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Fuse at �鶹��Ƶ Square recognized for environmental impact and sustainable design

Colleen Rich — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 19:53:52 +0000

Fuse at �鶹��Ƶ Square recognized for environmental impact and sustainable design Colleen Rich Wed, 11/05/2025 - 14:53

�鶹��Ƶ’s Fuse at �鶹��Ƶ Square was among the projects cited when Edgemoor Infrastructure and Real Estate received national recognition for industry leadership and sustainable development.

Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

The 345,000-square-foot digital innovation hub, where a celebration was held in late September to introduce the community to the building, earned the Environmental Impact Award at the Annual P3 (Public Private Partnership) Awards in New York City.

“We are proud and deeply honored that Fuse at �鶹��Ƶ Square has been recognized with this award,” said Liza Wilson Durant, the associate provost for strategic initiatives and community engagement at George �鶹��Ƶ and director of the Northern Virginia Node of the Commonwealth Cyber Initiative (CCI). “This prestigious recognition reaffirms our bold commitment to sustainability, innovation, and responsible stewardship in campus development. In partnership with Edgemoor and other collaborators, we have reinforced George �鶹��Ƶ’s vision of our campuses as living laboratories where infrastructure itself can teach, inspire, and scale sustainable practices.”

According to the competition judges, Fuse is “a highly commendable higher-education project that delivers exemplary environmental performance.” It was specifically praised for its cutting-edge approach to sustainability in design, construction, and operations. The building is expected to achieve LEED Platinum certification and is net-zero ready, setting a new standard for environmentally conscious campus facilities.

“Receiving this high-level recognition is a tremendous source of pride and a clear testament to the groundbreaking work of the Fuse team and all of our partners,” said Edgemoor Managing Director Brian Naumick. “While the quality of the project is its own reward, formal acknowledgment from our industry peers and partners proves Fuse is truly leading the market for sustainability and resiliency.”

Adding to its sustainability achievements, Fuse earned a Fitwel 2 Star Rating, marking a first for George �鶹��Ƶ. Fitwel recognizes facilities that enhance quality of life through design and operational strategies that promote physical, mental, and social health.

Conveniently located at the center of the Rosslyn–Ballston corridor, Fuse serves as a state-of-the-art tech hub digital innovators, researchers, and entrepreneurs. The building, which welcomed students this semester, features specialized labs for robotics and virtual reality and data visualization, as well as office spaces, retail, and co-working areas to foster collaboration and innovation across sectors.

The $254 million project was funded through a collaboration that included $90 million each from George �鶹��Ƶ and the commonwealth’s Tech Talent Investment Program, along with $78 million from Edgemoor Infrastructure and Real Estate.

Fuse was among several Edgemoor projects and personnel recognized across multiple categories.

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Movers and Shakers Mixer connects George �鶹��Ƶ students with industry leaders

Lauren Reuscher — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 17:46:41 +0000

Movers and Shakers Mixer connects George �鶹��Ƶ students with industry leaders Lauren Reuscher Wed, 11/05/2025 - 12:46

�鶹��Ƶ students recently gathered with leaders in business, government, and the nonprofit sector at Fuse at �鶹��Ƶ Square for an evening of mixing, mingling, and making connections. The annual Movers and Shakers Mixer introduces George �鶹��Ƶ undergraduate and graduate students to professionals in a variety of career fields.

For students who are new to �鶹��Ƶ Square, the event is also a great opportunity to connect with fellow Patriots.

The annual Movers and Shakers Mixer introduces George �鶹��Ƶ students to professionals in a variety of career fields. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Caroline Kung, a student pursuing a master’s degree in computer science, aspires to be a software engineer at an aerospace company, such as Boeing or Lockheed Martin.

“It sounded like a great opportunity to meet other graduate students as well as community leaders in the area,” she said. “I’ve just started my program this fall, and I’m glad to have the chance to meet more people face to face.”

During the event, Kung spoke with the director of the Arlington Convention and Visitors Service, and an external affairs representative from Dominion Energy.

“They were both very welcoming and happy to tell me more about their work. It was great to learn more about a new industry and other people’s career paths,” stated Kung.

Kung was also one of five attendees selected in a raffle to receive a one-on-one networking lunch with an industry leader.

George �鶹��Ƶ alumnus Erick Arrivillaga, a first-year student at the Antonin Scalia Law School, also attended the event to expand his professional network. Arrivillaga graduated with a BS in criminology, law and society and a BA in government and international politics in 2024.

The aspiring criminal defense attorney met senior leaders from the Alexandria/Arlington Regional Workforce Council and Arlington County government.

“I enjoyed meeting all the leaders at the event. They gave us valuable insight into their careers,” Arrivillaga said.

The Movers and Shakers Mixer gives students an opportunity to connect with leaders in business, government, and the nonprofit sector. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

For Shaye Dietrich, BS Criminology, Law and Society ’24, Movers and Shakers was the starting point of her career in law enforcement. As a student at last year’s event, she met several area professionals, including representatives from the Arlington County Sheriff’s Office.

“I spoke with the deputies and told them about my career goals,” Dietrich said. “They had an upcoming academy and encouraged me to apply.”

Following graduation, Dietrich completed 10 weeks of training at the Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Training Academy. She now serves as a deputy at the Arlington County Detention Facility.

This year, Dietrich returned to Movers and Shakers—as a representative of the Arlington County Sheriff’s Office—to share her experience and inspire fellow Patriots.

More about Fuse at �鶹��Ƶ Square

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Commonwealth Cyber Initiative helps launch new start-ups

Katarina Benson — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 16:06:56 +0000

Commonwealth Cyber Initiative helps launch new start-ups Katarina Benson Tue, 11/04/2025 - 11:06

The Commonwealth Cyber Initiative Accelerator (CCI+A) program is a jam-packed, five-month innovation program that’s fueling cybersecurity entrepreneurship across Virginia. It’s teaching professors and start-ups what it takes to bring technology to market, including how to pitch to a panel of investors and industry leaders.

“Supporting cybersecurity start-ups and bringing ideas out of universities and into the marketplace are an essential part of the CCI’s mission,” said Luiz DaSilva, executive director of CCI. “We’re excited to help these start-ups reach their milestones and create new opportunities and jobs in the commonwealth.”

The program began at �鶹��Ƶ and has expanded statewide. It’s co-funded by the CCI Northern Virginia Node and the CCI Hub.

Rui Ning of DeepScan presenting their pitch. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

"Since its launch at �鶹��Ƶ in 2022, CCI+A has accelerated 34 technologies from across Virginia," said Liza Wilson Durant, CCI Northern Virginia Node director, associate dean of strategic initiatives and community engagement at George �鶹��Ƶ, and College of Engineering and Computer professor. "Each year we've seen the teams increase their customer engagement and elevate their competitive pitch performance. It's exciting to see several entities undergo acquisition and see the impact of the program on Virginia economic development."

The CCI+A program works on two tracks—the CATAPULT Fund supports teams emerging from Virginia public research universities and the ASCEND Fund focuses on start-up teams collaborating with faculty subject matter experts. The teams receive up to $75,000 to help them commercialize their technology.

CCI funded 10 projects this year. On October 16, teams from both tracks competed to pitch their start-ups to a panel of investors and industry leaders. The winning team from each category received an additional $5,000 in funding.

The CATAPULT winning team is DeepScan, led by Rui Ning, an assistant professor in computer science at Old Dominion University (ODU). The team also includes Maia Lin and Yao Wang from ODU.
The ASCEND winning team is Glacier21, a start-up led by CEO Ren McEachern, a former FBI agent. Team members include Robert Appleton, Mike Borowski, Neil Alexander, along with George �鶹��Ƶ professor Foteini Baldimsti.

The CCI+A program is coordinated by Gisele Stolz, senior director of entrepreneurship and innovation at George �鶹��Ƶ.

Meet the Winners

DeepScan

While artificial intelligence is quickly becoming a requirement on our smartphones and other devices, security is lagging, said Ning, DeepScan team lead. Hidden triggers can hijack behavior, and many apps ship models that are easy to tamper with. DeepScan promises to protect on-device AI without slowing down performance. First-time winner Ning is a veteran of CCI+A and put what he learned from a past program to good use.

“The program taught me how to communicate technical ideas in a way that connects with broader audiences,” Ning said. “I’ve always been curious about entrepreneurship because it feels like a natural way to translate research into something that can make a difference. It’s another path to extend our impact beyond papers and grants.”

Glacier21

Glacier21 is focusing on combating illicit cryptocurrency activities. The platform integrates data from such sources as social media, data leaks, and the deep/dark web to uncover complex connections between crypto wallets, businesses, and individuals.

Glacier21 presented their platform focused on combating illicit cryptocurrency activities. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

CCI+A helped the team with the execution, McEachern said. “When we were lucky enough to be selected into the CCI+A program, it didn't just open up some resources; it opened up access to people and vast networks that totally changed our strategy and our thinking.”

Foteini Baldimsti, an associate professor of computer science at �鶹��Ƶ, worked with Glacier21 to provide technical expertise. “It's very nice to see how your academic work can help a start-up and give technical knowledge,” Baldimsti said. “But I think it's also very interesting as an academic to learn from this project and from the CCI+A program about how you can bring your own ideas and how you can participate in one of the next cohorts and be on the other side as the founder of the company. I think this experience has been very, very valuable.”

In This Story

Liza Wilson Durant

Foteini Baldimtsi

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PiVoT Peace Lab transforms conflict into connection

Sarah Holland — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 13:35:41 +0000

PiVoT Peace Lab transforms conflict into connection Sarah Holland Fri, 10/17/2025 - 09:35

Look at any newsfeed in the United States, and it won’t take long to find an article, op-ed, or think piece on the growing divide between Americans. Left vs right, liberal vs conservative, blue vs red: political polarization has become a hot topic in American media as both a cause and a symptom of growing tensions across the country.

But what’s missing from the conversation is the solution. How do we find common ground and bridge these growing gaps to create a more peaceful future?

In the Polarization and Violence Transformed (PiVoT) Peace Lab in the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution, researchers and practitioners are developing methods for peace-oriented responses to the negative impacts of extreme polarization and conflict around the globe.

Daniel Rothbart. Photo by Creative Services/Office of University Branding

“Most protracted violent conflicts are identity-based, meaning that the militants of one identity group are in a violent engagement with the militants or civilians of another identity group,” said Daniel Rothbart, Druscilla French Chair in Conflict Analysis and Resolution and director of the PiVoT Peace Lab. “That type of destructive polarization that encourages dehumanization is often at the center of these conflicts.”

The lab hosts a number of student- and researcher-led projects diving deeply into polarization: its causes, its consequences, and its possible solutions.

“It’s created for me this exciting opportunity to not only explore these important issues, but also to work with amazing students at all levels of our program,” said Rothbart.

One of those students is PiVoT Peace Lab manager Randy Lioz. Lioz, a master’s student in conflict analysis and resolution, developed an interest in the study of polarization in 2016, when conversations with friends and family about the 2016 presidential election highlighted contrasting viewpoints.

“I thought that what we’re missing are the tools and skills to have these conversations that could bring us into better understanding with one another,” he said. Since pivoting his career from the automotive industry to peacebuilding, Lioz has worked with practitioners and academics to develop methods and strategies for engaging opposite sides in relationship building that can break the cycles of dehumanization that fuel negative polarization.

“We need to understand what forces exist and how they push people toward radicalization, extremism, and alienation,” Lioz explained, “and then we need to figure out the best interventions.”

“Our mission as peacebuilders is to not only understand violent conflicts, but to help change the relationship among antagonist groups and help them transform,” said Rothbart.

As part of the peace lab’s mission to develop methods of reducing or eliminating the negative impacts of polarization and to foster this transformation, one of Lioz’s ongoing projects is leading the Depolarization Labs and Trainers Alliance (DeLTA). DeLTA brings scholars and practitioners together to build connections and explore pathways for bridging the growing divide.

Randy Lioz. Photo provided.

“Putting nonprofit partners in the same room as academics gives folks who are working in this field a place where they can talk about their research and connect it back to practice on the ground,” Lioz said.

DeLTA’s upcoming conference on October 27, “Pathways Forward: How Can We Restore Trust and Faith in America?” will give students, scholars, and practitioners the opportunity to learn about intervention techniques from national nonprofit leaders and university professors across the greater Washington, D.C., region.

“Right now, our faith in our institutions has been shaken, and this is existential for us. We need to rebuild our social capital and our trust in each other,” said Lioz. “I want people to get inspired by the work that’s being done to bring us all back into community with one another, particularly students who might want to pursue this field as a career. I want this to motivate us to tackle this existential problem of our time.”

But still, the question posed by the media remains: Can we come back from this?

Lioz and Rothbart believe so.

“Just as the forces of polarization have increased, I see the forces of depolarization are also intensifying. I see it in the strength and resilience that all over the nation, in how people are protecting the most vulnerable populations,” said Rothbart. “We talk about polarization as if it’s an inevitability; polarization is not inevitable, nor is it irreversible. There are so many reasons to be hopeful.”

In This Story

Daniel Rothbart

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Grand Challenge Initiative

Explore George �鶹��Ƶ’s Grand Challenge Initiative addressing the greatest threats to humanity’s ability to live a peaceful, healthy, prosperous, and just existence.

Learn more about the 2025 DeLTA conference

George �鶹��Ƶ hosts grand celebration of Fuse at �鶹��Ƶ Square

Colleen Rich — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 20:21:17 +0000

George �鶹��Ƶ hosts grand celebration of Fuse at �鶹��Ƶ Square Colleen Rich Tue, 09/23/2025 - 16:21

�鶹��Ƶ marks a defining moment today with the grand celebration of Fuse at �鶹��Ƶ Square, featuring the formal naming of the School of Computing in honor of philanthropists Kimmy Duong and Long Nguyen, the ribbon cutting of the new Energy Exploration (E2) Center, and interactive exhibits as part of George �鶹��Ƶ’s Grand Challenge Initiative.

Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Located in Arlington, Virginia, Fuse is designed as a catalyst for collaboration between academia, industry, and government. The grand celebration will demonstrate how George �鶹��Ƶ and its partners are advancing research, talent, and business to strengthen the region and addressing today’s grand challenge to drive solutions worldwide. Built in partnership with �鶹��Ƶ Innovation Partners (MIP), a development consortium led by Edgemoor Infrastructure & Real Estate, Fuse stands as a model of how universities and private partners can work together to expand opportunity and accelerate innovation.

“Fuse is a symbol of what George �鶹��Ƶ stands for: innovation, collaboration, and opportunity, as we collaborate to propel bold solutions for a prosperous, peaceful future,” said President Gregory Washington. “With support and investment from the state, Fuse at �鶹��Ƶ Square not only opens doors to industry with a one-of-a-kind innovation destination, but also opens a new chapter in the university’s role as a leader of discovery and economic growth for Virginia.”

In recognition of the Kimmy Duong Foundation’s generosity, the event will honor the transformational naming gift for the university’s School of Computing—the first of its kind in the commonwealth. This gift, made possible through the vision and commitment of Kimmy Duong and Long Nguyen, establishes three endowments: two within the College of Engineering and Computing to provide lasting support for scholarships and student success initiatives aligned with the commonwealth’s Tech Talent Investment Program, and one within University Life to provide scholarships.

Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

“Kimmy Duong and Long Nguyen’s extraordinary gift will create pathways that expand what’s possible for our students and significantly enhance the experiential learning opportunities available,” said Trishana E. Bowden, vice president of advancement and alumni relations and president of the �鶹��Ƶ Foundation. “Fuse reflects that same promise, a bold space that nurtures talent, fuels discovery, and equips �鶹��Ƶ students to transform the world ahead.”

This gift is part of �鶹��Ƶ Now: Power the Possible, George �鶹��Ƶ’s historic $1 billion campaign to expand innovation, increase access, and create opportunity for students and the commonwealth.

The celebration will also feature the ribbon cutting for the E2 Center, created in partnership with NuScale Power Corporation as part of the College of Engineering and Computing. The largest small modular reactor control room simulator of its kind in the United States, the E2 Center will engage students in hands-on nuclear science and engineering education and real-life scenarios. It was funded by a grant from the Virginia Clean Energy Innovation Bank, as part of the Virginia Department of Energy’s investments in the state’s nuclear energy workforce development.

“The E2 Center equips our students with cutting-edge technology, new educational opportunities, and will empower them to lead in the fast-evolving energy sector,” said Ken Ball, dean of the College of Engineering and Computing. “This center also affirms George �鶹��Ƶ as a leader in advancing sustainable energy solutions to meet society’s ever-growing energy demand. Partnerships, like this one between NuScale and George �鶹��Ƶ, are crucial in advancing the region’s goals to cultivate the next wave of innovators who will shape Virginia’s future and make a global impact.”

Attendees of the grand celebration will be able to explore interactive demonstrations by faculty, researchers, and students, such as an indoor drone challenges, hands-on engagement with humanoid robots, a virtual reality beehive, and AI-enabled virtual reality emergency response. Exhibits will spotlight George �鶹��Ƶ’s leadership in advancing the six Grand Challenge Initiative solutions: advancing 21st-century education for all, building a climate resilient society, driving responsible digital innovation and sustainable infrastructure, improving human health and preparedness, pioneering space exploration, and strengthening peace, trust, and engagement in democracy.

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�鶹��Ƶ Enterprise at �鶹��Ƶ propels entrepreneurship across the region

Colleen Rich — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 20:18:05 +0000

�鶹��Ƶ Enterprise at �鶹��Ƶ propels entrepreneurship across the region Colleen Rich Tue, 09/23/2025 - 16:18

Northern Virginia and the Greater Washington Region is rapidly becoming one of the nation’s fastest-growing entrepreneurial destinations for investors and inventors, with �鶹��Ƶ’s investments and partnerships as a key driver.

From Accelerate investor Conference 2024. Photo provided

The state’s largest university-based business incubator, �鶹��Ƶ Enterprise partners with the university’s schools and institutes, big business, start-ups, and venture capital investors to advance a thriving ecosystem of entrepreneurship and economic growth. This contributed to making Virginia a top state for business, according to CNBC.

“George �鶹��Ƶ is powering Virginia’s future,” said George �鶹��Ƶ President Gregory Washington. “The university is preparing students for high-demand careers, supporting entrepreneurs at every stage, and driving the growth of small businesses across the state. We’re not just in the degree business, we’re in the success business.”

�鶹��Ƶ Enterprise played a key role in Virginia’s new Lab-to-Launch initiative, the first of its kind in the nation. Developed through a statewide collaboration led by George �鶹��Ƶ and University of Virginia, with the Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation (VIPC) and the state’s four other R1 research universities—Old Dominion University, Virginia Commonwealth University, Virginia Tech, and William & Mary—the initiative is designed to double the number of start-ups that originate from Virginia’s research universities and accelerate the commercialization of breakthrough technologies.

�鶹��Ƶ Enterprise leadership and impact highlights include:

$2.8 billion in bank loans, lines of credit, venture capital, angel investment, new revenues, and government contracts secured in 2024
65 invention disclosures by faculty last year—a 150% increase over five years
Growth from 300 to 2,000 supported tech start-ups in five years
One in six of the businesses served by �鶹��Ƶ Enterprise are veteran-owned
58,000 entrepreneurs, small business owners, students and faculty participated in 2,600 workshops in 2024 (up from 19,000 attendees in 2020)
Helped in the formation of 409 new companies in 2024
Helped in the creation and retention of 6,351 jobs in 2024

“We’re proud to be building a culture of innovation that is reaping benefits for the region and beyond,” said Paula Sorrell, George �鶹��Ƶ’s associate vice president of innovation and economic development. “The blend of education, research, and public–private partnerships has created a steady pipeline of new ideas and investments that ensure our regional and national competitiveness.”

The �鶹��Ƶ Enterprise team, led by Sorrell, was recently recognized by the Virginia Association of Counties for its Accelerate Breakfast Series, which connects entrepreneurs and investors through curated pitch opportunities that strengthen the local start-up ecosystem and attract regional investment. In addition, the International Economic Development Council recognized �鶹��Ƶ Enterprise for its multiyear efforts advancing the region’s tech innovation economy with its Innovation Ecosystem Building award, the result of creating several high-impact, tech start-up focused programs to help diversify the regional economy.

�鶹��Ƶ Enterprise provides small business and start-ups with affordable office space, legal and accounting assistance, free mentoring, access to investor networks, makers’ spaces, and tailored programs designed to help get ideas get off the ground or take the next step to get to market. Working closely with VIPC and nearby local officials in Prince William, Arlington, and Fairfax counties, the team also manages the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) network, called the Virginia Small Business Development Center and the Department of War’s (DOW) Virginia APEX Accelerator.

�鶹��Ƶ Enterprise will host its fifth annual Accelerate Investor Conference 2025 on November 5-6 at the new Fuse at �鶹��Ƶ Square in Arlington, Virginia. This year’s venture capital event will feature keynote speaker Sid Banerjee, chief strategy officer for Medallia, as well as a fireside chat co-hosted by Virginia BIO CEO John Newby and Jeff Conroy, managing director of Bayeux Ventures and former CEO of Embody, a successful Virginia start-up.

In This Story

Paula Sorrell

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Fuse at �鶹��Ƶ Square unlocks opportunities for College of Humanities and Social Sciences research

Katarina Benson — Fri, 19 Sep 2025 18:15:21 +0000

Fuse at �鶹��Ƶ Square unlocks opportunities for College of Humanities and Social Sciences research Katarina Benson Fri, 09/19/2025 - 14:15

Eileen Roesler can’t help but be giddy about her new digs—and the opportunities that await.

An assistant professor in the Human Factors and Applied Cognition (HFAC) program, Roesler is one of three professors in the Department of Psychology in George �鶹��Ƶ University’s College of Humanities and Social Sciences who recently relocated their office to Fuse at �鶹��Ƶ Square.

Roesler with robots. Photo provided

Joining Roesler will be HFAC assistant professor Elizabeth Phillips, along with clinical psychology assistant professor Natasha Tonge. At Fuse, they’ll be able to use state-of-the-art facilities and technology to expand their respective studies and research with units from other colleges. Tonge and Roesler will serve as lab managers for the Human Subjects and Behavior Lab on the second floor at Fuse and Phillips will co-manage the Robotics Lab on the third floor.

With the Institute for Digital Innovation and the College of Engineering and Computing also housing specialized labs at Fuse, Roesler welcomes the cross-disciplinary research opportunities. Much of her excitement is geared toward her students, who will gain experience collaborating with other academic programs along with industry and government leaders.

On the Fairfax Campus, Roesler currently heads the Human-Agent Collaboration (HAC) Lab and collaborates with Phillips in the Human-Robot Interaction (HRI) Lab. Phillips also leads the Autonomous Systems (ALPHAS) Lab while Tonge runs the Trust and Interpersonal Disclosure (TIDL) Lab.

“It is really nice for the people who are at the intersection of technology and humans because we have the perfect surroundings to do research on both,” Roesler said. “It is a really diverse outlet space we can use for different topics. So, we are extremely excited about the research opportunities, but we are even a little more excited about having the chance of meeting industry, government, and faculty in the same space.”

Psychology won’t be the only CHSS department represented in the new building. Next System Studies, an initiative of the Center for Social Science Research and the Department of Sociology and Anthropology, will also call Fuse home. The Digital Commonwealth Project (DCP) in Next System Studies fits nicely into the mission of Fuse. The DCP connects leading technologists with local community groups, civic leaders, workers, business associations, and universities in a community-led design process that addresses local priorities while supporting resilient local business ecosystems and increasing community and employee ownership.

Ben Manski, an assistant professor in sociology and the director of Next System Studies, said the ample meeting space and being closer to community partners such as the NOVA Web Development cooperative, the Arlington Education Association, and Latinx community cooperative SECOSOL—among others—will be extremely beneficial.

“We need to be closer to where our people are, and they are all throughout Northern Virginia,” Manski said. “The use of the Fuse facilities will be very helpful with our research and action.”

In This Story

Eileen Roesler

Elizabeth Phillips

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�鶹��Ƶ Square

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ACCESS Academy’s inaugural AI Summer Camp builds critical technology skills—and miniature robots

Sarah Holland — Wed, 06 Aug 2025 13:38:25 +0000

ACCESS Academy’s inaugural AI Summer Camp builds critical technology skills—and miniature robots Sarah Holland Wed, 08/06/2025 - 09:38

In the kitchenette on the third floor of Fuse at �鶹��Ƶ Square, students huddle around laptops and inspect the codes on display in their Microsoft MakeCode programs. By their sides are little micro:bit three-wheeled robots. One sings a little 8-bit tune. Another flashes a pattern of colored lights. Another chirps like a bird, as the students at the table share a perplexed look.

Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

These high school students have spent the past week working on their robots, from assembly to coding, to make them do basic tasks like follow a provided track. Now, they’re each trying to do something new: make it go faster, sing a song, drive in reverse, or flash its lights like a turn signal. With every spin-out, slow-motion crash, or odd sound, the students return to their laptops to reprogram the bot and try again. If one student is struggling, they turn to their peers. Together, they’re making the robots work.

This is the inaugural ACCESS Academy Artificial Intelligence Summer Camp. Open to all 9th—12th graders across Virginia, the camp runs three one-week sessions at the ACCESS Academy headquarters in Fuse at �鶹��Ƶ Square. Through hands-on exploration of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics, students can imagine and begin preparing for technology-sector careers. Only in its first year, the camp already has 130 total participants over the course of three sessions.

"The goal of ACCESS Academy is to create a more inclusive pathway to college and high-demand careers for students who may not have previously seen those opportunities as within reach,” said Dean Ingrid Guerra-López of �鶹��Ƶ’s College of Education and Human Development (CEHD).

“We continue to hear from industries that we are not preparing our high school graduates to be employable,” said Roberto Pamas, professor of education leadership and director of the ACCESS Academy. Prior to his transition to teaching higher education, Pamas served 30 years in Fairfax County Public Schools as both an educator and an administrator. “They want both technology skills and soft skills. How to collaborate, how to communicate: we’re building those skills in these programs. And CEHD is in the business of teaching, learning, and leading.”

Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

AI was a natural choice for the camp’s curriculum. Working with faculty from the College of Engineering and Computing, the CEHD ACCESS Academy team developed a five-day program to build foundational skills to set students up for success.

The first four days of the camp focus on conceptual understanding and real-world applications of those ideas. On Friday, guest speakers from local education innovation technology company Kovexa engaged with students as part of a tinkering lab.

“AI represents a cutting-edge field and a dynamic problem space where students can practice essential skills such as critical thinking, ethical reasoning, collaboration, and problem-solving,” said Guerra-López. “It’s not just about coding, but about asking better questions, evaluating outputs, and imaging new possibilities.”

The students agree.

Mariia Tkach (center) tests her robot on the track. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

“I really like the atmosphere of people coming together and doing the things that they love,” said Mariia Tkach, a rising sophomore at Marshall High School. Her father works in cybersecurity, and she hopes to follow in his footsteps. “We had an AI training, and it was very challenging. The process of figuring it out and competing with one another was fun.”

Arkash Reith, who is entering his sophomore year at Evergreen Christian School, said, “This camp gave me experience in what AI can help you do as well as what it can’t help you do. Like, with coding, it can help with basic stuff, but nothing too hard.”

After each day, students write down one word to describe their experience. From this first week, the white board is filled with words like “fun,” “inspiring,” and “fascinating.”

Guerra-López envisions the bootcamp not only as a hands-on learning experience for students, but as a launchpad for expanding access to AI education across the region.

“The tinkering lab model in particular is a powerful way to reduce anxiety around emerging technologies, increase skill and self-efficacy for both students and educators, and foster a stronger sense of community around innovation,” she said.

Plans are underway to explore how this model can scale—both to offer more advanced learning tracks for students and to engage educators in professional development that supports responsible, inclusive digital innovation.

“George �鶹��Ƶ is a keeper of knowledge for Northern Virginia,” Pamas said. “And I believe it is our moral imperative to share that knowledge, particularly with students who otherwise might not have access to higher education.”

Discover the ACCESS Academy

Fuse at �鶹��Ƶ Square welcomes three new tech industry tenants

Katarina Benson — Fri, 18 Jul 2025 18:54:01 +0000

Fuse at �鶹��Ƶ Square welcomes three new tech industry tenants Katarina Benson Fri, 07/18/2025 - 14:54

Three more tenants have moved into �鶹��Ƶ’s state-of-the-art Fuse building at �鶹��Ƶ Square in the Rosslyn-Ballston Innovation Corridor of Arlington, Virginia.

JSI, Corvex, and Oasis Hill strengthen Fuse as a center for collaboration between industry leaders, government, university researchers, and students. All three tenants moved into Fuse this spring.

Fuse at �鶹��Ƶ Square is a 345,000-square-foot technology-focused facility designed to be an innovation community that fosters partnerships and opportunities that accelerate research outcomes into real-world solutions. The private commercial suites, which are adjacent to George �鶹��Ƶ’s Institute for Digital Innovation (IDIA) and academic programs in disciplines like computer science and engineering, provide immediate access to leading-edge labs, collaboration zones, and convening spaces, as well as highly activated and curated programs, day and night, for the building’s occupants, visitors, and the wider community.

The new tenants represent diverse sectors crucial to the digital economy:

Based in Chantilly, Virginia, JSI is a trusted provider of AI-enabled digital intelligence solutions deployed in more than 40 countries. JSI’s software is used to expand awareness, surface patterns, and simplify data complexity in support of mission-critical operations. Purpose-built for the evidential requirements of law enforcement, JSI has been helping protect what matters, both domestically and abroad, for more than 45 years.

“Quality and speed matter, and Fuse will accelerate our momentum with academic partners to close today's most pressing mission-critical gaps,” said Josh McKenna, president of JSI USA. “It’s more than a collaboration space; it’s a launchpad for practical, cost-effective innovation that helps clean streets, secure borders, and protect communities.”

Corvex provides accessible computing infrastructure for the entire AI lifecycle. The Corvex AI Cloud enables innovators to train, fine-tune, and inference AI models using the latest generation of supercomputers paired with white-glove support to ensure client success.

"Fuse at �鶹��Ƶ Square is thriving with innovation. It’s not just the technology focus of the building, but the community of innovators it is attracting," said Jay Crystal, Corvex Co-CEO.

Corvex operates at the absolute cutting edge of hardware and software that powers third-party developers' AI applications. The Corvex team's background in large-scale distributed computing and enterprise-grade software development infuses our community with a unique perspective in the fastest growing segment of the technology industry.

Oasis Hill is an innovation hub that will host pitch competitions, networking events, and accelerate start-ups in the tech marketplace and healthcare AI world. Co-founder Shy Pahlevani has been recognized as one of D.C.’s Top Young Entrepreneurs and Washington Business Journals’ 40 Under 40. He is also the founder of two Arlington start-ups: LiveSafe, which crowdsources safety intelligence, and HUNGRY, an office catering service.

JSI and Oasis Hill are collaborating with George �鶹��Ƶ colleges and programs to offer mentorship to student entrepreneurs, mentorship/internship opportunities, and joint research projects.

“�鶹��Ƶ’s �鶹��Ƶ Enterprise is excited to be partnering with Oasis Hill on a series of tech accelerators focused on vertical markets, including artificial intelligence, biomedical, and more,” said Paula Sorrell, associate vice president for innovation and economic development at George �鶹��Ƶ. “�鶹��Ƶ Enterprise will bring its expertise in running effective technical field accelerators that bridges universities and the community, while Oasis Hill will bring their entrepreneurial energy and subject matter experts to deliver programs based in Fuse in Arlington at �鶹��Ƶ Square.”

“JSI's tenancy in Fuse will accelerate our ability to collaborate on existing and new research endeavors, provide a direct line of tech talent to JSI and facilitate JSI's efforts to create project-based learning opportunities for George �鶹��Ƶ students at �鶹��Ƶ Square,” said Liza Wilson Durant, associate provost for strategic initiatives and community engagement at George �鶹��Ƶ.

"The latest cohort of tenants will drive innovation at Fuse, and each brings unique solutions to the market,” said Brian Naumick, managing director at Edgemoor Infrastructure & Real Estate. “Fuse allows them unparalleled opportunities and tailored amenities designed to foster greater innovation and collaboration. The experience at Fuse is different, driven by its one-of-a-kind space and unique curated events and experiences planned every day for the benefit of our collaborators."

Learn more about �鶹��Ƶ Enterprise

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NuScale Energy Exploration Center at Fuse offers students a state-of-the-art simulated reactor control room

Katarina Benson — Wed, 04 Jun 2025 17:59:12 +0000

NuScale Energy Exploration Center at Fuse offers students a state-of-the-art simulated reactor control room Katarina Benson Wed, 06/04/2025 - 13:59

�鶹��Ƶ's College of Engineering and Computing announces the opening of the Energy Exploration (E2) Center in partnership with NuScale Power Corporation at Fuse at �鶹��Ƶ Square.

The E2 Center, the largest of its kind in the United States, engages students in hands-on nuclear science and engineering educational activities. The center was funded by a grant from the Virginia Clean Energy Innovation Bank, powered by the Virginia Department of Energy, a strategic investment in Virginia’s nuclear energy workforce development.

NuScale E2 Centers, including the one at George �鶹��Ƶ, feature a state-of-the-art simulator that replicates a NuScale small modular reactor (SMR) control room. Students at George �鶹��Ƶ will have the unique opportunity to assume the role of a control room operator, engaging with real-life scenarios that bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application.

NuScale control room. Photo by Eduardo Macedo/Office of University Branding

“This cutting-edge SMR control room simulator will ensure that our students have access to emerging technologies that will drive innovation,” said Ken Ball, dean of the College of Engineering and Computing at George �鶹��Ƶ. “Partnerships such as this give our students the tools and education they will need to prepare for the future and become part of Virginia’s dynamic workforce.”

George �鶹��Ƶ is invested in solving humanity’s ultimate grand challenge: securing a peaceful, healthy, and prosperous future. As a part of the Grand Challenge Initiative, the simulator is part of George �鶹��Ƶ’s commitment to advancing a 21st-century education for all as well as building a climate-resilient society.

The establishment of NuScale’s E2 Center at George �鶹��Ƶ also marks a significant advancement for Virginia's educational landscape, preparing the next generation of nuclear professionals to engage with the evolving energy industry.

"A reliable and increasingly clean energy future is what the Virginia Clean Energy Innovation Bank is all about," said Glenn Davis, director of the Virginia Department of Energy. "With this investment alongside world-class higher-education partners at George �鶹��Ƶ and cutting-edge industry leaders at NuScale, we're ensuring Virginia has the energy to power our thriving economy and the expertise to continue leading the nation in innovation, education, and opportunity."

“The opening of NuScale’s E2 Center at George �鶹��Ƶ reinforces our mission to drive innovation in nuclear energy and inspire the next generation of leaders,” said NuScale President and Chief Executive Officer John Hopkins. “Together, we are shaping a skilled nuclear-ready workforce and fostering a more informed public, providing a strong foundation for the future of clean, reliable energy in Virginia and around the world.”

User in the lab. Photo by Eduardo Macedo/Office of University Branding

Fuse at �鶹��Ƶ Square is a 345,000-square-foot facility designed to promote technology, partnerships, and community engagement. The E2 Center, which opened at the end of May, offers opportunities outside the college curriculum, including practical demonstrations and interactive tours for local leaders and K-12 students, to deepen their understanding of nuclear power and the role it plays in providing reliable, clean energy.

In addition to the E2 Center at George �鶹��Ƶ, NuScale has centers at Idaho State University, Ohio State University, Oregon State University, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Texas A&M, University of Nevada-Las Vegas, South Carolina State University, University Politehnica of Bucharest, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, and Seoul National University. Learn more about NuScale E2 Centers here.

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