Science and Technology Campus

Nelson Granados is September Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 16:37:28 +0000

Nelson Granados is September Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Tue, 09/01/2026 - 12:37

Nelson Granados, general maintenance tech in Facilities and Campus Operations, is a critical part of 91��’s Science and Technology Campus team. His colleagues know him for his outstanding workmanship and his willingness to help. For his capability and his dedication, Granados has been recognized as the September Employee of the Month.

September Employee of the Month Nelson Granados with President Washington. Photo provided

“For many years, Nelson has been a pillar of the SciTech Campus, quietly and diligently working behind the scenes,” said Colby Grant, director of administration and operations at SciTech. “His dedication and work ethic are unparalleled, and his craftsmanship reflects the highest standards of quality. He approaches every responsibility with an unwavering commitment to excellence.”

“Nelson's dedication and positive attitude have not gone unnoticed, and he consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that everyone has the support they need,” said Ronnie Wells, SciTech facilities zone manager.

Carrie McVicker, associate director of Facilities and Operations, said Granados is attentive, responsive, and prompt. “Nelson consistently demonstrates an appreciation for all research and academic activities on campus by working with us as we grow our programs and need a service or repair. His ability to balance the needs of the university’s mission with those of the academic units has earned him respect among faculty, staff, and peers.”

How did you come to Mason:

Granados has worked on the Science and Technology Campus for more than 20 years. In fact, he remembers the date he started: May 31. “So it’s been 20 years and three months,” he said.

It was a friend who told him about the job and suggested he apply to George Mason. “And I got the job,” he said.

Over the years, people have suggested he apply to jobs at other campuses so he could be closer to where he lived, shortening his commute, but Granados didn’t want to make a change. “I always said no,” he said. “I like it here. My coworkers are nice people.” 

What do you like best about working at Mason:

Granados said he enjoys his job and the work, but what is really important to him is the teamwork and the camaraderie. Just as his nominators spoke of his willingness to help, that’s what Granados appreciates most about his colleagues—that they are always willing to lend a helping hand.

And he knows almost everyone on campus. He enjoys greeting people throughout the workday. “Around the campus, you always find nice people. They know me. They always try to say hello or call to me ‘How you been?’”

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

When not at work, Granados said he and his wife have started talking about and planning what they want to do when they retire. “I don’t want to retire, but I know one day that will come,” he said.

In his retirement, Granados would like to take some classes and work on his computer skills. “In technology, everything is growing so fast.”

He said he also plans to stay active, which he jokes is also important to his doctor.

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Nexus234 Innovation District opens applications for its next soft landing cohort

Katarina Benson — Mon, 27 Jul 2026 16:29:22 +0000

Nexus234 Innovation District opens applications for its next soft landing cohort Katarina Benson Mon, 07/27/2026 - 12:29

This spring, start-ups from around the world came to the Nexus234 Innovation District for Northern Virginia International Soft Landing Accelerator's (NISA) Global Innovation Showcase. Over two days, the entrepreneurs pitched pioneering technologies; toured research facilities; met one-on-one with 91�� faculty, local talent, investors, and members of industry and state and local government; and explored what it would take to bring their businesses to the United States. The top companies from that showcase are now finalizing plans to move into Nexus234.

Led by Naugen in partnership with Nexus234, NISA equips international start-ups with resources to establish and grow their U.S. presence. Applications are now open for the second cohort.

Atheon Bio CEO Sue So Heui Choe speaking at the Northern Virginia International Soft Landing Accelerator's (NISA) Global Innovation Showcase recently took place at George Mason. Photo provided

NISA offers more than mentorship and funding. From the start, participants are connected with the researchers, investors, mentors, and regional partners who can help them take the next step, eliminating months of trying to figure out who to call.

The inaugural application cycle attracted 22 companies spanning South Korea, Israel, Japan, Uganda, and the United States. Ten were selected to participate in the Global Innovation Showcase.

The conversations sparked during the showcase are continuing today. Businesses are already working with George Mason faculty as they pursue new avenues for funding and commercialization.

One of those companies is Atheon Bio, a South Korean biotechnology company that is developing first-in-class antibody therapeutics designed to treat solid tumors and overcome drug resistance by targeting specific blood vessels that cancer cells rely on to survive.

For CEO and Founder Sue So Heui Choe, NISA was about the people as much as the business.

"Visiting Virginia and meeting everyone in Nexus234 was a turning point," said Choe. "I felt like they were not simply trying to persuade another company to relocate to the region. They genuinely wanted to understand Atheon Bio, embrace our vision, and help us become part of the community. Virginia is not only a place for Atheon Bio to do business. It is a place we can call home."

That early momentum has laid the groundwork for the program's next chapter.

“We’re excited to welcome these companies to Nexus234 and the innovation and global perspectives they bring to our region," said Andre Marshall, vice president for research, innovation and economic impact at George Mason. “As Virginia’s largest public research university, George Mason brings together world-class research, entrepreneurial talent, and industry partners to help international start-ups accelerate growth, forge meaningful connections, and thrive in the U.S. market.”

Mason Korea's Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship identifies South Korean start-ups that could benefit from NISA, provides early-stage mentorship, and introduces founders to the program early in the process.

"South Korea has a strong pipeline of companies, and Nexus234 provides an environment where they can succeed in the U.S. Through Mason Korea, we're empowering entrepreneurs and serving as a guide for businesses exploring U.S. expansion," said Joshua Park, campus dean of Mason Korea.

The benefits of NISA extend beyond the participating start-ups. As international companies put down roots in Northern Virginia, they also strengthen the local commercial landscape.

"International start-ups bring fresh ideas, but they also bring ambition. When those businesses choose Northern Virginia, they will gain access to [Prince William Chamber of Commerce’s] network of leaders in health care, technology, accounting, law, human resources, insurance, and other sectors, all ready to support their journey," said Kristi Black, president and CEO of the Prince William Chamber of Commerce.

NISA is one example of a broader effort that has been decades in the making. More than 30 years of investment by Prince William County, the City of Manassas, George Mason, and public and private organizations have created a flourishing innovation ecosystem. That long-term commitment helped earn Nexus234 recognition by Real FDI as one of the world's Top 10 Life Sciences Projects and continues to attract companies looking to launch their U.S. operations.

Explore George Mason's Science and Technology Campus

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New initiative aims to build AI literacy among educators through year-long professional learning community

Martha Bushong — Tue, 14 Jul 2026 17:55:00 +0000

New initiative aims to build AI literacy among educators through year-long professional learning community Martha Bushong Tue, 07/14/2026 - 13:55

91�� has launched the Ambassadors of Teaching in the Age of AI (ATAA) program, a new professional learning initiative designed to help educators develop the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the growing role of artificial intelligence in education and society.

The program officially debuted June 22–23 at George Mason's Science and Technology Campus during the Virginia Data Science Teacher Professional Learning Institute, which brought together more than 200 K–12 educators, higher education faculty, industry representatives, and government stakeholders. Approximately 50 participants joined ATAA as founding members of the year-long professional learning community.

Chief AI Officer Amarda Shehu at the Ambassadors of Teaching in the Age of AI kick-off event. Photo provided

The launch marks another step in George Mason's broader AI literacy efforts, by bringing together expertise from across the university to create accessible, research-based programming. ATAA is designed to complement existing educator preparation efforts while providing a foundational AI literacy framework that can be applied by professionals across disciplines.

Developed over the past year, ATAA was created through a collaboration among Peng Warweg, research program director in the College of Engineering and Computing (CEC); Padhu Seshaiyer, professor in the College of Science and director of the Center for Mathematics and Science Education Research and Outreach; Manpriya Dua, research postdoctoral fellow in computer science; and Amarda Shehu, George Mason's chief AI officer and professor of computer science.

The team focused on a growing challenge: How to build AI fluency among practitioners, particularly the K–16 teacher workforce. Warweg, who helped lead the program's design and curriculum development, said ATAA is among the first programs to translate newly released federal guidance into a practical learning experience.

"ATAA is grounded in the U.S. Department of Labor's AI Literacy Framework—a guideline that represents a national consensus on what AI fluency should look like across professions," said Warweg. "ATAA is among the first practitioner programs in the country to translate that guidance into a structured, accessible curriculum."

Peng Warweg (on right), research program director in the College of Engineering and Computing (CEC) with Padhu Seshaiyer (left), professor in the College of Science and director of the Center for Mathematics and Science Education Research and Outreach and Manpriya Dua (center), research postdoctoral fellow in computer science. Photo provided.

The launch was supported by the Virginia Data Science Teacher Professional Learning Institute, now in its fifth year and co-organized by Seshaiyer. Through longstanding partnerships with the Virginia Department of Education and decades of leadership in STEM education, Seshaiyer helped establish the foundation that enabled the program to launch at scale.

"Virginia has been building toward this," said Seshaiyer. "ATAA is the natural next step to connect research, policy, and practice around the future of learning."

Seshaiyer and Dua also helped shape the curriculum, ensuring participants receive both practical and technically grounded instruction. Dua's expertise in artificial intelligence and computer science research helped make complex concepts accessible to educators from a wide range of backgrounds.

ATAA also builds on George Mason's broader AI strategy under Shehu's leadership. A key component of the curriculum draws from UNIV 182 AI for All: Understanding and Building Artificial Intelligence (Mason Core) a course developed, by Shehu, to help nontechnical learners gain AI literacy. Research conducted by Shehu has demonstrated significant AI literacy gains among students who complete the course.

"Foundational AI literacy cannot belong only to people who already saw themselves as technical," said Shehu. "What we learned from AI for All is that anyone can develop real fluency when the teaching meets them where they are. ATAA takes that same conviction to the practitioners who multiply it: the educators."

Designed using a train-the-trainer model, ATAA aims to extend its impact beyond the initial cohort. Participants will complete a structured year-long learning experience and earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs). After completing 15 hours of learning, participants will receive a digital badge recognizing their AI literacy achievement, with a full credentialing pathway scheduled to launch in fall 2026.

While educators are the program's first audience, ATAA envisions expanding AI literacy training to professionals across sectors, including healthcare, government, technology, and community organizations. With its strengths in AI research, governance, and education, George Mason hopes to help prepare a broader workforce for an AI-driven future.

Learn more about George Mason's Grand Challenge Initiative

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George Mason expands access to VAST semiconductor certificate program

ckearney — Tue, 26 Aug 2025 23:36:38 +0000

George Mason expands access to VAST semiconductor certificate program ckearney Tue, 08/26/2025 - 19:36

91��’s state-of-the-art Nanofabrication Facility cleanroom on the Science and Technology Campus in Manassas, Virginia is set to transform workforce preparation in one of the nation’s most critical technology sectors. Beginning fall 2025, the facility’s class 1000 cleanroom will host the Semiconductor Chip Fabrication and Nano-Characterization certificate program through the Virginia Alliance for Semiconductor Technology (VAST), a statewide consortium advancing microelectronics and nanotechnology training and research where George Mason serves as a founding member.

George Mason's Nanofabrication Facility. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

The 10-week program provides intensive, hands-on training in cleanroom safety, lithography, vacuum system operation, and semiconductor characterization. Backed by IEEE microcredentials, it is designed for career changers, recent graduates, military veterans, and working professionals entering one of the country’s fastest growing industries.

“George Mason is committed to strengthening Virginia’s workforce pipeline for critical industries,” said Amy Adams, executive director of the Institute for Biohealth Innovation. “This certificate program in the university’s only cleanroom in Northern Virginia builds a highly skilled workforce ready to drive semiconductor innovation and meet the needs of companies and defense contractors across the region.

The program’s expansion at George Mason addresses the rise in military-affiliated participants, which have more than doubled statewide, highlighting growing awareness of semiconductor careers as a strong fit for technical expertise and security clearance advantages. Recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of Virginia’s best colleges for veterans, and as Virginia’s largest public research university, George Mason is a natural fit for this effort.

By delivering advanced, industry-aligned training, George Mason is putting the mission of Northern Virginia's first Innovation District into action. The 3,800-acre hub in Prince William County and the City of Manassas—anchored by George Mason and supported by a $2.6 million in state funding through GO Virginia—integrates education, research, and industry to drive growth in high-tech industries and attract global employers to the region.

With Virginia being a top state for business according to CNBC, and Northern Virginia being home to 75% of Virginia’s semiconductor companies, as well as major defense and technology contractors, George Mason’s investments in innovation, research partnerships, and workforce development position the region to meet evolving demands in advanced technology fields.

The certificate program is part of VAST's Fast Track to Semiconductor Careers initiative, now offered at seven Virginia universities, including George Mason, University of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, Old Dominion University, Virginia Tech (Blacksburg and Arlington), Virginia Military Institute, and Norfolk State University

For more information or to register for the certificate program, please visit the Chip Fabrication and Nano Characterization Certificate Program site.

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George Mason is part of Northern Virginia’s first innovation district, launched with transformational grant from GO Virginia

ckearney — Tue, 01 Jul 2025 14:34:37 +0000

George Mason is part of Northern Virginia’s first innovation district, launched with transformational grant from GO Virginia ckearney Tue, 07/01/2025 - 10:34

Thanks to a major investment from GO Virginia, Northern Virginia’s first Innovation District is taking shape, laying the groundwork for growth in high-tech industry sectors like life sciences, aerospace, defense, and semiconductors.

Governor Glenn Youngkin announced last week that the commonwealth will invest $2.6 million into Northern Virginia’s first Innovation District, with an additional $1.3 million coming from local businesses, government, and higher education partners. The funding will help launch the Innovation District and roll out programs aimed at making Northern Virginia a national hub for research-driven industries, while giving residents the chance to pursue strong, lasting careers without leaving their communities.

This partial view of the 3,800-acre Innovation District in Prince William County and the City of Manassas highlights 91��’s SciTech Campus, with major employers like Micron in the background and the future town center site underway on the right. Photo by Prince William County Economic Development and Tourism

“GO Virginia continues to be a catalyst for innovation and collaboration, enabling regions to pursue economic opportunities aligned with state priorities,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin in announcing $6.8 million in state economic initiatives directed to talent development, cluster scale-up, regional site development, and startup ecosystem expansion “These projects reflect a collective commitment to building robust talent pipelines, supporting industry growth, and strengthening the economic competitiveness of every region in Virginia.”

The Innovation District, led by 91�� and in partnership with Prince William County and the City of Manassas, will accelerate scientific advancement, bolster startups and established employers, and create high-quality jobs.

“As Virginia’s largest public research university, George Mason is deeply focused on equipping students to lead and succeed in a dynamic workforce,” said Amy Adams, executive director of the Institute for Biohealth Innovation at George Mason. “The Innovation District will connect education, research, and industry advancing innovation and improvements across the region while also giving students opportunities that extend beyond the classroom for real world impact.”

The district exemplifies the goals of GO Virginia, a state-funded initiative administered by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development that strengthens and diversifies Virginia’s economy and fosters the creation of high-wage jobs in strategic industries. The funding will give local workers more ways to acquire new skills and stay ahead in fast-moving industries. It will also support the introduction of new technologies, help entrepreneurs navigate the commercialization process, and increase the region’s appeal to companies from around the world.

Prince William County and the City of Manassas are key partners in developing the 3,800-acre Innovation District. The district includes Innovation Park, which houses major employers such as NAL Research Corporation, American Type Culture Collection, and the newly rebranded NOVA Live, as well as the Innovation Town Center project with housing and retail development. The Manassas Regional Airport, nearby aerospace companies such as Electra.aero, and global employers along Godwin Drive, including Micron and BAE Systems, further strengthen its position as a growing technology hub.

During the planning study for the Innovation District, local business leaders identified talent development as a critical factor for growth and expansion.

George Mason’s emphasis on career preparation, corporate engagement, and translational research is an essential part of the Innovation District. The university is leveraging cutting-edge infrastructure, including its CAP/CLIA-certified Clinical Proteomics Laboratory, Nanofabrication Facility, and a multi-story laboratory for air and ground robotic and autonomous vehicles, to support research translation and workforce readiness. More than an academic anchor, the university is broadening real-world learning experiences and opening doors for students to contribute to the region’s evolving economy.

University-affiliated districts are important links in the country’s innovation infrastructure, offering regional strengths with national relevance. The Northern Virginia Innovation District includes the Northern Virginia International Soft Landing Accelerator, workforce programs tailored to local employer needs, and young professional networks connecting early-career talent across the area.

Shape the future with George Mason

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Wexton’s visit to Science and Technology Campus explores research and economic impact

ckearney — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 20:18:31 +0000

Wexton’s visit to Science and Technology Campus explores research and economic impact ckearney Wed, 08/30/2023 - 16:18

Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton visits the 91�� Science and Technology Campus
Photo by Evan Cantwell/91��

U.S. Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton toured 91��’s Science and Technology Campus on Tuesday, August 29. The campus is located in Virginia’s 10th Congressional District, which Wexton represents.

During her visit, Wexton delved into Mason’s economic impact and partnerships with Prince William County and the City of Manassas and explored SciTech’s research labs. Neuroscience PhD student Dylan Scarton was among the researchers presenting their work. Scarton shared his endeavors into developing a biomaterial for peripheral nerve regeneration. His findings could lead to optimized recovery outcomes and reduced healing time for those suffering from severe peripheral nerve damage.

Learn more about Mason's Institute for Biohealth Innovation

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Donna Tressler is January Employee of the Month

ckearney — Mon, 03 Jan 2022 13:15:04 +0000

Donna Tressler is January Employee of the Month ckearney Mon, 01/03/2022 - 08:15

Donna Tressler. Photo provided

Donna Tressler says she does whatever it takes to get the job done in 91��’s Science and Technology Campus Executive Office.

“I’m a very behind-the-scenes person, but I make sure that whatever we’re trying to do, that we’re successful at it,” Tressler said.

Tressler, who is January Employee of the Month, has been an administrative specialist for the Executive Office since September 2014.

From managing multiple calendars, supporting the SciTech Campus Advisory Board, overseeing campus tours, and running the SciTech Campus Facebook page, “you name it, I do it,” Tressler said.

“When she is at work, she is focused, driven and ready to help the team succeed day in and day out,” said Colby Grant, assistant director of operations for the SciTech Campus Executive Office.

Tressler has led the marketing efforts for many events, including Leadercast, a leadership conference the Executive Office hosted in 2018 and 2019. Tressler attended multiple lessons on marketing, social media success, and search engine optimization to create every piece of marketing material for Leadercast.

“She is an avid learner and actively pursues trainings that will enhance the office goals, her colleagues and improvements to processes,” said Debbie Weitzman-Ward, assistant director of administration for the SciTech Campus Executive Office.

While the event was transferred to the Prince William Chamber of Commerce in 2020, Tressler continued to help with promotion by assisting with her social media skills and large database of contacts.

“Everything that she works on is delivered with impeccable professionalism that makes all participants feel welcome and included,” said Amy Adams, executive director of Mason’s Institute for Biohealth Innovation.

“Because of her support, we can grow and thrive at the SciTech campus and Mason at large,” Adams said.

How she got to Mason:

I previously worked in administrative roles for custom manufacturers. Prior to my position at Mason, I worked for a commercial real estate agency. Commercial real estate was hit hard by the last recession, and I felt it was time for a change. I had a conversation with Heather Aleknavage, the office manager and HR coordinator for Mason’s Office of Sponsored Programs, and she told me to apply to Mason. I did, and here I am.

Best day on the job:

Whenever a VIP campus tour is over, and Ronald Carmichael, the director of administration and operations for the SciTech Campus Executive Office, comes back and says, “That was fantastic,”—that’s a good day.

What she likes best about working at Mason:

I like the diversity of all the people here. You could be walking down the hall and run into a researcher or an engineer. I love how there are so many different people with so many different backgrounds. You never know who you’re going to be talking to.

What she does when she’s not working:

I am married with a 13-year-old daughter who is my “mini me.” I also have two step-sons who are grown and married with families of their own. My husband, daughter, and I live on five acres with our two foxhounds and a brood of chickens. I am a big reader so when I’m not hanging out with my family or working in our huge vegetable garden, you will find me curled up somewhere with a book.

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Hylton Performing Arts Center to hold virtual 10th anniversary celebration with live performances

ckearney — Thu, 02 Jul 2020 09:05:41 +0000

Hylton Performing Arts Center to hold virtual 10th anniversary celebration with live performances ckearney Thu, 07/02/2020 - 05:05

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Nelson Granados is September Employee of the Month

How did you come to Mason:

What do you like best about working at Mason:

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

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