Science and Technology Campus / en When the mosquitos bite, the Biomedical Research Lab bites back /news/2025-07/when-mosquitos-bite-biomedical-research-lab-bites-back <span>When the mosquitos bite, the Biomedical Research Lab bites back </span> <span><span>Sarah Holland</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-07-03T15:45:51-04:00" title="Thursday, July 3, 2025 - 15:45">Thu, 07/03/2025 - 15:45</time> </span> <div class="layout layout--gmu layout--twocol-section layout--twocol-section--70-30"> <div class="layout__region region-first"> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:body" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasebody"> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Body</div> <div class="field__item"><p><span class="intro-text">It’s summer, and with those longer days come backyard cookouts, outdoor activities and—ouch!—bug bites. Mosquitoes love Northern Virginia’s infamous hot and humid summers. And as the world’s deadliest animal, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, they’re more than just a nuisance at the family barbeque: They’re a health hazard.</span></p> <figure role="group" class="align-left"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img src="/sites/g/files/yyqcgq291/files/styles/small_content_image/public/2025-07/220503202.jpg?itok=zfHKqP7V" width="233" height="350" alt="Farhang Alem portrait" loading="lazy"> </div> </div> <figcaption>Farhang Alem. Photo by Creative Services</figcaption> </figure> <p>But in partnership with Prince William County, 鶹Ƶ’s <a href="https://brl.gmu.edu/">Biomedical Research Laboratory</a> (BRL) is working to prevent outbreaks of mosquito-borne diseases.</p> <p>Since 2016, in response to the Zika virus outbreak, the county and the university partner each year to collect mosquito samples and test them for diseases like West Nile virus.</p> <p>“West Nile is endemic in the United States, and infections can be lethal,” explained <a href="https://science.gmu.edu/directory/farhang-alem">Farhang Alem</a>, MS Biology ’15, PhD Biosciences ’19 , associate director of the BRL. Alem has led the mosquito testing program since 2019.</p> <p>“Eighty percent of people will have no symptoms,” he said, “but about one in every 150 cases of West Nile is severe.” It’s a neuroinvasive disease, meaning severe cases can damage the nervous system, resulting in high mortality rates and a high likelihood of disability if survived. Even those with non-neuroinvasive West Nile virus, though most likely to make a full recovery, could experience symptoms for weeks or months. &nbsp;</p> <p>“We want to prevent the spread as much as possible,” Alem said.</p> <p>Testing season starts in late spring and runs through the fall. Each week, samples are collected at more than 60 sites across Prince William County, and the mosquitoes are sorted by species. Vector species—meaning those that carry disease—are sent to the BRL for testing. Researchers extract RNA from the mosquitos and check for the markers of West Nile virus. They then send their report to county officials. If mosquitoes are positive for West Nile virus, the county will follow their larvicide and adulticide spraying protocols to eliminate the threat at the site where the mosquitoes were trapped.</p> <p>“It allows us to more precisely target areas before they become a concern for the local community,” said Eli Hosen, environmental project manager for the mosquito and forest pest management branch of Prince William County Department of Public Works. “The lab provides us with a quick turnaround so we can respond as soon as possible.”</p> <p>The program has been effective, Alem said, in reducing the number of West Nile carriers in the region. "Spraying is definitely working to control the spread."</p> <p>Alem is in conversation with other counties in Northern Virginia to see if there’s interest in expanding the surveillance program. The BRL is also hoping to learn best practices on mosquito trapping from Prince William County to implement in other areas of research.</p> <p>George 鶹Ƶ epidemiologist <a href="https://publichealth.gmu.edu/profiles/aroess">Amira Roess</a> is looking into the possibility of a similar surveillance program in India for dengue fever, for example. And if deployed, researchers hope what they learn in India can be useful to their research here as well.</p> <p>With almost 10 years’ worth of data from the ongoing testing, Alem is hoping the lab can one day look at trends in disease occurrence and correlating environmental factors.</p> <p>“It's leading to new avenues of research for us,” said Alem.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="layout__region region-second"> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:call_to_action" data-inline-block-uuid="1bec870e-100e-49bf-ba74-1e6140b8d7f4"> <div class="cta"> <a class="cta__link" href="https://brl.gmu.edu/"> <h4 class="cta__title">Learn more about the Biomedical Research Lab <i class="fas fa-arrow-circle-right"></i> </h4> <span class="cta__icon"></span> </a> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:field_associated_people" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasefield-associated-people"> <h2>In This Story</h2> <div 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views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">July 28, 2025</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2025-07/george-mason-phd-champions-coral-reef-conservation-through-research-and-mentorship" hreflang="en">George 鶹Ƶ PhD champions coral reef conservation through research and mentorship </a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">July 24, 2025</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2025-07/i-corps-3d-streaming-toward-better-telehealth" hreflang="en">I-Corps in 3D: Streaming toward better telehealth </a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">July 17, 2025</div></div></li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:field_content_topics" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasefield-content-topics"> <h2>Topics</h2> <div class="field field--name-field-content-topics field--type-entity-reference field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Topics</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/271" hreflang="en">Research</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/291" hreflang="en">College of Science</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/17226" hreflang="en">College of Public Health</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/15581" hreflang="en">Biomedical Research Lab</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/4841" hreflang="en">Prince William County</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/16836" hreflang="en">Science and Technology Campus</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/7146" hreflang="en">Disease Prevention</a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> Thu, 03 Jul 2025 19:45:51 +0000 Sarah Holland 117976 at George 鶹Ƶ is part of Northern Virginia’s first innovation district, launched with transformational grant from GO Virginia /news/2025-07/george-mason-part-northern-virginias-first-innovation-district-launched <span>George 鶹Ƶ is part of Northern Virginia’s first innovation district, launched with transformational grant from GO Virginia</span> <span><span>Colleen Rich</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-07-01T10:34:37-04:00" title="Tuesday, July 1, 2025 - 10:34">Tue, 07/01/2025 - 10:34</time> </span> <div class="layout layout--gmu layout--twocol-section layout--twocol-section--70-30"> <div class="layout__region region-first"> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:body" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasebody"> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Body</div> <div class="field__item"><p><span class="intro-text">Thanks to a major investment from GO Virginia, Northern Virginia’s first Innovation District is taking shape, laying the groundwork for growth in high-tech industry sectors like life sciences, aerospace, defense, and semiconductors.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>Governor Glenn Youngkin announced last week that the commonwealth will invest $2.6 million into Northern Virginia’s first Innovation District, with an additional $1.3 million coming from local businesses, government, and higher education partners. The funding will help launch the Innovation District and roll out programs aimed at making Northern Virginia a national hub for research-driven industries, while giving residents the chance to pursue strong, lasting careers without leaving their communities.</span></p> <figure role="group" class="align-left"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img src="/sites/g/files/yyqcgq291/files/styles/medium/public/2025-07/partial_scitech_innovation_district_image_copy.jpeg?itok=5zjPMBOb" width="560" height="315" loading="lazy"> </div> </div> <figcaption>This partial view of the 3,800-acre Innovation District in Prince William County and the City of Manassas highlights 鶹Ƶ’s SciTech Campus, with major employers like Micron in the background and the future town center site underway on the right. Photo by Prince William County Economic Development and Tourism</figcaption> </figure> <p>“GO Virginia continues to be a catalyst for innovation and collaboration, enabling regions to pursue economic opportunities aligned with state priorities,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin<strong>&nbsp;</strong>in<strong>&nbsp;</strong>announcing $6.8 million in state economic initiatives directed to<strong>&nbsp;</strong>talent development, cluster scale-up, regional site development, and startup ecosystem expansion “These projects reflect a collective commitment to building robust talent pipelines, supporting industry growth, and strengthening the economic competitiveness of every region in Virginia.”&nbsp;</p> <p><span>The Innovation District, led by 鶹Ƶ and in partnership with Prince William County and the City of Manassas, will accelerate scientific advancement, bolster startups and established employers, and create high-quality jobs.</span></p> <p><span>“As Virginia’s largest public research university, George 鶹Ƶ is deeply focused on equipping students to lead and succeed in a dynamic workforce,” said Amy Adams, executive director of the Institute for Biohealth Innovation at George 鶹Ƶ. “The Innovation District will connect education, research, and industry advancing innovation and improvements across&nbsp;the region while also giving students opportunities that extend beyond the classroom for real world impact.”</span></p> <p><span>The district exemplifies the goals of GO Virginia, a state-funded initiative administered by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development that strengthens and diversifies Virginia’s economy and fosters the creation of high-wage jobs in strategic industries. The funding will give local workers more ways to acquire new skills and stay ahead in fast-moving industries. It will also support the introduction of new technologies, help entrepreneurs navigate the commercialization process, and increase the region’s appeal to companies from around the world.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>Prince William County and the City of Manassas are key partners in developing the 3,800-acre Innovation District. The district includes Innovation Park, which houses major employers such as NAL Research Corporation, American Type Culture Collection, and the newly rebranded NOVA Live, as well as the Innovation Town Center project with housing and retail development. The Manassas Regional Airport, nearby aerospace companies such as Electra.aero, and global employers along Godwin Drive, including Micron and BAE Systems, further strengthen its position as a growing technology hub.</span></p> <p><span>During the planning study for the Innovation District, local business leaders identified talent development as a critical factor for growth and expansion.</span></p> <p><span>George 鶹Ƶ’s emphasis on career preparation, corporate engagement, and translational research is an essential part of the Innovation District. The university is leveraging cutting-edge infrastructure, including its&nbsp;</span><a href="https://ibi.gmu.edu/cap-clia-clinical-proteomics-laboratory/" target="_blank" title="https://ibi.gmu.edu/cap-clia-clinical-proteomics-laboratory/"><span>CAP/CLIA-certified Clinical Proteomics Laboratory</span></a><span>,&nbsp;</span><a href="https://nff.gmu.edu/" target="_blank" title="https://nff.gmu.edu/"><span>Nanofabrication Facility</span></a><span>, and a multi-story laboratory for air and ground robotic and autonomous vehicles, to support research translation and workforce readiness. More than an academic anchor, the university is broadening real-world learning experiences and opening doors for students to contribute to the region’s evolving economy.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>University-affiliated districts are important links in the country’s innovation infrastructure, offering regional strengths with national relevance. The Northern Virginia Innovation District includes the Northern Virginia International Soft Landing Accelerator, workforce programs tailored to local employer needs, and young professional networks connecting early-career talent across the area.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span>&nbsp;</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="layout__region region-second"> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:call_to_action" data-inline-block-uuid="613f2d92-db6d-4d7e-8c2f-393d1a634436"> <div class="cta"> <a class="cta__link" href="/grandchallenge"> <h4 class="cta__title">Shape the future with George 鶹Ƶ <i class="fas fa-arrow-circle-right"></i> </h4> <span class="cta__icon"></span> </a> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:text" data-inline-block-uuid="8a8d9140-0250-4860-a84f-062717bc4ffb" class="block block-layout-builder block-inline-blocktext"> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:news_list" data-inline-block-uuid="6f571185-6703-4b76-b797-94d0fb707172" class="block block-layout-builder block-inline-blocknews-list"> <h2>Related News</h2> <div class="views-element-container"><div class="view view-news view-id-news view-display-id-block_1 js-view-dom-id-e52efa53e05c9b0df7924cb776a6eb6f24b825dffb66e831ef56b1eba8e4dfe2"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="news-list-wrapper"> <ul class="news-list"> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2025-07/when-mosquitos-bite-biomedical-research-lab-bites-back" hreflang="en">When the mosquitos bite, the Biomedical Research Lab bites back </a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">July 3, 2025</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2025-07/george-mason-part-northern-virginias-first-innovation-district-launched" hreflang="en">George 鶹Ƶ is part of Northern Virginia’s first innovation district, launched with transformational grant from GO Virginia</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">July 1, 2025</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2025-05/governors-school-innovation-park-offers-high-school-students-pathway-college-george" hreflang="en">Governor’s School at Innovation Park offers high school students a pathway to college at George 鶹Ƶ’s Science and Technology Campus</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">May 23, 2025</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2025-03/george-masons-new-life-sciences-and-engineering-building-stocked-potential-energy" hreflang="en">George 鶹Ƶ’s new Life Sciences and Engineering Building is stocked with potential energy for students and the region</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">March 27, 2025</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2025-02/george-mason-university-keeping-it-nanofab-ulous-nanotechnology-efforts-expand" hreflang="en">鶹Ƶ is keeping it "nanofab-ulous" as nanotechnology efforts expand</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">February 26, 2025</div></div></li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:field_content_topics" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasefield-content-topics"> <h2>Topics</h2> <div class="field field--name-field-content-topics field--type-entity-reference field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Topics</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/116" hreflang="en">Campus News</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/16836" hreflang="en">Science and Technology Campus</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/2471" hreflang="en">Innovation District</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/15126" hreflang="en">workforce</a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> Tue, 01 Jul 2025 14:34:37 +0000 Colleen Rich 117956 at Governor’s School at Innovation Park offers high school students a pathway to college at George 鶹Ƶ’s Science and Technology Campus /news/2025-05/governors-school-innovation-park-offers-high-school-students-pathway-college-george <span>Governor’s School at Innovation Park offers high school students a pathway to college at George 鶹Ƶ’s Science and Technology Campus</span> <span><span>Lauren Reuscher</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-05-21T13:56:21-04:00" title="Wednesday, May 21, 2025 - 13:56">Wed, 05/21/2025 - 13:56</time> </span> <div class="layout layout--gmu layout--twocol-section layout--twocol-section--70-30"> <div class="layout__region region-first"> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:body" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasebody"> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Body</div> <div class="field__item"><p><span class="intro-text">The Governor’s School at Innovation Park, located at 鶹Ƶ’s </span><a href="https://scitechcampus.gmu.edu/"><span class="intro-text">Science and Technology Campus</span></a><span class="intro-text">, holds a special distinction: It’s Virginia’s only academic-year Governor’s School located on a four-year college campus.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span class="intro-text">That means that high school juniors and seniors spend part of each school day experiencing life as 鶹Ƶ students.&nbsp;</span></p> <hr> <figure role="group" class="align-right"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img src="/sites/g/files/yyqcgq291/files/styles/medium/public/2025-05/img_1590_crop_gov_school.jpg?itok=n04hiO2T" width="560" height="361" alt="Governor's School students sit in the Verizon Auditorium on campus" loading="lazy"> </div> </div> <figcaption>Governor's School at Innovation Park students gather in Verizon Auditorium at Colgan Hall on the Science and Technology Campus. Photo provided</figcaption> </figure> <p>The <a href="https://governors.pwcs.edu/">Governor’s School at Innovation Park</a> celebrates its 15th anniversary this year. Located in Manassas, it is one of 19 academic-year Governor’s Schools in the commonwealth. Students earn college credit for their coursework through dual enrollment at their high school and George 鶹Ƶ.&nbsp;</p> <p>"The Governor's School at Innovation Park provides a vital opportunity for local high school students to experience the rigors of college education,” said Janette Muir, vice provost for academic affairs at George 鶹Ƶ. “The program exemplifies George 鶹Ƶ’s role as an anchor for access to higher education in Northern Virginia.”</p> <p>Qualified students at partner high schools are offered guaranteed admission to George 鶹Ƶ after completing the program.</p> <p>The Governor’s School at Innovation Park serves 166 students from 15 high schools across three school divisions. The program’s faculty are Prince William County Schools employees and are also George 鶹Ƶ affiliate faculty. Several also work as adjunct faculty at George 鶹Ƶ.</p> <p>The program was founded in 2010 through the collaborative efforts of George 鶹Ƶ, Prince William County Public Schools, Manassas City Public Schools, and Manassas Park City Schools. The STEM-focused curriculum includes real-world research and mentorship opportunities in business, industry, government, and university settings.</p> <blockquote><p>“Our location at George 鶹Ƶ’s SciTech Campus has had an incalculable impact on all three school divisions, as well as the campus,” said Jason Calhoun, director of the school. “Our students’ access to world-class laboratory facilities has allowed them to conduct research and excel in national and international research and STEM competitions.”</p> </blockquote> <p>Students are selected for the program through a committee review process in their school division. Applicants are evaluated based on a holistic review of their academic performance in high school and must have demonstrated excellence in advanced STEM courses.&nbsp;</p> <p>“There is no better opportunity to prepare our advanced STEM students for the rigors of advanced course work and research, while still having access to the opportunities and socialization that high school allows,” said Calhoun.&nbsp;</p> <figure role="group" class="align-right"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img src="/sites/g/files/yyqcgq291/files/styles/medium/public/2025-05/img_1605.jpg?itok=_wa54W-2" width="560" height="346" alt="Governor's School students gather in a gymnasium with their research posters for the research symposium" loading="lazy"> </div> </div> <figcaption>Governor's School students at their annual research symposium. Photo provided</figcaption> </figure> <p>Calhoun noted that the program helps students hone laboratory and research skills, time management, and organizational skills, which are critical to success in college and beyond.</p> <p>“The breadth and depth of their growth over two years is amazing, in part due to the structure of our students’ schedules and the early access to college life and expectations,” said Calhoun.</p> <p>The Governor’s School semester has wrapped up with a research symposium and a graduation ceremony for seniors. And with STEM coursework under their belt from George 鶹Ƶ, their paths to success have a foundation of excellence.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="layout__region region-second"> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:call_to_action" data-inline-block-uuid="65589b31-3615-48dc-87ab-5ff67c57bf27"> <div class="cta"> <a class="cta__link" href="https://governors.pwcs.edu/"> <h4 class="cta__title">Learn more about the Governor's School at Innovation Park <i class="fas fa-arrow-circle-right"></i> </h4> <span class="cta__icon"></span> </a> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:news_list" data-inline-block-uuid="7624b9d0-861e-4f27-b078-a837fe187869" class="block block-layout-builder block-inline-blocknews-list"> <h2>Read More Like This</h2> <div class="views-element-container"><div class="view view-news view-id-news view-display-id-block_1 js-view-dom-id-04f2adeec36744e2d667c940ea0756241d77a295fe3c83f4e65c7b7c478d66aa"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="news-list-wrapper"> <ul class="news-list"> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2025-07/global-summit-looks-future-education" hreflang="en">Global summit looks at the future of education</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">July 25, 2025</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2025-07/statement-board-visitors-regarding-new-federal-investigations" hreflang="en">Statement from Board of Visitors regarding new federal investigations</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">July 22, 2025</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2025-07/george-mason-launches-virginias-first-robotics-phd" hreflang="en">George 鶹Ƶ launches Virginia’s first robotics PhD</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">July 22, 2025</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2025-07/statement-board-visitors-regarding-federal-investigations" hreflang="en">Statement from Board of Visitors regarding federal investigations</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">July 21, 2025</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2025-07/statement-passing-edwin-j-feulner" hreflang="en">Statement on the passing of Edwin J. Feulner</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">July 19, 2025</div></div></li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:field_content_topics" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasefield-content-topics"> <h2>Topics</h2> <div class="field field--name-field-content-topics field--type-entity-reference field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Topics</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/116" hreflang="en">Campus News</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/16891" hreflang="en">K-12 Partnerships</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/4841" hreflang="en">Prince William County</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/5141" hreflang="en">Manassas</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/14181" hreflang="en">Manassas Park</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/16836" hreflang="en">Science and Technology Campus</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/20821" hreflang="en">Governor's School at Innovation Park</a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="layout layout--gmu layout--twocol-section layout--twocol-section--30-70"> <div class="layout__region region-first"> </div> <div> </div> </div> Wed, 21 May 2025 17:56:21 +0000 Lauren Reuscher 117346 at George 鶹Ƶ’s new Life Sciences and Engineering Building is stocked with potential energy for students and the region /news/2025-03/george-masons-new-life-sciences-and-engineering-building-stocked-potential-energy <span>George 鶹Ƶ’s new Life Sciences and Engineering Building is stocked with potential energy for students and the region</span> <span><span>Lauren Reuscher</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-03-26T09:48:01-04:00" title="Wednesday, March 26, 2025 - 09:48">Wed, 03/26/2025 - 09:48</time> </span> <div class="layout layout--gmu layout--twocol-section layout--twocol-section--70-30"> <div class="layout__region region-first"> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:body" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasebody"> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Body</div> <div class="field__item"><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="intro-text">鶹Ƶ's new Life Sciences and Engineering Building at the Science and Technology Campus (SciTech Campus) in Manassas, Virginia, supports the university's growing need for highly specialized instructional labs, classrooms, and support spaces.</span></p> <hr> <figure role="group" class="align-right"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img src="/sites/g/files/yyqcgq291/files/styles/medium/public/2025-03/250122020.jpg?itok=xC5ULltT" width="560" height="373" alt="View of the new four-story Life Sciences and Engineering Building at the SciTech Campus on a sunny day." loading="lazy"> </div> </div> <figcaption>The Life Sciences and Engineering Building at the Science and Technology Campus includes more than 30 different laboratories for teaching, design, and fabrication. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding</figcaption> </figure> <p class="MsoNormal"><span>To meet the needs of the university and the commonwealth, in particular providing university access for students in Prince William, Fauquier, western Fairfax County, the cities of Manassas and Manassas Park, and beyond, the General Assembly and the Prince William delegation led by Delegate Luke Torian, chair of the House Appropriations Committee, was instrumental in&nbsp;strategic support and state funding for the new building.&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span>With university classrooms and more than 30 different laboratory spaces for teaching, design, and fabrication, the building offers state-of-the-art facilities for training in disciplines like athletic training and kinesiology, microbiology, chemistry, engineering, forensic science, robotics and autonomous vehicles, and more. The building opened for classes for the spring 2025 semester.</span></p> <figure role="group" class="align-right"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img src="/sites/g/files/yyqcgq291/files/styles/small_content_image/public/2025-03/2503070304.jpg?itok=DWhxR9Ni" width="350" height="233" alt="Three science students work together in a classroom, with one student showing a tablet to the others. Model skeleton pieces are on the tabletop" loading="lazy"> </div> </div> <figcaption>The building offers interdisciplinary spaces for hands-on learning and collaboration. Photo by Eduardo Macedo/Office of University Branding</figcaption> </figure> <p class="MsoNormal"><span>“Designed for rigorous hands-on learning, the Life Sciences and Engineering Building marks a major state investment in our outstanding George 鶹Ƶ faculty to educate and inspire our students—Virginia’s next generation of leaders, researchers, innovators, and problem solvers,” George 鶹Ƶ President Gregory Washington said. “This facility, and the advancements it will produce, further establishes the Science and Technology Campus, and this Innovation District, as an anchor of the economic corridor that runs from 鶹Ƶ Square in Arlington to the Fairfax Campus to here in Manassas, further entrenching George 鶹Ƶ as a major driver of the prosperity of our region and state.”</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span>The building will foster interdisciplinary connections across many academic units, including the College of Education and Human Development, College of Engineering and Computing, and the College of Science.</span></p> <figure role="group" class="align-left"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img src="/sites/g/files/yyqcgq291/files/2025-03/2503070314.jpg" width="4200" height="2801" alt="A student wearing PPE works in a biomedical lab and holds a syringe, while two others look on" loading="lazy"> </div> </div> <figcaption>Laboratories in the Life Sciences and Engineering Building offer experiential learning in microbiology, kinesiology, forensic science, engineering, and more. Photo by Eduardo Macedo/Office of University Branding</figcaption> </figure> <p><span>Encompassing 132,000 square feet of space, the building is designed to promote collaboration and engagement among students and faculty. The ground-level engineering labs and student design competition bays open directly onto the campus’ exterior pathways, allowing visibility into the work happening inside.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span>The project was originally planned as an expansion to Katherine G. Johnson Hall, an academic building at the SciTech Campus. When the university identified the need for additional labs, classrooms, and workspaces, the scope of the project changed to a four-story, free-standing building.</span></p> <div style="float:left;padding:5px;"> <iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen frameborder="0" height="600" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xuWYm9KmO8c" title="George 鶹Ƶ’s new Life Sciences and Engineering Building #鶹ƵNation" width="337"></iframe></div> <p><span>The SciTech Campus, which was established in 1997, will anchor a new Innovation District, which includes the development of two residential and commercial town centers directly connected to campus.&nbsp;</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span>“The planned town centers will create a stronger link between the campus and the surrounding community,” said Colby Grant, director of administration and operations for the SciTech Campus. “Combined with the new Life Sciences and Engineering Building, these developments further establish the campus as a dynamic hub for science, technology, the arts, entertainment, and recreation.”</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="layout__region region-second"> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:call_to_action" data-inline-block-uuid="8cd634e6-2b27-4dfc-b922-813fa68561d8"> <div class="cta"> <a class="cta__link" href="https://scitechcampus.gmu.edu/"> <h4 class="cta__title">Learn more about the Science and Technology Campus <i class="fas fa-arrow-circle-right"></i> </h4> <span class="cta__icon"></span> </a> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:news_list" data-inline-block-uuid="7c152b24-db93-4857-8352-c512dea42cb5" class="block block-layout-builder block-inline-blocknews-list"> <h2>Read More Like This</h2> <div class="views-element-container"><div class="view view-news view-id-news view-display-id-block_1 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with big impact in the fight against Lyme disease</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">July 14, 2025</div></div></li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:field_content_topics" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasefield-content-topics"> <h2>Topics</h2> <div class="field field--name-field-content-topics field--type-entity-reference field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Topics</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/16836" hreflang="en">Science and Technology Campus</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/291" hreflang="en">College of Science</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/3071" hreflang="en">College of Engineering and Computing</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/191" hreflang="en">College of Education and Human Development</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/116" hreflang="en">Campus News</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/17356" hreflang="en">Strategic Direction</a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="layout layout--gmu layout--twocol-section layout--twocol-section--30-70"> <div class="layout__region region-first"> </div> <div> </div> </div> Wed, 26 Mar 2025 13:48:01 +0000 Lauren Reuscher 116296 at 鶹Ƶ is keeping it "nanofab-ulous" as nanotechnology efforts expand /news/2025-02/george-mason-university-keeping-it-nanofab-ulous-nanotechnology-efforts-expand <span>鶹Ƶ is keeping it "nanofab-ulous" as nanotechnology efforts expand</span> <span><span>Katarina Benson</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-02-26T10:48:44-05:00" title="Wednesday, February 26, 2025 - 10:48">Wed, 02/26/2025 - 10:48</time> </span> <div class="layout layout--gmu layout--twocol-section layout--twocol-section--70-30"> <div class="layout__region region-first"> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:body" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasebody"> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Body</div> <div class="field__item"><p><span class="intro-text">Ever since </span><em><span class="intro-text">InsideNoVa</span></em><span class="intro-text">’s Bruce Potter coined the term “nanofab-ulous” to describe the exciting advancements in nanotechnology in the region, 鶹Ƶ has embraced it in full force.&nbsp;</span></p> <figure role="group" class="align-right"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img src="/sites/g/files/yyqcgq291/files/styles/medium/public/2025-02/241014002.jpg?itok=6oYuY_j6" width="560" height="373" loading="lazy"> </div> </div> <figcaption>A student enjoys the exhibits at Nanotechnology Day on the Science and Technology Campus. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding</figcaption> </figure> <p>Eleanor Wagoner, one of the brains behind Nanotechnology Day and Nano Boot Camp, finds the phrase is a new part of her regular vernacular. The school is certainly living up to that name, broadening its efforts to educate and inspire future leaders in the field that’s revolutionizing how we live and work.</p> <p>George 鶹Ƶ provides students, faculty, and the community with real-world experiences that bring academic knowledge to life. These programs create pathways to careers in high-demand sectors like health care and microelectronics while making nanoscience more relatable to the public.</p> <p>The second Nanotechnology Day was held in October 2024 on the university’s Science and Technology Campus. Participants in Katherine Johnson Hall immediately found themselves surrounded by interactive stations and engaging lectures presented by career scientists. Wagoner said that she couldn't have imagined a better turnout.</p> <p>"Witnessing people become genuinely excited about nanotechnology was my biggest motivation for creating this event," said Wagoner, the STEM outreach coordinator for the Institute for Biohealth Innovation (IBI) at George 鶹Ƶ. "It’s the type of event that causes people to realize that they're more than capable of grasping a topic that's often seen as highly complex."</p> <p>Nano Boot Camp, launched in January 2025, is for those who want to get up close and personal with nanofabrication. The program does not rely solely on classroom lectures: Participants jump right into the clean room in the university’s Nanofabrication Facility to test their new skills.</p> <figure role="group" class="align-left"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img src="/sites/g/files/yyqcgq291/files/styles/medium/public/2025-02/2501160271.jpg?itok=IdWIPOgc" width="560" height="415" loading="lazy"> </div> </div> <figcaption>From left, Nanofabrication Facility manager Shawn Wagoner with Nano Boot Camp participants William West and Hongmei Jian Roy. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding</figcaption> </figure> <p>Camp participant Bryson Higginbotham said he was happy to have discovered a program that recognizes that not everyone has the same learning style.</p> <p>"Nano Boot Camp was really refreshing as someone who is a hands-on learner," said Higginbotham, a security officer at George 鶹Ƶ’s Biomedical Research Laboratory. "I’m looking for a lifelong career, and when the executive director of the IBI, Amy Adams, offered me a spot in the program, I jumped at the chance to work with the machines and get a taste of what it’s like to be a professional in the field." GO Virginia, a state-funded initiative administered by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development that strengthens and diversifies Virginia’s economy and fosters the creation of high-wage jobs in strategic industries, provided the funding that made Nano Boot Camp possible through the Nano-IMAGINE program. During her visit to the camp, GO Virginia Region 7 Vice President Susan Baker had the chance to meet participants, hear their stories, and learn about the hands-on training taking place.</p> <p>“It was incredible to meet participants from so many different walks of life—veterans, career changers, and young professionals—all learning advanced nanotechnology skills,” said Baker. “This program shows how investing in education and workforce development doesn’t just change individual lives—it elevates the entire community.”</p> <p>The university’s commitment to nanotechnology education is arriving at just the right time: Micron Technology, one of the world’s leading semiconductor manufacturers, recently announced plans to invest up to <a href="https://www.governor.virginia.gov/newsroom/news-releases/2024/december/name-1038077-en.html#:~:text=RICHMOND%2C%20VA%20%E2%80%94%20Governor%20Glenn%20Youngkin,will%20create%20340%20new%20jobs.">$2.17 billion to bolster its operations in Manassas, Virginia, bringing up to 2,700 manufacturing and community jobs</a>. The United States and Micron need a workforce trained for jobs in the semiconductor industry at scale. This will require workforce development solutions and access to STEM education that will create a highly skilled talent pipeline.</p> <p>"鶹Ƶ is developing the skilled professionals the semiconductor industry needs," said Delbert Parks, vice president and site executive of Micron Technology Virginia. "Programs like their Nano Boot Camp foster innovation and inspire students to pursue careers in STEM, forming a direct pipeline of talent that helps keep our industry strong."</p> <p>Delegate Michelle Maldonado, who represents Virginia’s 20th District and is a GO Virginia state board member, has worked to bring funding to workforce programs in Prince William County. She’s proud of George 鶹Ƶ’s dedication to high-tech education and views it as an important contributor to the local economy.</p> <p>“鶹Ƶ’s focus on emerging technologies is helping build a competent and qualified workforce,” said Maldonado. “Giving individuals the right skills is vital to keeping Virginia competitive in today’s fast-paced tech environment."</p> <p>George 鶹Ƶ is proving that diving into the nanoscale world doesn’t have to be intimidating. From inspiring curiosity to supporting people who are exploring new career paths, the university is making it more accessible than ever. And while the science may be small, its impact is anything but.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="layout__region region-second"> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:text" data-inline-block-uuid="16a9a328-cf8f-4bd8-9b0c-07701c1171aa" class="block block-layout-builder block-inline-blocktext"> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:call_to_action" data-inline-block-uuid="54284b55-bcdb-4be6-a141-78be714780ad"> <div class="cta"> <a class="cta__link" href="https://nff.gmu.edu/"> <h4 class="cta__title">Visit George 鶹Ƶ's Nanofabrication Lab <i class="fas fa-arrow-circle-right"></i> </h4> <span class="cta__icon"></span> </a> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:text" data-inline-block-uuid="8e3ad84d-15d5-48a6-ba53-3b9689647db0" class="block block-layout-builder block-inline-blocktext"> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:news_list" data-inline-block-uuid="ab46aa4d-e5cb-44c0-8305-8370f3574590" class="block block-layout-builder block-inline-blocknews-list"> <h2>Related Stories</h2> <div class="views-element-container"><div class="view view-news view-id-news view-display-id-block_1 js-view-dom-id-69f414b7dcb7ee70bfc53ff7a7cd44f9e251ef46b178e89b1b2b64806c8decb5"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="news-list-wrapper"> <ul class="news-list"> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2025-02/george-mason-university-keeping-it-nanofab-ulous-nanotechnology-efforts-expand" hreflang="en">鶹Ƶ is keeping it "nanofab-ulous" as nanotechnology efforts expand</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">February 26, 2025</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2025-02/small-prints-big-impact" hreflang="en">Small prints with big impact</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">February 3, 2025</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2024-10/meet-mason-nation-marit-majeske" hreflang="en">Meet the 鶹Ƶ Nation: Marit Majeske</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">October 11, 2024</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2024-07/george-mason-becomes-new-home-400000-biological-specimens-inova-health-systems" hreflang="en">George 鶹Ƶ becomes new home for 400,000 biological specimens from Inova Health Systems </a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">July 17, 2024</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2024-05/nanofabrication-lab-opens-scitech-campus" hreflang="en">Nanofabrication Lab opens on SciTech Campus</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">May 17, 2024</div></div></li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="layout layout--gmu layout--twocol-section layout--twocol-section--30-70"> <div> </div> <div class="layout__region region-second"> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:field_content_topics" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasefield-content-topics"> <h2>Topics</h2> <div class="field field--name-field-content-topics field--type-entity-reference field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Topics</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/16836" hreflang="en">Science and Technology Campus</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/19221" hreflang="en">Nanofabrication Facility</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/116" hreflang="en">Campus News</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/15126" hreflang="en">workforce</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/17356" hreflang="en">Strategic Direction</a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> Wed, 26 Feb 2025 15:48:44 +0000 Katarina Benson 115896 at George 鶹Ƶ becomes new home for 400,000 biological specimens from Inova Health Systems /news/2024-07/george-mason-becomes-new-home-400000-biological-specimens-inova-health-systems <span>George 鶹Ƶ becomes new home for 400,000 biological specimens from Inova Health Systems </span> <span><span>Mary Cunningham</span></span> <span><time datetime="2024-07-16T20:07:11-04:00" title="Tuesday, July 16, 2024 - 20:07">Tue, 07/16/2024 - 20:07</time> </span> <div class="layout layout--gmu layout--twocol-section layout--twocol-section--70-30"> <div class="layout__region region-first"> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:body" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasebody"> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Body</div> <div class="field__item"><p><span class="intro-text">鶹Ƶ’s College of Public Health is the new home of 400,000 biological specimens through a partnership with Inova Health Systems. This repository of specimens, called a biobank, is an extensive collection of obstetrical and perinatal samples, along with follow-up health information, providing a rare and invaluable asset in public health and in the education of our future health, science, and technology care workforce.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p> <div alt="new College of Public Health-led biobank" style="min-width: 50%;"> <div class="field field--name-field-media-video-embed-field field--type-video-embed-field field--label-hidden field__item"><div class="video-embed-field-provider-youtube video-embed-field-responsive-video"><iframe width="854" height="480" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eARQrz2n2ss?autoplay=0&amp;start=0&amp;rel=0"></iframe> </div> </div> </div> <p>“The biorepository creates opportunities for 鶹Ƶ to expand its collaborations with Inova, biotechnology partners, and other universities in Virginia, as well as unique educational opportunities,” said Melissa Perry, dean of the college.&nbsp;</p> <p>Larry Maxwell, president of the Women’s Service Line at Inova Health System, said, “The investment by Inova Health System as well as additional support from the Fairfax County Government have created an unprecedented resource of placenta as well as blood specimens from mother, father, and baby [trios] corresponding to over 4,000 families. These biospecimens and corresponding data continue to support scientific research to better understand the obstetrical diseases that contribute to rising rates of maternal morbidity and mortality locally, regionally, and nationally.”&nbsp;</p> <p>A range of specimens (e.g., saliva, urine, and blood) were collected with consent from an Inova cohort study that followed more than 4,000 women, their partners, and their children from pregnancy into early childhood to examine maternal health, pregnancy outcomes, and children’s growth and development.&nbsp;</p> <figure role="group" class="align-left"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img src="/sites/g/files/yyqcgq291/files/styles/small_content_image/public/2024-07/bloom_drews-botsch_biobank.jpg?itok=GyA8GA1p" width="350" height="233" alt="Carey Drews-Botsch and Michael Bloom in the biobank" loading="lazy"> </div> </div> <figcaption>Biobank program leads Carolyn Drews-Botsch and Michael S. Bloom. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding</figcaption> </figure> <p>“The transfer of the biobank from Inova Health System to the College of Public Health serves as a testament to our strong public–private partnership, and underscores George 鶹Ƶ’s dedication to advancing health in pregnancy and early childhood,” said Alison Cuellar, College of Public Health associate dean for research. The biobank is housed at the university’s Science and Technology Campus in Manassas, Virginia.&nbsp;</p> <p>The biobank offers an unprecedented opportunity for George 鶹Ƶ researchers to engage with and involve Virginia’s undergraduate and graduate students in health and public health science, to expand Virginia’s health, science, and technology workforce pipeline and enhance its diversity.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p>“The availability of such comprehensive and diverse datasets within a single biobank is rare, making it an attractive asset for collaboration and groundbreaking research endeavors,” said Michael S. Bloom, program lead of the College of Public Health Biobank and George 鶹Ƶ professor.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <figure role="group" class="align-right"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img src="/sites/g/files/yyqcgq291/files/styles/medium/public/2024-07/biobank_dewars.jpg?itok=7QdKNHnm" width="560" height="375" alt="Biobank Dewars" loading="lazy"> </div> </div> <figcaption>Space at the SciTech Campus for the biobank was renovated to hold the 11 tanks (called dewars) and freezers full of specimens. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding</figcaption> </figure> <p>Bloom and co-lead Carolyn Drews-Botsch started the work for the biobank transfer in 2021. Inova chose Bloom and Drews-Botsch after extensive vetting of their prior research experience, including involvement in large cohort studies, such as those from which these specimens are drawn. Space at the SciTech Campus for the biobank was renovated to hold the 11 tanks (called dewars) and freezers full of specimens. The containers are kept between -80 degrees C and -190 degrees C to maintain specimen integrity during long-term storage.&nbsp;</p> <p>“These specimens will be vital for public health researchers who are looking to identify associations and factors that support healthy pregnancy and child health and ultimately benefit the public’s health,” said Drews-Botsch, a professor in the College of Public Health.&nbsp;</p> <p>The professors expect the biobank to become a leading resource for collaborative projects once a research database is developed, with other researchers analyzing the data to answer important public health questions.&nbsp;</p> <p>“By actively fostering these partnerships, George 鶹Ƶ can position itself as a leader in research around maternal health and early childhood and contribute to the advancement of public health on a larger scale,” Perry said. &nbsp;<br><br> &nbsp;</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="layout__region region-second"> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:call_to_action" data-inline-block-uuid="02370fb5-4c8b-4d23-bdec-29f69e6a63c4"> <div class="cta"> <a class="cta__link" href="https://publichealth.gmu.edu/research"> <h4 class="cta__title">Uncover more research at the College of Public Health <i class="fas fa-arrow-circle-right"></i> </h4> <span class="cta__icon"></span> </a> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:text" data-inline-block-uuid="50c83c0d-d852-41e6-8965-c51a262264cf" class="block block-layout-builder block-inline-blocktext"> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:field_associated_people" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasefield-associated-people"> <h2>In This Story</h2> <div class="field field--name-field-associated-people field--type-entity-reference field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">People Mentioned in This Story</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/profiles/mbloom22" hreflang="und">Michael S. Bloom, PhD, MS, FACE</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/profiles/cdrewsbo" hreflang="und">Carolyn Drews-Botsch, PhD, MPH</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/profiles/aevanscu" hreflang="und">Alison Evans Cuellar, PhD, MBA</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/profiles/mperry27" hreflang="en">Melissa J. Perry, Sc.D., MHS, MBA</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:text" data-inline-block-uuid="f973fda8-6130-4d1d-9782-68423871f195" class="block block-layout-builder block-inline-blocktext"> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:news_list" data-inline-block-uuid="0bdd4cac-2847-4455-b8f7-066d36ade212" class="block block-layout-builder block-inline-blocknews-list"> <h2>Related News</h2> <div class="views-element-container"><div class="view view-news view-id-news view-display-id-block_1 js-view-dom-id-3d2667b18f38e226c2bb41ad0b811854073ddfe1226d47c4ef33207bb067ad60"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="news-list-wrapper"> <ul class="news-list"> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2025-06/virtual-reality-adds-empathy-dementia-care" hreflang="en">Virtual reality adds empathy to dementia care </a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">June 10, 2025</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2025-05/opportunity-conduct-research-fueling-community-health-student-discover-life-saving" hreflang="en">The opportunity to conduct research is fueling this community health student to discover life-saving cancer treatments</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">May 13, 2025</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2025-01/first-its-kind-research-identifies-beneficial-prenatal-vitamins-reduce-risk-infant-0" hreflang="en">First-of-its-kind research identifies beneficial prenatal vitamins to reduce risk of infant death </a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">January 30, 2025</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2024-12/interprofessional-george-mason-researchers-awarded-more-1-million-improve-outcomes" hreflang="en">Interprofessional George 鶹Ƶ researchers awarded more than $1 million to improve outcomes for patients with depression</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">December 10, 2024</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2024-09/new-study-finds-associations-between-use-skin-care-products-and-exposure-potential" hreflang="en">New study finds associations between use of skin care products and exposure to potential developmental toxicants</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">September 4, 2024</div></div></li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:field_content_topics" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasefield-content-topics"> <h2>Topics</h2> <div class="field field--name-field-content-topics field--type-entity-reference field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Topics</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/19856" hreflang="en">biobank</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/18511" hreflang="en">CPH research</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/16706" hreflang="en">Child Health</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/11621" hreflang="en">Maternal Health</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/13921" hreflang="en">Maternal Child Health</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/19076" hreflang="en">Inova Health Systems</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/6816" hreflang="en">GCH Faculty</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/17356" hreflang="en">Strategic Direction</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/5801" hreflang="en">In the George</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/271" hreflang="en">Research</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/3686" hreflang="en">SciTech Campus</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/16836" hreflang="en">Science and Technology Campus</a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> Wed, 17 Jul 2024 00:07:11 +0000 Mary Cunningham 112976 at Nanofabrication Lab opens on SciTech Campus /news/2024-05/nanofabrication-lab-opens-scitech-campus <span>Nanofabrication Lab opens on SciTech Campus</span> <span><span>Martha Bushong</span></span> <span><time datetime="2024-05-17T13:15:09-04:00" title="Friday, May 17, 2024 - 13:15">Fri, 05/17/2024 - 13:15</time> </span> <div class="layout layout--gmu layout--twocol-section layout--twocol-section--30-70"> <div class="layout__region region-first"> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:call_to_action" data-inline-block-uuid="e19b80f5-ed21-42da-9ac6-8bead98927c5"> <div class="cta"> <a class="cta__link" href="https://www.insidenova.com/headlines/george-mason-officials-state-leaders-celebrate-3-75m-nanofabrication-facility-at-manassas-campus/article_66754fa9-35c2-5876-a4f7-5c4f8e49d826.html"> <h4 class="cta__title">Read More 鶹Ƶ the Ribbon Cutting <i class="fas fa-arrow-circle-right"></i> </h4> <span class="cta__icon"></span> </a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="layout__region region-second"> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:body" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasebody"> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Body</div> <div class="field__item"><p><span class="intro-text">鶹Ƶ officials, faculty, regional economic leaders, government, and business partners gathered at SciTech Campus on May 3, 2024, to cut the ribbon on the new $3.75 million Nanofabrication Facility (NFF).</span></p> <p><span><span><span><span><span>Vice President for Research Innovation and Economic Impact Andre Marshall welcomed guests. President Gregory Washington and other special guests followed. After the ribbon cutting, attendees enjoyed a first-hand look at the new state-of-the-art space.</span></span></span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span><span><span>The NFF is the only cleanroom facility and resource for partners in Northern Virginia. It offers hands-on nanofabrication workforce training in research applications that will accelerate the growth of high-tech companies.</span></span></span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span><span><span>Tannia Telento, regional director for U.S. Senator Mark Warner’s office offered remarks from the senator. In the remarks, Senator Warner said, “The Nanofabrication Facility will play an important role in education and research, which is integral to securing the supply chain, bringing greater transparency to the microelectronics ecosystem, training tomorrow's leaders, and ensuring our long-term national security. I am excited to see the advancements that will come from the establishment of this facility right here in Virginia.&nbsp;</span></span></span></span></span><span><span><span><span><span>The (NFF) will serve as a core laboratory for innovative research and development on the micro- and nano-scale. </span></span></span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span><span><span>Faculty from the College of Engineering and Computing and the College of Science have already taught classes in the facility, this summer the facility will host camps, and in the fall workforce training will begin.</span></span></span></span></span></p> <figure role="group"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img src="/sites/g/files/yyqcgq291/files/2024-05/ribbon_cutting_nanofab.png" width="800" height="640" alt="Gregory Washington and attendees at the Nanofabrication Facility grand opening" loading="lazy"> </div> </div> <figcaption>鶹Ƶ President Gregory Washington and Shawn Wagoner, the Nanofabrication Faciilty's lab manager cut the ribbon at the grand opening of the facility. Photo by Creative Services.</figcaption> </figure> <figure role="group"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img src="/sites/g/files/yyqcgq291/files/2024-05/gw_shaking_hands.png" width="800" height="640" alt="Tannia Telento, Regional Director for U.S. Senator Mark Warner’s Office " loading="lazy"> </div> </div> <figcaption>Tannia Telento, regional director for U.S. Senator Mark Warner’s office, shakes hands with President Washington. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding</figcaption> </figure> <figure role="group"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img src="/sites/g/files/yyqcgq291/files/2024-05/andre_marshall_and_lab_window.png" width="800" height="640" alt="Vice President Andre Marshall (on right) stands outside the clean room." loading="lazy"> </div> </div> <figcaption>Vice President Andre Marshall (on right) and Danny Vargas of GO Virginia stand outside the clean room. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding</figcaption> </figure> <figure role="group"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img src="/sites/g/files/yyqcgq291/files/2024-05/inside_the_nanofab_lab.png" width="800" height="640" alt="Shawn Wagoner provides explains equipment" loading="lazy"> </div> </div> <figcaption>Lab Manager Shawn Wagoner explains the equipment to a group of attendees during the facility tour. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding</figcaption> </figure> <hr> </div> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:field_content_topics" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasefield-content-topics"> <h2>Topics</h2> <div class="field field--name-field-content-topics field--type-entity-reference field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Topics</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/19221" hreflang="en">Nanofabrication Facility</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/271" hreflang="en">Research</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/16836" hreflang="en">Science and Technology Campus</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/15126" hreflang="en">workforce</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/19491" hreflang="en">Tech Talent Investment Program</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/18541" hreflang="en">TTIP</a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> Fri, 17 May 2024 17:15:09 +0000 Martha Bushong 112226 at At 鶹Ƶ, President Gregory Washington Is Building the Future /news/2024-02/george-mason-university-president-gregory-washington-building-future <span>At 鶹Ƶ, President Gregory Washington Is Building the Future</span> <span><span>Kristin Heydt</span></span> <span><time datetime="2024-02-07T13:33:24-05:00" title="Wednesday, February 7, 2024 - 13:33">Wed, 02/07/2024 - 13:33</time> </span> <div class="layout layout--gmu layout--twocol-section layout--twocol-section--30-70"> <div class="layout__region region-first"> </div> <div class="layout__region region-second"> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:body" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasebody"> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Body</div> <div class="field__item"><p>President Gregory Washington is featured in a profile of his leadership on 鶹Ƶ's campus.&nbsp;</p> <p><a href="https://northernvirginiamag.com/family/education/2024/02/07/george-mason-university-president-gregory-washington/" target="_blank" title="At 鶹Ƶ, President Gregory Washington Is Building the Future">Read more in Northern Virginia Magazine.</a></p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> Wed, 07 Feb 2024 18:33:24 +0000 Kristin Heydt 110551 at New 鶹Ƶ Nanofabrication Facility will help drive innovation in the commonwealth /news/2024-01/new-mason-nanofabrication-facility-will-help-drive-innovation-commonwealth <span>New 鶹Ƶ Nanofabrication Facility will help drive innovation in the commonwealth</span> <span><span>Colleen Rich</span></span> <span><time datetime="2024-01-17T14:45:46-05:00" title="Wednesday, January 17, 2024 - 14:45">Wed, 01/17/2024 - 14:45</time> </span> <div class="layout layout--gmu layout--twocol-section layout--twocol-section--70-30"> <div class="layout__region region-first"> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:body" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasebody"> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Body</div> <div class="field__item"><p><span class="intro-text">Over the past decade, nanotechnology has taken the world by storm. From health care to electronics, it has radically transformed countless industries.</span></p> <figure role="group" class="align-right"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img src="/sites/g/files/yyqcgq291/files/2024-01/nnf_lab_with_shawn_wagoner_240118144.jpg" width="450" height="310" alt="Shawn Wagoner in the Nanofabrication" loading="lazy"> </div> </div> <figcaption>Shawn Wagoner, nanofabrication manager, gives a tour of 鶹Ƶ's new Nanofabrication Facility on the Science and Technology Campus. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding</figcaption> </figure> <p>As a result, nanofabrication, the manufacturing of nanoscale structures, is more important than ever, and proper fabrication has requirements, including both sophisticated equipment and a skilled workforce. In response to the rising demand for nanofabrication services, 鶹Ƶ stands ready to conduct state-of-the-art research and to help train the next generation of innovators with the opening of the new <a href="https://nff.gmu.edu/">Nanofabrication Facility</a> (NFF) on its Science and Technology Campus.&nbsp;</p> <p><span><span><span>“The NFF is the only cleanroom facility and resource for partners in Northern Virginia and offers hands-on nanofabrication workforce training in groundbreaking research and emerging research applications that will accelerate growth of high-tech companies,” said <a href="https://provost.gmu.edu/profiles/awmarsh">Andre Marshall</a>, vice president of research, innovation, and economic impact at 鶹Ƶ. “鶹Ƶ is committed to providing many opportunities for students to participate in experiential learning, </span></span></span><span lang="en"><span>preparing our workforce for the future and</span></span><span><span><span> readying them to compete on a global scale.”</span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span>鶹Ƶ engineering professor <a href="https://cec.gmu.edu/profiles/eahn7">Ethan Ahn</a> sees the new facility as a perfect opportunity to give students the chance to receive hands-on experience in a nanofabrication lab. Ahn is teaching 鶹Ƶ’s first-ever Nanoelectronics Fundamentals course during the Spring 2024 semester, where students will be asked to create electronic devices in the NFF Class 1000 cleanroom.</span></span></span></p> <figure role="group" class="align-left"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img src="/sites/g/files/yyqcgq291/files/2024-01/240118117.jpg" width="450" height="300" alt="Nanofabrication Facility at SciTech" loading="lazy"> </div> </div> <figcaption>The Nanofabrication Facility offers hands-on nanofabrication workforce training. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding</figcaption> </figure> <p><span><span><span>“Hands-on experience in this field is invaluable, especially because students can become familiarized with the equipment that they may encounter in their future careers,” said Ahn, an associate professor in the <a href="https://ece.gmu.edu/">Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering</a>.</span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span>鶹Ƶ also launched the Nano-IMAGINE program with the help of a $3.75 million grant from GO Virginia, a state-funded initiative administered by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development. Through Nano-IMAGINE, in addition to offering undergraduate and graduate courses, 鶹Ƶ plans to provide two workforce-readiness opportunities in 2024: Nanocamp and Nano Boot Camp. </span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span>Nanocamp will allow area high school students to take part in experiments designed by 鶹Ƶ researchers and industry experts that use the cutting-edge equipment found inside the NFF. Nano Boot Camp is designed for those who are searching for a new career path or who would like to gain entry-level skills in an in-demand field. Similar to Nanocamp, participants will learn and apply principles used to build micro and nano devices.</span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span>The Nano-IMAGINE courses and programs complement statewide efforts led by the newly established Virginia Alliance for Semiconductor Technology (VAST). VAST is a network of semiconductor, microelectronics, and nanotechnology industries and Virginia colleges and universities. As a member of this consortium, 鶹Ƶ aims to promote VAST by educating NFF boot camp members about opportunities offered by the alliance, such as certificate programs that can help advance their careers in nanofabrication, an essential part of the semiconductor field.</span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span>"By investing in top faculty, new programs and facilities, and partnerships, 鶹Ƶ is connecting learning and market advancement to drive innovation for all across the state," said Marshall. “We are leading regional collaborations across sectors to bring a better tomorrow.</span></span></span></p> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="layout__region region-second"> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:call_to_action" data-inline-block-uuid="ecf32391-605d-4eb3-9be9-8e03812c38e6"> <div class="cta"> <a class="cta__link" href="https://nff.gmu.edu/"> <h4 class="cta__title">Learn more about the Nanofabrication Facility <i class="fas fa-arrow-circle-right"></i> </h4> <span class="cta__icon"></span> </a> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:text" data-inline-block-uuid="c67c1be1-c1f0-44bd-9165-d362f62ddbc6" class="block block-layout-builder block-inline-blocktext"> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:text" data-inline-block-uuid="828d543f-fd54-4d86-b732-9b635083634c" class="block block-layout-builder block-inline-blocktext"> <h2>Did you know...</h2> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>The Nanofabrication Facility is located on George 鶹Ƶ’s SciTech Campus in Manassas, Virginia. The campus is situated in Innovation Park, with neighbors ranging from start-ups to large size tech companies.</p> <p><a href="https://scitechcampus.gmu.edu/" title="SciTech Campus"><strong>Learn more about SciTech &gt;</strong></a></p> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:news_list" data-inline-block-uuid="e2072e3b-c77d-4932-9c5b-953021187465" class="block block-layout-builder block-inline-blocknews-list"> <h2>Related News</h2> <div class="views-element-container"><div class="view view-news view-id-news view-display-id-block_1 js-view-dom-id-f1b8e637e8be530638e089e526bcc0aa771bf19502e595fc5a3796324c028743"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="news-list-wrapper"> <ul class="news-list"> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2025-02/small-prints-big-impact" hreflang="en">Small prints with big impact</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">February 3, 2025</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2024-10/phd-student-knows-how-neural-network" hreflang="en">PhD student knows how to (neural) network&nbsp;</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">October 15, 2024</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2024-09/how-nano-roughness-could-smooth-out-clotting-risks" hreflang="en">How nano roughness could smooth out clotting risks </a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">September 5, 2024</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2024-04/mason-researcher-works-tiny-structures-big-impact" hreflang="en">鶹Ƶ researcher works on tiny structures with a big impact</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">April 1, 2024</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2024-01/new-mason-nanofabrication-facility-will-help-drive-innovation-commonwealth" hreflang="en">New 鶹Ƶ Nanofabrication Facility will help drive innovation in the commonwealth</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">January 17, 2024</div></div></li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:text" data-inline-block-uuid="d570eae8-a927-4a86-9a7a-a9792b8d4e4b" class="block block-layout-builder block-inline-blocktext"> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><hr> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><em>This content appears in the Summer 2024 print edition of the </em><strong><a href="/spirit-magazine" target="_blank" title="鶹Ƶ Spirit Magazine">鶹Ƶ Spirit Magazine</a></strong> <em>with the title "Nanofabrication Facility Will Help Drive Innovation in the Commonwealth."</em></p> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:call_to_action" data-inline-block-uuid="4dfabb1d-df8b-4c07-a773-8d0f6db280a8"> <div class="cta"> <a class="cta__link" href="/spirit-magazine"> <h4 class="cta__title">More from 鶹Ƶ Spirit Magazine <i class="fas fa-arrow-circle-right"></i> </h4> <span class="cta__icon"></span> </a> </div> </div> </div> </div> Wed, 17 Jan 2024 19:45:46 +0000 Colleen Rich 110251 at Meet the 鶹Ƶ Nation: Olga O’Brien, general manager, Freedom Aquatic & Fitness Center /news/2023-09/meet-mason-nation-olga-obrien-general-manager-freedom-aquatic-fitness-center <span>Meet the 鶹Ƶ Nation: Olga O’Brien, general manager, Freedom Aquatic &amp; Fitness Center</span> <span><span>Lauren Reuscher</span></span> <span><time datetime="2023-09-13T13:37:11-04:00" title="Wednesday, September 13, 2023 - 13:37">Wed, 09/13/2023 - 13:37</time> </span> <div class="layout layout--gmu layout--twocol-section layout--twocol-section--70-30"> <div class="layout__region region-first"> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:body" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasebody"> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Body</div> <div class="field__item"><figure role="group"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img src="/sites/g/files/yyqcgq291/files/styles/extra_large_content_image/public/2023-09/230803102.jpg?itok=cWf42ZLs" width="1480" height="1044" alt="Olga O'Brien stands in front of exercise machines at the Freedom Aquatic &amp; Fitness Center" loading="lazy"> </div> </div> <figcaption>Olga O'Brien, general manager of the Freedom Aquatic &amp; Fitness Center. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding</figcaption> </figure> <p><span class="intro-text">Olga O’Brien</span></p> <p><span class="intro-text">Job: General Manager, Freedom Aquatic &amp; Fitness Center</span></p> <p><span><span><span>Olga O’Brien, general manager of the Freedom Aquatic &amp; Fitness Center, started her journey at 鶹Ƶ as an international student. O’Brien came to 鶹Ƶ from Prague on a volleyball scholarship. As a student, she started working as a part-time volleyball instructor at the Freedom Center in 1999—the year the center first opened. And she has been there ever since.</span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span>The </span><a href="https://freedom-center.com/"><span>Freedom Aquatic &amp; Fitness Center</span></a><span>, a 110,000-square-foot facility at 鶹Ƶ’s Science and Technology Campus, operates under a Tripartite agreement including 鶹Ƶ, Prince William County, and the City of Manassas. The university manages all aspects of the daily administration and operation of the facility—its pools, gymnasium, exercise studios, racquetball courts, child care center, staffing, summer camps, and community programming.&nbsp; </span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><span>O’Brien has served in many roles at the Freedom Center, including programs manager, interim general manager, and general manager since 2017. A two-time 鶹Ƶ alum with a master’s in recreation administration and bachelor’s in physical education and health, O’Brien has had an indelible impact on the Freedom Center community. </span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><strong><span>Never the same routine.</span></strong><span> O’Brien said every day is different when working in a community recreation facility—and that’s what she loves about her job. “On a daily basis, I have the opportunity to interact with our members, staff, community partners, and university colleagues,” O’Brien said. “Each day presents different scenarios to navigate. I like the unknown of each day and the new challenges that arise.”</span></span></span></p> <figure role="group" class="align-left"> <div> <div class="field field--name-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <img src="/sites/g/files/yyqcgq291/files/styles/medium/public/2023-09/230803104.jpg?itok=gsl4mrY1" width="560" height="364" alt="Olga O'Brien stands on an indoor track, which overlooks the basketball court on the floor below." loading="lazy"> </div> </div> <figcaption>The Freedom Aquatic &amp; Fitness Center is home to many fitness opportunities, such as an indoor track, pools, and basketball courts. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding</figcaption> </figure> <p><span><span><strong><span>Inspiring one another.</span></strong><span> The positive atmosphere of the Freedom Center motivates O’Brien and her team. Helping members reach their health and wellness goals is one of the biggest on-the-job rewards—and the endorphins are contagious. “Seeing members’ smiles as they check in to start their work out, or walk out of a group exercise class after pushing themselves to the next level—this inspires my team and me to continue working hard to improve each day,” O’Brien said. “We truly have created a ‘Freedom Family’ and look forward to seeing each other succeed each day.”</span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><strong><span>Learning from the best.</span></strong><span> O’Brien said her experiences as a student athlete and her education prepared her for a career in the recreation industry. “In addition to the knowledge learned in the classroom, I was able to grow as an individual and leader to better serve my team and facility,” O’Brien said. She also recognizes those who helped her along the way. “The most significant influence on my work has been my supervisor, mentor, and role model for more than 20 years: Ron Carmichael, director of administration and operations for the SciTech Campus,” O’Brien said. “He has provided opportunities to grow and find my specific leadership and management style, supported my goals and ideas, and shares a common passion for the health and wellness industry.”</span></span></span></p> <p><span><span><strong><span>Sports and serenity.</span></strong><span> When she’s not at work, O’Brien keeps pulse of her family’s athletic pursuits. “My sons’ passion for competitive basketball keeps us very busy, between practices and games,” she said. “I find joy and peace with gardening, yoga, playing pickleball, and volleyball.” Finding new places to travel and adventures to experience with her family also top the list. </span></span></span></p> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="layout__region region-second"> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:call_to_action" data-inline-block-uuid="c8cafec0-e572-4a09-b368-4e2a8297bbed"> <div class="cta"> <a class="cta__link" href="https://freedom-center.com/"> <h4 class="cta__title">Learn more about the Freedom Center <i class="fas fa-arrow-circle-right"></i> </h4> <span class="cta__icon"></span> </a> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="inline_block:call_to_action" data-inline-block-uuid="52fdecbc-652a-4e57-a130-5261dc8bfe9a"> <div class="cta"> <a class="cta__link" href="/news/faculty-and-staff-news"> <h4 class="cta__title">Read more faculty and staff news <i class="fas fa-arrow-circle-right"></i> </h4> <span class="cta__icon"> <div class="field field--name-field-cta-icon field--type-entity-reference field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Icon</div> <div class="field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-field-media-font-awesome-icon field--type-fontawesome-icon field--label-visually_hidden"> 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class="field-content"><a href="/news/2024-11/meet-mason-nation-nandini-koka" hreflang="en">Meet the 鶹Ƶ Nation: Nandini Koka</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">November 22, 2024</div></div></li> <li class="news-item"><div class="views-field views-field-title"><span class="field-content"><a href="/news/2024-10/meet-mason-nation-marit-majeske" hreflang="en">Meet the 鶹Ƶ Nation: Marit Majeske</a></span></div><div class="views-field views-field-field-publish-date"><div class="field-content">October 11, 2024</div></div></li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div data-block-plugin-id="field_block:node:news_release:field_content_topics" class="block block-layout-builder block-field-blocknodenews-releasefield-content-topics"> <h2>Topics</h2> <div class="field field--name-field-content-topics field--type-entity-reference field--label-visually_hidden"> <div class="field__label visually-hidden">Topics</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/206" hreflang="en">Faculty and Staff News</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/16781" hreflang="en">Meet the 鶹Ƶ Nation</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/17236" hreflang="en">Freedom Center</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/16836" hreflang="en">Science and Technology Campus</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/2396" hreflang="en">Health and Fitness</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/taxonomy/term/116" hreflang="en">Campus News</a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> Wed, 13 Sep 2023 17:37:11 +0000 Lauren Reuscher 108406 at