Hear personal stories from Mason students and alumni, and see donors’ perspectives on why financial support for the university is a good investment in our region.
Your contributions provide direct financial support for our students. Gifts help fund leading research, and cover improvements to cutting-edge facilities. Learn more about where your gifts can go.
Campus opportunities include spaces for arts, athletics, health care, and multi-disciplinary collaboration.
Our distinguished faculty and award-winning research make Mason one of the nation’s leading research institutions.
Help increase financial aid, expand online learning programs, and strengthen career-support services to students and alumni.
“The crown and sash doesn’t necessarily determine who you are. But I’m able to use this as a conversation starter, and then I’m able to share my journey, my story, with whoever I’m speaking with. That’s why I compete in pageants—to use the platform to share my legacy and to inspire others.” — Cordelia Cranshaw, BSW ’14, recently crowned 2019 Miss District of Columbia USA.
Alumni Spotlight
When Cordelia Cranshaw, BSW ’14, graduated from Mason, she garnered media attention, including a story in USA Today. The reason: She beat the odds. Only 3 percent of young people in foster care go on to graduate college.
Cranshaw’s path hasn’t been easy. When she was 12, her mother went to prison, and Cranshaw and her siblings went to live with relatives. She eventually entered the foster care system at age 14. But she realized education was her path to success and making her dreams a reality. Her life goal has been to help other young people see that same opportunity.
After graduation, Cranshaw made plans to become a social worker and start a nonprofit to help at-risk youth. Done and done. Cranshaw completed a master of social work degree at the University of Maryland and now works for Washington, D.C.’s Child and Family Services Agency. Her nonprofit, Acts of Random Kindness (ARK), is growing and recently secured its first grant.
You’re the driving force behind George Mason University’s incredible growth. But there’s more to accomplish. Your donation can ensure that we continue to improve the world in the classroom and beyond.
