Paola Duran

�鶹��Ƶ drives upward mobility, salary outcomes, and value in Virginia according to the Wall Street Journal

Colleen Rich — Thu, 02 Oct 2025 13:26:06 +0000

�鶹��Ƶ drives upward mobility, salary outcomes, and value in Virginia according to the Wall Street Journal Colleen Rich Thu, 10/02/2025 - 09:26

�鶹��Ƶ is Virginia’s leading public university for value, upward mobility, and salary outcomes, according to the Wall Street Journal’s 2026 Best Colleges in the U.S. This recognition underscores George �鶹��Ƶ’s impact as one of the Commonwealth of Virginia’s most influential public universities, providing students with a high-quality education and preparing graduates for strong career opportunities.

Climbing five spots nationally to 71st overall and 32nd among public universities, and to the top 5 in Virginia (4th overall), George �鶹��Ƶ reinforced its consistent record of leadership nationally and in the commonwealth.

Key highlights from the 2026 Wall Street Journal rankings include:

No. 1 in Virginia for upward mobility
No. 1 among Virginia and D.C. area public universities for salary outcomes
No. 1 among Virginia public universities for best value
Top 5 university in Virginia for student experience

George �鶹��Ƶ’s top ranking for upward mobility reflects its commitment to helping students from all backgrounds succeed. With above-average graduation rates, universal access to internships—including financial support for unpaid positions—and 85% of 2024 graduates reporting a positive career outcome, the university equips students to launch strong careers, with a majority remaining in Virginia and the Washington, D.C., metropolitan region.

Ranked No. 1 among Virginia and Washington, D.C., metropolitan region public universities for salary outcomes, George �鶹��Ƶ also stands out nationally, earning a top 50 rank (42nd overall). Graduates consistently report among the highest starting salaries of any Virginia public university, a testament to George �鶹��Ƶ’s focus on career readiness and success.

The Wall Street Journal recognizes George �鶹��Ƶ as No. 1 among Virginia public universities (95th nationally) for best value, emphasizing the university’s commitment to affordability and minimizing student debt.

Significant gains were made in student experience, with George �鶹��Ƶ climbing into the top 100 public universities (93rd overall) and into the top 5 in Virginia (4th overall), reflecting increased student satisfaction, expanded opportunities on campus for collaboration and engagement, and continued investment in creating a dynamic learning environment that fosters students’ growth as individuals, scholars, and professionals.

These results build on George �鶹��Ƶ’s strong performance in other recent national rankings. U.S. News & World Report recognized George �鶹��Ƶ as No. 1 in Virginia and the Washington, D.C., metropolitan region public universities for upward mobility and in the top 5 in Virginia for best value. Forbes places George �鶹��Ƶ among the nation’s top 50 public universities (47th overall), while Washington Monthly ranks the university as top 5 in Virginia overall in Best Colleges for Your Tuition (and Tax) Dollars and No. 1 in Virginia overall in Best Bang for the Buck in the Southeast.

Together, these rankings spotlight George �鶹��Ƶ’s distinctive role in delivering access, value, and outcomes at scale. The full list of George �鶹��Ƶ rankings is available at gmu.edu/rankings.

�鶹��Ƶ is #1 among Virginia and DMV region public universities for upward mobility, and a top 5 school for best value in Virginia, according to U.S. News

Colleen Rich — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 19:26:29 +0000

�鶹��Ƶ is #1 among Virginia and DMV region public universities for upward mobility, and a top 5 school for best value in Virginia, according to U.S. News Colleen Rich Mon, 09/22/2025 - 15:26

�鶹��Ƶ stands out as Virginia’s No. 1 public university for upward mobility in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Colleges 2026, as Washington Monthly’s “Best Bang for the Buck” in the commonwealth, and as a top 50 public university nationally according to Forbes magazine.

George �鶹��Ƶ leads in upward mobility, ranking No. 1 among Virginia and the Washington, D.C., metropolitan region public universities by U.S. News. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

George �鶹��Ƶ is the only public doctoral university in the state—and one of just five very large public universities in the nation—designated by the Carnegie Foundation and American Council on Education (ACE) in the highest tier of Opportunity Colleges and Universities for its combination of Higher Access, Higher Earnings and being a top research university. This distinction reflects George �鶹��Ƶ’s preparation of more students to build grand solutions for a brighter future.

“These latest rankings and accolades help spotlight the opportunities, excellence, research capacity, value and successful student outcomes at George �鶹��Ƶ,” said George �鶹��Ƶ President Gregory Washington. “The university achieves all this at scale like few other universities in the country, and we transform more lives than any public university in the Commonwealth of Virginia. These rankings are impressive—our graduate success stories are even more so.”

High-Quality Education Within Reach

George �鶹��Ƶ leads in upward mobility, ranking No. 1 among Virginia and the Washington, D.C., metropolitan region public universities by U.S. News.

The university is also recognized for affordability, access, and value, ranking No. 1 in Virginia in Washington Monthly's Best Bang for Your Buck in the Southeast (16th overall), and No. 1 in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan region for access (16th overall). U.S. News places George �鶹��Ƶ in the top 5 in Virginia for best value, and the Princeton Review names George �鶹��Ƶ as a top Mid-Atlantic university for value.

These rankings measure how well universities provide high-quality education and opportunity while minimizing student debt and preparing graduates for long-term career advancement.

Academic Excellence

For academics, U.S. News ranks the university in the top 5 in Virginia for undergraduate programs in business, economics, computer science, engineering, nursing, and psychology. It also named George �鶹��Ƶ as one of the best colleges for veterans and No. 1 in Virginia for several graduate programs, including online MBA for veterans, special education, industrial engineering, part-time law, public health, and public affairs and policy programs.

Overall, U.S. News ranks George �鶹��Ƶ 57th among public universities nationwide and tied for 117th among all universities, both public and private.

Forbes places George �鶹��Ƶ as 47th among publics and 114th nationally overall.

A Dream School

The Energy Exploration Center engages students in hands-on nuclear science and engineering educational activities. Photo by Eduardo Macedo/Office of University Branding

George �鶹��Ƶ was recently featured in Jeff Selingo’s Dream School: Finding the College That’s Right for You as one of 75 universities recognized for strong job prospects after graduation and broad accessibility. George �鶹��Ƶ achieves a 70% graduation rate while maintaining a 90% acceptance rate, with 85% of graduates staying in Virginia and the Washington, D.C., metropolitan region to work for leading employers.

The university is Virginia’s largest and most diverse student body in origin, identity, circumstance, and thought. The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) ranked George �鶹��Ƶ 21st among publics and 2nd in Virginia for its commitment to free speech and free thought, based on a survey of more than 250 students’ perception and experiences on campus.

“George �鶹��Ƶ provides access and flexible pathways to academic excellence for all students interested in pursuing a rigorous education and bold research portfolio,” said Provost Jim Antony. “With graduation rates above national average and high post-degree job placement, George �鶹��Ƶ supports students succeed both during their studies and after graduation through ongoing career services and a strong alumni network.”

A Talented Workforce

George �鶹��Ƶ enrolled its largest incoming class of new undergraduates this fall, with about 70% of students holding a grade point average of 3.5 or higher, and roughly one quarter achieved a 4.0 or higher. �鶹��Ƶ one in four students is a first-generation college student, and transfer enrollment reached a three-year high, with a 4% increase over fall 2024, drawing in more than half of all transfer undergraduates.

To support student success, George �鶹��Ƶ provides robust resources and opportunities, including:

Internships for all students, with financial support for unpaid positions (U.S. News ranked George �鶹��Ƶ as the No. 1 university in Virginia and 20th nationally for internships in 2025).
�鶹��Ƶ Career Academy, offering more than 90 online micro-credentials and industry-recognized certifications in fields such as data analytics, cybersecurity, project management, and IT support.
Career resources, including multiple career fairs, professional development programs, career preparation courses, and job placement support.

George �鶹��Ƶ graduates consistently achieve strong outcomes:

Graduation rates above the national average—follows a record-setting Spring Commencement in which more than 12,000 students earned degrees or certificates.
85% of 2024 graduates reporting a positive career outcome within six months of graduation.
Among the highest starting salaries of any Virginia public university—approximately $8,000 more on average.
Strong regional impact, with 73% of in-state graduates and 29% of out-of-state graduates launching their careers in Virginia.

The full list of George �鶹��Ƶ rankings is available at gmu.edu/rankings.

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George �鶹��Ƶ expands access to VAST semiconductor certificate program

Colleen Rich — Tue, 26 Aug 2025 23:36:38 +0000

George �鶹��Ƶ expands access to VAST semiconductor certificate program Colleen Rich Tue, 08/26/2025 - 19:36

�鶹��Ƶ’s state-of-the-art Nanofabrication Facility cleanroom on the Science and Technology Campus in Manassas, Virginia is set to transform workforce preparation in one of the nation’s most critical technology sectors. Beginning fall 2025, the facility’s class 1000 cleanroom will host the Semiconductor Chip Fabrication and Nano-Characterization certificate program through the Virginia Alliance for Semiconductor Technology (VAST), a statewide consortium advancing microelectronics and nanotechnology training and research where George �鶹��Ƶ serves as a founding member.

George �鶹��Ƶ's Nanofabrication Facility. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

The 10-week program provides intensive, hands-on training in cleanroom safety, lithography, vacuum system operation, and semiconductor characterization. Backed by IEEE microcredentials, it is designed for career changers, recent graduates, military veterans, and working professionals entering one of the country’s fastest growing industries.

“George �鶹��Ƶ is committed to strengthening Virginia’s workforce pipeline for critical industries,” said Amy Adams, executive director of the Institute for Biohealth Innovation. “This certificate program in the university’s only cleanroom in Northern Virginia builds a highly skilled workforce ready to drive semiconductor innovation and meet the needs of companies and defense contractors across the region.

The program’s expansion at George �鶹��Ƶ addresses the rise in military-affiliated participants, which have more than doubled statewide, highlighting growing awareness of semiconductor careers as a strong fit for technical expertise and security clearance advantages. Recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of Virginia’s best colleges for veterans, and as Virginia’s largest public research university, George �鶹��Ƶ is a natural fit for this effort.

By delivering advanced, industry-aligned training, George �鶹��Ƶ is putting the mission of Northern Virginia's first Innovation District into action. The 3,800-acre hub in Prince William County and the City of Manassas—anchored by George �鶹��Ƶ and supported by a $2.6 million in state funding through GO Virginia—integrates education, research, and industry to drive growth in high-tech industries and attract global employers to the region.

With Virginia being a top state for business according to CNBC, and Northern Virginia being home to 75% of Virginia’s semiconductor companies, as well as major defense and technology contractors, George �鶹��Ƶ’s investments in innovation, research partnerships, and workforce development position the region to meet evolving demands in advanced technology fields.

The certificate program is part of VAST's Fast Track to Semiconductor Careers initiative, now offered at seven Virginia universities, including George �鶹��Ƶ, University of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, Old Dominion University, Virginia Tech (Blacksburg and Arlington), Virginia Military Institute, and Norfolk State University

For more information or to register for the certificate program, please visit the Chip Fabrication and Nano Characterization Certificate Program site.

Learn more about the certificate program

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George �鶹��Ƶ launches Grand Challenge Initiative to secure sustainable, prosperous future

Katarina Benson — Wed, 04 Jun 2025 18:45:23 +0000

George �鶹��Ƶ launches Grand Challenge Initiative to secure sustainable, prosperous future Katarina Benson Wed, 06/04/2025 - 14:45

�鶹��Ƶ has launched its Grand Challenge Initiative (GCI), a comprehensive research framework backed by an initial five-year, $15 million investment. The initiative will align university resources, faculty expertise, and educational programs around six interconnected solution areas addressing what George �鶹��Ƶ President Gregory Washington describes as “humanity’s ultimate grand challenge”—securing a peaceful, healthy, and prosperous future.

“Our world is at a crossroads,” he said. “It is time to either brace for global decline and a future that none of us want, or seize control of our destiny and work to reverse course. It will take all of us working together on all these solutions at once to alter the trajectory of our future.”

The initiative, developed through a faculty-driven task force led by Andre Marshall, vice president for research, innovation, and economic impact, focuses on six grand solutions:

Advancing 21st-century education for all
Building a climate-resilient society
Driving responsible digital innovation and sustainable infrastructure
Improving human health, well-being, and preparedness
Pioneering space exploration, research, and collaboration
Strengthening peace, trust, and engagement in democracy

In the latest episode of the Access to Excellence podcast, Marshall discusses this new initiative and how it will shape the future of our university.

“George �鶹��Ƶ is driven by discovery,” said Marshall. “This means unleashing our bold ideas from their theoretical and laboratory boundaries, thoughtfully cultivating them as they take shape, and fearlessly deploying them as innovations that will transform our lives.”

GCI will enhance educational opportunities, increase faculty talent and expertise, align current research projects, seed new proposals, and build essential infrastructure across George �鶹��Ƶ’s campuses. Working in conjunction with the university’s billion-dollar �鶹��Ƶ Now: Power the Possible campaign, the initiative seeks partnerships with government, industry, and nongovernmental organizations.

Several pioneering projects already are underway, including:

A $5 million U.S. Department of Education grant to expand the number of counselors serving high-need schools
A $1 million Google-funded cybersecurity clinic partnership with Howard University
A $6 million National Science Foundation (NSF) grant to help local communities become climate-resilient
A $1.78 million National Institutes of Health (NIH) grant to improve maternal and child health through a study on environmental impacts and health outcomes
The Landolt NASA Space Mission is George �鶹��Ƶ’s first space mission and will place an artificial “star” in orbit to enhance telescope calibration
The Carter School was named a United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16 Hub Chair, one of only two U.S. universities selected for peace and conflict resolution

As the most innovative public university in Virginia according to U.S. News & World Report rankings for two consecutive years, George �鶹��Ƶ continues to expand its research footprint and economic impact across the commonwealth.

A media tool kit for the George �鶹��Ƶ community is currently being developed. This will include graphics, Powerpoint slides, and email signatures, and it will be made available on the GCI website.

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New �鶹��Ƶ Career Academy gives students and displaced workers immediate access to industry certificates and micro-credentials

Katarina Benson — Tue, 20 May 2025 18:04:35 +0000

New �鶹��Ƶ Career Academy gives students and displaced workers immediate access to industry certificates and micro-credentials Katarina Benson Tue, 05/20/2025 - 14:04

�鶹��Ƶ has launched �鶹��Ƶ Career Academy, a new online learning resource that is free for current students, faculty, and staff to develop new skills, and is available to displaced workers, including federal workers and contractors in the region, for a small registration fee. �鶹��Ƶ Career Academy offers access to more than 90 online micro-credential courses and industry-recognized certifications in fields, such as data analytics, cybersecurity, project management, and information technology (IT) support.

Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Designed with flexibility and powered by Coursera, the on-demand self-paced courses allow students to complement their college degrees with additional credentials sought by employers in order to stay ahead of the curve.

“Lifelong learning is a goal we all share at George �鶹��Ƶ, not just for our students, but for ourselves and our teams,” said George �鶹��Ƶ President Gregory Washington. “As students enter a dynamic and evolving workforce that values adaptability, digital fluency, and industry-specific expertise, �鶹��Ƶ Career Academy is one of many resources we offer to help them remain competitive—not just for their first job after graduation, but throughout their careers. We hope this resource also supports our alumni and those in the region who may need extra support right now.”

According to recent survey conducted by the online learning platform Coursera, 92% of employers say graduates with these credentials bring job-ready skills from day one.

Along with technical training, the platform also includes professional development tools that help sharpen skills in resume writing, interviewing, and job readiness. Courses are taught by instructors from top companies and institutions, and completed credentials can be added directly to resumes or LinkedIn profiles.

George �鶹��Ƶ is also supporting more than 120,000 recently displaced workers, including federal employees and contractors, through a range of resources featured in the Displaced Workers Support page. Among these is �鶹��Ƶ Career Academy, offered through �鶹��Ƶ's Continuing and Professional Education program. For a one-time $20 registration fee, users gain affordable access to flexible courses designed to help them reskill, continue their education, or explore new career paths. In addition, the university is waiving application fees for select degree programs and offering complimentary tickets to arts performances and athletics events.

Learn more about �鶹��Ƶ Career Academy

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Center for Evidence-Based Crime Policy shares gun violence research at congressional briefing

Katarina Benson — Mon, 21 Apr 2025 15:04:07 +0000

Center for Evidence-Based Crime Policy shares gun violence research at congressional briefing Katarina Benson Mon, 04/21/2025 - 11:04

In February, �鶹��Ƶ’s Center for Evidence-Based Crime Policy (CEBCP) within the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, hosted its 12th congressional briefing at the U.S. Capitol, focused on “Preventing Gun Violence.” The event, led by Criminology, Law and Society Professors Cynthia Lum and Christopher Koper, and held in partnership with the Harry Frank Guggenheim Foundation, highlighted research on evidence-based strategies to reduce gun violence, reduce the illegal supply of firearms, strengthen investigations, support victim recovery, and address risks of high-risk individuals and groups.

Featured speakers included several of the nation’s leading experts on firearms violence. They presented to an audience of more than 230 registrants including congressional staff, federal agency representatives, researchers, and advocacy organizations.

The congressional briefing at the U.S. Capitol. Photo provided

“The CEBCP continues to invest in generating, translating, and disseminating research on preventing firearms violence, which remains a high priority in many U.S. jurisdictions,” said Lum, CEBCP director. "Its faculty are committed to maintaining a steady focus on research and applying scientific knowledge in this and other critical areas of criminal justice.”

Koper is a nationally recognized expert on firearms policy and policing and a CEBCP Principal Fellow. He has studied crime and justice issues for more than 30 years and is widely known for his research on the 1994 federal assault weapons ban.

“The briefing addressed several issues important to federal policy and to gun violence prevention efforts supported at the state and local levels,” he said. “I hope it helps federal policymakers evaluate the efficacy of these initiatives and find areas of common ground in the ongoing gun policy debate.”

Daniel F. Wilhelm, president of The Harry Frank Guggenheim Foundation, praised the CEBCP’s contributions to the field:

“George �鶹��Ƶ’s Center for Evidence-Based Crime Policy is a national leader in advancing important research on crime and effective responses to it,” he said. “It holds the highest scholarly standards while engaging directly with practitioners, policymakers, and citizens working to address crime and violence in communities across the United States. It has been a longstanding and essential partner to The Harry Frank Guggenheim Foundation in our mission to develop and deploy knowledge that deepens our understanding of violence and how to control and prevent it.”  

Videos from the briefing are now available on the event's webpage. A special Spring 2025 issue of the CEBCP’s Translational Criminology magazine, currently in production, will include summaries of each research presentation.

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George �鶹��Ƶ ranks among Top 50 graduate programs nationally in engineering, public policy, and other fields

Colleen Rich — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 19:40:17 +0000

George �鶹��Ƶ ranks among Top 50 graduate programs nationally in engineering, public policy, and other fields Colleen Rich Mon, 04/07/2025 - 15:40

�鶹��Ƶ ranked among the top 5 in Virginia across all 25 categories in the engineering, law, nursing, and policy programs in which it was included in the latest U.S. News & World Report Best Graduate Program rankings.

Cherry trees by �鶹��Ƶ Pond on the Fairfax Campus. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

Engineering Ranks Top 3 in Virginia and Top 50 Nationally

The College of Engineering and Computing at George �鶹��Ƶ ranks among the top 3 colleges in Virginia across all six engineering categories with civil engineering rising 14 spots to 73rd nationally and 51st among publics, and computer engineering climbing 20 spots among publics to 42nd. Nationally, George �鶹��Ƶ’s systems engineering program ranks in the top 50, placing 37th overall and 27th among publics.

George �鶹��Ƶ plays a key role in strengthening Virginia’s position as a national leader in engineering education, with top-ranked programs in multiple disciplines. George �鶹��Ƶ was one of only four Virginia universities recognized in bioengineering, civil engineering, and systems engineering, and one of five Virginia universities honored in overall engineering, computer engineering, electrical engineering, and dispute resolution programs.

"With 13% of the world’s data centers based in Northern Virginia, the university continues to expand its engineering and computing programs, and state-of-the-art facilities to support the region’s workforce requirements for skilled professionals,” said Ken Ball, dean of the College of Engineering and Computing. ”George �鶹��Ƶ is home to the first school of computing in the commonwealth and just announced Virginia’s only master's degree in artificial intelligence.”

Additionally, earlier this year, two of the college’s online programs made their debut by earning top national rankings in U.S. News. The master’s in industrial engineering debuted as the No. 1 in Virginia and 10th nationally, and the master’s in IT for veterans ranked 21st nationally and 13th among publics.

George �鶹��Ƶ also recently opened its Life Sciences and Engineering Building at its Science and Technology Campus. These spaces provide students with hands-on experience in cutting-edge fields such as bioengineering, mechanical engineering, and robotics, equipping them to meet industry demands.

Law School Retains Strong Rankings and Employment Outcomes

The Antonin Scalia Law School ranked 2nd among Virginia law schools, 31st among all U.S. law schools, and 12th among public schools. The part-time program was ranked 4th nationally among public law schools. The school ranked 11th nationally in the number of graduates employed in federal clerkships.

“Scalia Law is ranked 3rd among the 16 schools in the DMV,” said Ken Randall, Allison and Dorothy Rouse Dean and �鶹��Ƶ Foundation Professor of Law. “Our No. 1 employment ranking among metro-DC schools highlights the marketability of our graduates. The faculty, staff, and students deserve thanks and recognition.”

As the legal profession continues to grow—with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 5% increase in lawyer employment by 2033, or approximately 36,000 jobs per year over the next eight years, Scalia Law is well-positioned to prepare students to enter an expanding field and meet the rising demand for qualified legal professionals.

Nursing Ranks Number 1 in Virginia

The School of Nursing within the state’s first College of Public Health set the standard for nursing education in Virginia, ranking first in the state for both its master’s in nursing and doctor of nursing practice (DNP) programs. Nationally, the doctor of nursing practice program placed in the top 6% according to U.S. News & World Report, while both programs ranked among the top 10 at public universities.

“The rankings reflect George �鶹��Ƶ’s leadership in public health education and commitment to innovation,” said College of Public Health Dean Melissa Perry. “This dedication is exemplified by the one-of-a-kind interprofessional curriculum offered in the Lab for Immersive Technologies and Simulation, providing hands-on experience that enhances students’ expertise and readiness in the field.”

Schar School’s Public Affairs Ranks Number 1 in Virginia

The Schar School of Policy and Government at George �鶹��Ƶ continues to excel, with all of its ranked programs placing in the top 50 nationally and the top 25 among public universities. Most notably, the school's ranking among public affairs programs rose to No. 1 in Virginia, ranking 36th nationally and 24th among publics.

“Students choose the Schar School the strong depth of our faculty expertise and the opportunity to interact with thought leaders in various fields of policy and government studies,” said Mark Rozell, dean of the Schar School of Policy and Government. “These rankings reflect the rising reputation of the Schar School for high-quality degree programs that prepare students for success.”

The school is ranked 4th nationally in homeland security and 48th in political science, making George �鶹��Ƶ one of only two Virginia universities recognized in both fields. Additionally, the school is the only Virginia university ranked for nonprofit management and holds its position at 13th nationally and 10th among publics. The school also ranks 33rd nationally and 25th among publics for public management and leadership, as well as 31st nationally and 17th among publics for public policy analysis.

Growing as a Top 50 University

Other highly ranked programs at George �鶹��Ƶ among the Top 50 among public universities nationwide include computer science (35th), health care management (16th), history (36th), public health (40th), and part-time MBA and economics (both 48th).

“George �鶹��Ƶ’s representation in these rankings underscores its role as a leading institution and top choice for today’s career-focused students, both in Virginia and nationally,” said Provost James Antony. “The university’s strong performance in these programs highlights its ability to produce highly skilled graduates ready to make an impact in their fields, with the majority staying in the commonwealth after graduation.”

Check out the full list of George �鶹��Ƶ rankings at gmu.edu/rankings.

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Reimagining robotics through art and innovation

Colleen Rich — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 21:17:05 +0000

Reimagining robotics through art and innovation Colleen Rich Fri, 02/07/2025 - 16:17

The intersection of art and technology has long been a space for innovation, creativity, and exploration. At �鶹��Ƶ’s �鶹��Ƶ Autonomy and Robotics Center (MARC) located within the College of Engineering and Computing, this connection has taken center stage with the Integrating Art and Tech Project. This project brings together students from diverse academic backgrounds to create tech-enhanced artwork that highlights MARC’s cutting-edge research in autonomy, embedded artificial intelligence (AI), and robotics.

Project lead Alexia De Costa with Irene Hossain at the exhibition. Photo by Paola Duran/Office of University Branding

The inaugural class began in the fall 2024 semester and met weekly, with artists voluntarily returning on weekends, drawn by the project’s engaging and hands-on nature. Applied computer science major Alexia De Costa, the project’s lead, guided the team of eight students—Irene Hossain, Clarisse Ladaban, Ariel Clemmons, Srikriti Bulusu, Saanvi Munigela, Oluwatomisin Badmus, Adam Alsuezi, and Wanyi Chen (visiting scholar)—who dedicated their time to designing and assembling a collection of interactive artworks.

"Technology has the potential not only to advance autonomous systems, but also to serve as an interactive medium for storytelling and creativity,” said De Costa, who is also an member of the Honors College. "The combination of artistic expression and technological advancement makes the research at MARC more accessible to the public, sparking broader conversations about how these advancements can shape our future."

Their semester-long efforts culminated in an exhibition in December showcasing the innovative projects created through this collaboration.

Exploring the Collection

The collection is divided into three thematic groups: blimps, computer vision, and ground robots, each representing a significant research area at MARC.

Blimps: Bioinspiration in Motion

Lighter-than-air autonomous vehicles are inspired by marine life, including manta rays, stingrays, jellyfish, and sharks. This influence is captured through a lenticular design, where each blimp morphs into its corresponding sea creature as viewers move past the piece. The interactive visual experience reflects MARC’s aerial robotics research and highlights the way bioinspired designs influence technological advancements.

The student team worked on the artwork throughout the fall semester. Photo provided

Computer Vision: The Watchful Eye

A moving eye follows the viewer, its pixelated iris symbolizing the computational process behind image recognition and illustrating how AI-powered computer vision perceives the world. Surrounding the eye, a realistic depiction of the sky contrasts with bounding boxes that outline detected clouds—one of which is left undetected to highlight the imperfections and limitations of computer vision technology.

The work draws inspiration from René Magritte’s The False Mirror (1928), creating a thought-provoking commentary on perception and machine learning.

Ground Robots: Interactive Autonomy

Evolved from its original concept of free-moving robots responding to human touch, the final design features a hidden George �鶹��Ƶ logo embedded in a maze that illuminates when a viewer is detected. The background features native plant species from the university’s campus, grounding the piece in its natural environment while highlighting the fusion of technology and organic elements.

Supported by the Office of Student Creative Activities and Research (OSCAR) through the Undergraduate Research Scholars Program (URSP), this project benefited from oversight and guidance of MARC codirectors Missy Cummings and Jesse Kirkpatrick to ensure alignment with the center’s research goals.

“This project highlights just how much creative talent exists in George �鶹��Ƶ’s College of Engineering and Computing, and also just what student initiative and leadership can accomplish,” said Cummings. “Because of Alexia’s vision, there is now an undergraduate art and technology class that is available to all students.”

The student team with MARC codirectors Missy Cummings and Jesse Kirkpatrick. Photo by Paola Duran/Office of University Branding

Beyond showcasing student ingenuity and dedication, this collaboration between artists and engineers resulted in meaningful outcomes. Additionally, a partnership with World3D allowed the team to produce high-quality prints at a fraction of the typical cost. Pieces that would have cost upwards of $2,500 were fabricated for significantly less, making innovation more accessible.

Exploring New Frontiers in Research

The Integrating Art and Tech Project marks a pivotal step in demonstrating how art can serve as a medium for interpreting and understanding technological advancements. As MARC continues to explore new frontiers in autonomy and AI, initiatives like this will play an essential role in making complex research more tangible and engaging to broader audiences.

“Exemplifying the power of interdisciplinary collaboration, this project demonstrates how engineering and computing merge with artistic expression to create something truly innovative,” said Kirkpatrick. “At MARC, we recognize that autonomy and robotics research aren’t just about advancing technology—they’re about making it impactful, engaging, and meaningful.”

The inaugural class of students has set a remarkable precedent for future cohorts, demonstrating that technology is not only about efficiency and automation—it also has the power to drive innovation in unexpected ways, engage the human experience, and create immersive moments that resonate and inspire.

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Transforming emergency response training through AI and interactive games

Katarina Benson — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 20:42:18 +0000

Transforming emergency response training through AI and interactive games Katarina Benson Tue, 12/17/2024 - 15:42

Emergency management training doesn’t usually involve game controllers or artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms, but at �鶹��Ƶ, faculty and students are redefining what it means to prepare for crises. Through cutting-edge, AI-augmented games, they’re transforming complex challenges into interactive learning experiences that build skills and resilience.

The project, led by Shima Mohebbi, an assistant professor in the Department of Systems Engineering and Operations Research at George �鶹��Ƶ’s College of Engineering and Computing, along with PhD student Pavithra Sripathanallur Murali and Nischal Newar, MS Computer Science ’24, began as part of a National Science Foundation (NSF) initiative to develop simulation-based games for resilient infrastructure. Inspired by a webinar hosted by George �鶹��Ƶ’s Center for Resilient and Sustainable Communities (C-RASC), where the Arlington County Department of Public Safety Communications and Emergency Management (PSCEM) shared their training needs, Mohebbi and her team expanded the project’s focus to emergency preparedness.

This shift led to the creation of two interactive AI-powered games—Go-Repair and Go-Rescue —which were developed over the course of a year to train utility managers and volunteers to make critical decisions in scenarios like infrastructure repairs and hurricane disaster evacuations.

The games simulate emergency scenarios and provide participants with tailored insights into their decision-making process. By using advanced algorithms, the games create a dynamic learning environment where strategies can be tested and adapted in real time.

“Go-Repair and Go-Rescue aim to provide volunteers and utility managers with realistic emergency scenarios in a comfortable environment, free from the stress and panic of an actual crisis,” said Mohebbi. “Through AI optimization and reinforcement learning models, players can assess whether their decisions lead to better or worse outcomes compared to the AI-generated solutions, helping them improve their skills in making science-formed decisions.”

From left, Nischal Newar, Shima Mohebbi, and Pavithra Sripathanallur Murali. Photo provided

Traditional emergency training has relied on Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) guidelines and in-person role-playing sessions known as “war gaming.” While valuable, these methods have limitations in scope, flexibility, and interactive feedback. The AI-powered games introduce a new dimension to address these gaps.

The project’s impact is already gaining recognition. Go-Repair: Resilient Infrastructure Learning Game to Evaluate Restoration Decisions was named as one of four finalists in the 2024 Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE) Data Analytics and Information Systems (DAIS) Student Mobile App Competition. Presenting the project at the conference in Montreal, Canada, this past May provided an invaluable opportunity to gather feedback and engage with other researchers tackling similar challenges. This exchange of ideas offered fresh perspectives and inspired new approaches to improve the game’s design and effectiveness.

“The feedback and engagement we’ve received, from Arlington County to the IISE community, are vital to advancing this project,” said Mohebbi. “The collaboration fosters innovation and ensures that our work aligns with the real needs of emergency responders and volunteers.”

“The gamified approach to emergency response training provides us with a unique tool to build the skills and confidence needed to serve our residents when they need us most,” said Hannah Winant, Arlington County deputy director, Department of Public Safety Communications and Emergency Management. “We’re deeply grateful for George �鶹��Ƶ’s proactive, innovative work, and the opportunity to collaborate on this important effort. This project reflects our belief in the power of local partnerships to drive impactful, real-world solutions for the benefit of our community.”

Looking ahead, the team is incorporating feedback to introduce more complex resource allocation tasks and expand participation to include more George �鶹��Ƶ students and utility managers. By continuously refining the games with fresh input, the goal is to develop a versatile and effective training tool emergency response and preparedness. As the project evolves, the team aims to expand its reach, offering a smarter, more scalable solution for communities nationwide.

Research at George �鶹��Ƶ

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Shima Mohebbi

George �鶹��Ƶ’s outdoor forensic research lab hosts guest researchers from Louisiana HBCU

Colleen Rich — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 17:23:31 +0000

George �鶹��Ƶ’s outdoor forensic research lab hosts guest researchers from Louisiana HBCU Colleen Rich Wed, 11/13/2024 - 12:23

It wasn’t the glut of unsightly maggots blanketing every inch of the large pig’s carcass from head to toe, but the combination of that and the unforgiving smell amid the stifling heat that initially gave student Brittney Sylvester reason for pause.

SUNO students Brittney Sylvester and LaTavia Williams examine the burial site of the decomposing pig they buried earlier this summer. Photo by Eduardo Macedo/Office of University Branding

A senior forensic science and mathematics double major, Sylvester was part of a team from Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO), who came to Northern Virginia this past summer for a program that paired aspiring scientists from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and other minority-serving institutions with George �鶹��Ƶ experts in Criminal Investigations and Network Analysis (CINA) Center.

This 10-week program, DHS Summer Research Team Program for Minority Serving Institutions, ran from June through August and was funded by a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) grant to meet critical research needs in the national security realm, while also diversifying the criminal justice system.

Sylvester, an aspiring pathologist, was eager to gain hands-on experience in forensic science and was drawn by the chance to engage in the kind of experiential learning that no textbook could provide. The experience included the opportunity to engage in research with some of the nation’s most renowned forensic scientists and work in George �鶹��Ƶ’s five-acre Forensic Science Research and Training Laboratory on the Science and Technology Campus, one of just 10 locations in the world capable of performing transformative outdoor research in forensic science using human donors.

More popularly known as the “body farm,” and the only one of its kind in the Mid-Atlantic region, the lab opened its doors in Spring 2021 and received its first human donors this past May.

It was the kind of opportunity Sylvester had always dreamed of.

SUNO Associate Professor Meiko Thompson discusses the significance of the forensic research opportunities for HBCUs, while students LaTavia Williams and Brittney Sylvester listen in the background. Photo by Eduardo Macedo/Office of University Branding

“My work on George �鶹��Ƶ’s body farm allowed me to see firsthand how a body decomposes based on the environment, as well as the effects of nudity, clothing, or other covering,” Sylvester said. “This unique research experience has given me the confidence to push past my comfort zone and fully immerse myself in forensics.”

LaTavia Williams, a SUNO senior double majoring in forensic science and biology, also came to George �鶹��Ƶ to deepen her knowledge and hands-on experience in forensic science.

“We are actively learning to build skills and learn more—not only about forensics and decomposition, but the environmental, entomological, microbiological, and anthropological aspects, which are crucial to our research,” added Williams, who wants to become a forensic pathologist.

Joining Sylvester and Williams was SUNO Associate Professor of Forensic Science Meiko Thompson, who served as the principal investigator (PI) on the research assisted by George �鶹��Ƶ’s Georgia Williams, an assistant professor in the Forensic Science Program who served as the project’s science mentor.

Thompson said SUNO is one of just seven HBCUs with forensic science programs. She finds collaborations with lab sites like the one at George �鶹��Ƶ are valuable for HBCU students, not only for educational purposes, but also for networking, as they worked alongside George �鶹��Ƶ students and faculty members who are highly regarded and experienced professionals in forensic science.

The SUNO contingent and George �鶹��Ƶ's forensic science team—Georgia Williams, Mary Ellen O'Toole, Emily Rancourt, and Molly Kilcarr—stand in front of the Forensic Science Research Training Laboratory. Photo by Eduardo Macedo/Office of University Branding

“This was an incredible opportunity to be at the forefront of scientific research, especially for minority researchers,” Thompson said.

Throughout their weeks working on the body farm the SUNO students were assisted by George �鶹��Ƶ Forensic Science Associate Professor Emily Rancourt and two of her students, Nickolyn Jackson and Molly Kilcarr, who were also conducting research on human and pig decomposition. While their projects were different, these students’ collaborative spirits and shared efforts enhanced both projects, providing them with an unforgettable, one-of-a-kind research experience.

During the program, the aspiring scientists took daily samples, measurements, and pictures. Each visit brought more anticipation than the last as they discovered new smells, new organisms, and new plant growth, all the collective result of the decomposing body becoming part of the soil. Each day’s data was recorded and samples immediately frozen to accurately record the decomposition.

Mary Ellen O’Toole, a former FBI agent profiler and director of the Forensic Science Program at George �鶹��Ƶ, often visited the students onsite.

“[LaTavia and Brittney] had no idea they would be transformed after a few weeks at the body farm,” O’Toole said. “They seemed more confident, sure of themselves, and absolutely fearless of the work they were doing. As time passed, they showed no hesitation about being around the wild assortment of bugs they had to touch and move, or the pig they buried and had to swab every day. Their curiosity and excitement about everything they were doing was infectious.”

The SUNO students presented their research findings, and their collaboration with George �鶹��Ƶ will continue. Thompson and Williams submitted a follow-on proposal to CINA to complete their analysis and submit their research findings, and they are hopeful the future of this research will assist DHS in its national and transnational work to combat crime and terrorism.

Led by George �鶹��Ƶ, the CINA Center is funded by the DHS Science and Technology Directorate’s Office of University Programs to unite leading experts and researchers to pursue multidisciplinary approaches to disrupt criminal activities across both physical and cyber spaces. George �鶹��Ƶ is one of nine within the DHS Centers of Excellence, making it a perfect fit for the SUNO contingent because of its commitment to the advancement of science with cutting-edge solutions.

“This experience has shown me that I’m capable and stronger than I believed before I arrived,” Sylvester said. “As Professor Rancourt told me, ‘As long as your curiosity outweighs your fears, you can accomplish anything.’ I will carry this wisdom with me from now on.”

Want to learn more about the "body farm" and crime scene research? Listen to Mary Ellen O'Toole on the Access to Excellence podcast.

Listen to the episode

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