CVPA faculty

Joseph Walsh has three decades of experience in preparing, presenting and conducting opera and musical theater in Virginia, across the U.S. and internationally. He is a conductor admired for his ability to combine dramatic flair and theatrical excitement with sensitivity, detail and a keen sense of dramatic pacing.

Jeremy Tuohy is the Academic Advisor and Undergraduate Coordinator for Computer Game Design. Read more...

Michael Thompson is the Information Technology Specialist for the Computer Game Design program, Virginia Serious Game Institute, and the Mason Game and Technology Academy. Read more...

Julie Thompson, Executive Director of the Center for the Arts at George Mason University, joined the university more than fifteen years ago after a career as a professional stage manager in regional theater and opera, including long-term residencies at Minnesota Opera, Washington Opera at the Kennedy Center, Wolf Trap Opera, and Center Stage in Baltimore. 

Bethany Thompson is a Master Electrician at the Center for the Arts at the College of VIsual and Performing Arts

Tom Terlecki works as a Venue Technical Director at the College of Visual and Performing Arts

Benjamin Steger has been making films and videos since the 1990’s. He has considerable experience as a director, producer, documentary cinematographer, editor, and sound recordist for documentary, fiction and institutional films.

In the Fall of 2010 John Spirtas joined the faculty of the School of Music as Adjunct Professor in Percussion. Prof. Spirtas joined the Washington National Opera Orchestra and  Kennedy Center Opera House Orchestra in 2000 as Principal Percussionist.

Christen Soos recently graduated from George Mason University where she received her Master of Music degree with a concentration in Flute Performance and a Bachelor of Music degree with a concentration in Music Education.

Debra Smyers has over 25 years of experience within the arts and social services sectors. Currently Ms. Smyers serves as the executive director of Windmore Foundation for the Arts promoting the visual, literary, and performing arts through awareness, participation, and education.