Alumni

When Trish Jarvis, BS Biology ’10, tells people what she does for a living, their eyes usually light up. As an employee at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute in Washington, D.C., Jarvis has one of the most coveted—and adorable—jobs around: She’s a panda keeper.

Cirque du Soleil's six-week run in Virginia serves as a homecoming for Gracie Valdez, BA Art History ’07, a native of Vienna. Using stunning visuals, acrobatic stunts, and 10,000 liters of water (recycled after each show) in a mesmerizing waterfall sequence, LUZIA puts a spotlight on the culture and mythology of Mexico. 

A recent cyber security graduate is already making an impact in his role at the Marine Forces Cyberspace Command.

From improving underserved communities’ care to supporting faculty research on women living with HIV, Janell Addo-Boateng, MPH ’25, gained hands-on experience in policy, evaluation, and communication.

In her first year of teaching, Emmeline Mejia, MEd ’24, has already earned one of Fairfax County Public Schools' top honors: 2025 Outstanding New Secondary Teacher of the Year. It's a milestone that speaks volumes about her passion for education and her commitment to multilingual learners at Justice High School in Falls Church, Virginia.

For more than 30 years, George Mason University’s Alumni Association (GMUAA) has recognized the achievements of George Mason alumni at its annual Celebration of Distinction awards program.

When Hussna Azamy arrived on George Mason University’s Fairfax Campus for her first advising session as a Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) transfer student, she had no idea it would be the beginning of a lifelong calling.

Phazhon Nash, BS in Community Health ’21, says his George Mason education provided him with the skills necessary to ensure the present and future health of his community, while serving as the youngest elected member of the Roanoke City Council.

George Mason University alumna Tiffany H. Bates, JD ’18, has been selected to serve as a clerk for U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas during the 2026 Term.

Perry, a globally renowned environmental and occupational health scientist and Inaugural Dean of the College of Public Health, has been recognized for her leadership, innovation, and excellence in public health education.