Faculty and Staff News

George Mason announces faculty affairs appointments in Korea and Fairfax

ckearney — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 17:15:34 +0000

George Mason announces faculty affairs appointments in Korea and Fairfax ckearney Wed, 06/03/2026 - 13:15

Jason M. Kinser and Gesele Durham have been promoted to new roles at Mason Korea and the Provost’s Office, respectively.

Jason M. Kinser. Photo by Ayman Rashid/Office of University Branding

Kinser, interim associate dean for academic affairs in the College of Science, will join Mason Korea as associate dean for faculty and academic affairs, effective July 25, 2026.

A George Mason faculty member since 1997, Kinser served as the first full-time chair of Department of Computational and Data Sciences, where he grew the department’s undergraduate enrollment from 25 to more than 400. He helped bring the computational and data sciences degree to Mason Korea, has served on the Mason Korea Executive Committee since 2023, and recently stepped in on-site during a leadership vacancy at Mason Korea.

“His expertise at the intersection of the life sciences and data sciences positions Mason Korea to deepen research and industry partnerships and expand pathways for our students into Songdo’s laboratories and companies,” said Campus Dean Joshaua Park.

Kinser has held faculty appointments across four units—bioinformatics, systems biology, physics, and computational and data sciences—and has served on university-wide bodies including the Mason Core Committee (2016 to 2024), which governs general education for every George Mason student; the Provost and Chairs Executive Committee; and Global Affairs.

Kinser will be the first natural scientist to serve in a senior leadership role at Mason Korea. His appointment aligns closely with the region’s direction: Songdo is one of the world’s leading biotechnology clusters, home to firms such as Samsung Biologics and Celltrion, and Incheon has set a course “from Smart City to AI City,” advancing artificial intelligence, data, and future industries in line with Korea’s national priorities.

Gesele Durham. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Durham will serve as interim vice provost for faculty affairs and development, beginning June 10, 2026, with a national search for permanent leadership of the office expected to begin later this academic year. Durham, who currently serves as vice provost for Institutional Effectiveness and Planning (OIEP), joined George Mason in 2019 and has led university-wide efforts related to strategic planning, accreditation, assessment, and institutional effectiveness. She will assume the interim role ahead of Kim Eby’s departure later this summer while continuing to lead OIEP in the Provost’s Office.

“Gesele brings colleagues together around the assessment and evaluation of teaching and administrative practices,” said interim provost and vice president Ajay Vinzé. “With more than 30 years of experience in higher education across both faculty and administrative leadership roles, she has a broad perspective on the opportunities and challenges facing faculty today.”

Over the coming weeks, Eby and Durham will work together to support the transition in leadership of faculty affairs and development. Incoming Provost Marion Underwood, who assumes the role in July, will lead the search for a permanent vice provost.

“Faculty success is foundational to student success, research excellence, and the university’s broader mission,” said Durham. “I look forward to partnering with colleagues across George Mason to support faculty development, recognize achievement, and create the conditions that enable faculty to do their best work.”

Learn more on Mason Korea

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Faculty and Staff News

Office of the Provost

Mason Korea

College of Science

CIO Charmaine Madison honored by Cloudforce with Change Champion Award

lclarkg — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 14:36:32 +0000

CIO Charmaine Madison honored by Cloudforce with Change Champion Award lclarkg Wed, 06/03/2026 - 10:36

Charmaine Madison, 91�� vice president for information technology and chief information officer, has been honored by Cloudforce with a Change Champion Award. Cloudforce’s Frontier Awards recognize individuals who are driving impact with artificial intelligence (AI), embedding AI into operations, transforming how work gets done, and delivering outcomes at scale.

Charmaine Madison, vice president for information technology and chief information officer. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

The Change Champion Award recognizes Madison for leading transformative change at George Mason in the realm of AI, inspiring teams, and challenging the status quo to adopt new ways of working

“When we talk about 'Integrate' in the context of AI, we’re not just referring to adopting new tools—we’re talking about rethinking how we work, teach, and serve,” Madison said. “AI is no longer optional; it’s a transformative force that’s already reshaping higher education. The challenge before us isn’t whether to use AI, but how to integrate it thoughtfully and effectively into the fabric of our university. That means aligning AI with our mission, values, and strategic goals—enhancing human capabilities, not replacing them.”

Madison arrived at 91�� in 2024, bringing more than 30 years of federal government experience in information technology, including more than a decade with the Central Intelligence Agency. She retired from the U.S. Air Force as a cyber operations officer.

At George Mason, Madison leads Information Technology Services and the university’s integration of the emerging AI ecosystem into teaching, learning, and campus operations. She has been a champion for the potential of generative AI and its adoption across faculty, staff, and students.

The launch of PatriotAI, a suite of specialized and secure AI tools, has provided university-managed access to large language models that aid academic work, studies, and student life. PatriotAI daily usage has tripled since its launch in 2025 to 2026.

Learn more about AI at 91��.

More about AI at George Mason

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Information Technology Services

Artificial Intelligence

Faculty and Staff News

Academic Advising Awards recognize outstanding undergraduate advisors

ckearney — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 15:56:51 +0000

Academic Advising Awards recognize outstanding undergraduate advisors ckearney Tue, 06/02/2026 - 11:56

The Office of Academic Advising has announced the recipients of the 2026 Academic Advising Awards, recognizing undergraduate advisors who have made a meaningful impact on student success across 91��.

This year, the awards drew 376 nominations representing 97 individuals from across the university, highlighting the important role advisors play in helping students navigate their academic journeys and build a sense of belonging at George Mason.

“Advising touches the entirety of the community in such positive ways, and that becomes even more clear when you read award nominations,” said Michelle Steiner, director of undergraduate academic success in the Office of Academic Advising. “It is deeply personal work with a direct impact on student success.”

This year’s nominations came from a broad range of units and advising roles across the university, reflecting growing awareness of the awards process across campus.

“This is my fourth year coordinating the awards, and one thing that stood out to me this year is the number of new names being recognized for the great work they are doing,” said academic advisor coordinator Sylvia Lee.

The 2026 selection committee included representatives from Undergraduate Education, the Mason Academic Advisor Network, Student Success Coaching, and a previous award recipient.

Academic Advisor of the Year

Rebecca Lane. Photo by John Boal Photography

Rebecca Lane of the College of Engineering and Computing has been named the 2026 V. Ann Lewis Academic Advisor of the Year.

Now in its 22nd year, the award is selected exclusively from student nominations and recognizes an advisor who demonstrates exceptional commitment to supporting undergraduate students. Named in honor of Lewis, a longtime George Mason advisor, the award reflects a legacy of student-centered advising.

Students described Lane as someone who listens carefully, creates a welcoming and inclusive environment, and goes above and beyond to support their success. One student wrote that Lane “always makes time to listen,” adding that she creates “a safe space for students from all backgrounds.”

Patriot Inspiration Award

Sofia Quiroga Paz. Photo by John Boal Photography

Sofia Quiroga Paz of the Costello College of Business received the Patriot Inspiration Award, which recognizes advisors who demonstrate a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in their work with students.

Now in its fifth year, the award is based on nominations from students, faculty, and staff, and highlights efforts to support a wide range of student experiences.

One nominator described Quiroga Paz as someone who “creates a strong sense of belonging for every student she works with,” highlighting her ability to connect students to resources and opportunities across campus. Nominations also noted her work supporting military-affiliated students, first-generation students, and multilingual students, as well as her efforts to foster collaboration across the university community.

Unsung Hero Award

Joshua Fletcher. Photo by John Boal Photography

Joshua Fletcher of the College of Engineering and Computing received the Unsung Hero Award, which honors advisors whose work has a significant impact behind the scenes.

Also in its fifth year, the award recognizes contributions that strengthen advising operations and enhance the student experience.

Fletcher was spotlighted for his leadership in undergraduate advising and his behind-the-scenes contributions to supporting students and advising operations. Nomination materials highlighted his commitment to a student-first approach and his efforts to strengthen advising practices within his unit.

Top 10 Advisors

From left, Martin Abruzzo, Robert Yi, Jana Biever, Jordan Emely, Collin Arthur, William Hanauer, and Claudia Borke. Photo by John Boal Photography

In addition to the award recipients, 10 advisors were recognized for their outstanding contributions:

Martin Abruzzo, College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Elli Ambros, College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Collin Arthur, Costello College of Business
Jana Biever, Schar School of Policy and Government
Claudia Borke, College of Engineering and Computing
Jordan Emely, Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution
William Hanauer, Costello College of Business
Troy Lowery, College of Public Health
Allison Winters, Bachelor of Applied Science Program
Robert Yi, College of Visual and Performing Arts

Awards were open to faculty and staff who provide academic advising to undergraduate students at George Mason. Nominations were submitted by students, faculty, and staff, and reviewed anonymously by a selection committee to ensure a fair and equitable process.

Topics

Faculty and Staff News

Office of the Provost

Academic Advising

Aquanetta Betts is June Employee of the Month

ckearney — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 16:00:37 +0000

Aquanetta Betts is June Employee of the Month ckearney Mon, 06/01/2026 - 12:00

Colleagues across 91�� have praised Aquanetta Betts, director of planned giving at the Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations, as an invaluable resource for frontline fundraisers seeking to secure planned gifts from prospective donors.

President Washington with June Employee of the Month Aquanetta Betts. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

Nominators highlighted Betts’s leadership in planning and hosting Legacy Society events, as well as her ability to manage the many responsibilities of her role with expertise and care. In recognition of her contributions, Betts has been named June Employee of the Month.

“Her grasp on the complexities of planned giving is of tremendous help when we, and our donors, have questions,” said Susan Graziano, senior director of development in the College of Visual and Performing Arts. “And, under Aquanetta’s leadership, we now have marvelous print and electronic resources to guide our conversations with prospective donors.”

Sara E. Snyder, associate vice president of administration and finance in the Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations, echoed those sentiments. “Her hard work and determination helped us succeed,” she said.

Snyder added that Betts has played a key role in several of George Mason’s major planned gifts, partnering closely with fundraisers while advancing the mission and goals of both the division and the university.

Hatisha Jeffrey, assistant director of Advancement HR, said Betts embodies the university's value of “We thrive together.” “In her day-to-day, Aquanetta is a thought partner, values the ideas of others, and guides others down the right path for collaborative success.”

How Did You Come to George Mason:

My path to George Mason began with a message from a recruiter about the director of planned giving position. At the time, I was serving as a senior executive director of planned giving for a global humanitarian organization, and when I took a closer look at Mason, I was immediately drawn in. What captivated me most was George Mason's bold, innovative spirit and the incredible momentum behind its $1 billion campaign. The university's energy, its commitment to growth, and the opportunity to be part of something truly transformational made the decision an easy one.

Best Day on the Job:

My best days at George Mason are the ones spent in conversations with colleagues across our schools, colleges, and units, with my advancement team members, and most especially with our generous supporters. When a donor shares their story and explains why George Mason holds a special place in their heart, and why they want to leave a legacy gift that will impact students and programs for generations to come, I am reminded of exactly why this work matters.

What You Like Best about Working at George Mason:

What I love most about George Mason is the energy on campus and the hopes and dreams I witness every day in our students. When I see their perseverance, their tenacity, and their relentless pursuit of their education, I see a reflection of my own journey—working my way through college with a dream and a determination to achieve it. Mason gives me a front-row seat to that spirit every single day, and it makes my work profoundly meaningful and motivating.

What You Like to Do When You're Not Working:

Travel is close to my heart. I spent 15 years as a flight attendant with American Airlines, and the love of exploring new places has never left me. My favorite destination is anywhere with a beautiful beach! My husband, a retired airline pilot, shares that passion, so travel is something we cherish together. When I'm not dreaming of the next trip, I'm spending time with family and friends, or giving back through pro bono legal work. As a licensed attorney, I find joy in volunteering at wills clinics and legal services programs, helping seniors and individuals who might not otherwise have access to legal guidance.

Topics

Faculty and Staff News

Employee of the Month

Advancement

Human Resources

Take Your Junior Patriot to Work Day was action-packed and kid-approved

lclarkg — Thu, 07 May 2026 13:43:32 +0000

Take Your Junior Patriot to Work Day was action-packed and kid-approved lclarkg Thu, 05/07/2026 - 09:43

Take Your Junior Patriot to Work Day is an annual tradition at 91��. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

91�� welcomed 262 “Junior Patriots” and their families for Take Your Junior Patriot to Work Day at the Fairfax and Mason Square campuses on April 23. The day kicked off with music and dancing by the Green Machine, a visit from the Patriot mascot, and the Junior Patriot Palooza on Merten Lawn, hosted by Human Resources.

The Touch a Truck event is always a hit. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

With 45 hands-on activities, junior Patriots visited campus departments and offices to explore robotics, emergency preparedness, and video game design, watched K-9 and drone demonstrations from George Mason Police, and took a behind-the-scenes tour of the Center for the Arts.

Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Active events included blending smoothies on Mason Dining’s blender bike, and climbing aboard fire, police, and SWAT vehicles at the popular Touch a Truck event.

Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Creativity and play took center stage with crafts, pickleball, story time with University Libraries, scavenger hunts, mock courtroom visits, dance classes, lawn games, and more—offering a dynamic mix of learning, movement, and fun.

Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Thank you to the campus partners whose creativity and commitment made the day such a success.

Take Your Junior Patriot to Work Day will return on Thursday, April 22, 2027. Interested in hosting an activity? Contact engagehr@gmu.edu.

Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Storytime on the plaza at Mason Square. Photo provided

George Mason Police shared a drone demonstration at Mason Square. Photo provided

Moot Court at Mason Square. Photo provided

More about Take Your Junior Patriot to Work Day

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Police and Public Safety

Fairfax Campus Notice: Community college and high school graduation ceremonies at 91��

lclarkg — Fri, 01 May 2026 20:03:02 +0000

Fairfax Campus Notice: Community college and high school graduation ceremonies at 91�� lclarkg Fri, 05/01/2026 - 16:03

Heavy traffic is expected on and around 91��’s Fairfax Campus for regional community college and high school graduation ceremonies at EagleBank Arena from May 18 through June 17, 2026.

91�� Commencement and Degree Celebrations will take place on the Fairfax Campus from May 14–16. Get the details.

Northern Virginia Community College's Commencement will take place at EagleBank Arena on Monday, May 18, at 11 a.m.

High school graduation ceremonies start at EagleBank Arena on Thursday, May 28, and continue through Wednesday, June 17. EagleBank Arena will host up to three ceremonies each day, so traffic may be entering and exiting campus from 8 a.m. until 10 p.m. Please allow extra travel time on and around campus.

Monday, May 18

11 a.m. Northern Virginia Community College

Thursday, May 28

9 a.m. Osbourn High School, Manassas City Public Schools

Friday, May 29

9:30 a.m. Battlefield High School, Prince William County Public Schools
2 p.m. Gainesville High School, Prince William County Public Schools
7 p.m. Colgan High School, Prince William County Public Schools

Saturday, May 30

9:30 a.m. Patriot High School, Prince William County Public Schools
2 p.m. Forest Park High School, Prince William County Public Schools
7 p.m. Hylton High School, Prince William County Public Schools

Monday, June 1

9:30 a.m. Potomac High School, Prince William County Public Schools
2 p.m. Woodbridge High School, Prince William County Public Schools
7 p.m. Osbourn Park High School, Prince William County Public Schools

Tuesday, June 2

9:30 a.m. Gar-Field High School, Prince William County Public Schools
2 p.m. Freedom High School, Prince William County Public Schools
7 p.m. Unity Reed High School, Prince William County Public Schools

Wednesday, June 3

9 a.m. Falls Church High School, Fairfax County Public Schools
2 p.m. Oakton High School, Fairfax County Public Schools
7 p.m. Chantilly High School, Fairfax County Public Schools

Thursday, June 4

9 a.m. Woodson High School, Fairfax County Public Schools
2 p.m. West Springfield High School, Fairfax County Public Schools
7 p.m. Hayfield High School, Fairfax County Public Schools

Friday, June 5

9 a.m. South Lakes High School, Fairfax County Public Schools
2 p.m. South County High School, Fairfax County Public Schools
7 p.m. Edison High School, Fairfax County Public Schools

Saturday, June 6

9 a.m. City of Alexandria High School, Alexandria City Public Schools
2 p.m. Academies of Loudoun, Loudoun County Public Schools
7 p.m. Thomas Jefferson High School, Fairfax County Public Schools

Monday, June 8

9 a.m. West Potomac High School, Fairfax County Public Schools
2 p.m. Justice High School, Fairfax County Public Schools
7 p.m. Annandale High School, Fairfax County Public Schools

Tuesday, June 9

9 a.m. Mt. Vernon High School, Fairfax County Public Schools
2 p.m. Lewis High School, Fairfax County Public Schools
7 p.m. Westfield High School, Fairfax County Public Schools

Thursday, June 11

9 a.m. Centreville High School, Fairfax County Public Schools
2 p.m. Robinson High School, Fairfax County Public Schools

Friday, June 12

9 a.m. Lake Braddock High School, Fairfax County Public Schools
2 p.m. Herndon High School, Fairfax County Public Schools

Saturday, June 13

9:30 a.m. Washington-Liberty High School, Arlington County Public Schools
2 p.m. Wakefield High School, Arlington County Public Schools

Monday, June 15

10 a.m. John Champe High School, Loudoun County Public Schools
2:30 p.m. Park View High School, Loudoun County Public Schools
7 p.m. Briar Woods High School, Loudoun County Public Schools

Tuesday, June 16

10 a.m. Broad Run High School, Loudoun County Public Schools
2:30 p.m. Freedom High School, Loudoun County Public Schools
7 p.m. Riverside High School, Loudoun County Public Schools

Wednesday, June 17

10 a.m. Potomac Falls High School, Loudoun County Public Schools
2:30 p.m. Heritage High School, Loudoun County Public Schools

Topics

Campus Notice

Fairfax Campus Notice

EagleBank Arena

Parking and Traffic Advisory

Faculty and Staff News

Fairfax Campus Notice: Parking and Traffic Advisory for 91�� Commencement and Degree Celebrations

lclarkg — Fri, 01 May 2026 16:44:34 +0000

Fairfax Campus Notice: Parking and Traffic Advisory for 91�� Commencement and Degree Celebrations lclarkg Fri, 05/01/2026 - 12:44

91�� Spring Commencement will take place on Thursday, May 14, at 9:30 a.m. in EagleBank Arena on the Fairfax Campus. Separate Degree Celebrations will honor school and college graduates from Thursday, May 14, through Saturday, May 16, at the Fairfax Campus.

Expect heavy traffic on and around campus. Multiple ceremonies will occur each day at the Fairfax Campus.

For transportation resources, visit the George Mason Transportation website.

91�� Commencement and Degree Celebration Schedule:

Thursday, May 14:

9:30 a.m. – Spring Commencement, EagleBank Arena
2 p.m. – College of Public Health, EagleBank Arena
3 p.m. – College of Visual and Performing Arts, Concert Hall
6:30 p.m. – College of Science, EagleBank Arena

Friday, May 15:

9:30 a.m. – Costello College of Business, EagleBank Arena
11 a.m. – Carter School, Concert Hall
2 p.m. – College of Engineering and Computing I - Volgenau School of Engineering, EagleBank Arena
6:30 p.m. – College of Engineering and Computing II - Long Nguyen and Kimmy Duong School of Computing, EagleBank Arena

Saturday, May 16:

9:30 a.m. – College of Education and Human Development, EagleBank Arena
1:30 p.m. – Antonin Scalia Law School, Concert Hall
2 p.m. – College of Humanities and Social Sciences, EagleBank Arena
6:30 p.m. – Schar School, EagleBank Arena

Topics

Campus Notice

Fairfax Campus Notice

Faculty and Staff News

Parking and Traffic Advisory

Caitlin Horan is May Employee of the Month

ckearney — Fri, 01 May 2026 14:13:15 +0000

Caitlin Horan is May Employee of the Month ckearney Fri, 05/01/2026 - 10:13

Caitlin Horan, assistant dean of graduate academic services in 91��’s Costello College of Business, has transformed the graduate services team. Referred to as the “heart” of the Costello graduate team, Horan is known for her innovation, student advocacy, and strong organization skills. She’s also a founding member of her department’s party planning team and has created team-building events such as chili cook-offs and trips to see the cherry blossoms. For all of this and more, she is being recognized as the May Employee of the Month.

May Employee of the Month Caitlin Horan with President Gregory Washington. Photo by David Loughner/Office of University Branding

“Not only has Caitlin leveraged her strong interest in technology, efficiency, and providing quality service to students to improve the functioning of the graduate teams, she has also sought opportunities to lend her voice, time, and effort to university-level initiatives to implement new and better systems,” said Paige Wolf, associate dean of Costello graduate programs.

Graduate program manager Lauren Flynn said Horan is truly exemplary as both an employee and a colleague. “I don’t believe I have ever worked with anyone more thoughtful in her work and generous with her time, and I can think of no one more deserving.”

Saul Garcia, assistant director of MS in Management Program, emphasized Horan’s ability to recall and organize entire Costello schedules and programs with ease, which has been vital for their department. “She is the glue that holds our unit together,” he said.

May Abou Ghazaleh, assistant director of the Master’s in Real Estate Development Program, said, “Caitlin’s expertise, organization, and commitment has transformed the efficiency and accessibility of program operations, directly contributing to the success of faculty, staff, and students.”

“As a leader, Caitlin is not only dedicated to the success of our programs but also deeply empathetic to the needs of her staff. She consistently goes above and beyond to support her team, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to excel,” said Vanessa H. DeShane, director of specialized master’s programs at Costello.

“One of the things that truly stands out about Caitlin is her wealth of knowledge,” said Shabnam Rezai, assistant director of MSF and MSBA Programs. “She’s our go-to person for advice and guidance.”

How did you come to George Mason:

After completing a master’s degree in educational administration and policy at the University of Georgia, I was looking to move to the DMV—a term I only associated with the Department of Motor Vehicles before moving here! I completed my undergraduate degree at the College of William and Mary, so I had a number of college friends who lived in the area, and I was looking for a change. I applied to many schools in D.C. and Northern Virginia, but George Mason’s commitment to access and inclusion resonated with me the most.

Best day on the job:

I have had the opportunity to join groups of students on their short-term study-abroad programs in Chile, Dubai, Estonia, and South Africa. These experiences have been incredibly rewarding, both personally and professionally. Watching the students learn about doing business in a foreign country firsthand while applying what they have learned in the classroom is such a cool experience!

What do you like best about working at Mason:

My answer is twofold: First, I love my colleagues! They are some of the hardest working, innovative, and passionate people I know. Second, I also love working with our students. Graduate students are such an interesting group because of the diversity of perspectives that they bring to the table. Our students range in age from 21 to 60+, so there’s always something to learn from them. I also absolutely love it when I hear them talk about how they have been able to apply what they learned in the classroom to their jobs, or how they have leveraged the network they gain by joining the program to find a new job.

What do you like to do when you’re not working:

I enjoy traveling, hiking, reading, playing ultimate frisbee, and spending time with friends and family.

Topics

Faculty and Staff News

Employee of the Month

Costello College of Business

Human Resources

Two SEOR faculty named Fellows in their fields

Nathan Kahl — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 18:18:01 +0000

Two SEOR faculty named Fellows in their fields Nathan Kahl Tue, 04/28/2026 - 14:18

In This Story

Janis Terpenny

Two 91�� College of Engineering and Computing faculty were honored with the rank of Fellow in 2025. Janis Terpenny and Chun-Hung Chen were named Fellow in their respective professional societies, a recognition reserved for leaders with significant contributions in their discipline.

Janis Terpenny

Terpenny, professor in the Departments of Systems Engineering and Operations Research (SEOR) and Mechanical Engineering, was named a Fellow of the American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE). The distinction honors her as a “pioneer and thought leader in engineering education dedicated to impacts of partnerships and real problems on motivation and learning.” Terpenny’s work influenced new degree programs, innovative courses, revised curricula, and faculty development initiatives across multiple institutions.

Terpenny views engineering education as a holistic ecosystem. “We should approach what we do in preparing the next generation in a very thoughtful way,” she said, emphasizing motivation, retention, and pedagogy. Her decades of involvement with ASEE included leadership roles, more than 40 conference papers, and service as director at large for the manufacturing division.

Chen, a SEOR professor, was named a Fellow of INFORMS, the leading international association for operations research and analytics. INFORMS recognized Chen for “fundamental contributions to simulation optimization and stochastic sampling methodology; contributions to O.R. practice in manufacturing, healthcare, air transportation and defense systems; and sustained service to the profession.”

Chun-Hung Chen

Chen is internationally known for advancing simulation-based optimization, rare-event simulation, and efficient sampling techniques, work influencing both theory and real-world decision-making. His research has been applied across industries, from improving manufacturing processes to enhancing aviation safety and supporting complex defense systems. Chen has served on editorial boards for major journals, chaired key professional committees, and mentored generations of graduate students who now work in academia, government, and industry.

Chen is active in both INFORMS and IEEE and was named a Fellow of IEEE in 2015.

Topics

Systems Engineering and Operations Research Faculty

Faculty and Staff News

College of Engineering and Computing

The Hylton Performing Arts Center Names Carolyn Hays as New Executive Director

Tionge Johnson — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 19:29:14 +0000

The Hylton Performing Arts Center Names Carolyn Hays as New Executive Director Tionge Johnson Thu, 04/23/2026 - 15:29

91��'s Hylton Performing Arts Center is thrilled to announce Carolyn Hays as its next executive director, effective May 10, 2026. Hays, who has served as the Hylton Center’s director of development since February 2024, steps into the role following a rigorous national search and succeeds the College of Visual and Performing Arts Dean Rick Davis, who has led the organization for nearly 15 years.

Portrait courtesy of Carolyn Hays.

A seasoned nonprofit leader with more than two decades of experience in strategic planning, board development, fundraising, and organizational leadership, Hays brings both deep institutional knowledge and a broad perspective shaped by leadership roles across the arts, higher education, and healthcare philanthropy sectors. Her appointment reflects a strong continuity of mission for the Hylton Center, while embarking on an exciting new chapter for its long-range artistic vision and community impact.

“Carolyn has already distinguished herself as an exceptional leader within the Hylton Center, bringing strategic insight, collaborative energy, and a profound commitment to our mission," said Davis. “Her ability to build meaningful relationships across our staff, board, university, and regional community, paired with her impressive record in fundraising and organizational leadership, makes her uniquely prepared to guide the Hylton Center into its next era of artistic excellence and civic connection.”

The transition also marks a moment to celebrate the extraordinary tenure of Davis, who has served as executive director of the Hylton Center since 2011, while also leading 91��’s College of Visual and Performing Arts as dean since 2015. Under his leadership, the Hylton Center expanded its presenting footprint through signature series and community partnerships, deepened its education programming for learners of all ages, and established the nationally recognized Veterans and the Arts Initiative in 2014 in collaboration with Program Director Niyati Dhokai.

Davis also oversaw the completion of the Education and Rehearsal Wing in 2019, fulfilling the original vision for the campus as a place where great art is created, taught, rehearsed, and shared. During his tenure, and thanks to its continuing partnership with the Hylton Family Foundation, the Hylton Center was able to assist its Arts Partners and Affiliates with rental waivers through the pandemic and its aftermath. A further philanthropic milestone was reached this spring when the Hylton Center completed its long-held goal of raising $15 million in endowment funds to help guarantee future financial stability.

"I have had the honor of working with Rick Davis in his role as executive director for nearly a decade. His dedicated leadership has transformed the nascent idea of a true community and arts partnership into a world-class creative commons. Now, at 16, the Hylton Center has an abundance of new opportunities with the expansion of George Mason, the realization of Innovation Park, and a new executive director who can spend her time focused on bringing the facility and its community to the next level," said Executive Board Chair Joyce Connery.

As director of development, Hays has been a key member of the Hylton Center’s senior leadership team and staff liaison to the Executive Board. Her work has included establishing the framework for a $1 million contributed revenue goal, securing transformational support for accessibility initiatives across Mason Arts, and cultivating significant planned gifts that will benefit the wider arts ecosystem at George Mason.

Connery added, “Since she came on board as development director, Carolyn has challenged us all to dream bigger and open ourselves up to new ways to bring in audiences and partners and keep them enthralled. In her new role, I am confident that she will bring the Hylton Center to the next level and expand our reach."

Hailing proudly from Wyoming, Hays holds degrees from the University of Wyoming and Florida State University and maintains active professional credentials through CFRE International and BoardSource. Prior to joining the Hylton Center, Hays built an accomplished career that includes positions at Washington Performing Arts, Washington National Opera, the Smithsonian’s National Zoo, and nearly a decade in community hospital philanthropy in both Texas and Northern Virginia. Her experience also includes teaching arts leadership and management at the University of Houston and George Mason. Additionally, she’s the current board member of the Prince William Chamber of Commerce and part of the 2026 Leadership Prince William class.

“As an artist and a leader, I am honored to guide the Hylton Center into its next chapter," said Hays. “Our stage is a ‘creative commons’ for Northern Virginia, and I am committed to ensuring it remains a vibrant home where world-class performance, education, and community engagement thrive together.”

Hays’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment as the Hylton Center continues to expand its role as a cultural hub for Prince William County, Manassas, and the greater Northern Virginia region. As it enters this new chapter, audiences, artists, and community partners can look forward to an exciting season of programming and continued opportunities for engagement.

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Hylton Center

Faculty and Staff News

Science and Technology Campus

philanthropy

College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA)

Faculty and Staff News

George Mason announces faculty affairs appointments in Korea and Fairfax

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CIO Charmaine Madison honored by Cloudforce with Change Champion Award

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Academic Advising Awards recognize outstanding undergraduate advisors

Academic Advisor of the Year

Patriot Inspiration Award

Unsung Hero Award

Top 10 Advisors

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Aquanetta Betts is June Employee of the Month

How Did You Come to George Mason:

Best Day on the Job:

What You Like Best about Working at George Mason:

What You Like to Do When You're Not Working:

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Take Your Junior Patriot to Work Day was action-packed and kid-approved

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Fairfax Campus Notice: Community college and high school graduation ceremonies at 91��

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Fairfax Campus Notice: Parking and Traffic Advisory for 91�� Commencement and Degree Celebrations

91�� Commencement and Degree Celebration Schedule:

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Caitlin Horan is May Employee of the Month

How did you come to George Mason:

Best day on the job:

What do you like best about working at Mason:

What do you like to do when you’re not working:

Topics

Two SEOR faculty named Fellows in their fields

In This Story

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The Hylton Performing Arts Center Names Carolyn Hays as New Executive Director

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Faculty and Staff News

George Mason announces faculty affairs appointments in Korea and Fairfax

Related News

Topics

CIO Charmaine Madison honored by Cloudforce with Change Champion Award

Read More Like This

Topics

Academic Advising Awards recognize outstanding undergraduate advisors

Academic Advisor of the Year

Patriot Inspiration Award

Unsung Hero Award

Top 10 Advisors

Related News

Topics

Aquanetta Betts is June Employee of the Month

How Did You Come to George Mason:

Best Day on the Job:

What You Like Best about Working at George Mason:

What You Like to Do When You're Not Working:

Topics

Take Your Junior Patriot to Work Day was action-packed and kid-approved

Read More Like This

Topics

Fairfax Campus Notice: Community college and high school graduation ceremonies at 91����

Topics

Fairfax Campus Notice: Parking and Traffic Advisory for 91���� Commencement and Degree Celebrations

91���� Commencement and Degree Celebration Schedule:

Topics

Caitlin Horan is May Employee of the Month

How did you come to George Mason:

Best day on the job:

What do you like best about working at Mason:

What do you like to do when you’re not working:

Topics

Two SEOR faculty named Fellows in their fields

In This Story

Topics

The Hylton Performing Arts Center Names Carolyn Hays as New Executive Director

Topics

Fairfax Campus Notice: Community college and high school graduation ceremonies at 91��

Fairfax Campus Notice: Parking and Traffic Advisory for 91�� Commencement and Degree Celebrations

91�� Commencement and Degree Celebration Schedule: