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George Mason student Ilia Malinin closed out the 2026 Winter Olympics with a powerful closing ceremony gala performance — a fitting final chapter to an Olympic journey defined by grit and audacity under pressure.

Michael J. A. Davis, BA Integrative Studies ’09, roasts coffee using the time-honored pan-roasting tradition of beans tumbling in a pan as the smoke rises like incense. What once fueled his long workdays eventually became his antidote to corporate burnout. In fall of 2024, he brought that transformation back to 91���� in a bag labeled “Brave & Bold.”

The latest session of the Virginia General Assembly is well underway, coinciding with the start of Governor Abigail Spanberger’s first year in office. A new administration brings new staff and cabinet members who will help lead the commonwealth. Among them is 91���� alumna Gerica Goodman, BA Psychology ’12, MPA ’15, who now serves as the governor’s director of legislative affairs.

On Saturday, February 7, 91���� student and reigning world figure skating champion Ilia Malinin helped power the United States to a team figure skating gold medal at the Milano Cortina Winter Games.

George Mason doctoral student Caroline Toth looks at how adolescents’ social media use is associated with the structure of their in-person friendship networks. Her research shows that friendships were more likely among youth with similar levels of problematic social media use and digital status seeking.

University Libraries at 91���� has named Samaine Lockwood, associate professor of English, the 2026 Fenwick Fellow.

Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger has named 91���� alumna Gerica Goodman, BA '12, MPA '17, director of legislative affairs.

MetroStar co-founder and chief executive officer Ali Manouchehri, BA Philosophy ’99, is the featured speaker at 91����’s Winter Commencement on December 18. Here he talks about his George Mason experience, his company’s partnership with the university, and his advice for new graduates.

Tereana Battle can look back on many accomplishments during her time at 91����, but one of the memories that gives her the most satisfaction is her capstone project, creating an anti-bullying workshop for middle school students.

Max Dacey enrolled at George Mason with a singular goal: to earn his degree quickly and better support his family. A former competitive rugby player, he didn’t imagine a traditional college experience. However, a year and a half later, the public relations major from Alexandria, Virginia, is graduating with far more than he expected.