Campus News

Student consulting group brings expertise to business development in Fairfax City

Sarah Holland — Fri, 06 Feb 2026 20:46:41 +0000

Student consulting group brings expertise to business development in Fairfax City Sarah Holland Fri, 02/06/2026 - 15:46

Experiential learning is one of the ways George �鶹��Ƶ prepares its students for life beyond the classroom. It’s a core part of our mission. For Costello College of Business sophomore Iman Chaudhry, it’s also an inspiration that helped shape �鶹��Ƶ Consulting Group’s (MCG) new venture: pro bono consulting support for local small businesses in Fairfax City.

�鶹��Ƶ Consulting Group presents their recommendations to Make My Day CPA. Photo provided.

MCG began as a means to educate the George �鶹��Ƶ community about consulting as a career path. When Chaudhry, the current president of MCG, began an internship with Fairfax City Economic Development (FCED), she came with a vision for the group to expand their impact and reach through free consulting services for local businesses in Fairfax City.

“It was mutually beneficial: we help strengthen our local community and support small businesses, as well as providing experiential learning opportunities aligned with Costello’s strategic priorities,” she said. “We still want to educate the community about business consulting, while providing real, tangible, experiential learning opportunities to students where they’re working with a real-life client.”

As an intern, Chaudhry served as a bridge between FCED and Costello: “A person on the inside,” she said, who helped make the initiative successful.

With support and guidance from FCED, Chaudhry and the group developed the program structure, reviewed applications, selected the inaugural clients, and negotiated a contract deal with FCED to provide funding to support implementation of their recommendations.

MCG completed their first round of consulting in Fall 2025, serving two Fairfax City clients: BE2 Pilates and Make My Day CPA. Throughout the semester, the team held regular meetings with clients to provide updates and pitch ideas; at the end, they presented their final recommendations and deliverables to both businesses and FCED.

“Knowing how to market my business has been my Achilles’ heel,” said Julia Hughes, founder and owner of BE2 Pilates. “I thought I’d toss my hat into the ring when I saw the call for applications for the program.”

The team provided Hughes with a comprehensive social media marketing plan and a range of business development recommendations, such as adding QR codes to business cards and developing a pricing structure for students.

�鶹��Ƶ Consulting Group visits BE2 Pilates with founder and owner Julia Hughes (third from left) and MCG prsident Iman Chaudhry (fourth from left). Photo provided.

“Everything they gave me in terms of deliverables are things that could be started on the small scale and grown over time,” Hughes said. “And their recommendations helped me think outside of the box for business development, thinking more broadly about with whom I can partner, with whom I can connect.”

MCG’s services are free to those businesses that are accepted through the FCED program. Hughes noted that the quality of the business consulting provided was above and beyond her expectations.

“The level of professionalism, the product presented, and the deliverables MCG provided were all of a caliber that far surpassed their years of experience,” said Hughes. “I was quite impressed by them at every step of the way.”

“The �鶹��Ƶ Consulting Group has done an outstanding job diving deep into the consulting world. The students are getting hands-on experience with real clients to understand the dynamics of consulting and the complexities of the business world,” said MCG’s faculty advisor Katherine Rosenbusch, associate professor of management in Costello.

After the success of this first cohort, FCED has agreed to extend funding for another semester. MCG is selecting their next round of clients for the Spring 2026 semester.

“We’re a young club, but I think Costello and George �鶹��Ƶ’s vision of high access and high outcomes makes us stand out,” Chaudhry said. “I want to help put George �鶹��Ƶ on the map as a hub for high-caliber student talent delivering real-world impact."

Learn more about Costello College of Business

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George �鶹��Ƶ women’s basketball team named USBWA Team of the Week

ckearney — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 21:52:44 +0000

George �鶹��Ƶ women’s basketball team named USBWA Team of the Week ckearney Tue, 02/03/2026 - 16:52

The George �鶹��Ƶ women's basketball team has been named the U.S. Basketball Writers Association Team of the Week after going 2-0 last week and extending their best start in conference history to 10-0.

On January 28, the Patriots beat the Davidson Wildcats 62-51. It was just the second time George �鶹��Ƶ has beaten Davidson in North Carolina. Zahirah Walton scored 14 points, 6 rebounds, 4 steals, and 2 blocks. Kennedy Harris added 12 points on 56% shooting, 5 assists, and 3 steals.

Then on Saturday, George �鶹��Ƶ faced Saint Louis, beating the Billikens 66-51 as part of Homecoming Week 2026. Walton once again led the team with 15 points, 9 rebounds, 6 assists, and 2 steals. Harris added 12 points, 5 steals, and 4 rebounds. Louis Volker also played a big role, tallying 11 points, 3-4 3FG, and 5 rebounds.

The Patriots are one of just two non-power conference teams to be named USBWA Team of the Week in 2025-26.

Their next game is Saturday, Feb. 7, at University of Richmond.

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�鶹��Ƶ named lead academic partner for Connected DMV’s spaceNEXT

Katarina Benson — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 17:19:04 +0000

�鶹��Ƶ named lead academic partner for Connected DMV’s spaceNEXT Katarina Benson Mon, 02/02/2026 - 12:19

Connected DMV has announced that �鶹��Ƶ, one of the nation’s most innovative and fastest-growing public research universities, will serve as the Lead Academic Partner for spaceNEXT, the inaugural global convening focused on the commercialization of space and a flagship program of Connected DMV’s Potomac Center for the New Space Economy.

Observatory on the Fairfax Campus. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

The spaceNEXT event will take place February 18–20 at Capital One Hall in Tysons, Virginia, and bring together global leaders across industry, government, academia, and the investment community to accelerate what’s next in the space-for-space and space-for-Earth economy.

“George �鶹��Ƶ is the ideal academic anchor for spaceNEXT. Their leadership in space science, satellite engineering, and frontier research perfectly aligns with our mission to build Greater Washington into the global capital of the new space economy,” said George Thomas, president and CEO, Connected DMV. “This partnership brings world-class expertise, talent, and innovation to the main stage, and we couldn’t be prouder to shape this inaugural event together.”

George �鶹��Ƶ’s collaborative and creative research strengths align directly with the new space economy

Advancing space innovation that serves life on Earth—through Earth observation, remote sensing, planetary exploration, and space weather research—is a core focus of George �鶹��Ƶ’s Grand Challenge Initiative, which aligns research, education, and partnerships around solving problems that shape the future of humanity. The university’s growing strengths in robotics and autonomy, artificial intelligence, quantum science, integrated sensing and communication, and sustainable cyberinfrastructure—anchored by Fuse at �鶹��Ƶ Square—support next-generation capabilities such as autonomous spacecraft operations, in-space servicing, on-orbit manufacturing, and resilient space infrastructure that connect scientific discovery to real-world impact.

“Our future in space is a key component to solving humanity’s grand challenge of creating a peaceful, healthy, and prosperous future,” said Andre Marshall, vice president for research, innovation, and economic impact. “George �鶹��Ƶ is forging strategic partnerships and driving novel research across disciplinary boundaries to help shape and secure this bold future, recognizing that it will reach far beyond the Earth’s atmosphere, and we are proud to partner with Connected DMV to further these ambitious goals.”

The George �鶹��Ƶ College of Science’s multi-million-dollar portfolio in Earth- and space-observation research gives the university the region’s strongest capabilities in satellite data, remote sensing, and climate-driven analytics. Home to the Center for Earth Observing and Spatial Research, the  Satellite and Earth System Studies Program, the Center for Geospatial Intelligence, and the second largest observatory on the East Coast, the College of Science maintains research collaborations with NASA, NRL, Department of Energy, Defense Threat Reduction Agency, Air Force Office of Scientific Research, and the Army Research Office, as well as a recent $13M collaboration with the Department of the Navy to study increased solar activity. These fields underpin the expanding market for commercial Earth intelligence, environmental monitoring, and mission-critical geospatial tools, while offering immersive training for tomorrow’s scientists and regional workforce. 

"The future of space commercialization will be driven by institutions like George �鶹��Ƶ that can bridge scientific discovery, facilitate industry collaboration, and drive real-world innovation,” said College of Science dean Cody W. Edwards. “For years, we have invested in the research, facilities, and workforce development infrastructure to become a valued partner in the emerging space economy. We look forward to bringing George �鶹��Ƶ’s research, talent, and entrepreneurial spirit to this global convening—and to helping chart the course for the next era of space exploration and economic growth in the region and beyond.”

George �鶹��Ƶ’s College of Engineering and Computing is also a regional leader in workforce development for the new space economy. Its graduate Small Satellite Engineering program trains engineers in full spacecraft lifecycles—including design, power, communications, sensors, attitude control, and resilient architectures—while the university’s CubeSat Engineering Lab and satellite ground stations (including a 9.1-meter dish) provide students and researchers hands-on experience with small satellite buses, flight systems, and embedded software hardened for the realities of space.

“We find solutions to problems in aerospace engineering that advance the field,” said Kenneth Ball, College of Engineering and Science dean. “Our researchers make air travel safer, satellites smaller, and surfaces stronger. Our students learn to fly airplanes, launch satellites, and explore the multidisciplinary nature of aerospace and aviation from the capabilities of materials to the possibilities of space. Our alumni have traveled in space, driven the Mars rover, and held leadership positions at NASA.”

As part of its powerful portfolio, the university is leading the $19.5 million NASA Landolt Space Mission, which will place an artificial “star” into orbit to calibrate telescopes and significantly advance the precision of space-based observations—unlocking new discovery pathways and supporting commercial applications across astronomy, imaging, quantum materials, space weather, and navigation.

Advancing the mission of the Potomac Center for the New Space Economy

spaceNEXT is a core program of the Potomac Center for the New Space Economy, Connected DMV’s initiative to position the Washington, D.C., region as the heart of the global space economy. The center leverages the region’s unparalleled mix of assets—federal space agencies, aerospace giants, venture investment, world-class universities, national security infrastructure, and diplomatic reach—to build the partnerships, standards, workforce, and innovation pathways that will shape humanity’s next giant leap.

With George �鶹��Ƶ at the helm of the academic program for spaceNEXT, the center strengthens its ability to:

Showcase regional leadership in orbital manufacturing, microgravity research, and logistics;
Bridge federal space policy with the commercial and investment momentum driving new markets;
Catalyze workforce growth through academic pipelines deeply tied to industry demand;
Accelerate commercialization of frontier technologies across satellites, AI, autonomy, Earth intelligence, and in-space services; and
Unite the region’s public, private, academic, and policy talent under one global platform.

George �鶹��Ƶ’s expertise and programs embody the center’s mission: Turn bold ideas into market-shaping realities and ensure that the Washington, D.C., region captures a decisive share of the growing space economy—projected to top $1 trillion by 2040.

A launchpad for the next space economy

With �鶹��Ƶ as Lead Academic Partner, the inaugural spaceNEXT convening will demonstrate how universities, industry, and government can work together to accelerate the space-for-space and space-for-Earth economy—advancing national security, scientific breakthroughs, economic growth, and human progress on a global scale.

Learn more at spacenextglobal.com.

Learn more about the Grand Challenge Initiative

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CVPA Announces Recipients of the 2026 Young Alumni Commissioning Project Awards

Emily Schneider — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 16:40:21 +0000

CVPA Announces Recipients of the 2026 Young Alumni Commissioning Project Awards Emily Schneider Mon, 02/02/2026 - 11:40

In This Story

Rick Davis

Learn �鶹��Ƶ the Young Alumni Commissioning Project

�鶹��Ƶ’s College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) announces the recipients of the seventh round of its Young Alumni Commissioning Project Awards.

Two alumni were chosen based on the artistic excellence, career impact, and feasibility of their proposals and will receive financial, marketing, and production support to have their projects presented by the College at a �鶹��Ƶ Arts venue during the 2026–27 season.

“The Young Alumni Commissioning Project is one of my favorite things within the broad spectrum of �鶹��Ƶ Arts. Every year we are lucky to be able to support, from among a very competitive group of applicants, some strong and compelling works of art, and this year’s are no exception,” stated College of Visual and Performing Arts Dean Rick Davis. “They both happen to live in the film area this time, a testament to the vitality and accomplishment of that program and its graduates.”

Kenge BaNikongo (BA Theater, BA Film and Video Studies '21) Photo provided.

Kenge BaNikongo

BA Theater, BA Film and Video Studies ’21

Kenge BaNikongo received the Young Alumni Commissioning Project Award and $5,000 in commissioning support for Wingz. A comedy-drama television series about fairies in the modern world, the script centers on a second-generation fairy grappling with the impacts of her magical abilities on her and her family as they navigate everyday life. The script explores the complexities of family and identity within the immigrant experience through a new lens, while incorporating a lighthearted element of fantasy. A storyteller at heart, BaNikongo wrote and directed three successful short films as a student at George �鶹��Ƶ, including Ring Ring, which was nominated for Best Writer and Best Lead Actress at the 2021 Couch Film Festival. The pilot episode script for Wingz was well-received at numerous industry festivals and competitions and will be filmed with the support of this new funding. Beyond her personal projects, she is currently a Production Coordinator for National Geographic, where BaNikongo collaborates on the development and creation of programming for National Geographic and Disney+. Thinking back about her experiences at George �鶹��Ƶ and what shaped her the most, BaNikongo remembered working to find and then refine her voice in a scriptwriting class with Professor Heather McDonald. “For the first time, I decided to write a dramedy just for fun. To my surprise, Professor McDonald really enjoyed it, and so did my family. I realized I knew what my ‘voice’ was; but I didn't think people would enjoy it. After being turned into a short film, that dramedy went on to do well in competitions and encouraged me to continue my writing journey! Now writing, acting, and directing are my passions as I continue to pursue projects that are true to my ‘voice’.”

Taj Kokayi (BA Film and Video Studies '22). Photo provided.

Taj Kokayi

BA Film and Video Studies ’22

Taj Kokayi received the Young Alumni Creative Development Award and $2,500 in commissioning support for The Ghost Writer, an Afrofuturistic body-horror short film examining the seductive and corrosive influence of generative AI on the creative process. Kokayi’s success in the Afrofuturism genre is well-documented; his 2020 experimental short, Woken From A Dream, won awards for Best Experimental and Best VFX and was selected for 15 international festivals. His follow-up film, White Mirror won awards including Best of Fest, Audience Award, and Best Short Screenplay. Kokayi is a fierce advocate for community and cooperative work, and founded an independent production company and writers group that gives young creatives an avenue to tell their own stories. Kokayi worked at The Daily Show with Trevor Noah before graduating from George �鶹��Ƶ, and followed that role with a stint as an NBC Page working at Focus Features and The Tonight Show. Community was an integral element of Kokayi’s experience of George �鶹��Ƶ, “Whether it was in Black Student Alliance (BSA); the Black, African-Heritage, and Caribbean Coalition (BLACC); the Film Advisory Board; or as a Resident Advisor, I always felt like I had a family on campus. I had countless memorable experiences at �鶹��Ƶ, and it's why I considered campus a second home. That's why I felt strongly about applying to the YACP program. I know that �鶹��Ƶ takes care of their own, whether they're still on campus or not.”

Over the past six years, 20 CVPA alumni have been granted awards anywhere from $2,500–$5,000 to support the creation of a new artistic work for projects in film, dance, visual art, music, and game design. To be considered for this year’s award, applicants must have graduated from CVPA from the class of 2015 and after. Proposals could include original new work in any art form suitable for performance, exhibition, or screening in a �鶹��Ƶ Arts venue. The size, length, duration, magnitude, and content are at the artist’s discretion. Potential venues include George �鶹��Ƶ’s traditional theater spaces, galleries, and cinemas, but proposals for non-traditional venues, including digital spaces, were also considered.

During the 2024–25 award cycle, Brianna Camp (Art and Visual Technology ’23) received the Young Alumni Commissioning Project Award and $5,000 in commissioning support for Flare: Finding a Sense of Place in the Chronically Ill Body. This work will consist of a series of large-scale oil paintings, each accompanied by documentary photographs and poetry and will be exhibited on campus in Fairfax during 2026. Marina Vianello (Dance ’18) received the Young Alumni Creative Development Award and $2,500 in commissioning support for Three Generations of Bach, an intergenerational multimedia dance work. Vianello is working with her mother, Andrea Skowronek, a retired professional dancer, to recreate and blend together inspiration from an original dance work that Skowronek developed early in her career, set to music accompaniment from her own father. A performance of this work will premiere on campus in Fairfax during 2026.

The Young Alumni Commissioning Project is made possible by a generous bequest from the estate of Linda E. Gramlich for the support of young artists, and by donors to George �鶹��Ƶ’s previous Giving Day, including Shugoll Research.

�鶹��Ƶ the 2026 Award Recipients

Kenge BaNikongo(she/her) is a writer, producer, actor, and director who has a deep love of storytelling, which drew her to becoming a filmmaker. She gained a degree in Film Directing and Producing from �鶹��Ƶ in 2021, and her films have garnered her several accolades over the years. Through writing and directing comedy-dramas, she has found her voice in storytelling. Her fiction style is influenced by several directors and writers, such as Issa Rae and Phoebe Waller-Bridge. After graduating from George �鶹��Ƶ, she has been working for National Geographic/Disney, telling dynamic true stories based on history, culture, science, food, and exploration. Her passion for storytelling expands to all aspects of media as a freelance writer, director, and producer. She also works as an interviewer for Young Entertainment Magazine. During her time at George �鶹��Ƶ, she also received her Bachelor’s in Theatre Performance - Acting, and continues to act in short films and do voiceovers. No matter what, she is always creative!

Taj Kokayi (he/him) Taj Kokayi is an award-winning filmmaker and producer. His 2020 Afrofuturistic short film, Woken From A Dream, made the official selection for 15 film festivals across the world, winning five awards, including Best Experimental Film. His follow-up sociopolitical drama, White Mirror, has won awards including Best of Fest, Audience Award, and Best Short Screenplay. During his time at �鶹��Ƶ, he was a finalist for the Princess Grace Award for Film, was named George �鶹��Ƶ’s Black Artist of the Year (2020) and Social Media Activist of the Year (2021), and in 2022, he received the Spike Lee Directing Award. In 2022, he worked as an Intern and Production Assistant for The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, before becoming an NBC Page at 30 Rockefeller Plaza. He has worked on the sets of features films, documentaries, music videos, corporate shoots, and alongside Academy Award-nominated directors.

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Campus News

Patriot Pantry expands to �鶹��Ƶ Square

Katarina Benson — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 21:11:33 +0000

Patriot Pantry expands to �鶹��Ƶ Square Katarina Benson Thu, 01/29/2026 - 16:11

On January 20, �鶹��Ƶ expanded one of its most essential student support services. The Patriot Pantry officially opened a new location at �鶹��Ƶ Square, extending food security resources to a campus that primarily serves graduate and professional students.

Operated by the Basic Needs Services team at the Student Support and Advocacy Center (SSAC), the pantry provides nonperishable food and hygiene products to students experiencing food insecurity. The service is designed to reduce stigma and remove barriers that can interfere with academic success.

The idea to expand the Patriot Pantry to �鶹��Ƶ Square began with students in Jennifer Sklarew’s EVPP 480 Sustainability in Action class who noticed a gap in resources for �鶹��Ƶ Square’s predominantly graduate and professional student population.

The Pantry is housed in the Student Lounge in Van Metre Hall, Room 211. Photo provided

Environmental science major Julia Frost, environmental and sustainability studies majors Isabella Barrera and Crystal Park, and business major Noah Brown, mentored by Sklarew, an assistant professor in the Department of Environmental Science and Policy, partnered with SSAC to create the new pantry. All four graduated in 2025.

With funding from a �鶹��Ƶ Impact Mini Grant awarded by the Office of Undergraduate Education, the students funded the storage cabinet now used for pantry order pickup. SSAC assumed responsibility for operations, integrating the �鶹��Ƶ Square location into its broader Basic Needs Services model and ensuring the pantry would function as a permanent, low-barrier resource.

“Food insecurity is a challenge no one should have to face, yet many do,” Barrera said. “Our goal is to help ensure that all students have access to a basic human right: food.”

The Patriot Pantry at �鶹��Ƶ Square builds on a service with a long history at George �鶹��Ƶ. What began nearly 12 years ago on the Fairfax Campus as a volunteer-led effort became a permanent student service in 2016, housed within SSAC. Since then, pantry usage has increased by 990%.

The expansion was also supported by funds from the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) through the Hunger-Free Campus Food Pantry grant program. These funds will be used to stock the Patriot Pantry at �鶹��Ƶ Square with nonperishable food items and essential hygiene products.

Additional support was provided by a $10,000 College Pantry Grant from the Capital Area Food Bank, awarded to SSAC at a time when demand for basic needs support continues to grow.

Professor Jennifer Sklarew, Isabella Barrera, Crystal Park, and Noah Brown, with Melissa Thierry, director, University Life Regional Campuses, standing by the pick-up cabinet for the Patriot Pantry at �鶹��Ƶ Square. Photo provided.

Dwayne Hamilton Jr., assistant director for Basic Needs Services, emphasized the pantry’s role in supporting students from diverse economic backgrounds, particularly graduate students who are often overlooked in higher education support services.

“Addressing basic needs concerns through the Patriot Pantry at �鶹��Ƶ Square moves students toward the ideal experience at George �鶹��Ƶ: freedom and learning,” he said.

Students can now place orders through the Patriot Pantry at �鶹��Ƶ Square order page and pick up items in the cabinet in the Student Lounge in Van Metre Hall, Room 211—a discreet, accessible location designed to prioritize privacy and dignity.

Community members may also support the pantry by donating nonperishable food and hygiene products through the Amazon Wishlist, contributing to the Student Food and Housing Insecurity Fund, or dropping off donations in the Student Lounge in Van Metre Hall, Room 211. A full list of accepted items is available on the Patriot Pantry homepage.

In This Story

Jennifer Sklarew

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George �鶹��Ƶ's College of Education and Human Development is advancing responsible AI in education

ckearney — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 20:39:13 +0000

George �鶹��Ƶ's College of Education and Human Development is advancing responsible AI in education ckearney Wed, 01/28/2026 - 15:39

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape education, �鶹��Ƶ’s College of Education and Human Development (CEHD) is helping chart a path for schools to adapt AI responsibly, equitably, and effectively. Through the Educational Research Alliance of Northern Virginia (ERA.NOVA), a research and practice partnership that connects CEHD and other George �鶹��Ƶ faculty with K–12 and state leaders, the college is convening some of the region’s most forward-thinking voices to define what readiness for AI in education truly means.

ERA.NOVA Fall Convening brought together state policymakers, division technology officers, superintendents, and faculty researchers to explore how AI is changing the K-12 landscape across Virginia. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

This year’s focus on AI in education within ERA.NOVA reflects the vision of CEHD Dean Ingrid Guerra-López and ERA.NOVA’s school superintendent partners. It positions the alliance as a catalyst for forward-looking, research-informed solutions for school districts across the region and will strengthen educational opportunity and readiness for the future.

That necessity of the shared vision was evident at the ERA.NOVA Fall Convening in late October, which brought together state policymakers, division technology officers, superintendents, and faculty researchers to explore how AI is changing the K-12 landscape across Virginia. Participants shared a common understanding: The question is no longer whether AI belongs in education, but how to implement it in ways that strengthen instruction, prepare students, and ensure safety.

Superintendent Dan Hornick of Orange County Public Schools described his district’s efforts to balance innovation with responsibility. “We cannot pretend the future does not exist,” he said. “If we do not teach students to use AI responsibly, we are not preparing them for the world they are entering.”

Hornick’s division created flexible guidelines and integrated conversations about AI into curriculum planning and professional learning communities. Success, he said, depends on taking time to address privacy, safety, and teacher preparation before expanding implementation.

At the state level, Calypso Gilstrap, executive director of the Virginia Department of Education’s Office of Innovation, outlined the commonwealth’s Guidelines for AI Integration Throughout Education (PDF), which emphasize age-appropriate use of AI, careful tool selection, family engagement, and collaborative policy development.

“AI readiness is no longer optional,” Gilstrap said. “There are 32,000 jobs in the United States right now with AI in the title. Our students need these skills today, not 10 years from now.”

By 2029, she added, the department expects AI to be part of problem-based learning across grade levels, beginning with early exposure in kindergarten.

Gilstrap stressed that AI should not be seen as a shortcut to learning. Students must learn to question AI-generated content, verify information, and maintain human connection as they use digital tools. “Well-trained teachers can use AI to enhance their work, not replace it,” she said.

From George �鶹��Ƶ CEHD’s research perspective, Elizabeth Davis, postdoctoral fellow with EdPolicyForward, shared findings from the AI for Responsive Inclusive School Enhancement (ARISE) project. The project examines how school districts can use AI to identify and interpret research, such as to expand evidence-based interventions used to support school improvement planning.

Davis coauthored AI in K-12 Education: What School Divisions May Consider in Preparing for the Future and the companion PDF resource AI in K-12 Education: Preparing for the Future . Both publications were shared with convening participants and highlight emerging research on effective and ethical implementation.

“Efficiency must never come at the cost of human judgment,” Davis said.

Her team’s findings, focused on AI literacy, ethical design, and data governance, reflected many of the same priorities discussed by district leaders. She also noted that Northern Virginia’s position as the world’s largest data center hub gives the region an opportunity to lead in sustainable and ethical AI use.

District technology leaders Aaron Smith of Loudoun County Public Schools and Sharon Shewbridge of Stafford County Public Schools shared how their divisions are turning policy and research into local action. Smith emphasized the importance of protecting students and ensuring that the tools brought into classrooms are safe and developmentally appropriate. “Our focus has to be on protecting students and understanding what K–12 really needs from AI before we bring it into classrooms,” he said.

Audra Parker, director of George �鶹��Ƶ’s Office of Teacher Preparation, underscored that preparing educators is essential to any successful AI strategy. “AI readiness is ultimately about people,” Parker said. “Teachers need structured opportunities to build confidence, deepen their understanding, and practice using these tools in ways that elevate the irreplaceable human work of teaching. When we invest in educator preparation, we ensure that AI supports learning rather than driving it.”

Participants agreed that responsible integration of AI requires more than access to new tools. It calls for a shared framework grounded in educator expertise, ethical design, and a commitment to equity. Several divisions are also involving students directly in AI policy discussions, forming advisory committees and encouraging young people to provide feedback on how these technologies are used in classrooms.

“Students are already using these tools,” Gilstrap noted. “The question is how we guide them to use it well.”

The convening also reflected CEHD’s growing role as a thought leader, particularly in defining how institutions can prepare students and educators for a future shaped by intelligent systems. Under Dean Guerra-López’s direction, ERA.NOVA is intentionally bridging scholarly expertise with the urgent, practical needs of school divisions navigating AI’s rapid evolution.

Guerra-López emphasized that this kind of collaboration reflects CEHD’s mission to bridge research, policy, and practice for the public good. “Artificial intelligence is accelerating the evolution of work and learning.” Guerra-López said. “We launched this year’s ERA.NOVA focus on AI because our partners told us they needed guidance grounded in both research and real-world practice. As we prepare future educators, we have both an opportunity and a responsibility to lead—to ensure AI strengthens human development, expands opportunity, and supports ethical, future-ready learning across our schools.”

The Fall Convening was the first in ERA.NOVA’s 2025–26 series on Artificial Intelligence in Education. Upcoming sessions will continue to explore readiness, capacity building, and ethical implementation across all levels of the education system.

Learn more about the Grand Challenge Initiative

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George �鶹��Ƶ online graduate programs rank among Virginia’s best

ckearney — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 18:27:58 +0000

George �鶹��Ƶ online graduate programs rank among Virginia’s best ckearney Mon, 01/26/2026 - 13:27

�鶹��Ƶ earned top Virginia placements across business, nursing, and education, and leads in the region as a college destination for veterans and working professionals in the 2026 Best Online Programs rankings by U.S. News & World Report, released today.

Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

Recognized as the No. 1 public university in Virginia and the Washington, D.C., region for upward mobility, George �鶹��Ƶ translates access into outcomes through its nationally ranked online programs. Ranked in 13 U.S. News online graduate program categories, the university appears in highly selective fields statewide; in eight of those categories, only a small number of Virginia universities are included, sometimes as few as two or three.

A National Leader for Veterans and Military-Affiliated Students

As a designated Military Friendly® School, George �鶹��Ƶ demonstrates a long-standing commitment to serving military-connected students at scale. Approximately 14% of George �鶹��Ƶ’s 40,000-plus students are current or former service members or military dependents, and approximately one in five freshmen, transfer, and graduate students this year has military ties, making George �鶹��Ƶ a leading destination for military-affiliated learners in Virginia and the Washington, D.C., region.

That commitment translates into nationally recognized outcomes across multiple programs:

Master’s in business programs for veterans ranked No. 1 in Virginia, including both MBA and non-MBA options. The master’s in business (non-MBA) for veterans debuted 18th nationally and 14th among public universities.
The master’s in nursing for veterans pathways was ranked No. 1 in Virginia and among public universities in the Washington, D.C., region.
The master’s in information technology for veterans program ranked 19th nationally and 13th among public universities.
The master’s in education for veterans program ranked 18th nationally and among public universities, placing 2nd in both Virginia and the Washington, D.C., region.

Overall, four of six veteran-focused programs included in the rankings placed in the top 20 nationally, with all six ranking in the top 50, underscoring George �鶹��Ƶ’s role as a regional and national leader in education designed for those who have served.

Beyond rankings, George �鶹��Ƶ provides comprehensive support for military-connected students and their families, grounded in an understanding of the academic, professional, and lived experiences they bring to the university. Through the Military, Veterans, and Families Initiative and the Office of Military Services students are connected to academic advising, career preparation, and regional resources that recognize the realities of military service and transition.

“These rankings are a testament to both the strength of the faculty and curriculum, as well as the overall student experience that we provide for our veterans,” said Keith Renshaw, senior associate provost for undergraduate education and professor of psychology. “They’re reflective of our comprehensive approach to serving those who have served our nation.”

Preparing Business Leaders

George �鶹��Ƶ’s master’s in business programs within the Costello College of Business posted some of the strongest gains this year, with the master’s in business (non-MBA) program climbing 19 spots nationally to 37th, rising 12 spots among public universities to 27th, and ranking 2nd in Virginia.

At a time when many traditional MBA graduates face prolonged job searches, George �鶹��Ƶ’s business programs emphasize practical, career-aligned learning designed for working professionals. This year, two of the university’s four business programs ranked No. 1 in Virginia, with all four placing among the top five statewide, reflecting a consistent focus on applied skills, flexible online delivery, and workforce-aligned preparation.

“We continue to innovate across our online programs and the significant rise in our master’s in business ranking, along with our online business programs placing within Virginia’s top 5, are indicative of Costello’s growing prestige among business schools in our region,” said Cheryl Druehl, interim dean of the Costello College of Business. “These rankings reinforce our success in delivering an educational experience that meets learners' needs—with graduate programs that emphasize career outcomes, flexibility, and affordability.”

Excellence Across Key Academic Disciplines

Strong national and regional standing was also evident across multiple master’s programs, including education, nursing, engineering, and information technology.

In education, George �鶹��Ƶ stands out for its national leadership in special education, a field facing persistent workforce shortages in Virginia and across the country. The master’s in special education ranked 7th overall and 8th among public universities, being only one of two Virginia universities included in the category.

That leadership aligns with George �鶹��Ƶ’s broader efforts to address special education workforce challenges. Through innovative training programs, the university is helping prepare the next generation of special education leaders through a focus on evidence-based practice, policy expertise, and leadership training.

"National recognition matters because it affirms the responsibility we carry,” said Ingrid Guerra-López, dean of the College of Education and Human Development. “These rankings reflect the depth of our faculty’s expertise and our focus on preparing educators and leaders who think critically, continue learning and adapting, and work across boundaries to solve real-world challenges.”

The School of Nursing within George �鶹��Ƶ’s College of Public Health also earned strong recognition as demand for nurses remains high across Virginia and the country. The master’s in nursing ranked No. 1 in Virginia and among public universities in the Washington, D.C., region, placing 41st nationally among public universities. The master’s in nursing for veterans program ranked 15th nationally and 10th among public universities, reinforcing George �鶹��Ƶ’s role in preparing nurses to meet growing health care demands.

"At the School of Nursing, we advance nursing excellence by offering flexible, accessible pathways to advanced degrees,” said Dean Melissa Perry, College of Public Health. “Through online and veteran-focused options, we are strengthening the nursing workforce and preparing graduates to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care in a rapidly changing health care environment. The recognition as the top program in Virginia reflects the College of Public Health's commitment to developing tomorrow’s leaders in health care."

George �鶹��Ƶ’s College of Engineering and Computing demonstrated strength across engineering and information technology programs aligned with high-demand technical fields critical to the region’s innovation economy. The master’s in industrial engineering ranked 11th nationally, and several programs placed among the top 50 nationally, including master’s in engineering (50th), master’s in engineering for veterans (34th), and the master’s in information technology (38th).

“We’re happy to be so well represented in this year’s rankings,” said Ken Ball, dean of the College of Engineering and Computing. “Our college has a successful history in online education, which includes offering George �鶹��Ƶ’s first online master’s degree—a master’s in computer science—in 2005. We’re proud to provide flexible learning opportunities that support one of the university’s Grand Challenge [Initiative] solutions: advancing 21st-century education for all.”

Commitment to Access

Taken together, these rankings reflect George �鶹��Ƶ’s sustained investment in education that expands access, strengthens workforce pipelines, and delivers meaningful outcomes. For veterans, working adults, and post-traditional students, George �鶹��Ƶ’s online programs support upward mobility and regional impact across high-demand fields.

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Outdoor learning at Burke Lake shows students science career pathways

Sarah Holland — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 14:42:18 +0000

Outdoor learning at Burke Lake shows students science career pathways Sarah Holland Mon, 01/26/2026 - 09:42

Cynthia "Cindy" Smith (left) works with one of the seventh grade students. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

Down at the shores of Burke Lake, seventh-grade students squeal in delight and disgust. They've found a collection of invertebrates under a rock. Their field interpreter—a �鶹��Ƶ student—gathers them around to take a closer look and identify what they see. Nearby, another group of students takes water samples. Another group measures the soil compaction around the mossy roots of a tree.

For some of these Fairfax County Public School (FCPS) students, it’s the first time they’ve been to Burke Lake. Some didn’t know it existed at all, despite being in their proverbial backyards. But through the Meaningful Watershed Educational Experiences (MWEEs) program, FCPS students get the chance to do hands-on learning outdoors.

Developed as part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Bay Watershed Education and Training (B-WET) program and Chesapeake Bay Program, MWEEs increase environmental literacy through hands-on experience in indoor and outdoor classrooms. Since 2010, George �鶹��Ƶ environmental science and policy professor Cynthia Smith has worked with FCPS and Fairfax County Park Authority to develop and support her students in delivering MWEEs in waterfront park locations around the county. In her role as outreach director for the Potomac Environmental Research and Education Center (PEREC), Smith integrates PEREC aquatic ecology research into these programs.

The program is an extension of the FCPS seventh-grade life science curriculum, bringing students out of their classroom labs and into the field to gain hands-on experience. With support and guidance from field interpreters, the students move through different stations to learn about the history of development around the lake, test the water chemistry, investigate invertebrate habitats, measure soil erosion and compaction, and examine biodiversity living amongst the trees and leaf litter to gather a holistic look at the health of their local watershed. The data they record during their field excursion is further investigated in the classroom.

George �鶹��Ƶ student and field interpreter Deena Chouaf (right) and one of the seventh grade students. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

“We’re looking at the human impact on the land and how it impacts the water,” Smith explained. “But instead of just hearing a lecture on it, the students are immersed in the environment. When you see it, touch it, measure it, and talk about why you’re doing it, then the learning is just so much more impactful, and you become more invested in protecting and preserving it.”

Smith recruits George �鶹��Ƶ students to serve as the field interpreters, giving them an opportunity to practice their science communication skills in a real-world setting. “They’re explaining challenging concepts to young learners, encouraging them to engage with the data they’ve collected, helping them learn through inquiry," Smith explained. “I’ve seen so many students evolve into incredible leaders and communicators through their experiences as field interpreters.”

“I had never had a job where I had to speak in front of people, and I really couldn’t do it at all when I started,” said Matt Helfinstein, BS Biology ’12. He worked as a field interpreter throughout his time at George �鶹��Ƶ. “But I was able to develop those science communication skills and get much more comfortable with it.”

Now, Helfinstein is camp director of Fish and Explore—a company that offers guided outdoor experiences and summer camps—and continues to work with Smith as the MWEE site manager. Helfinstein met the owner of the company while serving as a field interpreter, which opened the door to his future career.

"We have students go into policy, environmental science, science communication, as well as working for our partners like the Park Authority or Fish and Explore,” said Smith. “Translating science to the public opens up so many opportunities for them that they never thought possible.”

George �鶹��Ƶ student and field interpreter Angelina Seehusan. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

It’s an important opportunity for the middle school students as well. “This is the first time some of them have ever met a college student working outdoors in a park setting,” Smith explained. Because of this, she has her field interpreters introduce themselves not just as George �鶹��Ƶ students, but with their expected career paths: freshwater ecologist, marine biologist, environmental scientist, etc.

“They hear about all these different career fields and areas of study in science, they get excited. They routinely ask field interpreters what they have to do to pursue that same career,” said Smith.

The Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement put forth a new goal in 2025 of increasing elementary, middle, and high school student participation in MWEEs, working toward 75% of public school students enrolled in a school district with MWEEs by 2040.

In 2016, Smith and her collaborators in FCPS and the Fairfax County Park Authority received a Jack Wood Award for Town-Gown Relations in the category of Partnership Initiative for their work. Ten years ago, they had served over 25,000 seventh graders throughout the county. Now, Smith estimates PEREC outreach programs reach more than 10,000 students a year. And more and more, she’s seeing those students enroll at George �鶹��Ƶ and become field interpreters themselves.

“Sometimes just seeing one cool thing is life-changing,” Smith said.

Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

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Walkability initiative is a win-win partnership for Alexandria City residents and George �鶹��Ƶ researchers

Taylor Thomas — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 14:30:46 +0000

Walkability initiative is a win-win partnership for Alexandria City residents and George �鶹��Ƶ researchers Taylor Thomas Mon, 01/26/2026 - 09:30

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Iulia Fratila, PhD

“Imagine living in a place where you can comfortably send your child and their friends on a safe route to your local library on foot or by bike. How about being able to engage in physical activity by simply accessing an expansive network of trails that might connect parks to local suburbs? This is what walkability looks like—and walkability is public health,” said social science researcher Iulia Fratila, an assistant professor in the Department of Global and Community Health at �鶹��Ƶ.

Fratlia participated as a cohort member of the 2025 Virginia Walkability Action Institute (VWAI) and was awarded $9,000 in funding to enhance a local park in Alexandria, Virginia. In partnership with the City of Alexandria Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities (RPCA), Fratila and third-year undergraduate social work student Bryce Neuman devised the plan for the Alexandria City Ben Brenman Park project, which aims to encourage walkability, promote physical activity among community members, and improve access to fitness.

Fratlia emphasizes the role of partnerships in bringing sustainable change to fruition. “A partnership like this is a win for everyone involved," she said. "Academic researchers bring knowledge and expertise on the science that shapes health outcomes and the potential prevention efforts and the governmental agencies can bring resources and design structures that support health-promoting landscapes and decision-making.”

Assistant Professor in the College of Public Health Iulia Fratila (left) and Senior Transportation Planner at Equitable Cities Reba Oduro (right) standing in Ben Brenman Park currently, before enhancement. Photo provided.

The goal of the Ben Brenman Park project is to upgrade a trail segment in the south side of the park that has been underdeveloped and underutilized. The anticipated result is more walking and community engagement, healthier residents in the city of Alexandria and surrounding areas, and addressing health and recreation access gaps.

“We need to make sure we are creating and enhancing built environments and infrastructure that make healthier habits like walking and biking a possibility for all,” said Fratlia.

Neuman joined the Ben Brenman Park project to explore her interest in the built and natural environment as an important factor of public health as well as connections to macro-level social work dimensions. Together, Fratlia and Neuman developed the project’s action plan and strategic goals that guided them through the project proposal and implementation process.

Fratlia attended the farmers' market held at the park to distribute QR codes linking to the survey, and the RPCA emailed the survey to the city residents via their newsletter. These data collection methods garnered more than 400 responses. Based on the survey responses, the community identified priorities, including planting native trees and plants and installing adult fitness equipment in the park. Subsequently, the RPCA Urban Planning team created a plan outlining the proposed layout for exercise equipment and tree plantings.

“I am looking forward to being able to see the final product implemented at the park and see that positive change. I’m particularly excited about the addition of native wildlife around the park, and I hope the people who live near and visit the park also appreciate the changes,” said Neuman.

In addition to the pitch and execution of the Ben Brenman Park project, the VWAI program, in partnership with Equitable Cities LLC, involved attending distance learning modules and in-person workshopsfocused on topics such as Placemaking and Tactical Urbanism, the Economic Impact and Sustainability of Active Transportation Investment, Inclusive Community Engagement, Safe Routes programming, and Complete Streets initiatives. This experience allowed Fratila and Neuman to apply public health principles to a real-world built environment project while engaging directly with community members to address their needs and priorities.

The park enhancement project, which has officially been named a case study by the VWAI, is scheduled to be completed in early 2026 and will be installed by the City of Alexandria Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities. The VWAI is a program of the Virginia Department of Health and is supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Key Takeaways

George �鶹��Ƶ College of Public Health researchers are partnering with the City of Alexandria Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities and the Virginia Walkability Action Institute to study and improve neighborhood walkability at Alexandria City's Ben Brenman Park, ensuring research is grounded in community-identified needs rather than academic theory alone.
The initiative provides hands-on, real-world research experience for College of Public Health students, integrating applied public health training with community-based data collection and analysis to inform local planning decisions.
George �鶹��Ƶ’s involvement helps translate walkability research into practical policy insights, supporting Alexandria’s goals around healthier, safer, and more equitable streets while positioning the university as a long-term community partner.

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Four Former Virginia Governors Weigh in on Virginia’s Next Four Years

Andrew J Schappert — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 16:51:39 +0000

Four Former Virginia Governors Weigh in on Virginia’s Next Four Years Andrew J Schappert Fri, 01/23/2026 - 11:51

From left: moderator Bob Holsworth with former governors Bob McDonnell, Ralph Northam, Tim Kaine, and George Allen on stage in Richmond. Photos by Drew Precious

On the Friday before the historic inauguration of Abigail Spanberger (D) as Virginia’s first female governor, �鶹��Ƶ’s Schar School of Policy and Government hosted “The Governors’ Roundtable: The Future of Virginia.”

The four former governors gather with David Ramadan and �鶹��Ƶ President Gregory Washington.

The event, held in Richmond, Virginia, brought together four former governors of the commonwealth—George Allen (R), Senator Tim Kaine (D), Bob McDonnell (R), and Ralph Northam (D)—for a lively, collegial, and substantive discussion.

Former Virginia Delegate David Ramadan, professor of practice in the Schar School and a member of Governor Spanberger’s transition team, opened the panel, acknowledging the 120 attendees. The audience included Virginia business and civic leaders, representatives from George �鶹��Ƶ and Schar School centers, Schar School faculty, students, and alumni, and a strong contingent from Virginia’s political community including current and former members of the General Assembly.

Ramadan noted that 2026 is the 10th anniversary of the naming of the Schar School after businessman and philanthropist Dwight Schar and the event kicks off a yearlong celebration of the school. He also mentioned that McDonnell, former Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe, and former Vice President Mike Pence currently serve as professors at the school.

McDonnell offers reflections from his time as governor during the discussion.

“The Schar School is interested in nonpartisan engagement,” Ramadan said.

George �鶹��Ƶ President Gregory Washington welcomed the audience and briefly described the university and the Schar School and its mission.

“This event embodies Dwight Schar’s vision,” he said.

Noted Virginia political analyst Bob Holsworth served as moderator and asked four questions of the panel who, for an hour, reminisced about their own inauguration days, offered advice to the new governor, and discussed how she might navigate the next four years.

(The following are edited excerpts from the conversation.)

Holsworth: What advice do you have for Abigail Spanberger in the first days of her administration?

Allen: It will be exhilarating for Abigail Spanberger. I remember my inauguration day. The weather was so cold. I grew up in a football family. I was thinking, It’s game day. Your adrenaline is just going. I wanted the world to know that Virginia was open for business. She, like all of us, will work to keep her promises. As governor, you’ll learn a lot. Make decisions that will make Virginia more affordable, safer. If yes, then yes. If no, then no.

Tim Kaine shares a lighter moment during the collegial exchange.

Kaine: My inauguration was in Williamsburg. (The Richmond Capitol was under renovation.) Only three Virginia governors have been inaugurated in Williamsburg: Patrick Henry, Thomas Jefferson, and me. The weather was awful. I had four main objectives, one for each year. Abigail needs an agenda. She will get knocked off her agenda. But don’t let the urgent take over. Savor the good days and get ready for the bad.

Northam: It’s great that everyone is coming together to support Abigail. She has done a great job putting together a good team and they are ready to get to work. I recommend Abigail build relationships with members of the General Assembly to get things done.

McDonnell: Whether you win by ½ a percent or by 18 points, you are governor for all the people. She’s an incredibly capable person. She’s the youngest governor since George Allen. She’s up to the task. In Virginia, we transition power well. Relationships mean results. Go to the General Assembly and make house calls. See how you can work together. Know that budget and work it hard.

Allen listens as his colleagues offer their advice for the new governor.

Holsworth: How will she tackle the affordability issue?

Allen: Know the budget. Prioritize. People and businesses are not trees. They do move. Virginia is in strong competition with other states like North Carolina and Florida. Energy policy is going to be really important. That’s an affordability issue.

Platitudes are great, but you have to act. She needs to work with everyone to find solutions to make things affordable for Virginians. You can make decisions that really have an effect on people.

Kaine: Do it where people feel it: health care, housing, child care, the big ticket items that hurt the pocketbook.

McDonnell: Time is money. Reduce regulations that take permits 200-300 days for building. Virginia is in really good shape.

Northam: Jobs are the most important things. Make sure Virginia is strong for business. The cost of energy is so important. The Hampton Roads offshore wind project needs to be finished. Our ports. I worked with President Trump to deepen and widen our channels. We need to get our ports back up. Tariffs have hurt.

Allen: What we need are leaders who care about the people.

Bob McDonnell (left) listens as Ralph Northam (right) reflects on lessons learned from governing.

Holsworth: How should Spanberger respond to President Trump?

Northam: There are going to be areas where she can work with Trump. She should focus on Virginia. Rely on people you put in place. Stand back and let them do what they do.

Kaine: Call your senators and ask for help. When I was governor, I had George W. Bush for three years and Obama for one year. Bush was pulling the plug with the [Metro] silver line to Dulles and moving ships from Virginia to Florida. His brother was governor of Florida. I called John Warner.

McDonnell: It’s a transactional relationship with Washington. Maybe connect on energy, solar, wind, and fossil fuels. Embrace that. All of these types of energy. She’s the daughter of law enforcement. She might go against type. Find common ground.

Holsworth: What do you think of redistricting?

McDonnell: It would not be good. The net effect is bad for the nation and it will make the tone of politics a lot worse.

Northam: There’s a domino effect. The president should put a stop to this. You have to fight fire with fire.

Kaine: Do it and do it better. You can’t open Pandora’s Box and expect states to sit on their hands. Get back to redistricting that will be done the right way.

Allen: People should elect their leaders and not rig elections. Not one party or the other running roughshod over each other.

A reception followed the program, allowing attendees a chance to continue the dialogue and Schar School students to network. The event illustrated the Schar School’s role as a forward-looking policy institution that convenes scholars, practitioners, students, and the broader community to address pressing public policy challenges.

This event marks the beginning of the Schar School’s yearlong series commemorating its 10th anniversary and reaffirming its mission. On Tuesday, February 3, the program continues with an alumni breakfast. More events will be announced in the coming weeks, culminating in a 10th anniversary gala in fall 2026.

Additional reporting by Buzz McClain

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Four Former Virginia Governors Weigh in on Virginia’s Next Four Years

Holsworth: What advice do you have for Abigail Spanberger in the first days of her administration?

Holsworth: How will she tackle the affordability issue?

Holsworth: How should Spanberger respond to President Trump?

Holsworth: What do you think of redistricting?

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