Military

Experiential learning fuels veteran’s entrepreneurial success

Katelynn C Hipolito — Tue, 14 Jul 2026 15:33:42 +0000

Experiential learning fuels veteran’s entrepreneurial success Katelynn C Hipolito Tue, 07/14/2026 - 11:33

Bailey Mahoney, MBA '26, presenting at the Patriot Pitch Competition. Photo by John Boal Photography.

“I think it's the real American dream to have something of your own, build something of your own,” says Bailey Mahoney, MBA '26. He grew up witnessing firsthand not only what could be built but also the freedom it created, as his father, who owned an electrical contracting business, always made time to be present for the important moments in his life. Without even realizing it, Mahoney found his first business mentor in his father.

Bailey Mahoney, MBA '26. Photo by Denise Van Photography.

After serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, Mahoney was looking for his next chapter. He began working for a company but soon realized that the corporate environment did not empower the kind of independent, mission-aligned decision-making on which he had thrived on in uniform.

When his constructive input on improving company culture went unheeded, it only strengthened his resolve. “If the CEO is not going to listen to me when I’m providing some advice that I know could have a meaningful impact on the culture of the company, let me go build my own,” he says.

“I think it's the real American dream to have something of your own, build something of your own,”

— Bailey Mahoney, MBA ‘26.

Rather than feeling dejected, he was inspired to found Pathfinder Federal Solutions, a service-disabled veteran-owned small business delivering federal business development consulting and mission-focused management support to defense agencies and the broader federal market. Months before launching the business, he had enrolled in the Costello MBA program at 91��.

“The MBA was very helpful in that, even if it wasn’t directly related to entrepreneurship, all of the classes that I took touched a little piece of the C-suite,” he says. Several of the courses and programs were instrumental in helping him develop and launch his newest venture, AgentForge, Inc.—a defense tech startup building an agentic artificial intelligence (AI) platform for defense and national security.

(left to right) The Patriot, Gurdip Singh, divisional dean of the School of Computing in the College of Engineering and Computing, Bailey Mahoney, MBA '26, Cheryl Druehl, Interim Dean. Photo by John Boal Photography.

In the semester leading up to graduation, AgentForge and Mahoney received a major boost when he won $8,000 for first place in the Innovative Ideas track of the Patriot Pitch Competition. “There were so many added benefits outside of just the prize money that I didn't even realize were a part of it,” he says.

He says he felt fortunate to be assigned Scott Hine, BS Decision Science ‘85, as his Patriot Pitch mentor. “He had made it pretty much to the highest civilian level that you can within the Department of War and then transferred over into the Department of Energy,” says Mahoney. “He was super familiar with our target customer and how to sell to them and how to get in front of them. A few years ago, when he was still working for the federal government, he would have been one of the folks that I am approaching now to sell our products to.”

Mahoney had been encouraged to enter Patriot Pitch by Skip West, the instructor of the Turning Ideas into Successful Companies MBA elective, also known as “Geeks to Gazillionaires.” Drawing on his experience and hard-earned insights, West played a key role in shaping the core of AgentForge.

Additionally, the Innovation and Design Lab for Business and Government elective—taught by Ioannis Bellos, MBA program director, and Natalie Foley, adjunct professor—immersed Mahoney in hands-on, experiential learning, challenging him to make decisions for a nonprofit organization. The course provided a valuable perspective on what it takes to run a successful business.

Experiential learning courses like these provided him with the opportunity to move his learning beyond the classroom, test ideas, and navigate challenges, translating concepts learned into meaningful impact.

Armed with these insights, invaluable mentor feedback, and the momentum from his Patriot Pitch prize victory, Mahoney is now focused on scaling AgentForge to deliver cutting-edge agentic AI capabilities that enhance mission effectiveness for defense and national security stakeholders. His journey exemplifies how George Mason’s experiential programs turn ambitious ideas into ventures with real-world impact.

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Skip West

Ioannis Bellos

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The new art of herding robots

tdonnel — Mon, 13 Jul 2026 16:15:27 +0000

The new art of herding robots tdonnel Mon, 07/13/2026 - 12:15

As autonomous systems grow in number and complexity, researchers at 91�� are tackling a critical question: How can a single human operator manage an entire swarm of robots? Professors Alexander Brodsky, Cameron Nowzari, and Daigo Shishika are designing smart-swarm technologies to help military planners coordinate unmanned aerial and ground vehicles within Human-Machine Integrated Formations.

The urgency of this work comes from rapidly evolving real-world conditions. Drone incursions are increasing in both frequency and affordability, explained Nowzari, adding, “It still requires a centralized and expensive response from the Air Force just to take down a $200 drone.”

Astroswarm logo. Image provided.

Swarm robotics offers an alternative. By deploying many low-cost systems, the team aims to shift the economics of defense. “To take out a $200 drone, we want to do it in less than $2,000,” Nowzari explained.

But this introduces a new bottleneck: human attention. “If you have one pilot per robot, you’ve defeated the purpose,” he said. The goal is for “one or two people to manage, coordinate, monitor, and control hundreds of robots.”

The team’s goal is to enable military planners to assemble, adapt, and deploy swarm-control and coordination systems using mo dular,building-block components, reducing complexity while improving mission effectiveness.

They are building a Smart Swarm system with three components: a Swarm Decision Guidance Assistant, Swarm Operations Assistant, and Adversarial Risk Assistant. Together, these tools help operators interpret data, assign tasks, and respond to changing conditions without being overwhelmed.

This human-centered philosophy extends to the interface itself. The team is developing tools such as tablet-based dashboards where operators can issue commands and monitor activity. Deciding what information to display is a major research question.

“If we show them everything, it’s overwhelming,” Nowzari said. “They can’t do anything with it.” The challenge of data overload is top of mind for American military leaders taking lessons from Ukraine, he added.

A frame from Astroswarm. Image provided.

To explore these questions, the project incorporates an unexpected element: a video game. Built by undergraduate researcher Gagan Manjunatha, the simulator translates swarm behavior into an interactive, accessible format. In the game, called Astroswarm, players design simple algorithms to control fleets of spaceships defending a target, mirroring real-world swarm coordination.

Using intuitive, block-based coding, players can program their ships, experimenting with strategies in real time. The system then collects this data and runs large-scale simulations. “We’ll collect simulations and run many trials and see who has the best algorithm for defending a point,” explained Manjunatha.

The game is designed to be accessible to a wide audience while generating valuable insights into how humans design and adapt swarm behaviors. Supported by a $966,836 award from the U.S. Department of the Army, the research will continue through 2028.

In This Story

Alex Brodsky

Daigo Shishika

Cameron Nowzari

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George Mason recognized as a top Military Friendly university

ckearney — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 16:25:01 +0000

George Mason recognized as a top Military Friendly university ckearney Fri, 06/12/2026 - 12:25

91�� has again been recognized for its steadfast commitment to veterans, servicemembers, and military-connected families, earning its latest Silver ranking as a Military Friendly® School for the 2026-27 academic year.

Office of Military Services staff. Photo provided

The annual honor recognizes colleges and universities that demonstrate excellence in serving military communities. Results are published on MilitaryFriendly.com and featured in publications including G.I. Jobs, Military Spouse, and Vetrepreneur magazines.

“The Office of Military Services is proud of this ranking,” said Jennifer Connors, director of the Office of Military Services. “Our team works tirelessly to support our military and veteran families as a single point of contact. The increasing complexity around benefits has created challenges for students and families, underscoring the importance of having experienced staff to meet growing demand.”

Nearly 14% of George Mason’s more than 40,000 students are current or former military members or military dependents. This past fall, 20% of new undergraduate and 25% of incoming graduate students were military-connected, making George Mason a leading destination for military-affiliated students throughout Northern Virginia and the metropolitan Washington, D.C., region.

Many of these students rely on their education benefits to pursue their academic goals. George Mason has seen a 41% increase in students using VA benefits over the past three years. Over that same period, there has also been a 146% increase in veterans attending under the Veteran Readiness and Employment Chapter 31 Program, which serves those with service-connected disabilities. Supporting those who have served has long been a priority at George Mason, as evidenced by the university’s recognition as a national leader for veterans and military-affiliated students.

Photo provided

Most recently, George Mason led all Virginia colleges and universities in four of its six veteran-focused online graduate programs according to U.S. News & World Report. Standout performers include the master's in business and master's in nursing programs for veterans, both ranked No. 1 in Virginia. Overall, four of the six veteran-focused programs included in the rankings placed in the top 20 nationally, with all six placing in the top 50.

In addition, George Mason provides comprehensive support for military-connected students and their families, grounded in an understanding of the unique academic, professional, and lived experiences they bring to campus. Through the Military, Veterans, and Families Initiative (MVFI) and the Office of Military Services, students connect with academic advising, career preparation, and regional resources tailored to the realities of military service and transition.

“George Mason is committed to leveraging the full breadth of its strengths as a public research university to support the military and veteran community through education, research, and community engagement,” said Keith Renshaw, MVFI director, senior associate provost for undergraduate education, and psychology professor. “This ranking is a testament to the incredible faculty and staff who work every day to make the student experience of service members, veterans, and their family members at George Mason as accessible and supportive as possible.”

Additional information about Military Friendly® rankings can be found here.

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George Mason and U.S. Air Force partner to rapidly field emerging capabilities

Katarina Benson — Mon, 18 May 2026 16:49:02 +0000

George Mason and U.S. Air Force partner to rapidly field emerging capabilities Katarina Benson Mon, 05/18/2026 - 12:49

A partnership between 91�� and the United States Air Force is accelerating the development and real-world deployment of technologies designed to support Air Force personnel operating around the globe.

Through a collaboration with U.S. Air Forces Central Command (AFCENT), George Mason faculty and students are working alongside military personnel to test emerging technologies, train the workforce that will use them, and move promising innovations from the laboratory into operational environments.

The effort builds on an educational partnership agreement established in 2023 and has since grown into a broader research and workforce development collaboration. Since 2023, AFCENT has invested nearly $10 million at George Mason to support experimentation, prototyping, and operational validation of new capabilities.

Secretary of the Air Force Troy Meink addressed senior civilian and military leaders from the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force financial management community, George Mason leadership and faculty, and AFCENT Futures Lab leaders at Fuse. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

“A priority of AFCENT was becoming a more data-driven headquarters, upskilling the workforce and building capabilities in areas like artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomy, drones, advanced sensors, and data analytics,” said Brett Josephson, who leads the university’s work with AFCENT. “They looked for a partner who could bring together both technology development and the education needed to actually field those capabilities.”

The partnership leverages expertise from multiple George Mason schools and colleges, including the College of Engineering and Computing and the Costello College of Business. Other units, such as the Schar School for Policy and Government and the College of Science, contribute when additional expertise is needed.

Josephson, associate provost of learning initiatives at George Mason and associate professor of marketing in the Costello College of Business, said the collaboration works in two directions. George Mason researchers share insights on emerging technologies they are studying, while AFCENT leaders bring operational challenges that require new solutions.

That approach helps address a persistent challenge in defense innovation often referred to as the “valley of death”—the gap between research and real-world use.

“Too often, technologies are developed but never make it into the hands of the people who need them,” Josephson said. “By working directly with an operational command, we’re helping bridge the technology transition gap between the lab and the field.”

Research projects focus on areas such as robotics, sensor integration, AI, data analytics, and computer vision. New technologies and emerging capabilities are tested in George Mason labs before moving into field experimentation and, ultimately, operational validation overseas.

The collaboration has also created significant opportunities for George Mason students. More than 25 faculty members and nearly 50 undergraduate and graduate students have participated in AFCENT-supported projects so far, funded through fellowships, assistantships, and student wage positions.

Students are able to test technologies in real-world environments, working alongside faculty teams at Air Force bases in exercises to identify vulnerabilities in defense systems.

“These experiences give students the chance to work on real problems with real operational implications,” Josephson said.

The collaboration also includes training initiatives for military personnel. George Mason faculty have helped develop specialized courses, including a mechatronics program that combines robotics with computer and software engineering to support AFCENT teams working with emerging technologies such as drones and advanced sensor systems.

Participants in the U.S. Air Force and George Mason collaboration. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of Unversity Branding

In 2025, AFCENT designated George Mason as a duty station—AFCENT Bravo—where Air Force personnel can work alongside PhD and graduate students to ensure research innovations are operationally relevant and that personnel are prepared to use them.

This partnership is unique in that it directly connects a university with an operational combat command, enabling researchers to work closely with those responsible for executing missions. That direct connection allows George Mason researchers to better understand operational needs and rapidly develop technologies that can be deployed in the field.

It also reflects George Mason’s broader strengths as a university located in the National Capital Region, where proximity to federal agencies, defense organizations, and industry partners creates opportunities for collaboration.

George Mason facilities, such as Fuse at Mason Square, which was designed to promote collaboration, have also played a role in bringing together government, academic, and industry partners to tackle emerging challenges. In one example, the partnership helped support a 72-hour Department of War hackathon hosted at Fuse that brought together hundreds of participants across four continents to rapidly develop and deploy defense assets.

“Innovation in today’s security environment has to move faster than ever,” Josephson said. “Partnerships like this allow us to bring together researchers, students, and operational experts to rapidly field emerging capabilities that help protect our service members and keep Americans safe.”

As the collaboration grows, George Mason leaders hope it will serve as a model for future partnerships between universities and national security organizations, demonstrating how research, education, and operational experience can combine to meet rapidly evolving global challenges.

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Navy veteran charts a new course with George Mason robotics

tdonnel — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 15:28:39 +0000

Navy veteran charts a new course with George Mason robotics tdonnel Mon, 03/09/2026 - 11:28

In This Story

Xuesu Xiao

As a scientist for the federal government, Naval Reservist David Eichinger’s path to a master’s degree in computer science at 91�� was less than traditional. A microbiology major turned technologist, Eichinger is now a graduate researcher in robotics. He represents the motivated, resilient students George Mason empowers, balancing academics with the demands of life beyond the classroom.

After noticing patterns in his work, Eichinger realized he needed computational tools to solve complex problems. Over the course of nine years—first in a post‑baccalaureate certificate, now in the master’s program—Eichinger built the foundation he needed.

David Eichinger. Photo provided.

“I chose the computer science program because I was interested in learning computer vision, machine learning, deep learning, and robotics to understand pattern recognition in data,” he said.

When he began exploring graduate programs, he sought proximity to his job and support for veterans in addition to an excellent program. That support system at George Mason has been critical as he balances graduate studies with military life, work, and family. It’s also one reason he believes George Mason is such a strong fit for veterans and nontraditional students like himself.

“George Mason’s [Computer Science Program] was just very flexible as far as the time of day they offer their classes,” he said, adding that classes can be either online or in person. Even more important to him was faculty access.

Today, Eichinger works in Xuesu Xiao’s robotics lab in Fuse at Mason Square, working on off-road mobility and social navigation robotics. The lab is lively, collaborative, and hands‑on. “It’s like a little makerspace to geek out on with different toys,” he said. “It is a joy to play with these robots and try to program them to move on their own.”

As a nontraditional student, Eichinger appreciates that George Mason creates space for varied pathways and goals. For veterans, career changers, and those returning to school later in life, his path demonstrates how George Mason’s computer science master’s program meets students where they are and takes them where they hope to go.

“It is not a walk in the park,” he said, “but it is worth doing if you believe in it."

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91�� will build an accounting and financial management academy for the U.S. Navy

Katarina Benson — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 20:37:19 +0000

91�� will build an accounting and financial management academy for the U.S. Navy Katarina Benson Fri, 02/20/2026 - 15:37

91��’s Learning Initiatives Network (LINK), through the Office of Continuing and Professional Education, will lead the creation and delivery of a new financial management academy for the U.S. Navy, drawing on expertise from the Costello College of Business.

The academy will deliver targeted, tailored training to strengthen financial management capabilities across the service and support the Navy’s goal of full audit readiness by 2028, a strategic priority of Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.

As one of the few universities in the country with a federal accounting focus and located in the National Capital Region, George Mason is uniquely positioned for this work. Through a five-year $48.7-million ceiling IDIQ contract ($53.5 million with options), the academy will equip 10,000 Navy financial management personnel worldwide with the skills needed to manage budgets, support audit requirements, and operate effectively within the Navy’s financial enterprise. The training will emphasize workforce readiness, helping professionals apply financial concepts within the Navy’s real systems, processes, and mission needs.

The effort also creates a pathway to degree completion for undergraduate and graduate programs at George Mason. In addition to workforce training, Navy students will be able to pursue degrees such as a BS in Business with an accounting concentration, an MS in Accounting, or a Master of Business Administration, and even earn a Graduate Certificate in Government Accounting as they progress through their graduate studies—helping fulfill an Office of Management and Budget requirement that financial management personnel complete 24 credit hours of accounting coursework.

“Our support of this effort is another example of how Costello is working to expand academic programs and lifelong learning opportunities for members of our military through workforce development programs and innovative collaborations with the U.S. Navy and the Office of Continuing and Professional Education,” said Cheryl Druehl, interim dean of the Costello College of Business.

Brett Josephson, associate provost of learning initiatives and associate professor. Photo provided

“It is an opportunity for us to come in and really help the Navy fulfill a major workforce training need,” said project lead Brett Josephson, associate provost of learning initiatives for the university and associate professor of marketing in the Costello College of Business. “They identified a gap that needs to be filled to meet the department’s strategic priorities, and we are well-qualified to help them meet that need.”

At its core, the academy delivers customized instruction that aligns with the actual processes, challenges, and software used by the Navy, ensuring that learning is directly relevant and immediately applicable. Much of the instruction is delivered virtually, allowing personnel stationed internationally, from ship deployments to shore commands, to participate without interrupting their operational duties.

George Mason is also partnering with leading firms in the government accounting space, including Deloitte and Kearney & Company, to strengthen course design, instructional delivery, and applied learning components of the program.

The Navy’s selection of George Mason reflects the university’s established reputation for translating academic rigor into mission-focused training and for collaborating closely with federal partners to develop solutions that matter. The Navy had a need for a partner who could meet stringent technical requirements while bringing insight into adult learning and workforce development, strengths that the university has demonstrated across both public and private sectors.

“What they need isn’t just information. It is structured, applicable training that can be integrated with what their teams are already doing every day,” Josephson explained. “We are ready to meet them there and help build something impactful.”

Financial transparency and accountability are at the heart of institutional credibility, especially for an organization as large as the Navy. As financial systems grow in complexity, the ability to analyze, report, and defend fiscal decisions becomes more critical. The training delivered by George Mason aims to make those capabilities standard across the Navy workforce.

Participants in the program will leave with a deeper understanding of financial reporting standards, budgeting procedures, audit frameworks, and data interpretation techniques, all grounded in real scenarios reflective of Navy operations. This approach enhances individual competence and strengthens collective readiness, enabling the Navy to achieve its audit goals while fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.

The partnership between George Mason and the Navy serves as a compelling example of how universities can support government missions beyond traditional research contracts. By focusing on customized education that yields practical benefits, the university is expanding the role of academic institutions as strategic partners, shaping skilled workforces capable of navigating 21st-century challenges.

This initiative highlights a broader trend in George Mason’s engagement with government and industry, leveraging university expertise to solve complex operational problems, particularly where knowledge gaps intersect with national priorities. In doing so, George Mason continues to embody its mission of advancing solutions for a changing world, aligning academic resources with the urgent needs of communities, organizations, and government partners.

“We have a long history of partnering with the Navy to support their workforce needs, including a custom internship program we launched in 2022 that brought cohorts of Costello students onto real Navy projects,” Josephson said. “We built that program as a service to the nation and to our students, and we’ve been honored to see this partnership deepen as we work together to support national security and help the Navy become more effective and efficient.”

Continuing and Professional Education at George Mason

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George Mason online graduate programs rank among Virginia’s best

ckearney — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 18:27:58 +0000

George Mason online graduate programs rank among Virginia’s best ckearney Mon, 01/26/2026 - 13:27

91�� earned top Virginia placements across business, nursing, and education, and leads in the region as a college destination for veterans and working professionals in the 2026 Best Online Programs rankings by U.S. News & World Report, released today.

Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

Recognized as the No. 1 public university in Virginia and the Washington, D.C., region for upward mobility, George Mason translates access into outcomes through its nationally ranked online programs. Ranked in 13 U.S. News online graduate program categories, the university appears in highly selective fields statewide; in eight of those categories, only a small number of Virginia universities are included, sometimes as few as two or three.

A National Leader for Veterans and Military-Affiliated Students

As a designated Military Friendly® School, George Mason demonstrates a long-standing commitment to serving military-connected students at scale. Approximately 14% of George Mason’s 40,000-plus students are current or former service members or military dependents, and approximately one in five freshmen, transfer, and graduate students this year has military ties, making George Mason a leading destination for military-affiliated learners in Virginia and the Washington, D.C., region.

That commitment translates into nationally recognized outcomes across multiple programs:

Master’s in business programs for veterans ranked No. 1 in Virginia, including both MBA and non-MBA options. The master’s in business (non-MBA) for veterans debuted 18th nationally and 14th among public universities.
The master’s in nursing for veterans pathways was ranked No. 1 in Virginia and among public universities in the Washington, D.C., region.
The master’s in information technology for veterans program ranked 19th nationally and 13th among public universities.
The master’s in education for veterans program ranked 18th nationally and among public universities, placing 2nd in both Virginia and the Washington, D.C., region.

Overall, four of six veteran-focused programs included in the rankings placed in the top 20 nationally, with all six ranking in the top 50, underscoring George Mason’s role as a regional and national leader in education designed for those who have served.

Beyond rankings, George Mason provides comprehensive support for military-connected students and their families, grounded in an understanding of the academic, professional, and lived experiences they bring to the university. Through the Military, Veterans, and Families Initiative and the Office of Military Services students are connected to academic advising, career preparation, and regional resources that recognize the realities of military service and transition.

“These rankings are a testament to both the strength of the faculty and curriculum, as well as the overall student experience that we provide for our veterans,” said Keith Renshaw, senior associate provost for undergraduate education and professor of psychology. “They’re reflective of our comprehensive approach to serving those who have served our nation.”

Preparing Business Leaders

George Mason’s master’s in business programs within the Costello College of Business posted some of the strongest gains this year, with the master’s in business (non-MBA) program climbing 19 spots nationally to 37th, rising 12 spots among public universities to 27th, and ranking 2nd in Virginia.

At a time when many traditional MBA graduates face prolonged job searches, George Mason’s business programs emphasize practical, career-aligned learning designed for working professionals. This year, two of the university’s four business programs ranked No. 1 in Virginia, with all four placing among the top five statewide, reflecting a consistent focus on applied skills, flexible online delivery, and workforce-aligned preparation.

“We continue to innovate across our online programs and the significant rise in our master’s in business ranking, along with our online business programs placing within Virginia’s top 5, are indicative of Costello’s growing prestige among business schools in our region,” said Cheryl Druehl, interim dean of the Costello College of Business. “These rankings reinforce our success in delivering an educational experience that meets learners' needs—with graduate programs that emphasize career outcomes, flexibility, and affordability.”

Excellence Across Key Academic Disciplines

Strong national and regional standing was also evident across multiple master’s programs, including education, nursing, engineering, and information technology.

In education, George Mason stands out for its national leadership in special education, a field facing persistent workforce shortages in Virginia and across the country. The master’s in special education ranked 7th overall and 8th among public universities, being only one of two Virginia universities included in the category.

That leadership aligns with George Mason’s broader efforts to address special education workforce challenges. Through innovative training programs, the university is helping prepare the next generation of special education leaders through a focus on evidence-based practice, policy expertise, and leadership training.

"National recognition matters because it affirms the responsibility we carry,” said Ingrid Guerra-López, dean of the College of Education and Human Development. “These rankings reflect the depth of our faculty’s expertise and our focus on preparing educators and leaders who think critically, continue learning and adapting, and work across boundaries to solve real-world challenges.”

The School of Nursing within George Mason’s College of Public Health also earned strong recognition as demand for nurses remains high across Virginia and the country. The master’s in nursing ranked No. 1 in Virginia and among public universities in the Washington, D.C., region, placing 41st nationally among public universities. The master’s in nursing for veterans program ranked 15th nationally and 10th among public universities, reinforcing George Mason’s role in preparing nurses to meet growing health care demands.

"At the School of Nursing, we advance nursing excellence by offering flexible, accessible pathways to advanced degrees,” said Dean Melissa Perry, College of Public Health. “Through online and veteran-focused options, we are strengthening the nursing workforce and preparing graduates to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care in a rapidly changing health care environment. The recognition as the top program in Virginia reflects the College of Public Health's commitment to developing tomorrow’s leaders in health care."

George Mason’s College of Engineering and Computing demonstrated strength across engineering and information technology programs aligned with high-demand technical fields critical to the region’s innovation economy. The master’s in industrial engineering ranked 11th nationally, and several programs placed among the top 50 nationally, including master’s in engineering (50th), master’s in engineering for veterans (34th), and the master’s in information technology (38th).

“We’re happy to be so well represented in this year’s rankings,” said Ken Ball, dean of the College of Engineering and Computing. “Our college has a successful history in online education, which includes offering George Mason’s first online master’s degree—a master’s in computer science—in 2005. We’re proud to provide flexible learning opportunities that support one of the university’s Grand Challenge [Initiative] solutions: advancing 21st-century education for all.”

Commitment to Access

Taken together, these rankings reflect George Mason’s sustained investment in education that expands access, strengthens workforce pipelines, and delivers meaningful outcomes. For veterans, working adults, and post-traditional students, George Mason’s online programs support upward mobility and regional impact across high-demand fields.

View the full list of George Mason in the Rankings

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Air Force veteran chooses George Mason for its ever-evolving environment

Taylor Thomas — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 15:36:52 +0000

Air Force veteran chooses George Mason for its ever-evolving environment Taylor Thomas Tue, 01/20/2026 - 10:36

As a chef in the Missile Squadron in the U.S. Air Force, veteran Collin Terling was constantly on the move, traveling four days out of the week to prepare meals for security forces. After completing his military service, Terling wanted a university that could keep pace with his desire for forward momentum. 91�� originally registered on his radar because his sister is an alumna, and he determined it was a perfect fit.

Air Force veteran Collin Terling. Photo provided.

“My favorite thing about George Mason is that it never stops; it is always trying to improve. I wanted a quality education that could help my long-term growth,” said Terling, who is graduating with bachelor of science in health administration in spring 2026.

Terling is a first-generation student and a part of the George Mason chapter of the federal Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program, which provides beneficiaries with assistance with tuition, fees, books, and school supplies.

George Mason has consistently ranked as the number one college for veterans in Virginia. He commends the Office of Military Service for their steadfast diligence in supporting his journey back into higher education.

“George Mason is a great school for veterans and offers a wide range of programs with endless opportunities for post-military veterans looking to get back into educational pursuits,” Terling said.

Terling decided to pursue a career in health care after seeing individual and systems-level pitfalls in quality improvement for patient care, electronic health records, financing, and integration of artificial intelligence in health. A number of College of Public Health faculty and staff guided him in his degree program planning. He cites Assistant Professor Lee Black, Assistant Professor Stephen Brown (retired), and Adjunct Professor Jerome Bozek for their knowledge and instruction of health care finance, health care law, and medical practice management. Terling states his academic advisor Julio Diaz-Carroll has been an instrumental support as he completes his degree.

“It took me a long time to really figure out what degree I felt aligned with,” he said. "I love problem-solving and hope I can make an impact on helping patients, the community around us, and contribute to the revamping of a struggling health care system."

Terling is doing an internship with UVA Health spring 2026 semester, where he hopes to take a deep dive into the complexities of the health care world and its systems.

“I want to get as much experience as I can working within multiple departments and collaborating with other teams to really get an overarching view of the many different perspectives from patients and health care staff,” Terling said.

91�� recognized as a top Military Friendly University

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From Navy technician to Micron Technology: How Nano Boot Camp helped one veteran launch a semiconductor career

ckearney — Wed, 07 Jan 2026 20:29:37 +0000

From Navy technician to Micron Technology: How Nano Boot Camp helped one veteran launch a semiconductor career ckearney Wed, 01/07/2026 - 15:29

For seven years, Charles Stewart’s world revolved around highly technical Navy systems, such as combat systems, anti-ship missile defense operations, radar-jamming technology, and electronic intelligence. In civilian life, he needed to find out how his skills could carry over.

Charles Stewart at Micron Technology. Photo provided

“I’d always been a technician,” said Stewart. “But I didn’t fully understand semiconductor technology. I knew I wanted something different, but I wasn’t sure which way to go.”

After leaving the Navy in 2013, Stewart moved into information technology and infrastructure roles. His days were spent making sure key systems didn’t go offline. The experience taught him how to read a problem quickly and respond with the kind of calm focus the job required. Along the way, he earned an associate’s degree in information systems technology from Northern Virginia Community College before completing his bachelor of applied science degree at 91�� in 2023, where his concentration focused on cloud computing.

It was that blend of precision and technical experience that made Stewart a strong fit for Nano Boot Camp, George Mason’s free week-long training program that introduces veterans, career changers, and emerging talent to the fundamentals of semiconductor manufacturing.

“The Navy is all about maintaining equipment that can’t fail,” said Stewart. “Everything comes down to attention to detail. Nano Boot Camp brought all of that together, from the science and the process to the hands-on work.”

Charles Stewart (center, blue suit) on a tour of Micron Technology in Manassas with his Nano Boot Camp cohort. Photo provided

The program is taught in George Mason’s Nanofabrication Facility (NFF) on the Science and Technology Campus, which anchors the Innovation District created in partnership with Prince William County and the City of Manassas. Both Nano Boot Camp and the Innovation District are supported through GO Virginia funding, which helps expand workforce training initiatives that meet industry needs and create opportunities that help attract and retain top talent in the region. Nano Boot Camp is one example of that investment in action.

Time in the NFF gave Stewart a better sense of the field. It helped him notice which roles matched his strengths.

“Once I got into the lab and started doing the work myself, it kind of shifted,” said Stewart. “I didn’t feel like a student at that point. I felt like someone who could do the job.”

On the final day of Nano Boot Camp, participants visited Micron Technology. The company is a global leader in semiconductor manufacturing, creating more than 1,200 jobs in the City of Manassas. This visit was transformative for Stewart.

“You get to see the robots, the equipment, the scale,” said Stewart. “It’s a very cool place to be.”

During the tour, he spoke with managers, engineers, and workforce development staff. He walked away with contacts and, soon after, an interview.

“I’ve always been good at fixing things,” said Stewart. “My resume showed reliability, readiness, and technical consistency across every environment I’ve stepped into.”

Micron agreed. The job offers him a foothold in a field he once knew little about.

“We see real value in training pathways that immerse people in the actual work they’ll be doing from day one,” said Michael Guttman, a strategic program manager at Micron. “What makes Nano Boot Camp stand out is its hands-on approach. Participants don’t just learn concepts; they practice real-world tasks and experience the expectations long before they apply.”

Micron’s experience reflects the kind of positive attention George Mason’s program is receiving, including from Virginia leadership.

“Advanced manufacturing is accelerating statewide, and that brings both potential and urgency,” said Megan Healy, senior vice president of talent and workforce strategy at the Virginia Economic Development Partnership. “George Mason’s commitment to developing targeted, industry-aligned training shows how education and economic development can work hand-in-hand to prepare Virginians for the jobs waiting for them.”

For Stewart, Nano Boot Camp was more than an educational experience. His story shows why efforts that connect universities with industry partners matter, and he hopes to see more of them introduced.

“Programs like Nano Boot Camp build real connections with employers,” said Stewart. “They attract veterans, career changers, and people from the trades who perform well under pressure and are looking for new opportunities.”

He urges anyone interested in the camp to come ready to learn. Pieces of that training continue to follow him into each new step of his career.

“It gave me a sense of purpose,” said Stewart. “Now I know where I’m supposed to be.”

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Veteran alumna pays it forward after soaking up 'great' college experience

Katarina Benson — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 19:32:49 +0000

Veteran alumna pays it forward after soaking up 'great' college experience Katarina Benson Mon, 11/10/2025 - 14:32

When Tiffany Taylor, BS Criminology, Law and Society ’20, enrolled at 91��, she expected her college experience to look different than most.

An Army veteran and single parent with three school-aged children, Taylor was responsible for multiple schedules. But, over the next two years, she was still able to capitalize on the opportunities at George Mason—attending classes on campus, getting involved in her program and classmates’ projects, participating in internships, and embarking on two study-abroad trips.

Not only did she soak up every minute of the college experience, but today she mentors current College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS) students, advocating for nontraditional students.

“I often say that because I was a nontraditional [student] and had outside responsibilities with my children, a lot of times it felt like I was just on campus for class and I would leave,” Taylor said. “But when I sit and reflect on it, I had a great experience at Mason, and I tapped into almost everything that was available.”

Taylor, BS Criminology, Law and Society ’20. Photo provided

Originally from New York, Taylor served as an intelligence analyst in the Army for more than seven years. She briefed senior-level commanders and staff for both Operation Iraqi Freedom in Iraq and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. Stateside, subsequent trainings moved Taylor and her family to bases in Missouri, Arizona, Georgia, and finally, to nearby Fort Belvoir in Virginia.

She imagined herself making a career out of the military, but, in 2011, she was forced to medically retire due to kidney complications.

“It was bittersweet having to leave the military and readjust to civilian life,” she said. “But I believe everything happens for a reason.”

After earning her associate’s degree at Northern Virginia Community College and working several odd jobs to help her family, Taylor decided to return to school and pursue her childhood dream of becoming a lawyer.

Taylor enjoyed being able taking classes on campus—both during the day and in the evening. She also appreciated how accommodating her professors in the Department of Criminology, Law and Society (CLS) were with her schedule as a single parent, understanding if she had to miss a class because of a conflict or welcoming and interacting with her two younger sons, who were in elementary and middle school.

Being on campus also gave her access to a variety of programs and projects, including an internship in the D.C. Office of Police Complaints and a role in a research study. She played a prosecutor in a guilty plea negotiation research study conducted by a PhD candidate in the Modeling Decision-Making in the Legal System (MoDiLs) Laboratory.

She heard about the opportunity from Allison Redlich, Distinguished University Professor and associate chair of Department of Criminology, Law and Society, who runs the lab. Redlich served as a mentor to Taylor, opening her eyes to a new career path in her capstone writing class.

“That capstone writing research class on wrongful convictions really opened my eyes and changed the whole trajectory of my law career and future,” said Taylor, who originally wanted to pursue entertainment law. “It just geared me toward public interest.”

Taylor’s curiosity, willingness to learn, and desire to improve made her an ideal student, Redlich said. The two stay in contact, with Taylor often reaching out to her former professor for advice or help on her writing.

“She had very clear career goals, and she did so much to achieve those goals even when life throws you a bunch of curves,” Redlich said. “She just kept going. I always found that extremely impressive.”

But perhaps just as impactful as her program was the opportunity to study overseas. A visit from members of George Mason’s Global Education Office to one of Taylor’s classes showed her that studying abroad was a possibility.

Over the holiday break two years in a row, and with her parents able to watch her children, she participated in two three-week experiences. First, she went to Tanzania and Zanzibar for a course on human trafficking and modern-day slavery. The next year, she traveled to Germany, Hungary, and Austria for a course on post-war and justice that focused on art recovery after the Nuremberg Trials.

On the heels of challenging medical issues, in what she described as an emotional time in her life, Taylor called the trips “life-changing” and expressed gratitude toward the Veteran Affairs scholarships she received to help pay for the trip.

Now, she looks to give back as she starts the next chapter of her career. She graduated from law school at Drexel University in Philadelphia in May and recently took the uniform bar examination with aspirations to practice law in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area, perhaps as a public defender.

“I’m a big advocate for nontraditional students and older individuals going back to school, individuals like myself, from underserved or impoverished neighborhoods that never would have thought they could have gone to college,” said Taylor, who serves as a friend of the CHSS alumni chapter board. “The opportunities I have had at George Mason, the doors it has opened... I’m a big advocate for letting people know. I’m very grateful for going the extra step.”

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