponsorships, fundraising (including $2 million on Giving Day, doubling last year’s total), ticket sales, and men’s basketball attendance.</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">To improve student turnout at athletic events, the university is creating the position of assistant director of student involvement for student fan engagement. According to the </span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW191847078 BCX0" href="https://listings.jobs.gmu.edu/jobs/assistant-director-of-student-involvement-for-student-fan-engagement-fairfax-va-virginia-united-states-other" target="_blank"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">job posting</span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">, the role “focuses on fostering connections between students, student organizations, and athletic programs to build a vibrant, spirited campus culture.”</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">“Most schools don't have that,” Lewis said. “But it shows the shared commitment in engaging our students, creating a community for our students, and our investment at the university level to make that happen.”</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Under Skinn, the Patriots have posted three consecutive 20-win seasons for the first time in program history and amid a challenging recruiting environment. The team was co-regular season champion of the Atlantic 10 Conference in 2024-25 and has reached the </span><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed" lang="EN-US">NIT</span><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> the past two postseasons. George Mason will enter the 2026-27 season seeking its first NCAA men’s basketball berth since 2011.&nbsp;</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Skinn said the </span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW191847078 BCX0" href="https://gomason.com/news/2024/12/10/mens-basketball-bas.aspx" target="_blank"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Basketball and Academic Performance Center</span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> for the men’s and women’s teams set to open in 2027 will be “transformational” for the program because it combines the team’s athletic and academic resources. The BAPC is a 27,870 square-foot addition and 14,341 square-foot renovation to the existing Recreation and Athletic Complex and will include a modern academic advising center for all George Mason </span><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed" lang="EN-US">student-athletes</span><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">.&nbsp;</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">“Through men's basketball, I believe a return on investment reaches far beyond the game itself, driving enrollment, strengthening alumni engagement, fueling fundraising, elevating national relevance and deepening George Mason pride,” Skinn told the board. “That is what a successful basketball program can do for this university.”&nbsp;</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">==</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Trishana E. Bowden, vice president for </span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW191847078 BCX0" href="https://giving.gmu.edu/" target="_blank"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">advancement and alumni relations</span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> and president of the 91°”Íű Foundation, reported that the university has raised more than $639 million toward its $1 billion </span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW191847078 BCX0" href="https://giving.gmu.edu/mason-now/" target="_blank"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Mason Now: Power the Possible</span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> goal. That includes $2.95 million raised from </span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW191847078 BCX0" href="/news/2026-03/george-mason-giving-day-2026-asking-mason-nation-lace-community-impact" target="_blank"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Giving Day</span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> on April 2, topping the $1.5 million collected last year for Giving Day.&nbsp;</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Athletics, the </span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW191847078 BCX0" href="https://cvpa.gmu.edu/" target="_blank"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">College of Visual and Performing Arts</span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">, and the </span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW191847078 BCX0" href="https://business.gmu.edu/" target="_blank"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Costello College of Business</span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> each had a record number of donors this year.</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Bowden said that 237 faculty and staff made donations on Giving Day, and the day included 500 first-time donors.</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">==</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">The board congratulated 19 members of the </span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW191847078 BCX0" href="https://eip.gmu.edu/current-students" target="_blank"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Early Identification Program</span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> (EIP) who are graduating this month. Among them was </span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW191847078 BCX0" href="/news/2022-11/opening-doors" target="_blank"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Monica Amaya</span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">, </span><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed" lang="EN-US">an</span><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> </span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW191847078 BCX0" href="https://honorscollege.gmu.edu/" target="_blank"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Honors College</span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> student and University Scholar who is earning a bachelor’s degree in business with a concentration in </span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW191847078 BCX0" href="https://business.gmu.edu/programs/undergraduate-programs/bachelor-science-business/management-information-systems" target="_blank"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">management information systems</span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">.&nbsp;</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">EIP provides academic preparation, leadership training, and college process guidance for first-generation students starting in </span><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed" lang="EN-US">the eighth</span><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> grade. EIP is marking its 40th anniversary this year. More than 200 EIP alumni are currently enrolled at the university.</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">“When I arrived here at George Mason, I didn't feel like I was starting from scratch,” said Amaya, who is from Manassas Park, Virginia. “It felt like I was continuing </span><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed" lang="EN-US">a journey</span><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">. One I had already </span><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed" lang="EN-US">been prepared</span><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> for. I felt supported, and most importantly, I felt like I belonged.&nbsp;</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">“I carry with me everything that EIP and George Mason have given me: Resilience, a drive to learn, and a strong sense of community. My success didn't happen by chance. It started with </span><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed" lang="EN-US">access,</span><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> it started with support. It started with EIP.”&nbsp;</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Amaya, an EIP peer mentor, has a job lined up at CACI as a software developer.</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">==</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Leaders from three of the university’s schools and colleges made pitches to the board for new or upgraded facilities.</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Alpaslan Özerdem, dean of the </span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW191847078 BCX0" href="https://carterschool.gmu.edu/" target="_blank"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution</span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">, presented a plan to turn </span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW191847078 BCX0" href="https://pov.gmu.edu/" target="_blank"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Point of View</span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> into a retreat and conflict center that could accommodate overnight visitors. </span><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed" lang="EN-US">Özerdem</span><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> envisions a “civilian Camp David.”&nbsp;</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Point of View, located in Lorton, Virginia, about 18 miles from the Fairfax Campus, is a retreat and research center guided by Carter School faculty. The facility, on 120 wooded acres on Belmont Bay, provides space and support for groups to resolve conflict, heal, and reconcile, and is also a community event space.</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed" lang="EN-US">Özerdem</span><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> said that the most effective conflict resolution programs enable participants to spend extended time together in common living and gathering spaces.</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">“When people share the dinner table, if they sleep under the same roof, they start to think about peace in a different way,” </span><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed" lang="EN-US">Özerdem</span><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> said. “Live, think, negotiate together is what we want to achieve.”</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed" lang="EN-US">Ozerdem</span><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> said the university has secured $4 million from the state and needs another $10 million to upgrade the facility. He said a public–private partnership is one option.</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Rick Davis, dean of the College of Visual and Performing Arts, made a presentation to the board about CVPA fundraising activities and a proposed $104 million project for a new Center for the Arts. The current center opened in 1990.</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">“When the arts programs of 1990 are all counted up, we had 250 students and we now have 1,800 students majoring in all of our arts disciplines,” Davis said. "The building that we designed in the 1980s was designed for a whole different universe.”</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Davis mentioned other potential projects, including a planning study for a new facility for the film and video studies program and game design program to share. Those programs currently are based in the Art and Design Building. Davis also discussed an “arts district vision” that would include a sculpture garden and campus museum.</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Patrick Soleymani, associate dean of the Costello College of Business, presented a plan for a new business school building, an initiative that began in 2018. The proposed $165 million project is part of the university’s six-year capital plan (see below).</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Soleymani said that Northern Virginia has more than 130,000 open jobs, including 80% in </span><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed" lang="EN-US">tech</span><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">-related field, many of which are affiliated with business school graduates.&nbsp;</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">“Our reputation has outgrown our infrastructure,” Soleymani said. “A new home for Costello directly enhances student success and strengthens the university's position as being in charge of the economic engine of this community and region.”</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">==</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun EmptyTextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0" lang="EN-US"></span><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">The six-year capital plan includes several proposed projects. It </span><span class="TrackedChange SCXW191847078 BCX0 TextRun NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">establishes the university’s capital requests to be submitted to the commonwealth for consideration. The plan is updated on an annual basis and approved by the Board of Visitors.</span><span class="TextRun EmptyTextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0" lang="EN-US"></span><span class="EOP TrackedChange SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> <ul> <li> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TrackedChange SCXW191847078 BCX0 TextRun NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering Building (ISEB): Proposed as 150,000-square-foot building that will modernize and replicate the spaces within David King Hall and Planetary Hall to allow George Mason to repurpose or demolish the two antiquated facilities in accordance with the Master Plan. </span><span class="TextRun EmptyTextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0" lang="EN-US"></span><span class="EOP TrackedChange SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> </li> <li> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TrackedChange SCXW191847078 BCX0 TextRun NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Costello College of Business Building: The approximately 150,000-square-foot building is anticipated to </span><span class="TrackedChange SCXW191847078 BCX0 TextRun NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed" lang="EN-US">collocate</span><span class="TrackedChange SCXW191847078 BCX0 TextRun NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US"> the Costello College of Business operations. A new building would allow for technology-rich, experiential business education while significantly improving visibility and competitiveness.</span><span class="TextRun EmptyTextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0" lang="EN-US"></span><span class="EOP TrackedChange SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> </li> <li> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TrackedChange SCXW191847078 BCX0 TextRun NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Baseball Stadium: Would address long-standing facility shortcomings and support the student-athlete experience and recruitment. The current facility has metal bleachers and no restrooms, lights, or concessions.</span><span class="TextRun EmptyTextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0" lang="EN-US"></span><span class="EOP TrackedChange SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> </li> <li> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TrackedChange SCXW191847078 BCX0 TextRun NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">High-Performance Training Center: Envisioned in partnership with a potential private partner to leverage shared investment and expertise.</span><span class="TextRun EmptyTextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0" lang="EN-US"></span><span class="EOP TrackedChange SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> </li> <li> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TrackedChange SCXW191847078 BCX0 TextRun NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">Field House: The current facility has exceeded its useful life and no longer meets current programmatic or building system standards.</span><span class="TextRun EmptyTextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0" lang="EN-US"></span><span class="EOP TrackedChange SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> </li> </ul> <p class="Paragraph SCXW191847078 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">The April 30 meeting documents can be accessed </span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW191847078 BCX0" href="https://bov.gmu.edu/wp-content/uploads/Meeting-Book-Meeting-Book-Full-Board-Meeting-April-30-2026-updt-5.1.26.pdf" target="_blank"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">here</span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">. A video recording and transcript of the meeting is </span><a class="Hyperlink SCXW191847078 BCX0" href="https://bov.gmu.edu/live/" target="_blank"><span class="TextRun Underlined SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">here</span></a><span class="TextRun SCXW191847078 BCX0 NormalTextRun" lang="EN-US">.</span><span class="EOP SCXW191847078 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></p> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="layout__region region-second"> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:call_to_action" data-inline-block-uuid="0f9e2942-1d0c-4e65-8fb4-673cae41f976"> <div class="cta"> <a class="cta__link" href="https://bov.gmu.edu/"> <p class="cta__title">More about the Board of Visitors <i class="fas fa-arrow-circle-right"></i> </p> <span class="cta__icon"></span> </a> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:news_list" data-inline-block-uuid="d4caf528-3ed7-4665-8259-2f90bd5ba769" class="block block-layout-builder block-inline-blocknews-list"> <h2>Related News</h2> <div class="views-element-container"><div class="view view-news view-id-news view-display-id-block_1 js-view-dom-id-ad080e31a9773e43ac1d3a55305015465dbc1714eeefa70a8c0e9ed63c10868a"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="news-list-wrapper"> <ul class="news-list"> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-08/visitor-shawn-chambliss-purvis-honors-family-legacy-investment-future-engineers" hreflang="en">Visitor Shawn Chambliss Purvis honors family legacy with investment in future engineers </a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">August 24, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-08/board-visitors-elects-new-executive-committee-reviews-presidents-goals-welcomes-new" hreflang="en">Board of Visitors elects new executive committee, reviews president's goals, welcomes new provost, and announces transformative gift</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">August 3, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-06/george-mason-board-visitors-extends-president-washingtons-contract-through-2031" hreflang="en">George Mason Board of Visitors extends President Washington's contract through 2031</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">June 22, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-06/governor-appoints-new-bov-member-reappoints-three-visitors" hreflang="en">Governor appoints new BOV member, reappoints three visitors</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">June 10, 2026</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2026-05/wrap-april-30-bov-meeting" hreflang="en">Wrap up for April 30 BOV meeting </a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">May 11, 2026</div></div></li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:field_content_topics" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasefield-content-topics"> <h2>Topics</h2> <div class="field field--name-field-content-topics field--type-entity-reference field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Topics</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/116" hreflang="en">Campus News</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/841" hreflang="en">Board of Visitors</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/2466" hreflang="en">Athletics</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/19331" hreflang="en">Mason Now: Power the Possible</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/1061" hreflang="en">Costello College of Business</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/871" hreflang="en">College of Visual and Performing Arts</a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> Mon, 11 May 2026 18:52:50 +0000 Katarina Benson 345828 at George Mason funds seven GCI catalyst research projects driving bold solutions for a prosperous future /news/2026-05/george-mason-funds-seven-gci-catalyst-research-projects-driving-bold-solutions <span>George Mason funds seven GCI catalyst research projects driving bold solutions for a prosperous future</span> <span><span>ckearney</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-05-05T20:53:09-04:00" title="Tuesday, May 5, 2026 - 20:53">Tue, 05/05/2026 - 20:53</time> </span> <div class="layout layout--gmu layout--twocol-section layout--twocol-section--70-30"> <div class="layout__region region-first"> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:body" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasebody"> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Body</div> <div class="field__item"><p class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun intro-text">As the university’s&nbsp;</span><a href="/research/grandchallenge"><span class="intro-text">Grand Challenge Initiative</span></a><span class="normaltextrun intro-text"> (GCI) enters its second year,&nbsp;</span><a href="http://gmu.edu/"><span class="intro-text">91°”Íű</span></a><span class="normaltextrun intro-text"> today announced funding for seven catalyst research projects and the launch of the Grand Challenge Research Exchange—quarterly convenings for all GCI-related research&nbsp;to accelerate solutions to the grand challenge of our time.&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun">“We have placed our first bets on building a better future for humanity,” said </span><a href="https://president.gmu.edu/profiles/president"><span>President Gregory Washington</span></a><span class="normaltextrun">. “These awards represent the very best of George Mason faculty research. They sit at a crossroads where the world’s greatest problems meet our faculty’s greatest research strengths to solve them. At a time when the world’s greatest challenges can appear to be winning, today the smart money is on George Mason professors.”</span></p> <p class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"></span></p> <p class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun">Washington launched the Grand Challenge Initiative in 2025 to focus faculty expertise on tackling world’s most pressing interdisciplinary threats to solve the ultimate grand challenge of sustaining humanity’s ability to forge a peaceful and prosperous future, rather than merely a life endured.</span></p> <p class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun">Spanning artificial and aerial intelligence to quantum and space infrastructure development, the seven catalyst projects will also strengthen talent and workforce development across interconnected industries. The catalyst projects are:&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"></span></p> <h3><span><strong>George Mason’s Quantum Leap</strong></span></h3> <figure role="group" class="align-right"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/small_content_image/public/2026-05/quantum_dsc_0993.jpg?itok=e1shjyOW" width="350" height="233"> </div> </div> <figcaption>Photo provided</figcaption> </figure> <p><span>This project will expand position George Mason as a leader in the next generation of computing. Quantum computers can tackle problems beyond the reach of today’s technology, opening new possibilities in health, climate research, and national security. This initiative will grow the university’s expertise in quantum hardware and algorithms, expand degree and training programs, and bring industry partners into the classroom and lab. By building talent, research capacity, and real‑world collaborations, Quantum Leap will help drive Virginia’s emerging quantum economy and prepare students for high‑demand careers.</span></p> <p class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><strong>Leadership Team:</strong></span><span>&nbsp;</span><span class="normaltextrun">Patrick Vora, COS (PI); Harbir Antil, COS; Andre Clayborne, COS; John Cressman, COS; Maria Emelianenko, COS; Nadine Kabbani, COS; Jessica Rosenberg, COS; Ming Tian, COS; Giorgio Ascoli, COS/College of Engineering and Computing (CEC); Michael Jarret, COS/CEC; Ethan Ahn, CEC;&nbsp; Kris Gaj, CEC;&nbsp; Weiwen Jiang, CEC; Fei Li, CEC; Jill Nelson, CEC; Marc Sasseville, Patriot Labs/CEC;&nbsp;Nancy Holincheck, College of Education and Human Development (CEHD);&nbsp; Laurence Bray, Graduate Division; Terry Clower, Schar School of Policy and Government; and Jiasun Li, Costello College of Business.</span></p> <p><span><strong>Grand Solutions:</strong> Advancing 21st-Century Education for All, Driving Responsible Digital Innovation and Sustainable Infrastructure, Improving Human Health, Well-being, and Preparedness&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span><strong>Participating Colleges:</strong> College of Science,&nbsp;</span><span class="normaltextrun">College of Engineering and Computing, College of Education and Human Development, Schar School of Policy and Government, and Costello College of Business</span></p> <h3><span><strong>91°”Íű Space Center </strong></span><span class="normaltextrun"></span></h3> <figure role="group" class="align-left"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/small_content_image/public/2026-05/space_gci_260302208.jpg?itok=MzAzVJT1" width="350" height="265"> </div> </div> <figcaption>Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding</figcaption> </figure> <p><span>This project<strong>&nbsp;</strong>will position the university as a leader in using space technology to solve real‑world problems. By designing and launching small satellites, the project will generate data that improve climate forecasting, disaster preparation, infrastructure protection, and scientific discovery. The new center will also expand degree programs, train students through hands‑on missions, and build partnerships with industry and government. Together, these efforts will strengthen Virginia’s space economy and prepare a diverse workforce for a rapidly growing sector.</span></p> <p class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><strong>Leadership Team:</strong> Anamaria Berea, COS (PI)</span><span class="eop">;&nbsp;</span><span class="normaltextrun">Ferah Munshi,&nbsp;COS (PI); JK Aier, Costello</span><span class="eop">; </span><span class="normaltextrun">Gabriele Belle, COS; Zafer&nbsp;Boybeyi,&nbsp;COS; Phillip Cunio, CEC; Jules Goldspiel, COS</span><span class="eop">; </span><span class="normaltextrun">Hina Kazmi,&nbsp;Schar; Tracy Mason, COS; Leigh McCue, CEC; Jeffrey Moran, CEC</span><span class="eop">;&nbsp;</span><span class="normaltextrun">Piotr&nbsp;Pachowicz, CEC; Rob Parks, COS; Peter Plavchan, COS; Ali K. Raz, CEC; Laura Aileen Sauls, College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS); Michael Summers, COS; Kun Sun, CEC; Daniel Tong, COS; Chaowei&nbsp;Phil Yang, COS; and Jie Zhang,&nbsp;COS.</span><span class="eop">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span><strong>Grand Solution:</strong> Pioneering Space Exploration, Research, and Collaboration&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span><strong>Participating Colleges:</strong> College of Science,&nbsp;</span><span class="normaltextrun">College of Engineering and Computing, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Schar School of Policy and Government, and Costello College of Business</span></p> <h3><span><strong>Teaching Initiative for Digital Education through AI (Teaching IDE-AI)</strong></span></h3> <figure role="group" class="align-right"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/small_content_image/public/2026-05/ai_in_classroom_250725500.jpg?itok=qzcPRD-C" width="350" height="275"> </div> </div> <figcaption>Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding</figcaption> </figure> <p class="paragraph"><span>This project creates a model for responsible and ethical AI integration in the classroom to help prepare teachers who will then shape AI‑ready PK–12 students across Virginia and the nation. By bringing together experts in education and technology, the initiative will create practical tools, develop training for faculty, and design easy‑to‑use AI literacy resources that help educators guide students in a rapidly changing world.&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><strong>Leadership Team:</strong> Jennifer Suh, CEHD (PI)</span><span class="eop">;&nbsp;</span><span class="normaltextrun">Thema Monroe</span><span>‑</span><span class="normaltextrun">White, Schar/CEC; Ziyu Yao,&nbsp;CEC</span><span class="eop">;&nbsp;</span><span class="normaltextrun">Jered Borup,&nbsp;CEHD; Audra Parker,&nbsp;CEHD; and Seth Hunter, CEHD.</span><span class="eop">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span><strong>Grand Solutions:</strong> Advancing 21st-Century Education for All, Driving Responsible Digital Innovation and Sustainable Infrastructure</span></p> <p><span><strong>Participating Colleges:</strong> College of Education and Human Development,&nbsp;</span><span class="normaltextrun">College of Engineering and Computing, and Schar School of Policy and Government</span></p> <h3><span><strong>Toward a Center for Aerial Intelligence and Digital Earth Histories</strong></span><span class="normaltextrun"></span></h3> <figure role="group" class="align-left"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/small_content_image/public/2026-05/1967aerialcampus.jpg?itok=3OqAZx6h" width="350" height="232"> </div> </div> <figcaption>Photo courtesy of 91°”Íű Libraries</figcaption> </figure> <p><span>With partners like the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency, this project will digitize and analyze&nbsp;unclassified historical aerial archives into&nbsp;usable digital data&nbsp;resources for research, education, and societal impact. The project will demonstrate how this work can reveal environmental change, urban growth, and infrastructure shifts while laying the groundwork for a future full‑scale center.</span></p> <p class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><strong>Leadership Team:</strong></span><span>&nbsp;</span><span class="normaltextrun">Dieter Pfoser, COS (PI); Jana Kosecka, CEC; Sarah Campbell, Office of Research, Innovation, and Economic Impact; and Allan Williams, National Collection of Aerial Photography/COS.</span></p> <p><span><strong>Grand Solutions:</strong> Driving Responsible Digital Innovation and Sustainable Infrastructure, Strengthening Peace, Trust, and Engagement in Democracy, Building a Climate-Resilient Society, Advancing 21st-Century Education for All&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span><strong>Participating Colleges:</strong> College of Science and College of Engineering and Computing</span></p> <h3><span><strong>Industry-University Working Group on Climate Change and Physical Risks</strong></span><span class="normaltextrun"></span></h3> <figure role="group" class="align-right"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/small_content_image/public/2026-05/gettyimages-2227431297_climate_risk.jpg?itok=NZ01-Lg9" width="350" height="233"> </div> </div> <figcaption>Photo by Getty Images</figcaption> </figure> <p><span>This project brings together industry leaders and university researchers to advance understanding of shifting climate hazards and develop practical tools that strengthen physical‑risk assessment and decision-making in the insurance, reinsurance, and finance sectors of the economy.&nbsp;By identifying urgent research needs and developing practical tools for insurers and financial institutions, the project will improve how physical risks are assessed and managed, strengthen climate‑risk science, support decision‑making, and help communities and industries adapt.</span></p> <p class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><strong>Leadership Team:</strong> Luis E. Ortiz, COS (PI); Natalie Burls, COS; Edward Oughton, COS; Fengxiu Zhang, Schar; and James Kinter, COS.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span><strong>Grand Solutions:</strong> Driving Responsible Digital Innovation and Sustainable Infrastructure, Building a Climate-Resilient Society&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span><strong>Participating Colleges:</strong> College of Science<strong>&nbsp;</strong>and<strong>&nbsp;</strong></span><span class="normaltextrun">Schar School of Policy and Government</span></p> <p class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"></span></p> <h3><span><strong>Humanitarian Forensics and Peacebuilding</strong></span><span class="normaltextrun"></span></h3> <figure role="group" class="align-left"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/small_content_image/public/2026-05/forensics_and_peacebuilding_250909069.png?itok=6VU7dZzY" width="350" height="233"> </div> </div> <figcaption>Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding</figcaption> </figure> <p><span>This project will build a multidisciplinary program that improves how human remains are located, identified, and reunified with families after war, disaster, or violence. Bringing together experts in forensic science, public health, peacebuilding, and international law, the project will launch a needs assessment and summer training program in the South Caucasus, along with a new course at George Mason. By integrating scientific precision with community‑centered practices, the initiative will strengthen global capacity for recovery and identification work that supports families and communities.</span></p> <p class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><strong>Leadership Team:</strong> Joseph DiZinno, COS (PI); Margarita Tadevosyan, Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution (PI); Katherine Scafide, College of Public Health; and Arthur R. Traldi, Scalia Law School/Lexpat Global Services.</span></p> <p><span><strong>Grand Solutions:</strong> Strengthening Peace, Trust, and Engagement in Democracy, Advancing 21st-Century Education for All, Improving Human Health, Well-being, and Preparedness&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="paragraph"><span><strong>Participating Colleges:</strong> College of Science,&nbsp;</span><span class="normaltextrun">Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution, College of Public Health, and Scalia Law School.</span></p> <h3><span><strong>AI-Powered Human Rights Education for All</strong></span></h3> <figure role="group" class="align-right"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/small_content_image/public/2026-05/ai_powered_human_rights_250502518.jpg?itok=YHjsfjKR" width="350" height="233"> </div> </div> <figcaption>Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding</figcaption> </figure> <p><span>This project will create an AI‑driven virtual human rights classroom prototype that gives people everywhere access to practical, personalized tools to learn and apply human rights principles in daily life. Using the built‑in toolkit, users will explore interactive scenarios and receive personalized guidance to help them navigate real‑world dilemmas and assess the human rights impact of policies and technologies.</span></p> <p class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun"><strong>Leadership Team:</strong> Cher Weixia Chen, CHSS (PI); Graziella Pagliarulo McCarron, CHSS; Lei Gao, Costello; Ziwei Zhu, CEC; Antonios Anastasopoulos, CEC; and Sungsoo Ray Hong, CEC.</span></p> <p><span><strong>Grand Solutions:</strong> Advancing 21st-Century Education for All, Driving Responsible Digital Innovation and Sustainable Infrastructure, Strengthening Peace, Trust, and Engagement in Democracy&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span><strong>Participating Colleges:</strong> College of Humanities and Social Sciences, College of Engineering and Computing, and Costello College of Business</span></p> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/extra_large_content_image/public/2026-05/gci_slide.jpg?itok=eBvSW1ta" width="1000" height="565"> </div> </div> <p class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun">“Spanning multiple disciplines, colleges, campuses, and the region, GCI is designed to launch new research efforts, scale promising programs, enhance faculty expertise, and build the shared infrastructure required for sustained collaboration,” said&nbsp;</span><a href="/profiles/avinze" target="_blank"><span class="normaltextrun">Ajay VinzĂ©</span></a><span class="normaltextrun">, interim provost and executive vice president.</span></p> <p class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun">With $5 million supporting this first round of funding, the&nbsp;seven catalyst projects were selected from 41 proposals, with more than 75 PIs,&nbsp;submitted&nbsp;across every college and school at George Mason, including&nbsp;Mason&nbsp;Korea. More than 35 external partner organizations were represented across submissions; 38 were transdisciplinary, and six involved five or more colleges working together.</span></p> <p class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun">“George Mason's institutional investment underscores our commitment to high-impact, interdisciplinary mission-driven research,” said&nbsp;</span><a href="https://provost.gmu.edu/profiles/awmarsh"><span>Andre Marshall</span></a><span class="normaltextrun">, vice president for research, innovation, and economic impact. “GCI positions research to build our enterprise and engage additional funders to deliver real-world change.”</span></p> <p class="paragraph"><span class="normaltextrun">To support&nbsp;all GCI-related research, including&nbsp;the&nbsp;41-proposal cohort,&nbsp;through stages of development, George Mason&nbsp;is launching new quarterly convenings called the Grand Challenge Research Exchange. The first convening will launch this fall.&nbsp;Designed&nbsp;in partnership with the three Office of Research, Innovation, and Economic Impact (ORIEI) Institutes and </span><a href="//Users/saaronso/Documents/Initiatives/Grand%20Challenges/mason%20now"><span>Mason Now</span></a><span class="normaltextrun"> team, these&nbsp;exchanges will feature industry keynotes, expert guest lecturers, and professional development workshops about leadership development, strategic planning, financial and program management, funding support, proposal and partnership development, and community engagements models. &nbsp;</span><span class="eop">&nbsp;</span></p> <h4>What Our Industry Partners Are Saying</h4> <p>“Northern Virginia’s long-term economic strength, environmental resilience, and quality of life depend on meaningful collaboration with its research and educational institutions. For more than 30 years, the partnership between the Northern Virginia Regional Commission (NVRC) and 91°”Íű has demonstrated how place-based, applied research can address complex regional challenges. Through work that aligns closely with George Mason’s Grand Challenge Initiative, our collaboration has delivered tangible outcomes—from mapping solar energy potential to advancing stormwater management models, promoting purposeful cross-national transfer of policy and technical innovations, and revitalizing stressed watersheds. These efforts have produced measurable benefits for communities throughout Northern Virginia, and NVRC looks forward to sustaining and expanding this impactful partnership.”&nbsp;</p> <p>—Dale Medearis, Senior Environmental Planner, Northern Virginia Regional Commission&nbsp;</p> <p>“Partnering with George Mason’s Institute for a Sustainable Earth has enabled our team to expand our conservation work in innovative ways. By collaborating with George Mason faculty whose interdisciplinary expertise complements our own, we are addressing complex environmental challenges with both scientific rigor and practical application. This partnership aligns closely with the Grand Challenge Initiative, translating research into actionable insights that advance effective conservation, community resilience, and sustainable decision-making.”&nbsp;</p> <p>—Philip Loring, Global Director of Human Dimensions Science, The Nature Conservancy&nbsp;</p> <p>“Cybersecurity and critical infrastructure risks have reached the scale of true grand challenges, particularly in an era shaped by artificial intelligence. What distinguishes George Mason’s Grand Challenge Initiative is its broad, interdisciplinary approach and its top‑down investment in bold, unconventional ideas that span academic disciplines and engage industry and policymakers. These problems cannot be solved in isolation, and the initiative is built for the kind of collaboration our economic and security future depends on.”&nbsp;</p> <p>—Jeremy Epstein, Co-Director, Institute for Cybersecurity and Resilient Infrastructure Studies Center; Adjunct professor, Georgia Tech School of Cybersecurity and Privacy; Member of George Mason's Institute for Digital Innovation Industry Advisory Board&nbsp;</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="layout__region region-second"> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:text" data-inline-block-uuid="d6fc62b3-0750-44de-8a87-8570dcb7c5bf" class="block block-layout-builder block-inline-blocktext"> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><div class="align-center"> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/2026-02/GCI-extensionmark%281%29.png?itok=ZWYqIIqS" width="560" height="187" alt="Grand Challenge Initiative creative"> </div> </div> <p class="text-align-center">&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="/grandchallenge">Learn more about George Mason's Grand Challenge Initiative</a></p> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:call_to_action" data-inline-block-uuid="f667b157-042f-47ff-a8bc-73c190113347"> <div class="cta"> <a class="cta__link" href="/research"> <p class="cta__title">Explore Research at George Mason <i class="fas fa-arrow-circle-right"></i> </p> <span class="cta__icon"></span> </a> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:feature_image" data-inline-block-uuid="cc63b53d-e357-4eb3-954c-9cc58c71ec16" class="block block-feature-image block-layout-builder block-inline-blockfeature-image text-overlaid"> <div class="feature-image"> <div class="narrow-overlaid-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_medium/public/2026-01/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2f.jpg?itok=5iRz9k7l" srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_small/public/2026-01/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2f.jpg?itok=Y6F75L4O 768w, /sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_medium/public/2026-01/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2f.jpg?itok=5iRz9k7l 1024w, /sites/default/files/styles/feature_image_large/public/2026-01/MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2f.jpg?itok=soRVFf6H 1280w" sizes="(min-width: 1024px) 80vw,100vw" alt="MasonNow_FY26_Web_Graphic_762x762_R2f"> </div> <div class="headline-text"> <div class="feature-image-caption"> <div class="field field--name-field-feature-image-caption field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p><a href="https://giving.gmu.edu/mason-now/">Power the Possible</a></p></div> </div> </div> </div> </div><div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:text" data-inline-block-uuid="cd518775-675a-417a-9288-21277e134e8f" class="block block-layout-builder block-inline-blocktext"> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary 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