George Mason University is a place where people come to make change—in their own lives, in the surrounding community, and in the world. Patriots take great pride in their university being a haven of creativity and innovation. That’s why I know we can count on you to help us achieve the goals of Faster Farther: the Campaign for George Mason University.
Our university already has come so far; no longer do we stand in the shadows of other, more established institutions. Indeed, Mason now leads the way, our youthfulness making this institution one that can turn traditional higher education on its head and allowing us to make our own rules.
The Mason Nation’s spirit is unparalleled. It is what has driven this university so quickly to national and international recognition. You have brought us this far. Now, we seek your help to continue our trajectory.
Through your support, we can provide students access to higher education and, once they are here, give them the best learning experience possible. We can retain and reward the top-notch faculty who have created the signature Mason education, and recruit the most outstanding faculty to join their ranks. We can ensure students and faculty will conduct groundbreaking research, make it possible for artists to share their skills and creations with our community, and help student-athletes and scholars bring glory home to the Mason Nation.
Raising $500 million could be a daunting task, but with 170,000 alumni and countless friends on our side, I am confident we can do it. After all, Patriots rarely let anyone tell them they can’t—they are more likely to ask, “Why not?”
I look forward to working together to take this great university farther, faster, than any of us could ever imagine. Be sure to watch fasterfarter.gmu.edu for campaign news, announcements, and specific ways you can help. As always, thank you for your support.

Janet E. Bingham, PhD
Vice President, Advancement and Alumni Relations
President, George Mason University Foundation
Fall 2015 / reprinted from Spirit, the magazine for the George Mason University community