Office of the Provost

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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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.

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Meet George Mason’s new Provost and Executive Vice President, Marion Underwood

ckearney — Wed, 27 May 2026 16:45:27 +0000

Meet George Mason’s new Provost and Executive Vice President, Marion Underwood ckearney Wed, 05/27/2026 - 12:45

Marion Underwood most recently served as provost and executive vice president at Colorado State University. She previously held senior leadership roles as dean of the College of Health and Human Sciences at Purdue University and dean of graduate studies and associate provost at the University of Texas at Dallas.

Marion Underwood. Photo provided

What attracted you to George Mason? Was there a particular aspect of the university that made you say “I want to lead here”?

I am strongly attracted by the opportunity to lead the academic enterprise at such an innovative university on a steep upward trajectory. I am impressed by George Mason’s rare distinction of earning Carnegie designations as both an R1 and an Opportunity University, by the ambition of being an opportunity research university. I am compelled by the university’s core values of inclusivity over exclusivity, willingness to take risks, embracing diversity, viewing education as opportunity’s great equalizer, and examining our full truths no matter how messy. I am excited to collaborate with President Washington, other leaders, and the university community to help create a national model of a large-scale, high-impact public university.

What are you most excited about or cautious about when it comes to higher education and AI?

I am excited by the potential for artificial intelligence (AI) to force us all to focus on what is most uniquely human: our voices, our ability to communicate with particular audiences, our judgement and discernment, our intuition, and our creativity. AI can detect patterns and make predictions from large amounts of data that could save time and help us focus on what only humans can do. I am excited to work with faculty and staff on preparing students to lead in a world fueled by AI and to use AI ethically and responsibly. My greatest fear about AI is that we will not move fast enough to put ethical guardrails in place, that it will make our work more homogenous if we are not careful, that it will perpetuate harmful stereotypes, and that the burden of the tremendous resources it consumes will be borne by already marginalized groups and communities.

During your presentation you mentioned the importance of the university building public trust as a modern anchor institution. Can you explain what that means and why it’s important?

I learned about this idea from EAB, an educational consulting firm. Modern anchor institutions build trust because they make lives better for the people in their communities and their regions. Modern anchor institutions are outward looking, connected, inclusive, engaged in the community, and proud to do applied research that solves real-world challenges. More traditional ivory tower universities are inwardly focused, set apart from the community, take pride in being exclusive, and do research that is more pure than applied.

What’s your approach to input and collaboration with faculty and staff?

Shared governance begins with respecting each other’s expertise and roles at the university. I believe in communicating early, often, and transparently, and being open to feedback. I strive to create an atmosphere of psychological safety in conversations, where proposals are made stronger by people voicing different perspectives, where it is safe to disagree and voice fears as well as hopes. We need to be open to innovation, which means we have to end what is not thriving. I always hope that we can think together creatively and strategically about new ways of working, but consider carefully what to do first and what investments will have the greatest impact. I try to encourage being university minded, focusing on the larger missions of student success, research excellence, access, and community engagement, but realize that is hard when people care about their own work so passionately and are such outstanding champions for the parts of the university they lead.

Where do you see immediate opportunities to impact the student experience and ensure our graduates are prepared for the future?

As a clinical psychologist who studies the pain of social exclusion, I know that human beings have a fundamental need to belong. I am excited to collaborate with the faculty and with University Life to make George Mason an even more inclusive, welcoming community where all students can learn and experience the joy of feeling part of the community in close relationships with their peers, staff, and the faculty. A huge opportunity to make sure our graduates are prepared for the future is to always be strengthening and modernizing the academic curriculum, to make it even more challenging, inspiring, and future-oriented. We also need to consider the co-curriculum, students’ opportunities to participate in organizations on campus but also to be at the forefront of creating knowledge in a research lab or an artist’s studio, learning about the world of work in an internship or a practicum setting, or studying abroad.

What are you most looking forward to in your first year at George Mason?

I am most excited to get to know the people of George Mason, the faculty and staff and students and academic leaders, to start to understand what you all have done to enable this young university to grow and thrive and excel, and to work with you all to envision new ways to advance the excellence of the university.

What’s one thing people might not know about you?

I was born in Beirut, Lebanon, when my Texan parents were living in Baghdad, Iraq, and went to kindergarten and first grade in Tripoli, Libya, where my father had some of his first jobs teaching geology at U.S. universities. I spent my elementary school years in Canyon, Texas, and my junior high and high school years in Manhattan, Kansas. Looking back on it, my family lived in locations others might find unappealing, but I thought we were so lucky because my parents always did a great job of helping us form relationships and appreciate what each place had to offer. They taught me that you can create a rich and interesting life in all kinds of places.

91�� selects Marion Underwood as provost and executive vice president

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91�� selects Marion Underwood as provost and executive vice president

ckearney — Wed, 27 May 2026 16:34:34 +0000

91�� selects Marion Underwood as provost and executive vice president ckearney Wed, 05/27/2026 - 12:34

After a nationwide search, Marion Underwood has been named Provost and Executive Vice President at 91��, effective July 27. Underwood, former provost and executive vice president at Colorado State University (CSU), brings 35 years of academic, research and leadership experience to the role.

Marion Underwood. Photo provided

“Dr. Underwood’s career path has taken her to other institutions very compatible with George Mason, and she brings the right attitude and aptitude to thrive as our next provost,” said George Mason President Gregory Washington. “This is an important partnership as we forge George Mason into a university that is purpose-built to lead in the 21st century and beyond."

Her accomplishments at CSU included the creation of the university’s Strategic Roadmap 2025: A National Model for the Modern Land Grant University; formulating the CSU System Vision for Student Mental Health 2023; playing a critical role in fine-tuning CSU’s new hybrid RCM budget model; and the ongoing hiring and developing multiple outstanding academic leaders, including three deans.

“I look forward to working with faculty, staff, and University Life to strengthen a holistic student success model: expanding advising and basic needs supports, fostering belonging, advancing experiential learning and career-connected pathways, advancing research and scholarship based on societal needs, and building employer partnerships that help more graduates thrive,” Underwood said.

At Purdue University, Underwood served as dean of the College of Health and Human Sciences and distinguished professor of psychological sciences. She led the college through a period of strong enrollment growth and increased student success, oversaw a research portfolio of $32 million during the 2021-22 academic year, collaborated with the University Senate to create a new winter term, and led a university-wide cluster hire in Public Health, Health Equity, and Health Policy to attract faculty members to enhance expertise in diversity.

She also spent 20 years at University of Texas at Dallas (UT Dallas), culminating in three years as dean of graduate studies and associate provost. During her time as graduate dean, the number of doctoral degrees awarded annually increased by 29%. She earned tenure as an associate professor of psychology at Reed College in Portland, Oregon.

She has more than 20 years of continuous funding from the National Institutes of Health, more than 100 publications and an h-index of 51, recognition as an Ashbel Smith Professor at UT Dallas, and a distinguished professor at Purdue University. Her research on social aggression includes the 2003 book Social Aggression Among Girls and the upcoming second printing of her co-authored book Social Development: Relationships in Infancy, Childhood and Adolescence.

She is a strong advocate for student success, having collaborated with Enrollment and Access and Student Affairs to launch a transfer program at CSU in collaboration with Front Range Community College, and worked with the enrollment team there to recruit more rural students, while developing online offerings to meet unique needs of rural communities. She also developed a Student Mental Health Initiative for the CSU System.

Underwood has a BA in Psychology from Wellesley College where she graduated Magna Cum Laude and a master’s and PhD from Duke University in Clinical Psychology.

President Washington expressed his gratitude to Interim Provost Ajay Vinzé for his work; Vinzé will return to his role as dean of the Costello College of Business.

Washington also thanked the 21-member provost search committee, co-chaired by Melissa Broeckelman-Post, professor of communication and assistant provost for academic affairs; and Solon Simmons, faculty senate president, director of The Narrative Transformation Lab, and Vernon M. and Minnie I. Lynch professor in the Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution, for their work the past six months.

“Dr. Underwood’s career reflects broad leadership experience across major public research universities, grounded in a longstanding commitment to academic excellence, student success, and institutional innovation,” said Broeckelman-Post. “She is known for energetic, collaborative, and people-centered leadership, as well as for her commitment to mentoring, academic freedom, and inclusive excellence.

“Dr. Underwood’s work has consistently focused on strengthening the conditions that enable faculty, staff, and students to thrive,” added Simmons. “Her career reflects a strong belief that public research universities are at their best when they pair academic distinction with broad opportunity and sustained public purpose.”

Meet George Mason’s new Provost and Executive Vice President, Marion Underwood

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George Mason US–Korea delegation strengthens ties in Vietnam

Katarina Benson — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 19:54:32 +0000

George Mason US–Korea delegation strengthens ties in Vietnam Katarina Benson Wed, 04/15/2026 - 15:54

In a joint effort spanning 91��'s Fairfax and Korea campuses, a university delegation recently completed a five-day visit to Vietnam aimed at expanding academic partnerships and exploring new opportunities for collaboration across education, research, and student engagement.

The delegation included Janette Muir, vice provost for academic affairs; Cheryl Druehl, interim dean of the Costello College of Business; Joshua Park, campus dean of Mason Korea; and Danielle Swanepoel, executive director of international relations and strategic initiatives at Mason Korea.

The delegation with HUTECH University in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo provided

Over the course of the visit, the delegation met with leadership and faculty at seven institutions across Vietnam. Discussions focused on student mobility pathways, dual degree opportunities, faculty engagement, short-term programs, and collaborative research initiatives.

"Spending time with colleagues from George Mason in Vietnam was an incredibly rewarding experience," said Muir. "It was inspiring to see the connections being built with partner universities, and especially exciting to imagine how Mason Korea can serve as a gateway for Asian students seeking an American education. I'm very much looking forward to future articulation agreements with our partners."

A key highlight of the visit was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with HUTECH University in Ho Chi Minh City, a highly ranked institution with a strong focus on technology and innovation. The agreement establishes a framework for cooperation between the two universities, opening the door for joint academic programs, faculty collaboration, research partnerships, and student mobility.

Janette Muir signing the Memorandum of Understanding with HUTECH. Photo provided

The delegation also met with Van Lang University, Dong A University, VNUK (VN-UK Institute for Research and Executive Education), and Saigon Business School, among others. These discussions explored articulation pathways for undergraduate students, short-term study programs in Korea and Vietnam, faculty exchanges, and potential joint conferences and seminars.

Another significant moment of the trip was the launch of the Mason Korea Debate Lab–Vietnam, an initiative designed to introduce high school students across Vietnam to international debate formats and critical thinking training. The program was formally launched through a showcase event hosted by EMASI Nam Long, the first partner institution to join the initiative. Two Mason Korea student debaters traveled from Korea to provide introductory coaching and participate in the showcase debate alongside EMASI students.

"This visit reflects a more intentional approach to George Mason's internationalization—connecting partnerships across academic programs, student pathways, and research," said Park. "The Debate Lab is one example of how we extend that engagement to younger students, building the critical thinking and global citizenship that are central to George Mason's mission."

The launch marks the beginning of what Mason Korea hopes will become an expanding program across Vietnam, offering debate training, judging opportunities, and future camps and competitions.

Learn more about Mason Korea

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George Mason recognized 74 Provost Scholar-Athletes this year

Katarina Benson — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 18:58:07 +0000

George Mason recognized 74 Provost Scholar-Athletes this year Katarina Benson Fri, 02/27/2026 - 13:58

For just the second time, more than 70 91�� student-athletes have earned the Peter N. Stearns Provost Scholar-Athlete Award for their outstanding academic achievements. Following a record-breaking 78 honorees last year, 74 student-athletes were recognized during a ceremony held in February.

The Provost Scholar-Athlete Award was established in 2009 by then-Provost Peter N. Stearns to recognize student athletes who have achieved a cumulative grade point average of 3.75 or higher with at least 38 credit hours.

Peter N. Stearns Provost Scholar Athlete Award Ceremony 2026. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

The reception, hosted by Keith Renshaw, senior associate provost for undergraduate education, celebrated this year's Provost Scholar-Athletes and was attended by parents, deans and professors, and senior athletics administrators.

Interim provost and executive vice president Ajay Vinzé congratulated the group. Jack Chapman, a senior member of the swimming and diving team and a three-time recipient of the award, spoke on behalf of his fellow student athletes.

Marvin Lewis, George Mason assistant vice president and director of athletics, also congratulated the honorees during the ceremony. "This award represents the very best of what it means to be a George Mason student-athlete," he said. "Tonight is not just about athletic talent— it's about discipline, curiosity, leadership, and the mindset required to bring your best in every arena. Keep working hard. Keep pushing forward. And keep inspiring the people around you—because you are the standard."

Among this year's honorees, 31 are first-time recipients, 29 have earned the award twice, and 14 have been named Provost Scholar-Athletes three or more times.

First-Time Recipients

Lucas Alberti, Baseball, Business

Bryson Barnett, Cross Country & Track, Kinesiology

Regan Bestick, Lacrosse, Biology

Kaitlyn Bronowicz, Softball, Community Health

Charles Bunting, Wrestling, Business

Davian Burke, Indoor/Outdoor Track, Mechanical Engineering

Owen Clyne, Baseball, Integrated Studies

Riley Ellis, Lacrosse, Neuroscience

Shivaani Ganesh, Women's Tennis, Cyber Security Engineering

Jack Graham, Women's Swimming & Diving, Business

Tess Altevers Harris, Softball, Economics

David Hill, Men's Volleyball, Business

Pierce Hokenson, Golf, Business

Julia Howe, Rowing, Criminal Justice

Kaitlyn Kutz, Rowing, Chemistry

Marta Kux, Rowing, Business

Alexander Lillie, Men's Volleyball, Criminology, Law and Society

Sabrina Liu, Rowing, Nursing

Jordan Lucas, Women's Volleyball, Neuroscience

Michael Madigan, Baseball, Business

Adelline Oliveira, Women's Swimming & Diving, Physics

Helena Santacana, Indoor/Outdoor Track, Mechanical Engineering

Aleigha Scherber, Women's Swimming & Diving, Biology

Ryan Serbia, Men's Swimming & Diving, Electrical Engineering

Madison Sobota, Softball, English

Thomas Stofka, Wrestling, Kinesiology

Noelle Talarek, Women's Tennis, Integrated Studies

Giselle Torain, Lacrosse, Psychology

Kailynn Tyson, Indoor/Outdoor Track, Elementary Education

Maxwell Vom Saal, Cross Country & Track, Kinesiology

Camryn Weldon, Women's Volleyball, Business

Aidan Weltin, Men's Volleyball, Business

Angelina Zeidan, Women's Swimming & Diving, Kinesiology

Two-Time Recipients

Lauren Bailey, Co-ed Cheerleading, Sport and Recreation Studies

Victoria Bates, Women's Lacrosse, Special Education

Kara Becker, Women's Rowing, Anthropology

Julia Bike, Women's Soccer, Business

Alayna Brooker, Women's Swimming & Diving, Bioengineering

Luke Brown, Cross Country/Indoor Track, Economics

Caitlin Cardin, Co-ed Cheerleading, Government and International Politics

Mia Casciani, Women's Soccer, Sports Management

Haleigh Dellow, Softball, Psychology

Makenna Diaz, Co-ed Cheerleading, Education

Brant Ertel, Baseball, Business

Robert Evangelista, Men's Volleyball, Business

Amalia Florou Dimitriadou, Women's Indoor Track, Psychology

Marie Franjicic, Women's Soccer, Kinesiology

Kaleigh Friend, Softball, Special Education

Sarah "Midori" Galligan, Women's Rowing, Kinesiology

Page Greenburg, Women's Basketball, Psychology

Kristen Ivey, Women's Swimming & Diving, Criminology, Law and Society

June Johnson, Women's Rowing, International Security and Law

Elene Meurmishvili, Women's Rowing, Economics

Harlowe Nigh, Softball, Psychology

Carly Passaro, Women's Soccer, Government and International Politics

Isabella Puentes, Women's Rowing, Electrical Engineering

Clare Smith, Women's Swimming & Diving, Psychology

Casey Tingen, Women's Swimming & Diving, Business

Madyson Taylor, Women's Soccer, Community Health

Jazmine Vasquez, Women's Rowing, Business

Three-Year Recipients

Megan Baird, Women's Indoor Track, Computer Engineering

Kaitlyn Bestick, Women's Lacrosse, Political Science

Evan Blanchard, Baseball, Sports Management

Selamawit Caldart, Women's Soccer, Integrated Studies

Pilar Cerritos Gatto, Women's Rowing, Psychology

Jack Chapman, Men's Swimming & Diving, Criminology, Law and Society

Rachel Eberly, Women's Soccer, Sports Management

Peyton Farley, Women's Lacrosse, Psychology

Alexandra Hooks, Women's Soccer, Biology

Kamryn Inman, Softball, Community Health

Sierra Matheson, Women's Indoor Track, English

Ella ("Marley") Oare, Women's Indoor Track, Global Affairs

Allyson Yeary, Women's Swimming & Diving, Business

Georgi Zahariev, Men's Volleyball, Cyber Security

"Tonight is not just about athletic talent—it's about discipline, curiosity, leadership, and the mindset required to bring your best in every arena."

—Marvin Lewis, Assistant VP and Director of Athletics

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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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Graduate Success Fellows program empowers students to support peers

Katarina Benson — Fri, 09 Jan 2026 20:38:32 +0000

Graduate Success Fellows program empowers students to support peers Katarina Benson Fri, 01/09/2026 - 15:38

Being a graduate student isn’t easy—it can be difficult to balance an academic workload, teaching, and a job, all while adapting to a new environment. Rather than facing these challenges alone, graduate students now have a new resource to help them navigate the graduate school experience: Graduate Success Fellows.

Graduate Success Fellows with their supervisors. Photo provided

The Graduate Success Fellows program was established in the fall semester by 91��’s Graduate Division based on feedback from the 2024 Mason Graduate Experience Survey, which showed that graduate students typically turn to their peers—rather than faculty or staff—for guidance about the graduate education journey.

“The survey results made it clear that the channels that we typically use to communicate with graduate students weren’t the ones they preferred,” said Alyssa Bivins, senior graduate professional development coordinator for the Graduate Division. “With this insight, we saw an opportunity to train graduate students who could serve as trusted sources of information on all aspects of graduate education—everything from funding opportunities, exploring internships, and flexible job options to connecting with others who share similar interests.”

To launch the program, the Graduate Division asked schools and colleges to nominate graduate students to serve in the inaugural cohort of fellows. Throughout the fall semester, 12 fellows received extensive training to learn about the support and services available to graduate students at George Mason, and met with their individual academic units and with offices across campus, including Graduate Student Life, the Office of Fellowships, and others.

Bivins and Stephanie Bluth, associate director for graduate professional and career development in the Graduate Division, lead a a mentorship training session for the fellows. Both received training from the Center for the Improvement of Mentored Experiences in Research at the Wisconsin Center for Education Research at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. The session focused on peer leader and mentorship techniques to support diverse graduate students.

“The training was really eye-opening,” said Harris Davis, a second-year student in the School Psychology Program in the College of Education and Human Development. “I wish I had known about these resources when I started my master’s program.”

For Davis, the information about financial assistance and employment stood out the most. “So many graduate students have questions about funding opportunities, and George Mason’s graduate financial support services can really help,” he said. “They do more than just scholarships and traditional aid. They cover all areas of graduate education, from finding a job that fits your schedule to obtaining funding for travel to present at a conference.”

Sara Almadani, a second-year PhD student in the Climate Dynamics Program in the College of Science, was impressed with the social resources that are available for graduate students at George Mason. “Coming into a university as a graduate student can be lonely,” she said. “Being able to talk to someone to find out what to do for fun or where to meet other people in the program makes it easier to adjust to graduate life.”

More than just taking on an ambassador role for the university’s graduate student services, Graduate Success Fellows are also working on projects within their schools and colleges to better support graduate students. These projects include improving social media outreach, creating a professional development series, and deploying surveys to better understand graduate student needs, among others.

“I’ve been blown away by the initiative of the fellows,” said Bivins. “Our inaugural group had to do a lot of pioneering to figure out what this program will look like and how it will operate. They really have the best interests of their fellow graduate students at heart, and it shows.”

Graduate students who want to connect with a Graduate Success Fellow can get in touch with their academic unit’s representative. Contacting a Graduate Success Fellow is free—and can save hours of searching online for the right information.

“If you have a question, no matter how small, reach out and we can help you find a solution,” said Davis. “Whether you’re looking for a quiet space to study or just want to know where to grab some free popcorn, we’re here to help.”

Graduate Success Fellowships are paid full-time graduate professional assistant positions. Students are nominated by their school or college. Information about the selection process for the 2026-27 school year and information regarding requirements and responsibilities is available at graduate.gmu.edu.

Learn more about the Graduate Success Fellows

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Students

Peer mentors

Ajay Vinzé, Costello College of Business Dean, appointed interim provost

Katarina Benson — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 21:27:56 +0000

Ajay Vinzé, Costello College of Business Dean, appointed interim provost Katarina Benson Wed, 12/10/2025 - 16:27

Costello College of Business dean Ajay Vinzé has been named interim provost at 91��, effective immediately, President Gregory Washington announced Wednesday.

Ajay Vinzé. Photo by Office of University Branding

This follows Provost Jim Antony’s recent announcement that he will become provost of the University of San Diego as of March 1. Vinzé will serve alongside Antony from now through February to ensure a collaborative transition.

“Ajay, a distinguished scholar, is a respected voice among our deans,” Washington said. “I look forward to working closely with him during his time as interim provost. I ask that you extend to him your support and good wishes as he steps into this important role for George Mason.”

Since joining the university in 2022 as dean of the School of Business, Vinzé has overseen its rapid transformation to a named college, positioning the Costello College of Business as a nationally recognized leader in business education. Under his leadership the college has established a signature interdisciplinary and modular approach to workforce-ready degree delivery; championed student experiences with programs like Costello on Wall Street, Patriot Pitch, and the Camp Costello initiative for incoming first-year students; and a maintained a commitment to cross-campus research and curricular collaborations.

“While my heart remains firmly with the Costello College of Business—and I fully intend to return once a permanent provost is named—this interim role offers an important opportunity to support the broader university community that has championed our college’s growth and success over the past three years,” Vinzé said.

Cheryl Druehl, Costello’s senior associate dean for faculty affairs and research, will serve as interim dean during this time. 

James Anthony. Photo by Office of University Branding

Washington also offered appreciation for Antony’s work as provost, noting that he moved quickly to advance significant initiatives from the Provost’s Office, including implementing the new academic budget model, improving communication across senior teams, and establishing task forces and working groups focusing on several key university initiatives. He also hired Cody Edwards as dean for the College of Science and has put into motion the search for a new Scalia Law School dean, and worked with the Board of Visitors to advance important academic matters.

“I want to thank Jim for serving with such distinction in his time here. While I will miss Jim’s thought partnership, I know his appointment as provost of USD is the fulfillment of a significant life and career aspiration, and I am thrilled for him,” Washington said.

The process to conduct a national search for a permanent provost will be announced after the winter break.

“Please join me in congratulating Jim, Ajay, and Cheryl in their respective leadership roles,” Washington said.

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Faculty and Staff News

Costello College of Business

Provost Antony announces new role as University of San Diego's provost, effective March 1, 2026

ckearney — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 22:40:04 +0000

Provost Antony announces new role as University of San Diego's provost, effective March 1, 2026 ckearney Mon, 11/17/2025 - 17:40

James (Jim) Antony, PhD, will become the next vice president of academic affairs and provost at the University of San Diego, effective March 1, 2026. Jim became provost and executive vice president at 91�� on July 1, 2024, coming from the University of California San Diego where he had served as dean of graduate education and postdoctoral affairs.

James Antony. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

An interim provost will be announced soon, followed by details and a timeline of a national search process.

“Jim has accomplished a great deal in his time at George Mason,” said President Gregory Washington. “Among his many accomplishments, he led collaborative efforts to develop a new budget model, to strengthen enrollment management, and to advance the implementation of Patriot Connect."

"This unanticipated opportunity to lead the academic enterprise at one of the nation’s top private Catholic universities fulfills a calling for me,” Provost Antony said. "In the meantime, we have much important work to do together. I look forward to making our remaining months productive and joyful.”

"Jim has been a thoughtful partner in all of the university’s work and the impact of his work will be long lasting,” Washington added.

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Office of the Provost

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