George Mason Final Four 20th-Anniversary Celebration on Dec. 13 includes halftime program honoring Jim Larrañaga Colleen Rich Wed, 09/10/2025 - 12:46 Body The George Mason University men’s basketball team will host a 20th-Anniversary Commemoration of its historic run to the 2006 NCAA Final Four on Friday, December 13, when the Patriots face former conference rival Old Dominion at EagleBank Arena. The weekend will honor the program’s iconic past while also celebrating its present momentum under Final Four starting point guard and current head coach Tony Skinn, BA Communication ’06. At halftime of the game, the program will recognize former head coach Jim Larrañaga with a banner that will permanently hang from the arena rafters. He will be joined by members of the 2006 Final Four team, creating a special moment for the George Mason community to relive one of the most significant chapters in program history. Fans in attendance will enjoy a number of interactive elements to mark the occasion, including a one-of-a-kind commemorative giveaway, the opportunity to take photos with the Final Four trophy on the concourse, and in-game activations designed to engage Patriots of all ages.  To further mark the milestone, Athletics has unveiled a commemorative 20th Anniversary logo, which will appear on exclusive merchandise, social media campaigns, and storytelling platforms throughout the season. The program also will honor the life and legacy of the late Carolyn Marsh, affectionately known as “The Godmother of George Mason Basketball,” whose “CM” insignia will be worn by the team to celebrate her lasting impact on the program and community. The 2006 Patriots made history as the first modern “Cinderella” to reach the NCAA Final Four, capturing the nation’s imagination with upset victories over Michigan State, North Carolina, and top-ranked Connecticut in what is widely considered the greatest Elite Eight triumph in tournament history.  Two starters from that legendary team remain central to the program’s success today. Skinn has led the Patriots to a school-record 47 victories in just two seasons as head coach, including the program’s first-ever Atlantic 10 regular season championship, new records for A-10 league wins (15) and home victories (18), and a return to the conference title game. His teammate Lamar Butler, the 2006 NCAA East Region Most Outstanding Player, continues to contribute as George Mason’s director of player development, a role he has held since 2023. Together, they embody the lasting legacy of the 2006 run and its continued influence on George Mason basketball. Follow GoMason.com and @MasonMBB on social media for additional announcements and interactive fan elements tied to this milestone celebration.Patriots United. Together We Thrive Related News George Mason Final Four 20th-Anniversary Celebration on Dec. 13 includes halftime program honoring Jim Larrañaga September 10, 2025 Coaches Caravan brings George Mason fans together August 29, 2025 George Mason extends Vice President and Director of Athletics Marvin Lewis’ contract through 2030 August 20, 2025 Quinn-Irons selected by Tampa Bay in the 2025 MLB Draft July 14, 2025 George Mason Athletics embraces a new era of excellence June 23, 2025Topics Topics Campus News Athletics

Massimiliano Albanese named executive director of Institute for Digital Innovation Colleen Rich Wed, 09/10/2025 - 12:07 Body George Mason University has appointed Massimiliano Albanese as executive director of the Institute for Digital Innovation (IDIA)—a pivotal move as the university strengthens its position as a leader in cutting-edge research and technological advancement.  Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding Albanese, who joined George Mason in 2011, currently serves as a professor and associate chair for research in the Department of Information Sciences and Technology within the College of Engineering and Computing. For over a decade, he has served as associate director of the Center for Secure Information Systems, where he has played a critical role in shaping the university’s research strategy in cybersecurity and information technology. A recognized expert in cyberattack modeling and detection, optimal defense strategies, and adaptive security technologies, Albanese brings a deep understanding of digital systems to his new role. His research portfolio includes participation in projects totaling $13 million, six U.S. patents, two books, and 90 peer-reviewed publications. He is a recipient of George Mason’s Emerging Researcher/Scholar/Creator Award and earned his MS and PhD in computer science and engineering from the University of Naples Federico II, Italy. “Dr. Albanese is an outstanding leader and researcher who understands the importance of collaboration and innovation in driving progress,” said Andre Marshall, vice president for research, innovation, and economic impact. “His depth of expertise in cybersecurity and digital systems, combined with his proven ability to foster interdisciplinary partnerships, makes him uniquely suited for this role. Under his leadership, we look forward to strengthening IDIA’s mission of advancing digital innovation, expanding cross-disciplinary collaboration across the university, and positioning George Mason as a national leader in solving complex technological challenges.” Albanese steps into this role at a crucial moment for both George Mason and the technology landscape—particularly with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies. His mission is clear: to drive impact through collaboration and to position George Mason at the forefront of digital innovation. “This is a very interesting time to be in this position,” Albanese said. “By connecting digital innovation with AI and other emerging technologies, we can make a real difference—not just at George Mason, but for the nation and the world.”  AI’s rapid advancement offers tremendous opportunities as well as complex challenges, he said.  Albanese’s vision for IDIA centers on building a culture of collaboration that unites faculty, students, researchers, and external stakeholders. He said he plans to start by strengthening partnerships with the university’s other research centers and institutes. The university’s Grand Challenge Initiative (GCI) provides opportunities to apply digital innovation to critical sectors.  “None of these solutions can be achieved without a collaborative mindset because they are inherently complex and multidisciplinary. We are at a point in time of rapid AI growth that is changing the way we approach everything: AI and digital innovation will play a critical role in advancing GCI.”  Another priority for Albanese is diversifying IDIA’s funding sources in response to tighter federal budgets. He said he intends to strengthen existing partnerships with industry and nonprofits, and develop new public-private collaborations to ensure the institute remains resilient and impactful. He notes that as funding becomes more challenging to secure, the university must become more efficient. And one way to do that is for “IDIA to work closely with other institutes and research centers on campus to increase awareness of who is doing what and join forces to have a better impact.” Albanese sees IDIA as a critical driver in elevating George Mason’s reputation as a leading public research university. His strategy includes promoting technology transfer, supporting start-ups, and creating stronger connections between faculty and industry partners to bring innovations from the lab to the marketplace. “There is a lot of competition to attract students and resources, and we must establish ourselves as the lead,” he said. “IDIA can help put George Mason at the forefront of research by leveraging our strengths and bringing talented people together to solve big problems.” Looking ahead, Albanese encourages students and researchers to adopt a problem-driven approach to innovation and become problem solvers. “We should reach out to stakeholders with real-world challenges and develop solutions that truly address those needs.” By fostering collaboration, driving interdisciplinary research, and forging strong partnerships with industry and government, Albanese aims to position IDIA—and the university—as a national leader in solving complex, real-world problems through technology.    Learn about the Grand Challenge Initiative Related News Massimiliano Albanese named executive director of Institute for Digital Innovation September 10, 2025 Summer Academy transforms high school students into college-ready researchers September 3, 2025 Cybersecurity student hopes to use his powers for good August 29, 2025 Podcast: Best of Access to Excellence August 27, 2025 Biomedical internship yielded lively experience August 22, 2025Topics Topics Campus News Institute for Digital InnovAtion (IDIA) College of Engineering and Computing Research

Potomac Health Foundation grant will support expanded community mental health services in Prince William County Colleen Rich Mon, 09/08/2025 - 13:14 Body As executive director of the Human Services Alliance of Greater Prince William, Martina Jackson Green said many of the needs the nonprofit organization addressed coming out of the pandemic were immediate.  Robyn Mehlenbeck (right) is director of the Center for Community Mental Health. Photo provided The association provided funding to community organizations and individuals who helped Prince William County residents with paying their rent or resolving food insecurities. While mental health services received some aid, Jackson Green said it has become a priority that residents have access to affordable options. George Mason University’s Center for Community Mental Health (CCMH) aims to fill that need. Recently, the CCMH received a grant from the Potomac Health Foundation that will directly support its Stepped Mental Health Care Program.  “Funding for the center is important because there are so many people in the community who need quality care at a rate they can afford,” Jackson Green said. “This center provides accessible care that meets community members where they are. Language, cost, and transportation are often barriers to service. This program has accounted for those barriers. I think the center meets the needs of our community in a lot of ways.”  The three-stepped program from CCMH offers evidenced-based mental health care and provides a free, confidential emotional support line seven days a week with clinicians fluent in Spanish and English. The second step provides skills-based therapy for adults, with a three-session telehealth intervention, which is free for Prince William County residents (along with veterans and George Mason students, faculty, staff or contractors). Finally, longer-term therapy is available upon referral to children, teenagers, and adults on a sliding pay scale. In addition to funding services for Prince William County residents, the Potomac Health Foundation grant will also support community outreach, including making presentations, connecting with community leaders, and developing a community advisory board. “We understand mental health is a huge need in the community,” said Imani Amponsah, senior program officer for the Potomac Health Foundation. “We loved that it was in Spanish and English so that it was bilingual, which we think is very important for our community. Prince William County is home to such a diverse population—it serves a very important need in our community.” According to the 2020 U.S. Census, more than 21% of all households in Prince William County reported Spanish as their primary language. George Mason psychology professor Robyn Mehlenbeck, who has served as the director of CCMH since 2010, said the emotional support line and the telehealth option is important for many of the center’s Spanish-speaking clients who are hesitant to leave their homes for safety reasons. On the other side of the phone line and in therapeutic sessions are George Mason undergraduate and graduate students providing services under the supervision of licensed faculty who are practicing, teaching, or conducting nationally funded research. Mehlenbeck believes the special hands-on experience students receive by being immersed in the community, especially working with groups such as veterans, will hopefully spur them to pay it forward in the future.  “We have so many people who are so passionate about wanting to get experiences; it is just a win-win,” Mehlenbeck said. “They get real-life experience. So many of our George Mason students want to give back to the community and we have a developmental trajectory. I think it is incredibly rewarding because I feel very strongly the more we train folks in communities, the more they are likely to give back later on.” Clinical psychology PhD candidate Patricia Mejia already appears to be on that track. Meijia, who also received her master’s degree from George Mason, has spent the past three years working at the center in a variety of roles. She is currently the supervisor for the Spanish emotional support line, has served as a student clinician for adults and children in therapeutic sessions, provided psychological assessments, and conducted qualitative interviews for her research.  Mejia says the center has opened her eyes to possibly pursue a career similar to Mehlenbeck’s where she is teaching in higher education while also overseeing a center devoted to community mental health. “Given that I want to wear numerous hats, the clinic really does provide a great training opportunity either for those who know what they want to do and want to get training, or it is a good space for finding yourself,” Mejia said. “Truly, it is a very enriching experience and, importantly, we are able to work with really great community [members] and see the impact we are making on a day-to-day basis.”Topics Topics Campus News Community Impact Mental Health GCI-Grand Challenge Initiative

New lab school brings work-based learning to Shenandoah Valley students Colleen Rich Thu, 09/04/2025 - 13:21 Body Commonwealth, public school and higher education leaders joined community members, parents and students Wednesday for the opening of the Shenandoah Valley Rural Regional College Partnership Laboratory School for Data Science, Computing, and Applications (DSCA Lab School). Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin and Lt. Governor Winsome Earle-Sears helped kick off the academic year for the new Shenandoah Valley Rural Regional College Partnership Laboratory School. Photo by Liz Roll Photography Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, Virginia Secretary of Education Aimee Rogstad Guidera, Virginia Commissioner of Virginia Works Nicole Overley and Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears joined George Mason College of Science Dean Cody W. Edwards and school leadership at the Dowell J. Howard Center in Winchester, Virginia, to kick off the school year.   The DSCA Lab School is collaborative partnership between George Mason University and Frederick County Public Schools, as well as six rural and rural-fringe school districts in the Shenandoah Valley including Clarke County, Fauquier County, Page County, Shenandoah County, Warren County, and Winchester Public Schools, along with Mountain Vista Governor’s School and Laurel Ridge Community College. The Governing Board of the DSCA Lab School is co-chaired by Edwards and George Hummer, superintendent of Frederick County Public Schools and includes College of Science Chief Business Officer Meghan St. George. One of 16 Virginia lab schools created by Youngkin and the second for George Mason, this DSCA Lab School will support 10th- through 12th-grade students through academic programming that fosters data literacy and showcases the latest innovations in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Academic pathways will focus on data science and computing through research opportunities, apprenticeships and internships, experiential and project-based learning, certifications and microcredentials in data analytics, offering opportunities to earn an associate’s degree and college credits, as well as work-based learning.  The George Mason team with DSCA students. Photo by Liz Roll Photography In the era of expanding demand for skilled data science professionals, Edwards explained in his remarks that the DSCA Lab School’s innovative data science curriculum offers a real-world, problem-based learning environment with focused educational experiences shaped directly by workforce needs and student interests.  Students will work on specific, student-led research projects with peers, faculty, and other researchers. Mentorship is offered to students throughout the program by Big Data business and industry partners through a choice of work-based experiences to equal a minimum of one high school credit per year. Global and multicultural experiences are integral to the program as well, and students will interact with peers from U.S. territories, including Puerto Rico, and developing countries.  The lab schools are part of George Mason’s Grand Challenge Initiative, showcasing how the university is advancing 21st century education for all, as well as the university’s commitment to workforce readiness. “With the launch of today’s lab school, even more Virginia high school students in the Shenandoah Valley will be able to seize and benefit from a great educational opportunity catered to their interests.” said Youngkin. “By creating personalized pathways where students can pursue their interests and chase their dreams, we are empowering the next generation with the data-literacy skills they need to succeed in an increasingly data-driven workforce.”  “Data science is the fastest-growing industry in Virginia, projected to grow 18.2% in the next five years,” said Secretary Guidera, noting that the lab school will provide critical “exposure, experience and expertise” to Virginia students.  “This school’s distinctive learning approach connecting learning to real-world challenges can drastically enhance students’ educational trajectories,“ Edwards said. “Instead of beginning with theories, students are using data to find answers.” For instance, to determine the safest places in the Shenandoah River for swimming, students could collect and test water samples, analyze the results and interpret their findings.   “In addition to developing students’ data literacy, this learning approach also strengthens competencies of communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity, the very competencies future employees need to successfully lead,” he added.  DSCA Lab School lead Padhu Seshaiyer, a George Mason professor of mathematical sciences, explained, “Students from rural and rural-fringe school divisions will gain the expertise needed to make informed decisions, contribute to their communities, and thrive in a data-driven world—empowering a data-literate next-generation workforce prepared for the demands of the modern economy and essential for workforce readiness.” Learn about George Mason's Grand Challenge Initiative Related Stories George Mason Final Four 20th-Anniversary Celebration on Dec. 13 includes halftime program honoring Jim Larrañaga September 10, 2025 Massimiliano Albanese named executive director of Institute for Digital Innovation September 10, 2025 Potomac Health Foundation grant will support expanded community mental health services in Prince William County September 8, 2025 New lab school brings work-based learning to Shenandoah Valley students September 4, 2025 Summer Academy transforms high school students into college-ready researchers September 3, 2025 Topics Topics Campus News College of Science Lab School workforce GCI-Grand Challenge Initiative

Summer Academy transforms high school students into college-ready researchers Sarah Holland Wed, 09/03/2025 - 09:55 Body When it comes to summer, perhaps the last place many students want to be is back in the classroom. But the students of George Mason University’s Early Identification Program (EIP) are, as they say, “built different.” As part of their commitment to the college access program, EIP students spend three weeks on George Mason’s Fairfax Campus every summer attending courses in core academic areas and college preparation seminars. “We want our students to have the tools and resources they need to make sound decisions about post-secondary options,” said Mia Hines, interim executive director of EIP. “Cultural capital—meaning understanding how the systems of higher education work—is an important part of that.” Consistent exposure to college campuses and introductions to college offices and resources is one way students develop that “cultural capital.” And for the 11th graders, their penultimate Summer Academy experience is intended to inspire them to see college as a place where they can be empowered to cultivate their curiosity and take ownership of their research interests. Fares Eloseily, center, with his team's poster presentation. Photo by Rahib Zaman/University Life The core component of the 11th grade curriculum is the Research and Discovery Seminar, led by Nadeen Makhlouf, instructional faculty in the Honors College. Based on the Honors College first-semester research course HNRS 110 Principles of Research and Inquiry, this three-week seminar gives EIP students the opportunity to identify their interests and figure out what they can do with those interests if they decide to come to George Mason. Not only are students exposed to the breadth and depth of opportunities available in a post-secondary education environment, but they also get to experience what collegiate-level research looks like. “When they’re in high school, they are told what to write about. They’re given a prompt, they’re given a question, and then told to write an essay,” said Makhlouf. “In this course, we give them the power to decide. We want them to get a taste of the academic agency they’ll get in college.” Students complete a survey to identify their interests. They are then placed into groups with other students with similar academic and career interests. Each group decides on a research question and then compiles resources that could support their investigation into that inquiry—courses they could take, labs they could join, skills they would need to develop, and careers they could pursue. They present their findings at a final showcase. “This is the first time they’ve done something like this,” Makhlouf said, showing the array of posters set up in Dewberry Hall. “They were so excited to see the posters printed. Some of them want to take them home. It’s just such a unique experience for them and really makes them excited about their academic future.” Edison High School student Fares Eloseily is interested in the intersection of international relations and music “I know what I want to do but didn’t know where that could lead. This project showed me how I could make a career out of the things I’m most passionate about,” he said. His team focused on international affairs and the dynamic between the Global North and South. "It’s something completely different from what you experience in high school. I’m surrounded by people who are all committed and passionate about what we’re doing. And it’s eye-opening to see how college classes are different from high school,” he said. A key part of this is peer mentorship, also provided by the Honors College and led by Makhlouf. Current Honors College students offer support and guidance to the EIP students during their Summer Academy experience while gaining valuable leadership skills. Christine Ziu listens to one EIP student's presentation. Photo by Rahib Zaman/University Life “These students are just starting to look at colleges, but many of them aren’t sure what they want to do, or what kind of careers are available. This program helps them narrow their focus and shows them what’s possible, while developing their research and collaboration skills,” said peer mentor, Honors College student and cyber security engineering major Christine Ziu. “And it puts them in contact with people like me, who understand their experiences and can help them navigate that scary transition from high school to college as first-generation students.” For Betzy Balladeres Oviedo, one of the Honors College instructors working with EIP, Summer Academy has been full-circle moment. She began her George Mason journey as an EIP student, joined the Honors College upon admission to George Mason, and graduated in 2024 with a BA in social work. In addition to supporting EIP students in the Honors College's Research and Discovery seminar, she served as a program assistant for EIP's Institute of Excellence this summer. “These students want to succeed for their families, and I definitely saw myself in their shoes,” she said. “EIP alleviated some of the stress I would have faced around applying for and attending college. I think this sort of program, where we show students what college classes and research are like, makes them much more confident.”  Learn more about the Honors College Learn more about the Early Identification Program Related news Can AI expand access to legal services? This aspiring lawyer hopes to find the answer. September 5, 2025 Summer Academy transforms high school students into college-ready researchers September 3, 2025 Cybersecurity student hopes to use his powers for good August 29, 2025 George Mason student finds his voice through dream internship  August 27, 2025 Patriot Profile: Jackson Herbert August 14, 2025In This Story People Mentioned in This Story Mia Hines, Ed.D. Nadeen Makhlouf Topics Topics Campus News Honors College Early Identification Program (EIP) Community Engagement College of Engineering and Computing College of Public Health

Coaches Caravan brings George Mason fans together Colleen Rich Fri, 08/29/2025 - 13:59 Body The Patriot spirit was on full display Wednesday evening as George Mason University Athletics hosted its Coaches Caravan at the Farm Brewery at Broad Run in Haymarket, Virginia. George Mason Athletics supporters and community members gathered for an opportunity to connect with Mason's head coaches and university leadership in a relaxed festive setting. Photo by Athletics Marvin Lewis, the university's assistant vice president and director of athletics, opened the program welcoming the crowd and touting the recent success of the Patriots programs, both academically and athletically. "We had a truly historic year—both in the classroom and in competition," said Lewis. "Academically, Mason student-athletes achieved a 95% graduation rate across all schools and posted a cumulative 3.37 GPA across our 22 programs. That success is a direct reflection of our coaches, who emphasize academics, accountability, and the ultimate goal of graduating from Mason." Lewis added, "Competitively, we captured five conference championships—the first time we've done so in more than 30 years. We are Northern Virginia's team, and we invite everyone to be part of this journey—by telling our story, supporting our student-athletes, and showing up for all 22 of our sports." President Gregory Washington was among the evening's special guests, joining Mason Nation to celebrate the momentum and growth across George Mason Athletics. "We are making tremendous progress in our athletics program, and it's no accident—it's the result of outstanding leadership from Marvin Lewis and our coaches," said Washington. "Athletics is the front door to the university, and we will continue to provide strong support to ensure its success." The highlight of the night was a lively Q&A session featuring four of Mason's head coaches: women's basketball's Vanessa Blair-Lewis, men's basketball's Tony Skinn, baseball's Shawn Camp, and men's soccer's Rich Costanzo. Each coach shared insights into their programs, reflected on recent achievements, and looked ahead to the upcoming seasons. The evening concluded with a spirited round of George Mason trivia, giving fans a chance to test their knowledge and earn prizes. George Mason's Science and Technology Campus, Alumni Relations, and the Prince William County Chamber of Commerce were among the collaborators working with Athletics to establish a strong presence for “Northern Virginia’s team” in the region.  Support George Mason Athletics Related News George Mason Final Four 20th-Anniversary Celebration on Dec. 13 includes halftime program honoring Jim Larrañaga September 10, 2025 Coaches Caravan brings George Mason fans together August 29, 2025 George Mason extends Vice President and Director of Athletics Marvin Lewis’ contract through 2030 August 20, 2025 Quinn-Irons selected by Tampa Bay in the 2025 MLB Draft July 14, 2025 George Mason Athletics embraces a new era of excellence June 23, 2025Topics Topics Campus News Athletics