It’s Academic welcomes George Mason as a new sponsor Colleen Rich Wed, 10/09/2024 - 14:27 Body George Mason University is a new sponsor of It’s Academic, the longest-running high school quiz show in the world. The weekly competition series will broadcast exclusively on WETA PBS, beginning Oct. 12 and running through June 2025. Students from more than 80 D.C. area secondary schools will participate during this season of It's Academic. Photo provided “We are very grateful to have George Mason University as a sponsor of our 64th season,” said Executive Producer Susan Altman. “For over 60 years, It’s Academic has focused on students and academic achievement. Like It’s Academic, George Mason is committed to innovative and inclusive academic excellence. The university has long attracted high-achieving students from around the country.” “This sponsorship aligns perfectly with George Mason’s mission to provide transformational learning experiences that help students in the region grow as individuals and scholars,” said Paul G. Allvin, vice president and chief brand officer at George Mason. “It’s Academic exemplifies the spirit of friendly competition, uniting families and school communities. Together, we aim to encourage the advancement and sharing of knowledge that empowers the next generation of leaders.” “Education is at the heart of our public media mission, and this is a fantastic example of how our community has come together to celebrate the success and hard work of our young people,” said Miguel Monteverde, senior vice president and general manager, WETA Greater Washington. “WETA is proud to be hosting It’s Academic in our new production studios, and we’re delighted that George Mason is supporting this new season,” The Emmy Award-winning program, launched in 1961, showcases the academic achievements of students from local schools. More than 80 secondary schools from the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area will participate during the upcoming season hosted by Emmy Award-winning journalist Hillary Howard. It’s Academic is produced by Altman Productions Inc. in cooperation with DMR Productions LLC and WETA. Executive Producers for the program are Susan Altman and David M. Rubenstein cofounder and cochairman of The Carlyle Group. Funding is provided by George Mason. Episodes initially broadcast on Saturdays at 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. on WETA PBS and WETA Metro. Each episode will encore on Sundays at 4 p.m. on WETA Metro, the following Monday at 3 p.m. on WETA PBS and 7 p.m. on WETA Metro. Episodes will also be available to stream on the PBS Video app, on YouTube (@wetapbs) and at weta.org. For more information, visit weta.org/itsacademic.Power the Possible More Campus News Live Discussion with David French: What Do Evangelical Christians Want, Liberty or Authority? October 14, 2024 Fall for the Book brings authors to campus this month October 10, 2024 It’s Academic welcomes George Mason as a new sponsor October 10, 2024 George Mason University recognized for commitment to access, diversity and inclusion October 9, 2024 Movers and Shakers offers students lessons beyond the classroom October 8, 2024 Topics Topics Campus News Sponsorship

George Mason University recognized for commitment to access, diversity and inclusion Colleen Rich Wed, 10/09/2024 - 13:33 Body George Mason University has been recognized with a 2024 Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award from Insight into Diversity magazine, an honor given to institutions that demonstrate a commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion across their campuses. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding The award acknowledges the colleges and universities that are dedicated to promoting access, diversity, and opportunity, creating a more inclusive campus environment. George Mason, along with other 113 recipients, will be featured in the upcoming November/December issue of Insight Into Diversity, the oldest and most-robust diversity-focused publication in higher education. “This award recognizes George Mason’s steadfast efforts to promote inclusivity within higher education and its unwavering commitment to fostering a sense of belonging and opportunity for all students,” said Sharnnia Artis, George Mason’s vice president and chief diversity officer. George Mason, with its dedication to access, is ranked best in Virginia for value and upward mobility by U.S. News & World Report and the Wall Street Journal. The Mason Virginia Promise provides a pathway to a bachelor’s degree through both its ADVANCE partnership with Northern Virginia Community College and its expansion to other select community colleges in the commonwealth. The university also has a direct admissions program with more than 20 high schools, which led to more than 400 students enrolled for fall, and is opening two lab schools.  Another example of the university’s work in this area is the Access to Research and Inclusive Excellence (ARIE) National Conference, held this spring on George Mason’s Fairfax Campus. The event brought together student researchers, faculty, and industry leaders to address critical issues in mental health, neurodiversity, and immigrant family support, reflecting the university’s commitment to advancing inclusive excellence through meaningful research and community engagement. In a press release, Lenore Pearlstein, the publisher of Insight Into Diversity, explained the rigorous selection for the award. “The HEED Award process consists of a comprehensive and rigorous application that includes questions relating to the recruitment and retention of students and employees—and best practices for both—leadership support for diversity, campus culture and climate, supplier diversity, and many other aspects of campus diversity and inclusion,” Pearlstein said. “We take a detailed approach to reviewing each application in deciding who will be named a HEED Award recipient. Our standards are high, and we look for institutions where diversity and inclusion are woven into the work being done every day across their campus.”Related News Live Discussion with David French: What Do Evangelical Christians Want, Liberty or Authority? October 14, 2024 Fall for the Book brings authors to campus this month October 10, 2024 It’s Academic welcomes George Mason as a new sponsor October 10, 2024 George Mason University recognized for commitment to access, diversity and inclusion October 9, 2024 Movers and Shakers offers students lessons beyond the classroom October 8, 2024Topics Topics Campus News Around Mason (E-Files) Faculty and Staff News inclusive excellence Strategic Direction

Movers and Shakers offers students lessons beyond the classroom Colleen Rich Tue, 10/08/2024 - 13:06 Body With the start of the fall semester comes the much-anticipated Movers and Shakers Mixer, the annual networking event connecting George Mason University students with influential business, community, and government executives at Mason Square in Arlington.    The Movers and Shakers Mixer connects George Mason students with Arlington community members. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding Graduate students, like Paul Davis Jr., recognize their educational experience extends beyond the classroom. Davis, the policy director for Fairfax County Board Supervisor Walter Alcorn, is pursuing a master of public administration from the Schar School of Policy and Government. “When I enrolled in graduate school, I knew I needed to shift my approach to networking from what I did as an undergrad,” he said. “Beyond just making connections, graduate school has shown me the importance of seizing opportunities as they arise. The Schar School has been incredible in providing opportunities, like Movers and Shakers, that’s enriching my education.” Yanika Khumphaiphuan and Titilayo Owoyemi are pursuing the U.S. Law LLM degree at George Mason’s Antonin Scalia Law School. The aspiring attorneys were excited to meet new connections. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding Owoyemi met a financial services professional from Northwestern Mutual who shared industry insights and career advancement advice. “I found it incredibly valuable to hear from professionals outside of the legal field and learn more about effective networking,” Owoyemi said. In addition to networking with business and community leaders, students tapped into the George Mason ecosystem. Khumphaiphuan connected with students and faculty from other academic programs. Similarly, Bethsaida Gizaw, a senior undergraduate studying global affairs with a concentration in Global Governance, connected with Scalia Law School students and faculty and professionals in her field. “As a future attorney, forming meaningful relationships and learning about diverse perspectives are important,” said Gizaw, who said she looks forward to other similar events. Five attendees also won a raffle for one-on-one networking lunches with Arlington leaders. Susan Cunningham, Arlington County Board member, was among the business, community, and government leaders at the event. “I enjoyed supporting and connecting with young people,” Cunningham said. “The students are amazing! They’re so ambitious and forward-thinking. It was a great opportunity to celebrate George Mason’s role in the Arlington Community.” Cunningham advises students to take advantage of their unique position. “Stay curious, ask questions, and enjoy the adventure of learning,” she said.  Fuse at Mason Square, a 345,000-square-foot building designed with collaborative spaces and emerging-tech labs and offices for business, research scholarship, and community engagement, announced its first commercial tech tenant, Cybastion, and will house George Mason students and employees starting in fall 2025. Learn more about Mason Square Related News Movers and Shakers offers students lessons beyond the classroom October 8, 2024 Civil engineering student builds a solid foundation with summer internship October 7, 2024 George Mason University announces first commercial tenant at Fuse at Mason Square October 2, 2024 George Mason University’s Amarda Shehu appointed inaugural Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer September 4, 2024 High schoolers explore renewable energy engineering at Mason Square summer camp   August 26, 2024Topics Topics Campus News Mason Square Students Community Engagement

Jimmy Hazel, steadfast George Mason alum and friend, looks to the future with a foundational gift Colleen Rich Mon, 10/07/2024 - 11:05 Body James W. “Jimmy” Hazel, JD ’84, has led a life of service to the Commonwealth of Virginia—and to George Mason University. In July 2024, as his term on the university’s Board of Visitors concluded, Hazel added to his considerable legacy with a gift of $1 million for the Smithsonian–Mason School of Conservation (SMSC). James Hazel speaking at the university's 50th anniversary event. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding The gift, reflecting Hazel’s wishes to advance the important work of the school, creates two funds. The first will provide support for graduate or undergraduate students enrolled at SMSC, and the second will support the operations of the school’s programs. “This gift represents my personal passion for conservation and my hope is that it will allow George Mason to draw in a diverse group of new PhD students to the program,” Hazel said. Hazel is a cochair on the Advisory Board for SMSC, a research and academic facility in Front Royal, Virginia, that operates under a partnership between the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute and George Mason. The facility covers more than 3,000 acres of forest, grassland, and pasture, and houses a range of endangered mammals, birds, and amphibians. SMSC conducts research and offers proactive methodologies of conservation biology education and training, providing hands-on interdisciplinary programs to undergraduates, graduate students, professionals, and high school students. It draws from the educational innovation of George Mason faculty and the established work of the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute to create a transdisciplinary approach to conservation leadership that is research-based, forward-looking, and ethical. Students conducting field work at the Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding Cody Edwards, SMSC executive director and interim dean, College of Science, understands the immediate impact of Hazel’s generosity. “With this gift, he opens doors for students passionate about conservation and sustainability,” Edwards said. “Jimmy’s continued support helps ensure SMSC can continue to bring together internationally renowned experts who can offer those students an educational experience that will enhance their futures and ultimately, help preserve the world’s biodiversity.” SMSC’s graduate programs include practical training in the tools necessary to conduct and report research, and allow students to work directly with experts and practitioners from all over the world. Students become part of a community of conservation scientists and leaders, developing relationships with these mentors and with each other, forming networks to help them launch into a wide variety of careers. “My family has, and will always have, deep ties to George Mason and the Fairfax Campus,” Hazel said, “but I think one of the best university programs sits in Front Royal at the Smithsonian Mason School of Conservation. With the groundbreaking research being conducted at the facility, we have the potential to put this initiative on the map in a big way. I would like to think that this gift will help increase that momentum.”  “Jimmy’s impact on SMSC and its students goes well beyond this single thoughtful gift,” added Edwards. “His continued support has helped transform this program and placed it on a trajectory not envisioned when it was originally conceived.” Hazel has been a dedicated, engaged member of the George Mason community. He served twice on the Board of Visitors: from 1994 to 2002, and his most recent appointment, from 2016 to 2024, included chairmanship of the Development Committee, a term as vice rector, and service as rector from 2020-22. He is a past president of the George Mason University Alumni Association and the Law Alumni Association, and he served for 18 years on the George Mason University Foundation Board of Trustees.  Hazel chaired George Mason’s successful Faster Farther Campaign, which closed at nearly $700 million—$200 million more than its original goal. He cochaired the presidential search committee that brought George Mason’s president Gregory Washington to campus in 2020.  In recognition of his more than three decades of service to the university, Hazel was awarded the George Mason Medal in 2017. Hazel, a lifelong outdoorsman who has served on the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (chairing the agency for three years), and on the boards of the Wildlife Foundation of Virginia and George Mason’s Potomac Science Center, is determined to make a lasting difference through SMSC.Power the PossibleRelated Stories Jimmy Hazel, steadfast George Mason alum and friend, looks to the future with a foundational gift October 7, 2024 Picture This: Salamander Safety 101 June 7, 2024 Around Mason: Summer Camps Takeover August 9, 2023 Around Mason: Favorite Photos of the Year July 27, 2023 Around Mason: Bugs, insects, and invertebrates of the Mason Nation July 13, 2023Learn more about the Smithsonian - George Mason School of Conservation Topics Topics Campus News philanthropy Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation Scholarships Alumni Mason Now campaign Board of Visitors Strategic Direction

BOV hears plans for expanding veterans’ services and considers the future of West Campus Colleen Rich Fri, 10/04/2024 - 11:23 Body The George Mason University Board of Visitors discussed the potential for a dedicated university center devoted to expanding academic programs and supports for former or current servicemembers and their families. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding More than 4,700 George Mason students have a military connection, said Keith Renshaw, senior associate provost for undergraduate education and director of the university’s Military, Veterans, and Families Initiative (MVFI). Renshaw said the incoming freshman transfer cohort and incoming graduate cohort his fall were both about 20% military connected. “We are seeing a proportionately larger increase in interest from that population in attending George Mason,” Renshaw said during a presentation to the BOV’s development committee on Sept. 26. A substantial amount of George Mason’s research also focuses on issues relevant to the military and veteran community, and there are many direct services available to that population as part of many curricular and research programs across the university. “We have the opportunity to expand into a formalized center that serves as a national exemplar for how to do this at universities,” Renshaw said. U.S. News & World Report last month cited George Mason as one of the best colleges for veterans, the latest in a series of recognition for how the university supports the military-connected population. “We live in a region with the highest concentration of military, active and veterans,” said Jon Peterson, chairman of the board’s development committee. “We want to make sure there is engagement between [the university and] students, family members. And that we support them with resources to make their lives better. We can be leaders in this around the country.” Renshaw said there is a strategic plan for the center to further develop, estimating it would take about $10 million—perhaps in the form of a naming gift—to get the center up and running. == Also at the Sept. 26 meeting, the Board of Visitors approved George Mason President Gregory Washington’s goals for the 2024-25 academic year. The goals cover the student experience; the impact of George Mason research; expanding partnerships; exemplifying a university culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion; investing in faculty and staff success; and timely communication and engagement with university stakeholders. During his remarks, Washington cited recent state studies that highlight the university’s achievements and its state-leading efficiency in producing more graduates than any university in Virginia over the past decade. “Seventy-three percent of our graduates stay in the state and are amongst the highest paid,” Washington said. “And we graduate the most. We have the highest return on investment in the state. The state pays the least for a student here. And they literally get the most out of the students from here…. That’s a significant set of outcomes.” == The BOV toured portions of the main Fairfax Campus and West Campus as part of the Sept. 26 meeting and heard a report from Washington about different options the university could pursue to develop that 190+-acre West Campus. The proposed changes could include state-of-the-art athletic facilities, new residence halls, faculty and staff housing, and other amenities to give the campus a more vibrant sense of community and to ease housing costs on faculty and staff. Washington said the university had not opened a new residence hall since 2015. “If you go back to 2017, people have been proposing expanding George Mason into West Campus,” Washington said. “Go back to 1968. Way back then, there was a master plan in place to look at West Campus expansion. It's part of an ongoing set of discussions. This is just the planning phase.” In the coming months, university officials will meet with the Fairfax Campus and Community Advisory Board and the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, among other stakeholders. “We will be engaging the community in a very, very aggressive way,” Washington said. “We need to get all this input before we make a decision, and this is how we will engage individuals in order to get that. So this is not an indication of a final outcome.” == The BOV approved two new degree programs—an MS in behavior analysis in the College of Education and Human Development and the first PhD in cyber security engineering in Virginia. The proposals next will be presented to the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV). The MS in behavior analysis proposal will be submitted to SCHEV this month. The PhD in cyber security engineering proposal likely will be submitted to SCHEV in spring or summer 2025. The MS in behavior analysis, which would begin in fall 2025, will prepare students to practice behavior analysis in a variety of settings such as education, life and health coaching, corporate and organizational behavior, and geriatrics. Graduates of the proposed degree program will be able to assess behavior and develop interventions to address behavioral issues. Pending SCHEV approval, the PhD in cyber security engineering would launch in fall 2026. The proposed program responds to the escalating challenges of an increasingly interconnected and digitized world, addresses the shortage of experts, fosters a robust research community in Virginia, and contributes to the evolution of cutting-edge technologies and methodologies in cybersecurity. Watch the meeting here. Watch the full meeting Related News Live Discussion with David French: What Do Evangelical Christians Want, Liberty or Authority? October 14, 2024 Fall for the Book brings authors to campus this month October 10, 2024 It’s Academic welcomes George Mason as a new sponsor October 10, 2024 George Mason University recognized for commitment to access, diversity and inclusion October 9, 2024 Movers and Shakers offers students lessons beyond the classroom October 8, 2024Topics Topics Campus News Board of Visitors Military Veterans and Families Initiative (MVFI)

George Mason Police help emergency efforts and assess storm damage from Hurricane Helene Lauren Reuscher Thu, 10/03/2024 - 11:17 Body George Mason University Police’s Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) teams supported the Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) deployment to Appalachian Power in Ivanhoe, Virginia, over the weekend. The primary mission at Ivanhoe—between Carroll and Wythe counties—was to inspect two dams, built in 1912 and 1913, as well as the power distribution lines affiliated with them. Record precipitation and the effects of Hurricane Helene caused the second highest water level and flow on the New River since 1940, exceeding the design basis for the dams. The power lines are difficult to access from the ground, but the Mason Police drones flew above and across mountains, following the power lines so that engineers could watch the livestream and assess possible damage. The drone deployment by Mason Police helped Appalachian Power ensure the integrity of the facilities more safely and efficiently. “This storm has impacted all Virginians, and George Mason University is always ready and willing to lend a helping hand,” said Michael Lighthiser, the deputy chief who oversees Mason Police’s Special Operations, Research and Training Unit. “We have some very special capabilities, and we are proud to be able to help our fellow Virginians to safely get back on their feet in the aftermath of such a devastating storm. It’s the right thing to do.” George Mason Police Corporal Blaine Ries (left) delivered a Starlink satellite internet system to the Asheville Police Department to help restore communications to their headquarters after the devastation of Hurricane Helene. Photo provided After returning from the drone mission, Mason Police answered another call for assistance from the path of Hurricane Helene. With all communications service lost in Asheville, North Carolina, after devastating and deadly flooding, the Asheville Police Department requested a Starlink system to restore cell and internet service at their headquarters. The Mason Police have Starlink systems available, which provide high-speed satellite internet access. Mason Police Corporal Blaine Ries hurried into his Starlink-equipped drone truck and headed to Asheville. To get there, he needed to drive through Tennessee and approach from the south in order to avoid the worst of the devastating storm damage. Arriving shortly after midnight on Tuesday, Oct. 1, he quickly set up the Starlink, giving the Asheville police the communication access needed to coordinate their rescue and emergency management activities.  George Mason Police’s drone teams have been an important resource for other jurisdictions, providing aerial support and training to other agencies. In late July, at the request of the Virginia Office of Public Safety and Homeland Security, Mason Police taught a weeklong drone class to more than 20 police and fire department agencies in southwest Virginia to help them start the process of launching drone teams. “I am very proud that the 12 members of our UAS team are always ready and willing to deploy, at a moment’s notice, anytime their unique capabilities are needed to enhance the public safety of our community and beyond,” said Carl Rowan, George Mason chief of police. Mason Police includes more than 135 full and part-time personnel including more than 50 sworn police officers who provide services to the Fairfax, Mason Square, and SciTech campuses. The department maintains a close working relationship with the Virginia State Police and the police departments of the City of Fairfax, Arlington, Fairfax County, and Prince William County. Related Stories George Mason Police help emergency efforts and assess storm damage from Hurricane Helene October 4, 2024 Students win contests designing delivery drones that respond to real-time wind change May 8, 2024 Meet the Mason Nation: Officer Ashanti Mumin June 8, 2023 Mason Police provide aerial security support to Marine Corps Marathon November 2, 2022 Firefighters get an assist from 5G-equipped drones developed at Mason October 18, 2022Topics Topics Faculty and Staff News Campus News Department of Police and Public Safety Police and Public Safety Emergency Management Unmanned Aerial Systems drones Drones

Annual benefit ARTS by George! raises more than $250,000 in support of Mason Arts Kirstin Franko Wed, 10/02/2024 - 18:26 Body CVPA Dean Rick Davis raises a toast with Lea Salonga following her performance. Credit: Risdon Photography George Mason University’s College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) celebrated another joy-filled and well-attended ARTS by George! benefit event on September 28. Headlined by Tony and Olivier Award-winning singer and actress Lea Salonga, the evening’s festivities raised more than $250,000 to support student scholarships in visual arts, dance, music, theater, game design, film, and arts management, as well as for the Mason Community Arts Academy, Green Machine Ensembles, and the Great Performances at Mason season at the Center for the Arts. This year’s generous donations and sponsorships bring the total of funds raised through ARTS by George! since its inception in 2006 to nearly $4.4 million.  Gregory Washington, President of George Mason University, was in attendance at the benefit event. “We’re proud that George Mason is the cultural hub of our region. The arts is one of the front doors to attract visitors of all ages and backgrounds to our campuses. We’re pleased that so many of you have found your way through our door to become involved with CVPA, and to be here with us this evening,” he said. Students from George Mason University’s School of Dance performed rotating showcases in front of audiences. Credit: Risdon Photography ARTS by George! began at 5 p.m. on September 28 with more than 225 CVPA students and faculty joining to present 18 performances and exhibits for guests to enjoy. The entire freshman class of George Mason’s School of Dance launched the dance showcases, while an immersive screening room drew guests in to watch student films from the Film and Video Studies program. The School of Theater gave guests a preview of its upcoming fall musical production, the School of Art created an interactive photo booth installation, and Computer Game Design students and faculty brought guests into a new world with virtual reality demonstrations. Alumni from the Arts Management program joyfully reconnected with friends and faculty alike, posing for photos throughout the event, while vocalists and musicians from the Dewberry School of Music delighted guests with a variety of performances ranging from opera to jazz.  “ARTS by George! kicked off with dozens of showcases featuring gifted visual and performing arts students. For those of you lucky enough to experience it, I hope you were impressed not only with their immense talent, but also with the breadth and depth of what Mason Arts has to offer,” remarked Rick Davis, Dean of the College of Visual and Performing Arts. Ashlyn Rock, a graduate of George Mason University’s Dewberry School of Music, sings for the Center for the Arts audience prior to Lea Salonga's performance. Credit: Risdon Photography At 8 p.m., guests transitioned to the Center for the Arts for a live Fund-A-Student appeal that contributed more than $28,000 towards the total amount raised at the event. In a beloved annual tradition, a distinguished Mason Arts graduate returned to the stage to perform before the evening’s headlining concert. This year, Dewberry School of Music alumna Ashlyn Rock offered a soaring rendition of “Sempre libera” from Verdi's La Traviata, receiving a standing ovation.  An Evening with Lea Salonga followed at 8:30 p.m., where the celebrated performer presented a concert of popular songs from her roles on Broadway and in animated films. The evening’s program concluded with an onstage champagne toast, during which Salonga and Davis mingled with CVPA students and faculty as well as ARTS by George! guests and supporters. For complete information about ARTS by George!, including scholarship stories, a schedule of student showcases, previous ARTS by George! images, and more visit the event website. The Premier Sponsor for ARTS by George! was Dominion Energy and the Presenting Sponsor was Sandy Spring Bank. The event chair was Annie Bolger.  Lea Salonga (center) with George Mason University President Gregory Washington (right) and his wife Nicole Washington (left), following the performance backstage. Credit: Risdon PhotographyIn This Story People Mentioned in This Story Rick Davis Gregory WashingtonView Images from 2024 ARTS by George! Donate to the College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) Topics Topics College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) Center for the Arts Scholarships Campus News Students Strategic Direction

George Mason University announces first commercial tenant at Fuse at Mason Square Colleen Rich Wed, 10/02/2024 - 15:40 Body George Mason University and Mason Innovation Partners (MIP), a development consortium led by Edgemoor Infrastructure & Real Estate, announce the first commercial tenant for Fuse at Mason Square in Arlington, Virginia. The new tenant, Cybastion, is an American technology company that delivers world-class cybersecurity and digital enhancement solutions to accelerate digital transformation in emerging markets, especially Africa. Cybastion CEO Thierry Wandji. Photo provided “The Fuse commercial opening and partnership with Cybastion marks a major milestone for the university’s growth and commitment to research and economic development for the region,” said Ken Walsh, George Mason’s executive vice president for strategic initiatives. “The Mason Square campus is part of our vision to redefine the role of a modern university as a vital partner in strengthening local business and community infrastructures, as well as continue to propel Virginia forward as the number one state for business and education.” The 345,000+ square foot building is designed with collaborative spaces and emerging-tech labs and offices for business, research scholarship, and community engagement within the Arlington innovation corridor. Cybastion will move in to Fuse in the spring of 2025. “Fuse will provide unique opportunities and bespoke amenities that will enhance innovation and collaboration for co-located industry partners, faculty, and the talent pipeline,” said Brian Naumick, managing director with Edgemoor Infrastructure & Real Estate. “We look forward to the great work Cybastion and many more partners will do at Fuse, driving impact for the greater D.C. market and the world.” From left, George Mason professor Duminda Wijesekera, U.S. Ambassador to the Ivory Coast Jessica Davis Ba, U.S. Small Business Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman, and Cybastion CEO Thierry Wandji at the U.S. Embassy in Abidjan. Photo provided Cybastion and George Mason have been collaborating on cybersecurity and 5G/6G research in the U.S. and African nations since 2022. Cybastion CEO Thierry Wandji has been working with the Cyber Living Innovation Lab at Mason Square, and George Mason Professor Duminda Wijesekera. Originally funded by the Commonwealth Cyber Initiative’s Northern Virginia Node and now sustained with funding from federal agencies and the private sector, the Cyber Living Innovation Lab has significant expertise and capability in cybersecurity, NextG communications, transportation, manufacturing, and other infrastructure systems. “Given its location and research talent, including Wijesekera’s team, Cybastion is pleased to take up residency in Fuse,” said Wandji. “The partnership with George Mason University offers us an opportunity to seamlessly blend our strengths for fostering digital innovation while tapping into the university’s wealth of research and development to scale.” Wandji serves as the director of cybersecurity education at the cybersecurity Centers of Academic Excellence at North Carolina State University in Raleigh, North Carolina, and Morgan State University in Baltimore, Maryland. “With their significant expertise in cybersecurity, and George Mason’s long-standing pre-eminence in this sector, Cybastion’s co-location in Fuse alongside George Mason faculty and students will amplify our collective research impact and speed to innovate in cybersecurity together,” added Liza Wilson Durant, associate provost for strategic directions and community engagement. George Mason faculty and students from the Cyber Innovation Lab have traveled to Côte d’Ivoire with Wandji to support the design and implementation of the country’s vision for digital transformation and building a secure digital economy. “The collaboration is a significant milestone for my group to get involved in international cybersecurity and telecommunications work that includes multiple government entities from both sides of the Atlantic,” said Wijesekera. “We are very fortunate and grateful to Cybastion as the only academic institution from the U.S. to be included in their family.”Discover more about Fuse at Mason Square Related News Movers and Shakers offers students lessons beyond the classroom October 8, 2024 Civil engineering student builds a solid foundation with summer internship October 7, 2024 George Mason University announces first commercial tenant at Fuse at Mason Square October 2, 2024 George Mason University’s Amarda Shehu appointed inaugural Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer September 4, 2024 Information technology students stepped up to secure Virginia’s elections  August 28, 2024Topics Topics Campus News Fuse at Mason Square Mason Square Cybersecurity