partnerships

Preparing students for an AI-enabled future with ERA-NOVA

Katarina Benson — Wed, 19 Aug 2026 13:16:02 +0000

Preparing students for an AI-enabled future with ERA-NOVA Katarina Benson Wed, 08/19/2026 - 09:16

As artificial intelligence (AI) rapidly transforms the way people learn, work, and communicate, educators are facing a new challenge: not whether AI belongs in classrooms, but how to prepare students to use it responsibly, ethically, and effectively. Education leaders from across Northern Virginia convened on 911��’s Fairfax Campus for the Educational Research Alliance of Northern Virginia's (ERA-NOVA) to answer this question.

Hosted by the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD), the event brought together school district leaders, CEHD faculty, and community partners to explore the evolving role of AI in PK–12 education.

Participants at the ERA-NOVA convening discuss AI questions. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

"This convening is not ultimately about artificial intelligence," said Ingrid Guerra-López, CEHD dean. "It's about preparing educators to create the kinds of learning experiences that develop critical thinking, sound judgment, creativity, and the ability to solve complex problems. Artificial intelligence simply raises the urgency of that work." That perspective framed the day's discussions and was reinforced by keynote speaker Tara Nattrass, managing director of innovation, partnerships, and learning at Lenovo, who explained that conversations about AI in education are ultimately conversations about people.

Rather than focusing exclusively on emerging technologies, Nattrass challenged attendees to think about how schools can preserve the human elements of learning while equipping students with the knowledge and skills they will need to thrive in an AI-enabled world. Drawing on research in learning sciences, workforce trends, and digital citizenship, she emphasized that technology should strengthen, not replace critical thinking. "The question isn't whether they'll use it," Nattrass said. "The question is whether anyone taught them how."

Discussions revealed that Northern Virginia school divisions are at different points of the AI journey. Some districts are still establishing policies and answering foundational questions about what AI is, which tools are appropriate, and how they should be used in schools. Others have begun implementing professional learning, developing governance structures, and introducing AI literacy initiatives for teachers and students.

Despite these differences, participants found common ground around a shared challenge: preparing educators with the confidence and knowledge to guide students in using AI thoughtfully instead of simply restricting its use.

"How do we teach teachers?" emerged as a recurring question during the discussions, with participants emphasizing the need for professional learning that helps educators establish classroom expectations, teach effective prompting strategies, and foster responsible AI use among students.

Participants also explored how educators can design learning experiences that emphasize critical thinking, authentic assessment, and responsible decision-making. Several groups discussed shifting away from blanket bans toward clear expectations for when AI is appropriate, when it should be limited, and when students should demonstrate their own understanding without technological assistance.

The convening also featured industry perspectives demonstrating how AI is transforming professions well beyond education. Representatives from Micron Technology and X Factor Volleyball shared examples of AI supporting semiconductor manufacturing, predictive maintenance, athlete wellness, and performance analytics.

Across industries, speakers emphasized a consistent theme: AI is augmenting human expertise rather than replacing it, enabling professionals to analyze complex data more efficiently while still relying on human judgment, experience, and decision-making.

Participants also explored broader societal implications of AI, including workforce transformation, student well-being, digital citizenship, and the importance of maintaining opportunities for productive struggle. As AI-generated content becomes increasingly sophisticated, they discussed the growing importance of helping students evaluate information critically and navigate an increasingly complex digital landscape.

"One of ERA.NOVA's greatest strengths is creating space for school divisions and university partners to wrestle with these questions together,” said Audra Parker, director of the Office for Teacher Preparation at CEHD. “AI is evolving rapidly, and no single organization has all the answers. By learning from one another and grounding our work in both research and practice, we can better prepare educators and students for what's ahead."

Participants identified several priorities for future collaboration, including modular professional learning, AI literacy for educators and students, train-the-trainer models, and stronger alignment between policy and classroom practice. Many also emphasized that AI should not be treated as a standalone initiative but should be integrated into broader efforts to prepare graduates with the technical, ethical, and interpersonal skills needed for an evolving workforce.

That challenge lies at the heart of ERA-NOVA's work. As school divisions, university faculty, and industry leaders continue learning from one another, the focus is on preparing students with the skills they will need to thrive in an AI-enabled world.

Explore Artificial Intelligence at 911��

Topics

Campus News

College of Education and Human Development

Artificial Intelligence

partnerships

Expanding 911��’s presence in South Korea's emerging quantum ecosystem

Katarina Benson — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 17:07:33 +0000

Expanding 911��’s presence in South Korea's emerging quantum ecosystem Katarina Benson Tue, 08/18/2026 - 13:07

As South Korea accelerates its national investment in quantum science and technology, 911��'s Quantum Science and Engineering Center (QSEC) is strengthening its engagement with the country's leading research institutions and regional innovation partners.

In July 2026, Pilgyu Kang, QSEC's deputy director and associate professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, traveled to Mason Korea to sign a memorandum of understanding between QSEC and two of Korea's leading quantum organizations, the Future Quantum Convergence Forum and the QCI Quantum-AI Convergence Center (QCI).

Mason Korea QSEC, Future Quantum Convergence Forum, and the QCI Quantum-AI Convergence Center representatives.

“This memorandum represents much more than a formal agreement—it marks the beginning of a long-term partnership that connects researchers, students, and industry across the United States and South Korea,” said Kang. “By working together, we can accelerate quantum research, expand educational opportunities, and prepare a globally connected workforce capable of addressing the scientific and technological challenges of the future.”

The Future Quantum Convergence Forum serves as a hub connecting Korea's quantum and artificial intelligence (AI) industry, academia, research institutions, and local governments, with the Quantum-AI Convergence Institute (QCI) operating as its secretariat. For QCI, the MOU with 911�� marks a starting point for advancing collaboration with Korea's industry, academia, research community, and local governments.

Partnering with QSEC—a research center spanning physics, engineering, and computer science—is expected to provide QCI with new opportunities to build a global research network and exchange expertise in workforce development. Going forward, the two institutions plan to create opportunities for academic and research exchange through workshops and seminars, and to explore ways for 911�� and Korean companies to expand into each other's markets.

While in Korea, Kang also visited the Quantum Computing Project Group at Yonsei University in Songdo, which operates Korea's first 127-qubit IBM Quantum System One—the second university-based, on-premises IBM Quantum System One in the world. The visit served as an important platform for QSEC, Yonsei University, and Mason Korea to discuss future collaboration in quantum research, education, workforce development, and long-term academic partnerships.

South Korea continues to expand its national quantum strategy through large-scale government investment. Korea's Ministry of Science and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is currently reviewing proposals for a nationwide quantum cluster initiative expected to invest approximately KRW 100 billion ($70 million USD) in regional quantum innovation ecosystems.

“This partnership is an exciting step forward for QSEC and 911��,” said Patrick Vora, QSEC director. “By growing our relationship with our Korean partners, we will create new opportunities for scientific advancement, technological innovation, and quantum education."

A final designation of participating regions is expected in the coming weeks, and discussions around Mason Korea and QSEC's potential role remain ongoing. To support these efforts, Mason Korea's Industry–University Collaboration Foundation (IUCF) facilitated discussions between QSEC and key stakeholders in Korea's quantum community.

Building on its longstanding partnership with Yonsei University, Mason Korea also helped identify opportunities for future international collaboration involving research, education, and innovation.

The partnership was facilitated by Fairfax County Economic Development Authority (FCEDA) and originated when QCI visited Fairfax County for the 2025 Quantum World Congress. A key connector in building international partnerships, FCEDA will continue to support both parties in deepening their collaboration and identifying new opportunities to strengthen ties between Korea and 911��.

"Mason Korea exists to make 911�� a genuinely global university, not just one with a campus abroad,” said Mason Korea Campus Dean Joshua Park. “Helping QSEC establish real footing in Korea's quantum ecosystem—and bringing other partner institutions along in the process—is precisely that mission in action."

Explore Mason Korea

Latest Stories

Expanding 911��’s presence in South Korea's emerging quantum ecosystem
August 18, 2026
U.S. congressional delegation visits Mason Korea
July 30, 2026
Faculty philanthropy fuels quantum innovation with $3 million gift
July 10, 2026
Mason Korea graduates the Class of Spring 2026
July 6, 2026
Mason Korea students tackle real-world business challenges with Hyundai Premium Outlets
June 16, 2026

Topics

Quantum Science and Engineering Center

U.S. congressional delegation visits Mason Korea

Katarina Benson — Thu, 30 Jul 2026 13:23:21 +0000

U.S. congressional delegation visits Mason Korea Katarina Benson Thu, 07/30/2026 - 09:23

A U.S. congressional delegation, including four members of the House of Representatives and officials from the U.S. Embassy in Seoul, visited 911�� Korea on July 27 to learn more about the university's global education model and explore opportunities to expand U.S.–Korea educational cooperation.

The visit was initiated by Congressman Suhas Subramanyam, who represents Virginia’s 10^th district and proposed the trip to see firsthand how 911�� operates its global campus in Korea. He was joined by Reps. Young Kim (R-Calif.), Randy Feenstra (R-Iowa), and Michael Cloud (R-Texas), along with professional staff from the House Foreign Affairs Committee and officials from the embassy's economic and public diplomacy sections.

The U.S. congressional delegation at Mason Korea. Photo provided

Mason Korea leadership shared insights into the campus's global education model and current operations. Conversations also focused on ways to expand educational exchange between the two countries and collaborate on developing globally minded talent.

The delegation also toured the campus's academic and research facilities and student support spaces.

"It was a meaningful opportunity for distinguished members of Congress and the U.S. Embassy to see firsthand the innovative educational outcomes and global model we've built here," said Campus Dean Joshua Park. "We remain committed to serving as a hub for educational and research collaboration between our two countries, and to continuing our work in developing global talent and expanding academic exchange."

Learn more about Mason Korea

Topics

Campus News

Mason Korea

partnerships

Mason Enterprise and Akiak Technology establish strategic partnership to advance innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic opportunity

Katarina Benson — Thu, 23 Jul 2026 20:24:14 +0000

Mason Enterprise and Akiak Technology establish strategic partnership to advance innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic opportunity Katarina Benson Thu, 07/23/2026 - 16:24

Mason Enterprise^TM, 911��’s hub for innovation and entrepreneurial development, established a new partnership with Akiak Technology LLC, an Alaskan tribal-owned, mission-driven technology firm dedicated to delivering impactful artificial intelligence (AI) solutions while supporting Indigenous communities. The collaboration is formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and reflects a shared commitment to fostering business innovation, workforce development, and mutually beneficial growth opportunities.

Mason Enterprise and Akiak Technology will collaborate on technology and business development initiatives designed to expand access to entrepreneurial resources, training, and expertise, while creating new pathways to strengthen innovation ecosystems locally and nationally.

From left, Paula Sorrell, Sharon Hamer, and Kevin Hamer. Photo provided

“This partnership with Akiak Technology aligns with Mason Enterprise’s mission to support entrepreneurs and accelerate innovation,” said Paula Sorrell, associate vice president for innovation and economic development at 911��. “By combining Mason Enterprise’s entrepreneur support programs, tech talent, and convening power with Akiak’s technology expertise and mission-driven approach, we are adding more building blocks in the Northern Virginia innovation corridor.”

Under the MOU, Mason Enterprise will provide Akiak Technology with access to its entrepreneur programs, innovation expertise, counseling and training resources, while facilitating collaboration across the university. Together, the organizations will identify mutually beneficial opportunities and explore pathways to support Akiak Technology’s business growth in alignment with its mission, including its commitment to its tribal community.

This synergy can speed up the translation of research and discoveries into products and services, addressing complex challenges in areas such as quantum computing, AI, health care technology, and energy. Akiak Technology will also offer strategic insight and feedback to Mason Enterprise programs and help identify opportunities for revenue-generating activities that further Mason Enterprise’s mission of supporting entrepreneurs and innovation-driven organizations.

“This partnership with Mason Enterprise represents an important step forward for Akiak Technology,” said Sharon Hamer, cofounder of Akiak Technology and enrolled Akiak tribal member. “Collaborating with a leading research university gives us access to world-class talent and new opportunities to expand our AI-driven innovations, while remaining true to our mission and values.”

Akiak’s CEO Kevin Hamer added, “Mason Enterprise helped us launch our first business years ago. Deepening this relationship allows us to tap into 911��’s expansive network and innovation programming as we continue to grow as an AI product and solutions innovator.”

The public–private partnership strengthens technology transfer, supports federal research initiatives, enhances education and workforce readiness, and contributes to regional economic growth—particularly as demand for STEM talent continues to rise.

The collaboration underscores Mason Enterprise’s role as a connector between academia, industry, and community, and highlights Akiak Technology’s commitment to collaboration, innovation, and mission-driven growth.

Learn about Artificial Intelligence at 911��

Topics

Artificial Intelligence

Northwest Federal Credit Union and 911�� Athletics expand partnership to advance student financial wellness on and off the court

Katarina Benson — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 21:07:58 +0000

Northwest Federal Credit Union and 911�� Athletics expand partnership to advance student financial wellness on and off the court Katarina Benson Thu, 06/18/2026 - 17:07

911�� Athletics and Northwest Federal Credit Union announced an expanded partnership that connects student-athletes with financial education, simple banking tools, and Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities designed to support their success on campus, in the community, and after they graduate.

This collaboration was formally introduced at 911��'s inaugural Basketball Signing Day event. More than 200 fans, supporters, and community leaders gathered to celebrate the introduction of the 2026-27 men's and women's basketball teams.

Student-athletes at Basketball Signing Day. Photo by 911�� Athletics

As the Official Credit Union and Financial Wellness Partner for 911�� Athletics, Northwest is expanding its support beyond traditional sponsorship by helping student-athletes build financial confidence at a time when NIL earnings, personal branding, and early career decisions are becoming a big part of the college athletics experience. Participating student-athletes will open Northwest accounts, receive financial education and training, and serve as ambassadors promoting financial literacy across campus and throughout the Northern Virginia community.

"This expanded partnership marks an exciting step forward in how we support student-athletes during a pivotal moment in their journey," said Jeff Bentley, president and CEO at Northwest Federal Credit Union. "By combining these new NIL opportunities with financial education, we are helping equip them with the tools to make informed decisions today and build lasting success beyond the game. These student-athletes are inspiring the next generation, and Northwest is grateful to be part of making an impact in the community."

"Opportunities like this give our players experience in pursuing their sports career while also learning the practical skills to balance life," said Tony Skinn, BA Communication ’06, men's basketball head coach at 911��. "Having access to financial education, professional development, and community connections helps maximize their time here at 911�� and set them up for the next chapter. Northwest has been an excellent partner to make that a reality for our teams."

Women's basketball head coach Vanessa Blair-Lewis added, "This is about developing the whole person. Even the term “student-athlete” represents our hope for each of these young people. We want their time with us to have been a season of life where they were fully supported to learn the most they can and be the best they can be. Financial education and life management resources are a critical part of that vision of helping our student-athletes build strong futures."

Basketball Signing Day is expected to become an annual tradition and serves as the first of several collaborative initiatives planned between 911�� Athletics and Northwest throughout the upcoming year.

Through this partnership, the credit union also became the first member of the "Starting 5" sponsors of 911�� Athletics' broader corporate partnership initiative, NOVA's Team. The platform connects organizations committed to building a stronger connection between student-athletes, businesses, and communities across Northern Virginia.

Topics

Mason Korea students tackle real-world business challenges with Hyundai Premium Outlets

Katarina Benson — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 18:04:44 +0000

Mason Korea students tackle real-world business challenges with Hyundai Premium Outlets Katarina Benson Tue, 06/16/2026 - 14:04

Students at Mason Korea recently stepped into the role of marketing consultants for a day by tackling an ongoing business challenge presented by Hyundai Premium Outlets Songdo.

On June 2, 10 finalist teams gathered for the Mason Korea x Hyundai Premium Outlets Global Marketing Challenge Final Pitch, presenting innovative strategies aimed to enhance the outlets’ appeal to international visitors and younger consumers.

The grand prize team received the highest overall score for innovation and strategic alignment. Photo provided

Participants were encouraged to cover two themes: “Global Expansion Strategy” and “MZ Hotspot Activation Strategy.” All finalists demonstrated strong problem-solving skills by incorporating global consumer trends and local community characteristics of Songdo/Incheon while showcasing their knowledge of digital marketing. Teams were evaluated based on their understanding of target audiences, strategic relevance, and execution potential.

The Grand Prize was awarded to the team led by conflict analysis and resolution major Taeeun Kim, whose proposal received the highest overall score for innovation and strategic alignment. Their project was marketed toward the city’s immigrant population.

“By interviewing foreign residents in Songdo, we were able to understand the needs and challenges faced by people from diverse cultural backgrounds,” said Kim.

The Insight Prize was presented to business major Jiyoon Jeong for exceptional consumer and market analysis, while the Challenge Prize was awarded to the team led by business major Dongkyo Oh for introducing bold and creative ideas with strong future potential.

The Challenge Award team. Photo provided

“This project demonstrated the value of hands-on learning by allowing students to analyze global market trends and develop strategies for real-world business challenges,” said Joshua Park, campus dean of Mason Korea.

As Mason Korea continues to expand opportunities for experiential learning, programs like the Global Marketing Challenge play an important role in connecting students with industry partners and preparing them to become the next generation of global leaders.

Learn about Mason Korea

Topics

911�� and U.S. Air Force partner to rapidly field emerging capabilities

Katarina Benson — Mon, 18 May 2026 16:49:02 +0000

911�� and U.S. Air Force partner to rapidly field emerging capabilities Katarina Benson Mon, 05/18/2026 - 12:49

A partnership between 911�� and the United States Air Force is accelerating the development and real-world deployment of technologies designed to support Air Force personnel operating around the globe.

Through a collaboration with U.S. Air Forces Central Command (AFCENT), 911�� faculty and students are working alongside military personnel to test emerging technologies, train the workforce that will use them, and move promising innovations from the laboratory into operational environments.

The effort builds on an educational partnership agreement established in 2023 and has since grown into a broader research and workforce development collaboration. Since 2023, AFCENT has invested nearly $10 million at 911�� to support experimentation, prototyping, and operational validation of new capabilities.

Secretary of the Air Force Troy Meink addressed senior civilian and military leaders from the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force financial management community, 911�� leadership and faculty, and AFCENT Futures Lab leaders at Fuse. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

“A priority of AFCENT was becoming a more data-driven headquarters, upskilling the workforce and building capabilities in areas like artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomy, drones, advanced sensors, and data analytics,” said Brett Josephson, who leads the university’s work with AFCENT. “They looked for a partner who could bring together both technology development and the education needed to actually field those capabilities.”

The partnership leverages expertise from multiple 911�� schools and colleges, including the College of Engineering and Computing and the Costello College of Business. Other units, such as the Schar School for Policy and Government and the College of Science, contribute when additional expertise is needed.

Josephson, associate provost of learning initiatives at 911�� and associate professor of marketing in the Costello College of Business, said the collaboration works in two directions. 911�� researchers share insights on emerging technologies they are studying, while AFCENT leaders bring operational challenges that require new solutions.

That approach helps address a persistent challenge in defense innovation often referred to as the “valley of death”—the gap between research and real-world use.

“Too often, technologies are developed but never make it into the hands of the people who need them,” Josephson said. “By working directly with an operational command, we’re helping bridge the technology transition gap between the lab and the field.”

Research projects focus on areas such as robotics, sensor integration, AI, data analytics, and computer vision. New technologies and emerging capabilities are tested in 911�� labs before moving into field experimentation and, ultimately, operational validation overseas.

The collaboration has also created significant opportunities for 911�� students. More than 25 faculty members and nearly 50 undergraduate and graduate students have participated in AFCENT-supported projects so far, funded through fellowships, assistantships, and student wage positions.

Students are able to test technologies in real-world environments, working alongside faculty teams at Air Force bases in exercises to identify vulnerabilities in defense systems.

“These experiences give students the chance to work on real problems with real operational implications,” Josephson said.

The collaboration also includes training initiatives for military personnel. 911�� faculty have helped develop specialized courses, including a mechatronics program that combines robotics with computer and software engineering to support AFCENT teams working with emerging technologies such as drones and advanced sensor systems.

Participants in the U.S. Air Force and 911�� collaboration. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of Unversity Branding

In 2025, AFCENT designated 911�� as a duty station—AFCENT Bravo—where Air Force personnel can work alongside PhD and graduate students to ensure research innovations are operationally relevant and that personnel are prepared to use them.

This partnership is unique in that it directly connects a university with an operational combat command, enabling researchers to work closely with those responsible for executing missions. That direct connection allows George Mason researchers to better understand operational needs and rapidly develop technologies that can be deployed in the field.

It also reflects 911��’s broader strengths as a university located in the National Capital Region, where proximity to federal agencies, defense organizations, and industry partners creates opportunities for collaboration.

911�� facilities, such as Fuse at Mason Square, which was designed to promote collaboration, have also played a role in bringing together government, academic, and industry partners to tackle emerging challenges. In one example, the partnership helped support a 72-hour Department of War hackathon hosted at Fuse that brought together hundreds of participants across four continents to rapidly develop and deploy defense assets.

“Innovation in today’s security environment has to move faster than ever,” Josephson said. “Partnerships like this allow us to bring together researchers, students, and operational experts to rapidly field emerging capabilities that help protect our service members and keep Americans safe.”

As the collaboration grows, 911�� leaders hope it will serve as a model for future partnerships between universities and national security organizations, demonstrating how research, education, and operational experience can combine to meet rapidly evolving global challenges.

Learn more about the Costello College of Business

Explore the College of Engineering and Computing

Topics

Costello College of Business

911��'s Costello College of Business and NABA Inc. join forces to develop the business leaders of tomorrow

Katelynn C Hipolito — Wed, 06 May 2026 19:02:19 +0000

911��'s Costello College of Business and NABA Inc. join forces to develop the business leaders of tomorrow Katelynn C Hipolito Wed, 05/06/2026 - 15:02

The Costello College of Business at 911�� and NABA Inc. today announced a new three-year community partnership grounded in a shared belief: when students, educators, and industry leaders grow together, entire communities—and the businesses that serve them—thrive. The collaboration will strengthen professional development, open new pathways for student success, and deepen connections across the regional and national business community.

Guylaine Saint Juste BA ‘94 (lower right), president and CEO, NABA Inc. is shown with panelists following a discussion focused on the people, policy, and leadership implications of AI adoption during Costello’s inaugural AI Symposium in October. Joining her on stage were (left to right): ) Interim Provost and Executive Vice President Ajay Vinzé, Associate Dean Patrick Soleymani, BS ’07, MBA ’09, Interim Dean Cheryl Druehl, Deloitte Principal Tasha Austin-Williams, Nashville Analytics CEO and co-founder James Suh, 911�� Chief AI Officer Amarda Shehu, and Boston Consulting Group Partner and Associate Director Rajiv Shenoy. Photo by Hannah Patterson/Costello College of Business.

The partnership will also create more points of connection between students, faculty, alumni, and business leaders. NABA Inc. will attend signature Costello events, including the Corporate and Community Partner Luncheon, Patriot Pitch Competition, and the Annual Business Celebration, designed to spark conversation, strengthen networks, and accelerate shared impact. A dedicated concierge service from Costello will support seamless engagement and ongoing collaboration with business faculty and students.

“Professional development is not a single event—it’s a promise we make to our students and to the business community. By working alongside NABA, we’re expanding access to mentorship, experiences, and networks that help talent flourish. When we invest in people and build community through collaboration, we create the conditions for consistent, long-term success—for our students, our partners, and the region we all share.”

—Patrick Soleymani, associate dean for outreach and strategic engagement at the Costello College of Business

NABA will recognize the Costello College of Business as the “Exclusive Academic Partner for NABA” on its website and in annual conference materials, amplifying the business college’s role in preparing the next generation of leaders. The partnership also expands opportunities for Costello students and faculty to engage with a national community of professionals through a premier presence at the NABA Annual Conference for the next three years.

“Professional development is not a single event—it’s a promise we make to our students and to the business community,” said Patrick Soleymani, associate dean for outreach and strategic engagement at the Costello College of Business. “By working alongside NABA, we’re expanding access to mentorship, experiences, and networks that help talent flourish. When we invest in people and build community through collaboration, we create the conditions for consistent, long-term success—for our students, our partners, and the region we all share.”

Guylaine Saint Juste, president and CEO of NABA Inc., added, “We are at an inflection point in business and in higher education. Students who are preparing to enter the workforce now are navigating a world that looks nothing like the one most of us trained for. This partnership ensures that they are not navigating it alone. They will be part of a community that invests in them and holds them to the highest standard.”

The partnership is effective from April 2026 through April 2029.

NABA Inc. is a leading organization dedicated to bridging the opportunity gap for underserved professionals in accounting, finance, data-analysis, AI, and related business professions.

For more information, please contact: Costello College of Business, Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations: 703-993-1176

In This Story

Patrick Soleymani

Topics

Costello College of Business News

Corporate and Community Partners Program

partnerships

Campus News

Eagle Scout project increases reach and functionality of Instruments in the Attic Program

Katarina Benson — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 21:37:23 +0000

Eagle Scout project increases reach and functionality of Instruments in the Attic Program Katarina Benson Tue, 04/21/2026 - 17:37

At the Mason Community Arts Academy (MCAA), a normally quiet Saturday in March was filled with the sounds of drills humming and stairs creaking as Boy Scouts and parents moved about the building. Scouts from Troop 1865 were on site to work on an Eagle Scout project led by Robinson High School sophomore Brendan Williamson to upgrade the storage for the academy’s Instruments in the Attic (IiA) Program.

Scouts working on the closet. Photo provided

Founded in 2008, Instruments in the Attic is a donation program through 911��’s College of Visual and Performing Arts, which has provided hundreds of instruments to music students at the university, in local high schools, across Virginia, and beyond.

A violinist at Robinson High School in Fairfax, Williamson wanted to work with IiA because of his passion for music and musical education. He heard about IiA from an adult in his troop.

“Many old instruments sitting unused in attics, basements, or closets go overlooked,” he said. “But each one has the potential to inspire a new musician who otherwise might not have access to musical education.”

Through his Eagle Scout project with Instruments in the Attic, Williamson helped collect, clean, and refurbish these instruments so they could find homes with aspiring musicians.

The new closet. Photo provided

From their initial meeting, Mary Lechter, MCAA executive director, and Lucas Kremer, coordinator of music programs and outreach, said they were impressed by Williamson’s ideas for the project, as well as his openness to their thoughts on what would be most beneficial to IiA. Throughout the planning and execution phases of the project, Lechter said Williamson showed initiative, leadership, and attention to detail beyond his years.

Williamson also reached out to local music stores, fellow students at Robinson, and members of his scout troop for instrument donations. He was able to collect 30 instruments.

For the construction portion of his project, Williamson and his team of 24 volunteers built new shelving for the instruments. Williamson also designed an online inventory system for the program to track and manage instrument repairs.

"Having the opportunity to make a positive impact, especially in an area that you are passionate about, is an incredible experience, and I am so lucky to have been able to work with the wonderful people at Instruments in the Attic and the Mason Arts Community Academy,” Williamson said.

Williamson and his fellow scouts and parents. Photo provided

Learn more about the Mason Community Arts Academy

Explore the College of Visual and Performing Arts

Topics

Campus News

Mason Community Arts Academy

College of Visual and Performing Arts

partnerships

911�� US–Korea delegation strengthens ties in Vietnam

Katarina Benson — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 19:54:32 +0000

911�� US–Korea delegation strengthens ties in Vietnam Katarina Benson Wed, 04/15/2026 - 15:54

In a joint effort spanning 911��'s Fairfax and Korea campuses, a university delegation recently completed a five-day visit to Vietnam aimed at expanding academic partnerships and exploring new opportunities for collaboration across education, research, and student engagement.

The delegation included Janette Muir, vice provost for academic affairs; Cheryl Druehl, interim dean of the Costello College of Business; Joshua Park, campus dean of Mason Korea; and Danielle Swanepoel, executive director of international relations and strategic initiatives at Mason Korea.

The delegation with HUTECH University in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo provided

Over the course of the visit, the delegation met with leadership and faculty at seven institutions across Vietnam. Discussions focused on student mobility pathways, dual degree opportunities, faculty engagement, short-term programs, and collaborative research initiatives.

"Spending time with colleagues from 911�� in Vietnam was an incredibly rewarding experience," said Muir. "It was inspiring to see the connections being built with partner universities, and especially exciting to imagine how Mason Korea can serve as a gateway for Asian students seeking an American education. I'm very much looking forward to future articulation agreements with our partners."

A key highlight of the visit was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with HUTECH University in Ho Chi Minh City, a highly ranked institution with a strong focus on technology and innovation. The agreement establishes a framework for cooperation between the two universities, opening the door for joint academic programs, faculty collaboration, research partnerships, and student mobility.

Janette Muir signing the Memorandum of Understanding with HUTECH. Photo provided

The delegation also met with Van Lang University, Dong A University, VNUK (VN-UK Institute for Research and Executive Education), and Saigon Business School, among others. These discussions explored articulation pathways for undergraduate students, short-term study programs in Korea and Vietnam, faculty exchanges, and potential joint conferences and seminars.

Another significant moment of the trip was the launch of the Mason Korea Debate Lab–Vietnam, an initiative designed to introduce high school students across Vietnam to international debate formats and critical thinking training. The program was formally launched through a showcase event hosted by EMASI Nam Long, the first partner institution to join the initiative. Two Mason Korea student debaters traveled from Korea to provide introductory coaching and participate in the showcase debate alongside EMASI students.

"This visit reflects a more intentional approach to 911��'s internationalization—connecting partnerships across academic programs, student pathways, and research," said Park. "The Debate Lab is one example of how we extend that engagement to younger students, building the critical thinking and global citizenship that are central to 911��'s mission."

The launch marks the beginning of what Mason Korea hopes will become an expanding program across Vietnam, offering debate training, judging opportunities, and future camps and competitions.

Learn more about Mason Korea

Topics

Office of the Provost

partnerships

Preparing students for an AI-enabled future with ERA-NOVA

Related Stories

Topics

Expanding 911��’s presence in South Korea's emerging quantum ecosystem

Latest Stories

Topics

U.S. congressional delegation visits Mason Korea

Related News

Topics

Mason Enterprise and Akiak Technology establish strategic partnership to advance innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic opportunity

Related Stories

Topics

Northwest Federal Credit Union and 911�� Athletics expand partnership to advance student financial wellness on and off the court

Related Stories

Topics

Mason Korea students tackle real-world business challenges with Hyundai Premium Outlets

Related Stories

Topics

911�� and U.S. Air Force partner to rapidly field emerging capabilities

Related Stories

Topics

911��'s Costello College of Business and NABA Inc. join forces to develop the business leaders of tomorrow

In This Story

Related News

Topics

Eagle Scout project increases reach and functionality of Instruments in the Attic Program

Related Stories

Topics

911�� US–Korea delegation strengthens ties in Vietnam

Related Stories

Topics

partnerships

Preparing students for an AI-enabled future with ERA-NOVA

Related Stories

Topics

Expanding 911����’s presence in South Korea's emerging quantum ecosystem

Latest Stories

Topics

U.S. congressional delegation visits Mason Korea

Related News

Topics

Mason Enterprise and Akiak Technology establish strategic partnership to advance innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic opportunity

Related Stories

Topics

Northwest Federal Credit Union and 911���� Athletics expand partnership to advance student financial wellness on and off the court

Related Stories

Topics

Mason Korea students tackle real-world business challenges with Hyundai Premium Outlets

Related Stories

Topics

911���� and U.S. Air Force partner to rapidly field emerging capabilities

Related Stories

Topics

911����'s Costello College of Business and NABA Inc. join forces to develop the business leaders of tomorrow

In This Story

Related News

Topics

Eagle Scout project increases reach and functionality of Instruments in the Attic Program

Related Stories

Topics

911���� US–Korea delegation strengthens ties in Vietnam

Related Stories

Topics

Expanding 911��’s presence in South Korea's emerging quantum ecosystem

Northwest Federal Credit Union and 911�� Athletics expand partnership to advance student financial wellness on and off the court

911�� and U.S. Air Force partner to rapidly field emerging capabilities

911��'s Costello College of Business and NABA Inc. join forces to develop the business leaders of tomorrow

911�� US–Korea delegation strengthens ties in Vietnam