Outstanding Graduate Student Honorees - Spring 2026

PhD in Criminology, Law and Society

Muneeba advises future graduation students: “When writing the story of your life, don't let anyone else hold the pen.”

MPS in Applied Industrial-Organizational Psychology

Madeline completed her MPS in Applied Industrial-Organizational Psychology while working full time at the Federal Reserve Board. She chose George Mason for her graduate studies because of the university's exceptional online learning experience and expert faculty.

MA in Higher Education and Student Development

Tyler has been part of the George Mason community as both a student and an employee for more than four years and looks forward to continuing his work as part of the community for many years to come.

MA in Economics

Daniel’s interest in Austrian economics drew him to study at George Mason, one of the leading places to study that tradition in depth. He looks forward to applying the knowledge he gained at George Mason to his current and future professional roles.

MFA in Poetry

MS in Criminal Justice

Simrat developed an interest in criminal justice during her undergraduate studies at George Mason. Upon completing her MS in Criminal Justice, she aims to transition from her current role as a management analyst into a crime/intelligence Analyst role.

MA in Global Affairs

After 37 years as a healthcare professional in the Navy, studying global health was a great fit for David and an opportunity to further hone his skills. After graduation he plans to read and study and hopes to get published one day.

MA in Communication

Jane plans to apply her degree and passion for conservation, along with her interest in communicating why protecting the natural environment is important and how it affects people’s lives, toward a job at a conservation nonprofit.

PhD in Economics

Brigitta credits George Mason’s unique economics program with enabling her to specialize in both Austrian Economics and Economic Sociology. She enjoyed teaching undergraduate courses and has accepted an Assistant Professor of Economics position starting this fall.

MFA in Creative Writing

Austin’s love of journalism and research drew him to creative writing. After graduation, he plans to embark on a career in publishing and editing.

PhD in Education (Higher Education Program)

As university registrar at George Mason, Doug was interested in pursuing a PhD in education with a focus on higher education since completing his master's degree in 2009. As a public institution, George Mason’s commitment to access made it a perfect fit for him.

PhD in Cultural Studies

Severin earned a PhD in Cultural Studies, with research that links cultural pedagogy and scholarship through an interdisciplinary, comparative lens. Severin’s work is shaped by the dynamic social landscape of Northern Virginia and the DMV, with a focus on creative agency within structured contexts.

MA in Psychology

McKenna chose to pursue her master’s degree at George Mason because of the “amazing faculty,” in the Department of Psychology. She plans to continue her studies as a George Mason PhD student in the applied developmental psychology program.

MA in Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Social Justice and Human Rights

Abhigya chose George Mason’s MA in Interdisciplinary Studies program for its flexibility which allowed her to design her own degree around her interests, focusing on social justice and human rights.

PhD in Science Communication

Shaelyn was drawn to George Mason, particularly because of the exceptional work being conducted at Mason's Center for Climate Change Communication (4C) and the opportunity to work with experts who are deeply knowledgeable about climate change and committed to understanding best practices in effectively engaging multiple audiences on the subject.

PhD in Clinical Psychology

Upon graduating this summer, 2026, Mary will complete a postdoctoral fellowship at USF Health with the Early Steps birth-to-three program, providing developmental and autism evaluations as well as parent coaching.

MA in Anthropology

Hailey chose George Mason University for its outstanding faculty and research opportunities, seeking the chance to learn from and work alongside them.

MA in Sociology

Samuel enrolled in George Mason’s graduate program for research opportunities and to meet more practitioners. In the sociology program, his professors provided ample opportunities for him to grow professionally and academically.

MA in Economics

Thomas chose to attend George Mason to learn from and work with a noteworthy faculty including Professors Robin Hanson, Bryan Caplan, Alex Tabarrok, and Tyler Cowen.

MA in Higher Education and Student Development

Kayla was able to apply her coursework to her work with George Mason's University Life and division of student affairs. After graduation she plans to become a full-time student affairs practitioner.

MA in English

Acacia advises future students to embrace curiosity. “Being a student is a privilege that opens the door to research, internships, and networking opportunities.”

PhD in Cultural Studies

Chelsea chose George Mason University for its proximity to Washington, D.C., and its strong funding structure, which offered a competitive PhD package, along with the Cultural Studies Program’s diverse and intellectually rich offerings.

MA in Criminology, Law and Society

Bhavishya chose George Mason’s Department of Criminology, Law and Society (CLS) for her graduate studies because it is nationally recognized criminology program, particularly its emphasis on rigorous, policy-relevant research.