Outstanding Undergraduate Student Honorees - Spring 2026

BA in English Literature

Haley transferred to George Mason from a community college, where her favorite professor, Professor Donohue (a George Mason graduate student), taught. She admired her and credits her classes in world literature and women's literature as the reasons she decided to pursue her degree in English literature.

BA in Anthropology

Matthew returned to the classroom after leaving his previous college during COVID to earn his degree while continuing to work at the International Spy Museum. He chose George Mason for its location and was excited about the university’s range of available courses.

BA in History, minor in Ancient History and Mediterranean Archaeology  

During her time at George Mason, Jessica not only deepened her passion for history but also discovered a strong interest in museum work and hopes to pursue a career in the field.

BA in Art History

Silas pursued art through the Department of History and Art History, where he developed a strong interest in curation and contemporary artistic dialogue. His time at George Mason allowed him to engage deeply with both academic study and hands-on museum work.

BA in Environmental and Sustainability Studies with a concentration in Policy and Economics, minor in Italian Studies

Rebecca was drawn to George Mason’s Environmental Studies Program and the opportunities it offers as a large research institution near Washington, D.C.

BA in Sociology

Kathleen transferred to George Mason for its affordability and flexibility, allowing her to work while earning her degree and avoid taking out loans.

BA in Foreign Language with a concentration in Korean, minor in International Business 

Jessalee enjoyed making lifelong friends at George Mason, especially during her time studying abroad at Mason Korea.

BA in Global Affairs

Emily chose George Mason due to its proximity to Washington, D.C., as well as its unique and flexible programming.

BFA in Creative Writing with a concentration in Fiction, minor in Professional and Technical Writing

Nawaal developed her passion for and expertise in creative writing through a range of activities, including leadership and internship roles with the university’s student-run publications and publishing house.

BA in Economics

Jaewon began his academic journey at Mason Korea and studied in both Songdo and on the Fairfax campus, where he broadened his understanding of economics in a collaborative setting and cultivated a desire to further develop as a researcher.

BS in Psychology

Emmarose came to George Mason University seeking undergraduate research opportunities close to home. During their time at George Mason, they found community through Gamma Rho Lambda and developed their research skills in the Psychology Honors Program.

BIS in Artificial Intelligence, Ethics, and Technology

Through the BIS program, Susan, a seasoned project manager, designed a path to explore responsible technology, bringing together artificial intelligence, ethics, and real-world systems.

BS in Criminology, Law, and Society; minor in Forensic Psychology

As a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Olga values George Mason’s strong support system and sense of community for veterans, along with the university’s strong criminology program, proximity to Washington, D.C., and exceptional opportunities for students pursuing careers in federal agencies and government.

BA in Philosophy

Anastasia chose George Mason University for its proximity to home and affordability. Through the university’s philosophy program and diverse core curriculum, she developed a strong interest in the field.

BA in Criminology, Law, and Society

Joshua is grateful for the community he found at George Mason, describing it as a place where he was able to grow—where even in moments of stumbling, he could rely on the support of the community he built here.

BIS in Strategic Leadership Communication in Technology

James, an Army veteran, earned a BIS in Strategic Leadership Communication in Technology to enhance his professional background and shape his future direction.

BA in Integrative Studies with a concentration in Leadership and Organizational Development, minor in Industrial and Organizational Psychology

Taicia's goal was to begin a career in strategic HR, which led Taicia to choose George Mason’s LODV program for its strong alignment with Taicia’s career aspirations.

BA in Human Development and Family Science, minor in Well-Being

Kaitlyn’s journey as an adult learner in a remote program has been unique and meaningful. As a mother of three, she was able to balance school and family life through George Mason’s flexible online program, while the Human Development and Family Science program closely aligned with her values and long-term goals.

BA in Foreign Languages (Spanish) and Communication (Public Relations)

During her time at George Mason, Valeria volunteered in a Spanish immersion classroom; led two editions of Hispanic Culture Review; and deepened her connection to language, culture, and community.

BA in Psychology (forensic psychology) and Sociology (deviance, crime, and social control), minor in Intelligence Studies 

Hannah studied forensic psychology, deviance, crime, and social control with the future goal of supporting victims of violent crime or vulnerable populations.