David W. Rossell, DA, Associate Provost for Personnel and Budget, retired from George Mason University on August 1, 2007 after serving the university for 23 years. While at Mason, Dr. Rossell was actively involved with Mason’s Higher Education Program, which prepares individuals for administrative and leadership positions in two- and four-year colleges. This scholarship was established to support one or more student scholarship awards. Recipients will be a graduate student pursuing a degree in the Higher Education Program, will qualify on the basis of merit and financial need, may be either full or part-time, and be either an in-state or out-of-state student. The scholarship may be renewable, subject to the availability of funds. For renewal, the recipients must continue to meet the criteria above.
Scholarships
Funding for these scholarships comes from philanthropic support to the college. Both need-based and merit-based scholarships are awarded by the college, and most scholarship funds are credited to the student's account in late summer. Most scholarships are available to students across all programs in the college. This list is inclusive of active scholarships and awards but will be dependent on funding each award term. Apply now for scholarships.
Graduate students can find funding from a variety of sources, including through fellowships offered by their programs and graduate focused awards and grants. For scholarships and awards available to students in a particular program, please see the listings in that program.
Students and prospective students can also click here to determine if they should file a VASA or a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) application. The Virginia Alternative State Aid Application (VASA) is a free and safe way for students to pursue financial assistance for undergraduate education. The deadline for priority consideration is Feb. 1. Interested current and prospective undergraduate students should click here for additional information and the application.
Learn more about all of Mason's scholarship opportunities. There are also additional external scholarship opportunities available to students through Financial Aid. Please contact the Office of Financial Aid with questions regarding external opportunities.
Student Emergency Assistance Fund
Support is available for current students who are experiencing immediate financial obstacles, such as homelessness and food insecurity through University Life. Requests for this funding are reviewed on a rolling basis. To apply, complete the Student Emergency Assistance Fund form.
For any financial aid questions, please contact the Office of Student Financial Aid at (703) 993-2353. For questions regarding the taxability and reporting requirements for an award, please see IRS Publication 970 at www.irs.gov.
College-Level Scholarships
Graduate
The purpose of the fund is to provide scholarships for students pursuing a master of fine arts in creative writing. Recipients may be in-state or out-of-state students and will qualify on the basis of academic merit and financial need.
The fund helps students prepare for administrative and leadership positions in higher education. Applicants must be graduate students pursuing a degree in the Higher Education Program and will qualify for this award based on academic merit and financial need
The College of Humanities and Social Sciences seeks applications for the Dean’s Challenge Scholarships for 2023. The recipients of this award receive a stipend, funded by generous donations from friends of the college, to help with their educational expenses.
The 2023 Graduate Dean's Challenge Award will recognize exceptional students not only in their superior academic achievement but also in their inspirational civic and community engagement. Applicants must have demonstrated academic excellence, a commitment to education as a powerful tool for social change, and recognized commitment to leadership and community engagement.
One $3,000 award for master's students (MA/MS/MFA/MPS) and one $6,000 award for doctoral students will be granted.
Award recipients will be announced in early May 2023 and profiled on the CHSS website. The complete application must be submitted before 5 p.m. on Friday, March 17, 2023, via this link: 2023 Graduate Dean’s Challenge Scholarship Application Form
To be eligible, students must:
- Master’s applicants: must have at least 18 earned credit hours of coursework at George Mason by the date of application; May 2023 graduates are eligible.
- Doctoral applicants: must have advanced to candidacy and be enrolled in the current graduate degree program at George Mason during the fall 2023 semester (May 2023 doctoral graduates are not eligible.)
- All applicants must be actively enrolled in a master’s or doctoral program in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences in Spring 2023.
- Applicants must have a minimum cumulative 3.7 GPA.
- Applicants should have an exceptional record of intellectual engagement in the discipline and a record of leadership within the campus, community, and the profession.
The application should consist of:
- A cover sheet with identifying information, including anticipated graduation date, degree program, and faculty mentor.
- A single essay (no more than 3 single-spaced pages in total), addressing the following question: How have you used your graduate education to positively affect the community around you—to respond to complex challenges that face society and to engage, sustain, and transform others?
- A letter of reference from a faculty member.
- A résumé or c.v., including descriptions and dates of employment, extracurricular activities, volunteer activities, and any other academically relevant experiences.
- A current copy of the student’s unofficial George Mason transcript.
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The HFCI Scholarship Fund was established in 2019 by Historic Fairfax City, Inc. to provide support for students pursuing a history degree. The purpose is to provide support for undergraduate and graduate students pursuing a history degree. Undergraduate applicants must have completed 75 credits; at least 12 of those credits must have been completed at GMU. Graduate applicants must have completed 6 credits at GMU. FT/PT, Residents of Fairfax County or City, and qualify on basis of financial need and academic merit (3.0 GPA).
The Kurt Andrew Dodd Endowed Scholarship in History was established in 2004 to provide scholarships for full-time graduate students pursuing a degree in history who qualifies on basis of academic merit and financial need and is either an in-state or out-of-state student.
Established in 2012 by Mary L. Bauer, MA ’90, the purpose of this fund is to provide scholarships for CHSS undergraduate or graduate students with a demonstrated interest in homelessness awareness or advocacy.
Current students who are eligible may apply for this scholarship through the Mason Scholarship Application. Contact Troy Lowery at tlowery2@gmu.edu for questions about the scholarship.
Mary's Scholarship Recipients
To support scholarships for undergraduate students pursuing a degree in the Dept. of Criminology, Law and Society and graduate students in the MS program in Criminal Justice. May be full-time or part-time, in state or out-of-state, and qualify on academic merit and financial need.
The Michael and Robin Kelley Endowed Scholarship was established in 2006 by the late Dr. Michael R. Kelley and his wife, Robin B. Kelley, for graduate students pursuing an MFA in Creative Writing. The recipient will qualify on basis of artistic merit with consideration of financial need, may be either full time or part time, and may be either an in-state or out-of-state student.
To support scholarships for students participating in a GMU Study Abroad program.
Those interested in applying for the scholarship may do so through the MCL department. For more information contact Jen Barnard at jbarnard@gmu.edu.
The Robert Raymond Scholarship Fund was established in 2018 to provide support to incoming graduate students in the MFA in Creative Writing program. Recipients will qualify on the basis of financial need and academic merit and will represent a minority population.
The purpose of this fund is to establish an annual scholarship to an undergraduate or graduate student pursuing a degree in psychology. The selection will be based on both merit and need with the student having demonstrated his/her ability to succeed in a course of study leading to a baccalaureate/graduate degree.
To provide scholarships for graduate students whose work in gender, race and social justice intersects with the visual and/or performing arts. The award recognizes the outstanding contribution of a graduate student to further racial and gender equity through the arts. Recipients may be full-time or part-time, in-state or out-of-state. This scholarship is renewable. expand the qualified pool for the award to include students who are in the following programs:
-Women and Gender Studies undergraduate majors, minors, and grad certificate students
-LGBTQ studies minors
-Social Justice and Human Rights undergraduates majors and minors
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Undergraduate
Recipients will be undergraduates with a 2.0 or greater GPA and demonstrated financial need. Applicants must have successfully completed BIS 300 or its equivalent, but not taken BIS 490/491 or its equivalent.
The purpose of the Fund is to provide support for undergraduate students majoring in communications with an interest in public relations. First preference will be given to students who are juniors, and second preference will be given to students who are from an underrepresented group of the University’s student body. Recipients must be enrolled full-time and in-state students.
Established in 2004 by Bruce B. Manchester, Professor Emeritus of Communication, who retired from Mason in 2004 after serving as a faculty member for 29 years. The purpose of the fund is to provide one or more scholarships for an active member of the Mason Forensics Team. Recipient must be a full-time undergraduate student, an active member of the Mason Forensics Team, qualify based on contribution, or potential contribution, to the Mason Forensics Team, and may be an in-state or out-of-state student.
Students who meet these criteria may apply through the Communication department. For more information, contact Maria Carabelli at mverdino@gmu.edu.
The Charisse Renee Cecil Scholarship is awarded to a Mason student minoring in African and African American Studies (AAAS) who writes the most outstanding essay on a topic related to the African Diaspora written in a class from a number of disciplines, including but not limited to: Art and Visual Technology, Communication, Cultural Studies, English, Global Affairs, History and Art History, Music, Philosophy, Psychology, Public and International Affairs, Religious Studies, Sociology and Anthropology, and Women and Gender Studies.
The purpose of the fund is to provide scholarships for students who are aspiring writers. Applicants must be undergraduates majoring in English or Communication with a 2.75 or greater GPA and demonstrated financial need.
Established in 2014, the CHSS Alumni Chapter Scholarship recognizes the importance of the volunteer role in the university and within their community. It is awarded annually to a full-time undergraduate student who demonstrates a commitment to service within the university and their community while maintaining an exemplary academic record.
The College of Humanities and Social Sciences seeks nominations for the Dean’s Challenge Scholarships. The Dean’s Challenge Scholarship is awarded to recognize consistently superior achievement, and to encourage the continued pursuit of excellence. Undergraduate nominees must have demonstrated academic excellence while making challenging academic choices at Mason.
Up to 19 awards (one per major) in the amount of $250 will be made.
Award recipients will be profiled with their bios and photos on CHSS website.
To be eligible, students must:
- Be a declared major in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences
- Have at least 30 earned credit hours of coursework at George Mason at the end of the spring 2023 semester
- Be enrolled in your current undergraduate degree program at George Mason during the fall 2023 semester
- Have a 3.5 GPA
The application should consist of:
- A current copy of your unofficial George Mason transcript
- A resume, including descriptions and dates of employment, extracurricular activities, volunteer activities, and any other academically relevant experiences
- A written statement (one paragraph for each section outlined below) addressing how you feel you have excelled in the following areas. The questions are given to only suggest the kinds of evidence the selection committee will be looking for and help you structure your answer.
- Scholarship and commitment to learning (one paragraph)
- In what ways have you challenged yourself through the coursework you have chosen?
- How have you pursued academic challenges beyond the required curriculum?
- How have you contributed to the intellectual community at George Mason?
- How have the academic challenges you have pursued changed you as a person or prepared you for your future?
- Service to the community (one paragraph)
- In what ways have you enriched Mason and/or the surrounding community?
- How have you served as an ambassador for the university to local, national, or international constituents?
- Recognition (one paragraph)
- In what ways have you been identified as a future leader or scholar in your academic field or community?
- Scholarship and commitment to learning (one paragraph)
Apply now: Submit your application here.
Colonel Michael A. Dickerson (Ret.) taught in George Mason's Department of Communication for 18 years. He co-founded the Insight Committee with Don and Tom Hoog, which still serves the department today by building and enhancing relationship between the department, the students, and the larger community of practicing public relations and communication professionals. For seven years, he produced The Communicator, a student magazine written by his Public Relations Practicum students.
In 2020 the Colonel Michael A. Dickerson Endowed Scholarship was established to provide scholarship support for undergraduate students who are majoring in communication with a concentration in public relations. Applicants must have completed at least 60 credits. Recipients must be enrolled full-time and will qualify on the basis of financial need and academic merit (minimum 3.0 GPA).
The Cynthia Wynn Herman Endowed Scholarship was established in 1995. Applicants must be returning students who are majoring in English with a 2.75 or greater GPA and demonstrated financial need. Applicants must submit a brief statement (250 words) describing their interest in women and gender studies and a relevant writing sample.
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The Economics Scholarships Fund was established in 2007 to provide general scholarship support for students studying economics.
The Ed and Sally Bedsworth Memorial Fund was established in 2020 to provide support for undergraduate economics students who are experiencing financial hardships. Recipients must be in-state students, with a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher, and will be selected on the basis of financial need. The scholarship will be renewable so long as the student demonstrates financial need.
Presented to an outstanding junior or senior history major who has completed a minimum of 15 hours in history at George Mason.
Established in 1986 by Dr. R. Douglas First. Dr. First and his wife, Sandra Sweitzer First, ’85, an alumna of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, are former faculty/staff members. The endowment benefits full-time undergraduate students and honors the memory of Dr. Robert T. Hawkes, who was a professor of history and the founding dean of the School of Continuing and Alternative Learning. The recipient will qualify on the basis of academic merit and may reside either in or out-of-state. The scholarship is renewable.
Undergraduates who meet first semester fall GPA minimums for this award will be notified in early spring of their freshmen year. Contact Troy Lowery at tlowery2@gmu.edu for questions about the scholarship.
First-Sweitzer Scholarship Endowment Recipients
The First Academic Achievement Award recognizes academically-talented first year students in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. The award is based on first-semester performance, providing recognition to students who are not in the Honors College (the name of this award was changed in 2021 to accommodate all first year students: freshman and transfer).
The college announces recipients and hosts an award reception every spring. The reception showcases the many opportunities for motivated students to challenge themselves during their time at Mason.
Only award recipients who attend the reception may apply for the First Year Academic Achievement Scholarships. The most outstanding scholarship recipient is awarded a renewable First-Sweitzer Scholarship, noted above.
Contact Troy Lowery at tlowery2@gmu.edu for questions about the scholarship.
Freshman Academic Achievement Award Winners
Freshman Academic Achievement Scholarship Winners
Established in 2002 by alumni, faculty, and friends of the forensics team. The purpose of the fund is to support the team through scholarships, events, awards, and in other ways. Recipients must be full-time undergraduate students, who will qualify based on contribution, or potential contribution, to the George Mason University Forensics team and may be in-state or out-of-state students.
Students interested in the scholarship should apply through the Communication department. For questions contact Maria Carabelli at mverdino@gmu.edu.
To support scholarships for members of the debate team.
Students interested in applying can do so through the Communication department. For questions contact Maria Carabelli at mverdino@gmu.edu.
Before her death in 2001, Oppenheimer was a French and Spanish instructor at George Mason. The prize in her name is available to rising juniors and seniors to defray the cost of participating in a study-abroad program in France. Recipient must have taken at least nine credits in French at George Mason University. Receipt must also be accepted in an accredited study abroad program in France for at least one-quarter’s duration.
Applications for the scholarship should be made through the MCL department. For questions contact Jen Barnard at jbarnard@gmu.edu.
The Harrington Anderson Scholarship was established in 2021 to provide support for undergraduate and graduate students who are pursuing a degree in Global Affairs. Recipients will qualify on the basis of academic merit and financial need. This scholarship is renewable.
The HFCI Scholarship Fund was established in 2019 by Historic Fairfax City, Inc. to provide support for students pursuing a history degree. The purpose is to provide support for undergraduate and graduate students pursuing a history degree. Undergraduate applicants must have completed 75 credits; at least 12 of those credits must have been completed at GMU. Graduate applicants must have completed 6 credits at GMU. FT/PT, Residents of Fairfax County or City, and qualify on basis of financial need and academic merit (3.0 GPA).
The Howard Ruben Bloch Endowed Scholarship and Award was established in 2001 in his memory. Dr. Bloch was a faculty member and director of undergraduate studies in the Department of Economics. Both the scholarship and award benefit students of economics. Applicants must be undergraduates who are enrolled full-time with a 3.0 minimum grade point average and documented financial need.
The Jack Fahey Giving Back Endowed Scholarship was established in 2016 to provide scholarship support for students in the Bachelor of Individualized Study program.
The Jeanne C. Mellinger Endowed Scholarship was established in 1993 in memory of Dr. Jeanne C. Mellinger, who was first chair of the psychology department. The endowment provides scholarships for undergraduate BA or BS psychology students. Recipient will qualify on the basis of academic merit & financial need and may be either in or out-of-state.
The Kevin Athari Endowed Memorial Scholarship was established in 1991. This fund provides scholarships for seniors majoring in communication. The recipient will have participated in school publications, shown dedication, academic motivation and leadership, and has been an active participant in University affairs.
The Kostrzewa Family Scholarship was established in 2021 to provide scholarship support for undergraduate students who are furthering social justice and equity. Recipients may qualify on the basis of financial need, must have a GPA between 2.75 and 3.4, and must be majoring in Communications, Criminology, English, Global Affairs, History, Integrative Studies, or Women and Gender studies. In-state and out-of-state students may apply, regardless of DACA status. This scholarship is renewable.
Linda Hemm served as an academic advisor for the Bachelor of Individualized Study (BIS) Program from 1993. She was affectionately called by students, provided advising and encouragement to countless adult students who returned to Mason to complete undergraduate degrees through the BIS Program.
The purpose of the Fund is to provide scholarship support for undergraduate juniors or seniors pursuing a degree through the Bachelor in Individualized Study (BIS) program. Recipients will qualify on the basis of academic merit. Applicants must submit a 250-500 word essay describing how the scholarship would benefit their BIS experience and a recommendation letter from a faculty member at Mason.
The Lucas Leadership Endowed Scholarship was established in 2013 to honor the contributions and leadership of Dr. Nance Lucas during her tenure as Associate Dean of New Century College (now the School of Integrative Studies). The purpose of the fund is to provide scholarship support to an undergraduate student who is pursuing a degree within the School of Integrative Studies and demonstrates exceptional leadership and ethics in all areas of academic and personal life. Recipients must be in good academic standing per University guidelines and will qualify on the basis of academic merit. Preference will be given to students who are verified members of a recognized nonprofit group and who demonstrate leadership and service. This scholarship is renewable.
Mary's Scholarship for Homelessness Awareness and Advocacy Endowed Scholarship was established in 2012 to provide scholarships for undergraduate or graduate students in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences with a demonstrated interest in homelessness awareness or advocacy. Applicants must submit documentation of participation in an approved service project which should include an outline of the project's purpose. Applicants must also submit an essay explaining how this experience changed how they think about homelessness. Acceptable service projects may be chosen from a variety of activities focused on homelessness, including but not limited to: public service, volunteering, research work, or international aid work.
To support scholarships for undergraduate students pursuing a degree in the Dept. of Criminology, Law and Society and graduate students in the MS program in Criminal Justice. May be full-time or part-time, in state or out-of-state, and qualify on academic merit and financial need.
The Michael L. Pearce Memorial Endowed Scholarship was established in 1999 in memory of Lieutenant Colonel Michael Pearce, USAF (Ret.). The purpose of the fund is to provide scholarships for undergraduate students pursing a degree in Communications. Recipient must have completed at least 12 credit hours within Communication and have completed at least 85 credit hours. Recipients qualify on the basis of academic merit, achieve a GPA of 3.0, in-state student and either full or part-time student. Preference for a student with an interest in Media Persuasion and Communication.
To support scholarships for students participating in a GMU Study Abroad program.
The Omar Scholarship will be given to an undergraduate student who is actively involved in activities and activism in support of Palestinian issues. Preference may be given to students of direct Palestinian descent. To qualify, recipients may be pursuing any major within CHSS. Recipients will be chosen on the basis of academic merit and financial need, with need being considered before activism or descent. Recipients may be either full-time or part-time, and in-state or out-of-state, and may be international students who are not also U.S. citizens.
Current students who are eligible may apply for this scholarship through the Mason Scholarship Application. Contact Troy Lowery at tlowery2@gmu.edu for questions about the scholarship.
The Peter Stearns Endowed Scholarship in Global Affairs was established in 2010. Dr. Stearns is a past Provost of the university. The purpose of the fund is to provide scholarships for undergraduate or graduate students pursuing a degree in Global Affairs. Recipients will be chosen on the basis of merit and financial need.
The Randolph and Lucy Church Endowed Scholarship was established in 2006 to attract outstanding students majoring in English, history, modern languages, philosophy, psychology, political sciences, humanities, or economics. Mr. Church, an attorney, is a former Rector of the Board of Visitors and former Trustee of the George Mason University Foundation. Mrs. Church, a former Trustee of the Foundation and a former faculty member, is an alumna of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. Applicants may be either be incoming freshman with a minimum high school GPA of 3.5 and a strong record of scholastic achievement in college preparatory courses or full-time undergraduate students. Applicants must be legal residents of the Commonwealth of Virginia.
The Robert K. Hedrick, Jr. Endowed Scholarship was established in 1999. The fund supports scholarships for full-time undergraduates earning a degree in History or Art History. Recipients will be selected on the basis of merit and financial need. The recipient may be an in-state or out-of-state resident.
The Robert R. Thomas, Jr. Endowed Scholarship was established in 2011. The purpose of the Fund is to provide scholarship support for undergraduate students pursuing a degree in any program within the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. Recipients will be transfer students who actively participated in Mason's Dream Catchers Program and will qualify on the basis of academic merit and financial need. Recipients may be full-time or part-time students and in-state, out-of-state, or intentional students.
The School of Integrative Studies (SIS) Experiential Learning (EL) Scholarship is open to George Mason University students enrolled in Integrative Studies or Environmental Sustainability Studies degrees and *registered to participate in an EL program such as an Alternative Break, Field Studies Course, Mason Study Abroad or other EL experience* with travel and/or academic costs associated during the spring, summer, fall or winter semesters.
The School of Integrative Studies First Generation Student Scholarship is open to George Mason University students enrolled in Integrative Studies, Bachelors of Individualized Studies, or Environmental Sustainability Studies degrees, who are the first in their immediate family to pursue an undergraduate education (e.g. neither parent/guardian have completed a four-year degree in the United States). Awards are given in consideration of financial need.
Established in 2010 by Jerry D. and Trula E. Duane, the purpose of the fund is to provide scholarships for undergraduate students within CHSS. Recipients may be either full-time or part-time, and may be in-state, out-of-state. Recipient will qualify on the basis of academic merit and financial need. Candidates must submit an essay detailing how they have overcome a challenge in their life and how they are motivated to succeed. Recipient must maintain at least a 3.3 GPA. This scholarship may be renewable.
Current students who are eligible may apply for this scholarship through the Mason Scholarship Application. Contact Troy Lowery at tlowery2@gmu.edu for questions about the scholarship.
Duane Scholarship Recipients
The Shaul Bakhash Endowed Scholarship was established in 2005. The purpose of the fund is to award a scholarship to an undergraduate student in the Art and Art History Department. Applicants must be enrolled full time and will qualify on the basis of academic merit and financial need.
The Steven Davidson Endowed Scholarship for Criminology was established in 2015. The fund provides scholarships for undergraduates majoring in criminology, law and society who plan to attend law school and who embody Mr. Davidson's passion for the law, justice, and life. Applicants must submit an essay demonstrating that shared passion as part of their scholarship application. Applicants must be fulltime undergrad students. Recipients will qualify on the basis of academic merit.
The Suzanne E. Robertson Endowed Scholarship was established in 1993 to provide an annual scholarship to an undergraduate or graduate student pursuing a degree in psychology. The selection will be based on both merit and need with the student having demonstrated his/her ability to succeed in a course of study leading to a baccalaureate/graduate degree.
To provide scholarships for graduate students whose work in gender, race and social justice intersects with the visual and/or performing arts. The award recognizes the outstanding contribution of a graduate student to further racial and gender equity through the arts. Recipients may be full-time or part-time, in-state or out-of-state. This scholarship is renewable. expand the qualified pool for the award to include students who are in the following programs:
-Women and Gender Studies undergraduate majors, minors, and grad certificate students
-LGBTQ studies minors
-Social Justice and Human Rights undergraduates majors and minors
The William Weaver Prize in Italian Studies is names in memory of William Weaver, a pre-eminent translator of modern Italian literature. Weaver is best known for his translations of Italo Calvino, Umberto Eco, and Primo Levi, as well as Italian poetry and opera libretti. During his lifetime, he translated over 50 books; his translations earned him a National Book Award, two PEN translation prizes, and the PEN medal for translation in recognition of his life’s work.
Students who qualify and are interested in the scholarship should apply through the MCL department and contact Dr. Kristina Olson at kolson4@gmu.edu.
Program-Specific Scholarships
PhD Programs
Scholarships
Wendy Balazik Communication and Social Change Scholarship
In honor and memory of Wendy Balazik, who was a media coordinator for the International Association of Chiefs of Police. Award is intended to support a scholarship in communications/social change.
Scholarships
Economics Fellowships
Fellowships for students pursuing a PhD in economics are available on a competitive basis. These fellowships do not require a work component and are intended to provide limited support for a doctoral student’s graduate studies.
Economics Scholarships
Graduate assistantships are available on a competitive basis for full-time PhD students. Assistantships generally require 20 hours of work per week. Amounts generally range between $10,000 and $18,000, with most of these awards providing for partial or full waiver of tuition. These awards are available both through the Department of Economics and through the affiliated Mercatus Center. Part-time teaching opportunities are also available for advanced PhD students.
Questions regarding funding opportunities for PhD students can be emailed to Emily Gibson at econgrad@gmu.edu.
Scholarships
Charles and Polly Webber American History Scholarship Endowment
Established in 1975 by the Alexandria Scottish Rite Bodies as a tribute to Charles E. Webber and his wife, Pauline Graham Webber, to advance the study of American history. Mr. Webber was a leader in the Southern Jurisdiction (U.S.) of the Scottish Rite. Recipient must be majoring in history with an emphasis in American history and must have completed 30 hours at the university.
This scholarship is awarded by faculty nomination only, at the discretion of the department.
Evelyn L. Pugh Memorial Graduate Fellowship in History Endowment
Established in 1987 in memory of Dr. Evelyn L. Pugh by her husband, Dr. Robert E. Pugh, and others, to benefit graduate students in history. Evelyn Pugh was the first chair of the Department of History. Robert Pugh is a former faculty member in the School of Management. Recipient must be studying history at the graduate level.
This scholarship is awarded by faculty nomination only, at the discretion of the department.
J.N.G. Finley Fellowship Endowment in American History
The Finley Endowments were established in 1995 to support fellowships in memory of John N.G. Finley through the estate of his wife, Dr. Cecile Bolton Finley. Mr. Finley was the first director of the Northern Virginia University Center (now George Mason University). Dr. Finley was a University of Virginia faculty member. This award is for a graduate student studying American history.
This scholarship is awarded by faculty nomination only, at the discretion of the department.
Kurt Andrew Dodd Scholarship Endowment in History
Established in 2004 in memory of Kurt A. Dodd, MA ’97 by his mother, Rosemary Bowers Dodd, to provide scholarships for graduate students in history. Mr. Dodd was an alumnus of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. Recipient must be a full-time graduate student pursuing a degree in history. Recipient may be either an in-state or out-of-state student. Recipient will qualify on basis of academic merit, as well as financial need. The scholarship is renewable, subject to the availability of funds; recipient must continue to meet the initial criteria.
This scholarship is awarded by faculty nomination only, at the discretion of the department.
Randy Beth Clarke Fellowship in U.S. History Endowment
Established in 2010 by Robert and Joyce Clarke in memory of Randy Beth Clarke, MA ’10. The purpose of the fund is to provide fellowships for graduate students pursuing a masters in history. While the fellowship is open to all history graduate students, preference will be given to candidates that demonstrate interest in southern history and/or women’s history through a written essay or recommendation. Preference will also be given to candidates with a physical disability. Recipients may be either full or part-time; and either an in-state or out-of-state student. The fellowship is renewable. Recipient must also have a record of academic excellence as demonstrated with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
This scholarship is awarded by faculty nomination only, at the discretion of the department.
Rudolf and Louise Fishel Memorial Graduate Fellowship Endowment
Established in 2000 in memory of Rudolf and Louise Fishel by their daughter, Dr. Marion F. Deshmukh, to assist graduate students in history. Dr. Deshmukh, a faculty member, is former chair of the Department of History and Art History. Recipients may be either full/part-time, and reside either in or out-of-state.
This scholarship is awarded by faculty nomination only, at the discretion of the department.
Scholarships
Elyse B. and Donald R. Lehman Graduate Student Research Award Endowment
Established in 2001 by Dr. Elyse Brauch Lehman and her husband, Dr. Donald R. Lehman. Dr. Elyse Lehman is a former faculty member in the Department of Psychology. The Lehman Graduate Student Research Award Endowment is a reflection of the Lehman’s commitment to education and research work of graduate students in the field of psychology. Students who are working on a PhD or MA in any area of psychology are eligible to apply for funding to cover expense including, but not limited to, development and preparation of materials, purchase of tests and software, training, and travel necessary to conduct their research. Conference travel is excluded. Students may not apply for this scholarship. It is awarded by faculty nomination only, at the discretion of the department
Psychology Emergency Scholarship
To support emergency relief for psychology majors who do not qualify for other aid because they are not independent. Students may not apply for this scholarship. It is awarded by faculty nomination only, at the discretion of the department.
Psychology Scholarship
To support scholarships for psychology students, based on financial need. Students may not apply for this scholarship. It is awarded by faculty nomination only, at the discretion of the department.
Psychology Department Endowment for Student Success
Established in 2010 by Deborah A. Boehm-Davis and Stuart R. Davis. The purpose of this fund is to provide support for the department’s diversity goals, either through direct scholarship or fellowship awards to students pursuing a degree in psychology or through student programs within the Department of Psychology. Support may include graduate fellowships, research support, travel abroad stipends, funding for conference and presentation costs and/or research studies.
Recipients of direct support will qualify on the basis of academic merit. Recipients may be either full/part-time, and reside either in or out-of-state, or international students. These awards may be renewable. Students may not apply for this support. It is awarded by faculty nomination only, at the discretion of the department.
Suzanne E. Robertson Scholarship Endowment
The Suzanne E. Robertson Scholarship Endowment was established in 1993 by her parents to serve as a lasting memorial of their daughter, Suzi, who was a psychology student at Mason. The purpose of this fund is to provide a scholarship to an undergraduate or graduate student pursuing a degree in psychology. The selection will be based on both merit and need, with the student having demonstrated his/her ability to succeed in a course of study leading to a baccalaureate/graduate degree. This scholarship may be renewable. This scholarship is administered by the office of financial aid.
Scholarships
Alumni/Mobil Fiction Fellowship Endowment
Established in 1994 with a gift from an anonymous donor and additional funding by the Mobil Foundation, to assist graduate students in fiction writing.
Cynthia Wynn Herman Scholarship Endowment
Established in 1995 in memory of Cynthia Wynn Herman, MA ’90, by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Michael Wynn, joined by others, to benefit students pursuing a degree in English with an interest in women’s studies. Recipients may be a full-time of part-time and an in-state or out-of-state student. The scholarship may be renewable. Cynthia Wynn Herman, an alumna of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, was assistant director of the Writing Center and editor of the women’s studies program newsletter.
Current students may apply for this scholarship through the Office of Financial Aid Academic Works Portal.
English Scholarships
Recipients will qualify on basis of merit and/or need; and may be in-state or out-of-state students.
Mary Roberts Rinehart Fellowship Endowment
Established in 1998 by Mrs. Rinehart’s granddaughter, Gratia Rinehart Montgomery, to encourage, promote, and develop creative writing by making awards to talented writers at George Mason University by providing or awarding, among other things, scholarships or fellowships for deserving students.
Mary Roberts Rinehart Scholarship Endowment
Established in 1982 by the Mary Roberts Rinehart Foundation to encourage and promote creative writing.
Wendi Kauffman Memorial Writer’s Endowed Fund
The purpose of the fund is to provide financial support for students in their work as writers and to promote their success. Examples of possible uses include, but are not limited to: support for attending conferences or other venues for getting connected with other writers, editors, or agents; retreats or similar venues that allow writers to engage in extended, uninterrupted periods of productive work; acquisition of writer tools such as printers, printing supplies, or computers; payment of tuition or expenses related to attending the creative writing program.
This fund was started in 2015 with donations from alums to honor the late alumnus whose short story collection, Helen on 86th Street and Other Stories, became the first title published by Stillhouse Press in the summer of 2014. Stillhouse Press is an independent, student-run non-profit press based out of Northern Virginia.
Master's Programs
Scholarships
Joseph and Dorothy Censer Graduate Fellowship Endowment
Established in 2009, the purpose of this fund is to provide fellowships for graduate students pursuing a master of the arts in history with a concentration in applied history working with the Roy Rosenzweig Center for History and New Media (RRCHNM). Recipient will qualify on the basis of academic merit and financial need. Recipient may be either full/part-time, and reside either in or out-of-state. This fellowship may be renewable.
This scholarship is awarded by faculty nomination only, at the discretion of the department.
Rudolf and Louise Fishel Memorial Graduate Fellowship Endowment
Established in 2000 in memory of Rudolf and Louise Fishel by their daughter, Dr. Marion F. Deshmukh, to assist graduate students in history. Dr. Deshmukh, a faculty member, is former chair of the Department of History and Art History. Recipients may be either full/part-time, and reside either in or out-of-state.
This scholarship is awarded by faculty nomination only, at the discretion of the department.
Scholarships
Wendy Balazik Communication and Social Change Scholarship
In honor and memory of Wendy Balazik, who was a media coordinator for the International Association of Chiefs of Police. Award is intended to support a scholarship in communications/social change.
Scholarships
Economics Fellowships
Funding Opportunities for MA Economics students are described on the MA Economics Overview page. Please reach the Graduate Studies Office at econgrad@gmu.edu with questions about funding.
Economics MA Fellowship
The Economics MA Fellowship is an opportunity available to incoming on-campus students who are pursuing their MA in economics.
The department will be granting recognition awards for exceptional MA applicants. Bachelor’s Accelerated Master’s students are also eligible for these awards in their transition term to the MA program. The fellowship is a one-time award, disbursed over two years (one year for Accelerated Master’s students) and does not require a work component. A fellowship application is required.
Mercatus Center's MA Fellowship
This is a two-year graduate research assistantship program for students pursing a master’s degree in economics at George Mason University who are interested in a career in policy.
Program details and application requirements are available on the Mercatus Center’s MA Fellowship webpage.
Scholarships
Alumni/Mobil Fiction Fellowship Endowment
Established in 1994 with a gift from an anonymous donor and additional funding by the Mobil Foundation, to assist graduate students in fiction writing.
Cynthia Wynn Herman Scholarship Endowment
Established in 1995 in memory of Cynthia Wynn Herman, MA ’90, by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Michael Wynn, joined by others, to benefit students pursuing a degree in English (BA, BFA, MA) with an interest in women’s studies. Recipients may be a full-time or part-time and an in-state or out-of-state student and must have a minimum GPA of 2.75 and a FAFSA on file. Applicants must submit a brief statement (250w) describing their interest in women and gender studies and a relevant writing sample. The scholarship may be renewable. Cynthia Wynn Herman, an alumna of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, was assistant director of the Writing Center and editor of the women’s studies program newsletter.
Current students may apply for this scholarship through the Office of Financial Aid Award portal.
English Scholarships
Recipients will qualify on basis of merit and/or need; and may be in-state or out-of-state students.
Mary Roberts Rinehart Fellowship Endowment
Established in 1998 by Mrs. Rinehart’s granddaughter, Gratia Rinehart Montgomery, to encourage, promote, and develop creative writing by making awards to talented writers at George Mason University by providing or awarding, among other things, scholarships or fellowships for deserving students.
Mary Roberts Rinehart Scholarship Endowment
Established in 1982 by the Mary Roberts Rinehart Foundation to encourage and promote creative writing.
Wendi Kauffman Memorial Writer’s Endowed Fund
The purpose of the fund is to provide financial support for students in their work as writers and to promote their success. Examples of possible uses include, but are not limited to: support for attending conferences or other venues for getting connected with other writers, editors, or agents; retreats or similar venues that allow writers to engage in extended, uninterrupted periods of productive work; acquisition of writer tools such as printers, printing supplies, or computers; payment of tuition or expenses related to attending the creative writing program.
This fund was started in 2015 with donations from alums to honor the late alumnus whose short story collection, Helen on 86th Street and Other Stories, became the first title published by Stillhouse Press in the summer of 2014. Stillhouse Press is an independent, student-run, non-profit press based out of Northern Virginia.
Scholarships
- Graduate Professional Assistantship in Latinx Advocacy (open to all MA students)
- Graduate Professional Assistantship (expected) in Spanish tutoring (open to all MA students)
- Graduate Teaching Assistantship (only students who have completed 18 graduate credits may apply)
Scholarships
Peter Stearns Scholarship Endowment in Global Affairs
Scholarships
Charles and Polly Webber American History Scholarship Endowment
Established in 1975 by the Alexandria Scottish Rite Bodies as a tribute to Charles E. Webber and his wife, Pauline Graham Webber, to advance the study of American History. Mr. Webber was a leader in the Southern Jurisdiction (U.S.) of the Scottish Rite.
The scholarship endowment was created to encourage the study of American History, including intellectual and cultural History of the United States, the development of American institutions from the formation of the American Republic, or allied subjects as determined each year.
The recipient shall be a student pursuing an undergraduate education in American History, and a bona fide resident of Northern Virginia. The scholarship is premised upon merit.
Evelyn L. Pugh Memorial Graduate Fellowship in History Endowment
Established in 1987, in memory of Dr. Evelyn L. Pugh by her husband, Dr. Robert E. Pugh, and others, to benefit graduate students in History. Evelyn Pugh was the first chair of the Department of History. Robert Pugh is a former faculty member in the School of Management.
The purpose of the endowment is to provide funding for a graduate fellowship in History.
J.N.G. Finley Fellowship Endowment in American History
The Finley Endowments were established in 1995 to support fellowships in memory of John N.G. Finley through the estate of his wife, Dr. Cecile Bolton Finley. Mr. Finley was the first director of the Northern Virginia University Center (now George Mason University). Dr. Finley was a University of Virginia faculty member.
This award is for a graduate student studying American History.
Kurt Andrew Dodd Scholarship Endowment in History
Established in 2004 in memory of Kurt A. Dodd, MA ’97 by his mother, Rosemary Bowers Dodd, to provide a scholarship for a graduate student in history. Mr. Dodd was an alumnus of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences.
The purpose of the endowment is to provide a scholarship to a full-time graduate student pursuing an advanced degree in History. Recipient must qualify on basis of academic merit and financial need. Recipient may be an in-state or out-of-state student.
Randy Beth Clarke Fellowship in U.S. History Endowment
Established in 2010 by Robert and Joyce Clarke, in memory of Randy Beth Clarke, MA ’10.
The purpose of the endowment is to provide a fellowship for a graduate student pursuing an MA in History. The fellowship is open to all History graduate students, with preference given to candidates who: demonstrate interest in Southern History and/or Women's History, have been a volunteer or docent at a historic site or museum, and have a physical disability. Demonstrated interest shall be presented through a written essay. Recipients may be full-time or part-time students, in-state or out-of-state residents, and must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA. The fellowship may be renewable.
Rudolf and Louise Fishel Memorial Graduate Fellowship Endowment
Established in 2000, in memory of Rudolf and Louise Fishel, by their daughter, Dr. Marion F. Deshmukh, to assist graduate students in History. Dr. Deshmukh, a faculty member, is a former chair of the Department of History and Art History.
The purpose of the endowment is to provide a fellowship to a full-time graduate student in the History department who qualifies based on academic merit or financial need. The recipient may be an in-state or out-of-state resident, and must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA. The fellowship may be renewable.
Scholarships
Philosophy Ethics Scholarships
The purpose of the fund is to provide scholarships for a full-time graduate student with a demonstrated interest in ethics, either as an area of scholarly research or as an important goal in life and career. The recipient will be pursuing an MA in philosophy, an MA with a concentration or certificate in professional ethics, or in some other graduate area in which ethics is an important part, such as nursing or neuroethics. Preference will be given to the students who can show significant financial need. The recipient will submit a one-page statement on how they perceive they will use ethics in the future. This is a two-year scholarship and the renewal for the second year is contingent upon the student maintaining a strong academic record.
Alexandria Scottish Rite of Freemasonry Graduate Fellowship in Philosophy Fund
The purpose of the fund is to support one $5000 graduate fellowship within the Department of Philosophy on an annual basis. Recipients of the award will submit a 1,500 to 2,000-word essay written on a topic relating to freemasonry to the scholarship selection committee and the chair of the department. Recipients will be pursuing graduate degrees in philosophy, will be full-time, in-state students, and will qualify on the basis of academic merit and financial need. The scholarship is renewable for previous recipients who opt to reapply for consideration.
Scholarships
Elyse B. and Donald R. Lehman Graduate Student Research Award Endowment
Established in 2001 by Dr. Elyse Brauch Lehman and her husband, Dr. Donald R. Lehman. Dr. Elyse Lehman is a former faculty member in the Department of Psychology. The Lehman Graduate Student Research Award Endowment is a reflection of the Lehman’s commitment to education and research work of graduate students in the field of psychology. Students who are working on a PhD or MA in any area of psychology are eligible to apply for funding to cover expenses including, but not limited to, development and preparation of materials, purchase of texts and software, training, and travel necessary to conduct their research. Conference travel is excluded. Students may not apply for this scholarship. It is awarded by faculty nomination only, at the discretion of the department
Psychology Emergency Scholarship
To support emergency relief for psychology majors who do not qualify for other aid because they are not independent. Students may not apply for this scholarship. It is awarded by faculty nomination only, at the discretion of the department.
Psychology Scholarship
To support scholarships for psychology students, based on financial need. Students may not apply for this scholarship. It is awarded by faculty nomination only, at the discretion of the department.
Psychology Department Endowment for Student Success
Established in 2010 by Deborah A. Boehm-Davis and Stuart R. Davis. The purpose of this fund is to provide support for the department’s diversity goals, either through direct scholarship or fellowship awards to students pursuing a degree in psychology or through student programs within the department. Support may include graduate fellowships, research support, travel abroad stipends, funding for conference and presentation costs and/or research studies.
Recipients of direct support will qualify on the basis of academic merit. Recipients may be either full/part-time, and reside either in or out-of-state, or international students. These awards may be renewable. Students may not apply for this support. It is awarded by faculty nomination only, at the discretion of the department.
Suzanne E. Robertson Scholarship Endowment
The Suzanne E. Robertson Scholarship Endowment was established in 1993 by her parents to serve as a lasting memorial of their daughter, Suzi, who was a psychology student at Mason. The purpose of this fund is to provide a scholarship to an undergraduate or graduate student pursuing a degree in psychology. The selection will be based on both merit and need, with the student having demonstrated his/her ability to succeed in a course of study leading to a baccalaureate/graduate degree. This scholarship may be renewable. This scholarship is administered by the office of financial aid.
Graduate Certificate Programs
Scholarships
Wendy Balazik Communication and Social Change Scholarship
In honor and memory of Wendy Balazik, who was a media coordinator for the International Association of Chiefs of Police. Award is intended to support a scholarship in communications/social change.
Scholarships
- Graduate Professional Assistantship in Latinx Advocacy (open to all MA students)
- Graduate Professional Assistantship (expected) in Spanish tutoring (open to all MA students)
- Graduate Teaching Assistantship (only students who have completed 18 graduate credits may apply)
Students who already hold an MA in Spanish (or a closely related field) may apply for an adjunct (part-time) teaching position in the department.
For information about College-wide and University scholarships and federal financial aid, follow the links on the right.
Accelerated Master's Programs
Scholarships
Economics Fellowships
Fellowship opportunities are only available to full-time graduate students
Economics Scholarships
Graduate funding is only available for full-time graduate students.
Scholarships
Alumni/Mobil Fiction Fellowship Endowment
Established in 1994 with a gift from an anonymous donor and additional funding by the Mobil Foundation to assist graduate students in fiction writing.
Cynthia Wynn Herman Scholarship Endowment
Established in 1995 in memory of Cynthia Wynn Herman, MA ’90, by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Michael Wynn, joined by others, to benefit students pursuing a degree in English with an interest in women’s studies. Recipients may be a full-time or part-time and an in-state or out-of-state student. The scholarship may be renewable. Cynthia Wynn Herman, an alumna of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, was assistant director of the Writing Center and editor of the women’s studies program newsletter.
English Scholarships
Recipients will qualify on basis of merit and/or need; and may be in-state or out-of-state students.
Mary Roberts Rinehart Fellowship Endowment
Established in 1998 by Mrs. Rinehart’s granddaughter, Gratia Rinehart Montgomery, to encourage, promote, and develop creative writing by making awards to talented writers at George Mason University by providing or awarding, among other things, scholarships or fellowships for deserving students.
Mary Roberts Rinehart Scholarship Endowment
Established in 1982 by the Mary Roberts Rinehart Foundation to encourage and promote creative writing.
Wendi Kauffman Memorial Writer’s Endowed Fund
The purpose of the fund is to provide financial support for students in their work as writers and to promote their success. Examples of possible uses include, but are not limited to: support for attending conferences or other venues for getting connected with other writers, editors, or agents; retreats or similar venues that allow writers to engage in extended, uninterrupted periods of productive work; acquisition of writer tools such as printers, printing supplies, or computers; payment of tuition or expenses related to attending the creative writing program.
This fund was started in 2015 with donations from alums to honor the late alumnus whose short story collection, Helen on 86th Street and Other Stories, became the first title published by Stillhouse Press in the summer of 2014. Stillhouse Press is an independent, student-run, non-profit press based out of Northern Virginia.
Scholarships
Peter Stearns Scholarship Endowment in Global Affairs
Established in 2010 by Peter Stearns and Donna Kidd, MPA ’94. The purpose of the fund is to provide scholarships for undergraduate or graduate students pursuing a degree in Global Affairs. Recipients may be either full or part-time and reside either in or out-of-state.
Undergraduate Majors
Scholarships
Robert K. Hedrick, Jr. Scholarship Endowment
Robert K. Hedrick, Jr. is a 1971 alumnus who earned a BA in History. The faculty and staff at George Mason had particularly impressed Mr. Hedrick and he wanted to honor their hard work with special acknowledgement extended towards Dr. Josephine Pacheco, who greatly influenced his life. In addition, Mr. Hedrick feels that his education at George Mason University proved to be instrumental in his development as a professional and feels the need to offer the same opportunity to prospective liberal arts students. According to Mr. Hedrick, a liberal arts education is a foundation upon which students can explore a variety of careers.
The fund supports scholarships to students earning a degree in history or art history. Recipients may be an in-state or out-of-state student. Recipients will be considered on the basis of academic merit and demonstrated financial need, without which the individual would find it difficult to attend George Mason University. This scholarship will be awarded to a full-time, undergraduate student who meets these criteria.
This scholarship is awarded by faculty nomination only and at the discretion of the department.
Spindler Memorial Scholarship
Scholarship to benefit an outstanding art history student, who is either a junior or senior, with verified financial need. Arthur Spindler, former George Mason professor of history, initiated this fund with the sale of artwork by his late wife, Evelyn Spindler, who painted in watercolor landscapes, seascapes, and interiors and exteriors from Virginia to the Southwest to Latin America and the Pacific.
This scholarship is awarded by faculty nomination only and at the discretion of the department.
Scholarships
Please click here for more information on our scholarships, designed specifically for students studying Communication at George Mason University.
Scholarships
Economics Fellowships
To support fellowships for economics students
Economics Scholarships
Recipient will be a full time undergraduate or graduate student majoring in economics; will qualify on basis of merit and/or need; and may be an in-state or out-of-state student. The scholarship is renewable, subject to the availability of funds. For scholarship renewal, the recipient must continue to meet the criteria above.
Howard Ruben Bloch Memorial Scholarship and Award Endowment
Dr. Bloch was a faculty member and director of undergraduate studies in the Department of Economics. This award was established in 2001 in memory of Dr. Howard R. Bloch by his wife, Doris Bloch, and others, to honor his legacy of commitment to teaching and dedication to his students and the George Mason Community.
Both the scholarship and award benefit students of economics. For the scholarship, recipients must be a full-time undergraduate majoring in economics and may be an in-state or out-of-state student. Recipient will qualify on the basis of need and academic merit. The scholarship is renewable; for renewal the recipient must reapply each year, maintain at least a 3.0 GPA, and continue to meet the other criteria above.
Award criteria: Recipient will be an undergraduate with at least a 3.65 GPA in economics courses at George Mason University. Recipient will have at least 18 hours in economics courses at the university, and have at least an overall 3.5 GPA with at least 45 total hours at George Mason University. The award is open to all undergraduates, including students graduating in May and August, as well as those who have graduated the previous December. For those December graduates, they must have completed 60 total hours at George Mason University, with 27 of those hours in economics.
Current students may apply for this scholarship through the Office of Financial Aid Academic Works portal.
Randolph and Lucy Church Scholarship Endowment
Established in 2006 by Randolph W. Church, Jr. and Lucy C. Church, ’81, MPA ’86 to attract outstanding students majoring in English, history, modern languages, philosophy, psychology, political sciences, humanities, or economics. Mr. Church, an attorney, is a former rector of the Board of Visitors and former trustee of the George Mason University Foundation. Mrs. Church, a former trustee of the foundation and a former faculty member, is an alumna of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences.
Recipient must:
- Be an incoming freshman with a minimum high school GPA of 3.5 and a strong record of scholastic achievement in college preparatory courses;
- Be a full-time undergraduate student;
- Be a resident of the Commonwealth of Virginia;
- Show unusual promise of superior scholastic achievement in the opinion of the college dean;
- and major in one of the following: English, history, modern languages philosophy, psychology or economics.
Scholarships
Christine Worthen Eames Memorial Scholarship Endowment
Established in 2006 in memory of Christine W. Eames, Communications ’99, an alumna of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, by her mother, Joan Christensen Eames. The purpose of the fund is to provide scholarships for students who are aspiring writers. Recipients must be an undergraduate majoring in English with a concentration in creative writing or in communications with a concentration in journalism. Recipient may be a full-time or part-time student and an in-state or out-of-state student, and qualify on the basis of academic merit and financial need. The scholarship is renewable, subject to the availability of funds.
Dr. Barry Berkey Personal Essay Award Endowment
Established in 2010 by Velma Berkey, the wife of Dr. Barry Berkey. The purpose of the fund is to provide a prestigious annual award for undergraduate students pursing a degree in English that recognizes and encourages writing excellence in general and creative nonfiction in particular. Candidates must be a junior or senior as defined by at least 60 completed credit hours at the time of application, and must submit a personal essay of 1,000 words or less. Submissions must be original, not previously published, and entirely true. Candidates must include their G numbers on the essay as their names will be blinded. Recipient may be an in-state or out-of-state student, and may be either full or part-time. Junior students may submit in both junior and senior years. One essay per applicant, per year may be entered.
Cynthia Wynn Herman Scholarship Endowment
Established in 1995 in memory of Cynthia Wynn Herman, MA '90, by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Michael Wynn, joined by others, to benefit students pursuing a degree in English with an interest in women's studies. Recipients may be a full-time of part-time and an in-state or out-of-state student. The scholarship may be renewable. Cynthia Wynn Herman, an alumna of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, was assistant director of the Writing Center and editor of the women's studies program newsletter.
Current students may apply for this scholarship through the Office of Financial Aid Academic Works portal.
English Scholarships
Recipients will qualify on basis of merit and/or need; and may be in-state or out-of-state students.
Wendi Kauffman Memorial Writer's Endowed Fund
The purpose of the fund is to provide financial support for students in their work as writers and to promote their success. Examples of possible uses include, but are not limited to: support for attending conferences or other venues for getting connected with other writers, editors, or agents; retreats or similar venues that allow writers to engage in extended, uninterrupted periods of productive work; acquisition of writer tools such as printers, printing supplies, or computers; payment of tuition or expenses related to attending the creative writing program.
This fund was started in 2015 with donations from alums to honor the late alumnus whose short story collection, Helen on 86th Street and Other Stories, became the first title published by Stillhouse Press in the summer of 2014. Stillhouse Press is an independent, student-run, non-profit press based out of Northern Virginia.
Randolph and Lucy Church Scholarship Endowment
Established in 2006 by Randolph W. Church, Jr. and Lucy C. Church, ’81, MPA ’86 to attract outstanding students majoring in English, history, modern languages, philosophy, psychology, political sciences, humanities, or economics. Mr. Church, an attorney, is a former rector of the Board of Visitors and former trustee of the George Mason University Foundation. Mrs. Church, a former trustee of the foundation and a former faculty member, is an alumna of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences.
Recipient must:
- Be an incoming freshman with a minimum high school GPA of 3.5 and a strong record of scholastic achievement in college preparatory courses;
- Be a full-time undergraduate student;
- Be a resident of the Commonwealth of Virginia;
- Show unusual promise of superior scholastic achievement in the opinion of the college dean;
- and major in one of the following: English, history, modern languages philosophy, psychology or economics.
Scholarships
Lucas Leadership Scholarship Endowment
Established in 2013 by Diane W. Schulte and David C. Miles to honor the contributions and leadership of Dr. Nance Lucas during her tenure as Associate Dean. The scholarship will be awarded annually to a School of Integrative Studies student who demonstrates exceptional leadership and ethics in all areas of academic and personal life. The scholarship is renewable and may be used for tuition and fees and/or sponsored activities, but not travel expenses. Students may apply for this scholarship on their own or be nominated by faculty or staff members. To qualify, recipients will: be an undergraduate student classified as “in good academic standing” per university guidelines, must be pursuing a degree in the School of Integrative Studies, preference will be given to students who are verified members of a recognized non-profit group and who demonstrate leadership and service, may be either full- or part-time students, be evaluated on the basis of academic merit, may be either in-state or out-of-state, may be international, non-U.S. citizen.
School of Integrative Studies Awards and Scholarship
Recipients will submit an essay answering the following topic: Tell us how you best exemplify the values of a School of Integrative Studies education based the school’s mission statement and describe how you will continue to demonstrate your commitment to the college’s mission throughout the next year. Recipient must be majoring in integrative studies, be a full-time undergraduate student with a minimum cumulative 2.5 GPA and must maintain 2.5 GPA throughout. Applicant must have a current FAFSA on file with Mason's Office of Student Financial Aid.
Applications typically open Spring Semester: March – 1st week of May.
Contact: mailto:sisinfo@gmu.edu
Jon Sultan Creative Writing Award
This award is open to all first-year students who have declared an integrative studies major. Mr. Steven A. Sultan and Mrs. Susan E. Sultan established the Jon Sultan Writing Award in memory of their son, Jon, who was a valuable member of the first integrative studies cohort in 1995. The Sultan Award winner receives $1,000 and a certificate at an award event at the end of the spring semester. Students must self-nominate and submit writing sample materials, along with the name and contact information of a School of Integrative Studies faculty member who could, if needed, act as a reference.
Applications accepted Spring Semester: January – 1st week of April
Contact: sisinfo@gmu.edu
Scholarships
Gunda Sporer Oppenheimer Endowed Prize for French Studies
Before her death in 2001, Oppenheimer was a French and Spanish instructor at George Mason. The prize in her name is available to rising juniors and seniors to defray the cost of participating in a study-abroad program in France. Recipient must have taken at least nine credits in French at George Mason University. Receipt must also be accepted in an accredited study abroad program in France for at least one-quarter’s duration.
Helen Ludwig Sehrt Scholarship Endowment
Established in 2008 through the estate of Helen L. Sehrt to provide support for undergraduate German language majors maintaining at least the equivalent of a B average in German. Helen Sehrt was born in 1911 in Berlin, Germany and immigrated to the United States when she was one year old. She earned her BA and MA from George Washington University and was a former professor at George Mason.
Martha P. Francescato Scholarship
The purpose of the fund is to provide scholarship support for undergraduate students applying for the study abroad program. The recipient must be pursuing a degree in Spanish. Applicants must submit an essay stating why they need additional funds for study abroad and detailing their commitment to the Spanish program. Preference will be given to applicants who have not yet previously studied abroad. One scholarship will be awarded annually to one student. The scholarship award may not be divided among multiple applicants. This scholarship is not renewable.
Modern and Classical Language Study Abroad Scholarship
To support scholarships for students participating in a GMU Study Abroad program.
Randolph and Lucy Church Scholarship Endowment
Established in 2006 by Randolph W. Church, Jr. and Lucy C. Church, ’81, MPA ’86 to attract outstanding students majoring in English, history, modern languages, philosophy, psychology, political sciences, humanities, or economics. Mr. Church, an attorney, is a former rector of the Board of Visitors and former trustee of the George Mason University Foundation. Mrs. Church, a former trustee of the foundation and a former faculty member, is an alumna of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences.
Recipient must:
- Be an incoming freshman with a minimum high school GPA of 3.5 and a strong record of scholastic achievement in college preparatory courses;
- Be a full-time undergraduate student;
- Be a resident of the Commonwealth of Virginia;
- Show unusual promise of superior scholastic achievement in the opinion of the college dean; and
- Major in one of the following: English, history, modern languages philosophy, psychology or economics.
William Weaver Prize in Italian Studies
The William Weaver Prize in Italian Studies is named in memory of William Weaver, a pre-eminent translator of modern Italian literature. Weaver is best known for his translations of Italo Calvino, Umberto Eco, and Primo Levi, as well as Italian poetry and opera libretti. During his lifetime, he translated over 50 books; his translations earned him a National Book Award, two PEN translation prizes, and the PEN medal for translation in recognition of his life’s work.
The purpose of this fund is to provide annual awards to students with a declared minor in Italian studies. Recipients must have a declared minor in Italian studies and be enrolled as an undergraduate student at the time of the award with a minimum cumulative 3.0 GPA. They may be part-time or full-time students and be either in-state or out-of-state. Recipients will be selected on the basis of academic merit and financial need. If a recipient continues to qualify, the scholarship may be renewable once for a second year.
Scholarships
Peter Stearns Scholarship Endowment in Global Affairs
Scholarships
Charles and Polly Webber American History Scholarship Endowment
Established in 1975 by the Alexandria Scottish Rite Bodies as a tribute to Charles E. Webber and his wife, Pauline Graham Webber, to advance the study of American history. Mr. Webber was a leader in the Southern Jurisdiction (U.S.) of the Scottish Rite. Recipient must be majoring in history with an emphasis in American History and must have completed 30 hours at the University.
This scholarship is awarded by faculty nomination only, at the discretion of the department.
Donald R. Barr Memorial Scholarship Endowment
Established in 1985 in memory of Donald R. Barr, ’78, MA ’86 (posthumous), to assist students in history. Mr. Barr was an alumnus of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. The endowment was funded by multiple donors, including his mother, Anita G. Barr, who was an employee of the university. This award is presented to the graduating history major with the highest cumulative GPA and GPA in the major.
This scholarship is awarded by faculty nomination only, at the discretion of the department.
George Mason Memorial Society Scholarship Endowment
Established in 1997 by the George Mason Memorial Society and funded by multiple donors, the endowment perpetuates the ideals and contributions to American life of the patriot, George Mason of Gunston Hall. The scholarship benefits an undergraduate history major studying the legacy of George Mason and the nature of human rights in society. Recipient will be chosen during his or her junior year and receive the scholarship assistance toward tuition costs during his or her senior year.
This scholarship is awarded by faculty nomination only, at the discretion of the department.
Randolph and Lucy Church Scholarship Endowment
Established in 2006 by Randolph W. Church, Jr. and Lucy C. Church, ’81, MPA ’86 to attract outstanding students majoring in English, history, modern languages, philosophy, psychology, political sciences, humanities, or economics. Mr. Church, an attorney, is a former rector of the Board of Visitors and former trustee of the George Mason University Foundation. Mrs. Church, a former trustee of the foundation and a former faculty member, is an alumna of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences.
Recipient must:
- Be an incoming freshman with a minimum high school GPA of 3.5 and a strong record of scholastic achievement in college preparatory courses;
- Be a full-time undergraduate student;
- Be a resident of the Commonwealth of Virginia;
- Show unusual promise of superior scholastic achievement in the opinion of the college dean; and
Major in one of the following: English, history, modern languages philosophy, psychology or economics.
This scholarship is awarded by faculty nomination only, at the discretion of the department.
Robert K. Hedrick, Jr. Scholarship Endowment
Robert K. Hedrick, Jr. is a 1971 alumnus who earned a BA in history. The faculty and staff at George Mason had particularly impressed Mr. Hedrick, and he wanted to honor their hard work with special acknowledgement extended towards Dr. Josephine Pacheco, who greatly influenced his life. In addition, Mr. Hedrick feels that his education at George Mason University proved to be instrumental in his development as a professional and therefore, feels the need to offer the same opportunity to prospective liberal arts students. According to Mr. Hedrick, a liberal arts education is a foundation upon which students can explore a variety of careers.
The fund supports scholarships to students earning a degree in history or art history. Recipients may be an in-state or out-of-state student. Recipients will be considered on the basis of academic merit and demonstrated financial need, without which the individual would find it difficult to attend George Mason University. This scholarship will be awarded to a full-time, undergraduate student who meets these criteria.
This scholarship is awarded by faculty nomination only, at the discretion of the department.
Scholarships
Lucas Leadership Scholarship Endowment
Established in 2013 by Diane W. Schulte and David C. Miles to honor the contributions and leadership of Dr. Nance Lucas during her tenure as Associate Dean. The scholarship will be awarded annually to a School of Integrative Studies student who demonstrates exceptional leadership and ethics in all areas of academic and personal life. The scholarship is renewable and may be used for tuition and fees and/or sponsored activities, but not travel expenses. Students may apply for this scholarship on their own or be nominated by faculty or staff members. To qualify, recipients will: be an undergraduate classified as “in good academic standing” per university guidelines, must be pursuing a degree in the School of Integrative Studies, preference will be given to students who are verified members of a recognized non-profit group and who demonstrate leadership and service, may be either full- or part-time students, be evaluated on the basis of academic merit, may be either in-state or out-of-state, may be international, non-U.S. citizen.
School of Integrative Studies Awards and Scholarship
Recipients will submit an essay answering the following topic: Tell us how you best exemplify the values of a School of Integrative Studies education based the school's mission statement and describe how you will continue to demonstrate your commitment to the college’s mission throughout the next year. Recipient must be majoring in integrative studies, be a full-time undergraduate student with a minimum cumulative 2.5 GPA and must maintain 2.5 GPA throughout. Applicant must have a current FAFSA on file with Mason's Office of Student Financial Aid.
Current students may apply for this scholarship through the Office of Financial Aid Academic Works portal. Applications typically open Spring Semester: March – 1st week of May.
Contact: mailto:sisinfo@gmu.edu
Jon Sultan Creative Writing Award
This award is open to all first-year students who have declared an integrative studies major. Mr. Steven A. Sultan and Mrs. Susan E. Sultan established the Jon Sultan Writing Award in memory of their son, Jon, who was a valuable member of the first integrative studies cohort in 1995. The Sultan Award winner receives $1,000 and a certificate at an award event at the end of the spring semester. Students must self-nominate and submit writing sample materials, along with the name and contact information of a faculty member who could, if needed, act as a reference.
Applications accepted Spring Semester: January – 1st week of April
Contact: sisinfo@gmu.edu
Scholarships
Randolph and Lucy Church Scholarship Endowment
Established in 2006 by Randolph W. Church, Jr. and Lucy C. Church, ’81, MPA ’86 to attract outstanding students majoring in English, history, modern languages, philosophy, psychology, political sciences, humanities, or economics. Mr. Church, an attorney, is a former rector of the Board of Visitors and former trustee of the George Mason University Foundation. Mrs. Church, a former trustee of the foundation and a former faculty member, is an alumna of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences.
Recipient must:
- Be an incoming freshman with a minimum high school GPA of 3.5 and a strong record of scholastic achievement in college preparatory courses;
- Be a full-time undergraduate student;
- Be a resident of the Commonwealth of Virginia;
- Show unusual promise of superior scholastic achievement in the opinion of the college dean; and
Major in one of the following: English, history, modern languages philosophy, psychology or economics.
Scholarships
Jeanne C. Mellinger Scholarship Endowment
Established in 1993 in memory of Dr. Jeanne C. Mellinger, who was first chair of the Department of Psychology. The endowment, funded by multiple donors, provides one or more scholarships for undergraduates pursing a BS or BA in psychology and who qualify on basis of academic merit and financial need. Recipients may be either full or part-time, and reside either in or out-of-state. The scholarship may be renewable.
Current students may apply for this scholarship through the Office of Financial Aid Award Spring portal.
Psychology Emergency Scholarship
To support emergency relief for psychology majors who do not qualify for other aid because they are not independent. Students may not apply for this scholarship. It is awarded by faculty nomination only, at the discretion of the department.
Psychology Scholarship
To support scholarships for psychology students, based on financial need. Students may not apply for this scholarship. It is awarded by faculty nomination only, at the discretion of the department.
Psychology Department Endowment for Student Success
Established in 2010 by Deborah A. Boehm-Davis and Stuart R. Davis. The purpose of this fund is to provide support for the department’s diversity goals, either through direct scholarship or fellowship awards to students pursuing a degree in psychology or through student programs within the psychology department. Support may include graduate fellowships, research support, travel abroad stipends, funding for conference and presentation costs and/or research studies.
Randolph and Lucy Church Scholarship Endowment
Established in 2006 by Randolph W. Church, Jr. and Lucy C. Church, ’81, MPA ’86 to attract outstanding students majoring in English, history, modern languages, philosophy, psychology, political sciences, humanities, or economics. Mr. Church, an attorney, is a former rector of the Board of Visitors and former trustee of the George Mason University Foundation. Mrs. Church, a former trustee of the foundation and a former faculty member, is an alumna of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences.
Recipient must:
- Be an incoming freshman with a minimum high school GPA of 3.5 and a strong record of scholastic achievement in college preparatory courses;
- Be a full-time undergraduate student;
- Be a resident of the Commonwealth of Virginia;
- Show unusual promise of superior scholastic achievement in the opinion of the college dean; and
- Major in one of the following: English, history, modern languages philosophy, psychology or economics.
Suzanne E. Robertson Scholarship Endowment
The Suzanne E. Robertson Scholarship Endowment was established in 1993 by her parents to serve as a lasting memorial of their daughter, Suzi, who was a psychology student at Mason. The purpose of this fund is to provide a scholarship to an undergraduate or graduate student pursuing a degree in psychology. The selection will be based on both merit and need, with the student having demonstrated his/her ability to succeed in a course of study leading to a baccalaureate or graduate degree. This scholarship may be renewable. This scholarship is administered by the office of financial aid.
Walter Moretz Scholarship
To support scholarships for undergraduate Psychology majors, especially those engaged in research. Students may not apply for this scholarship. It is awarded by faculty nomination only, at the discretion of the department.
Wu-Shane Scholarship Endowment
The Wu-Shane Scholarship was established to support one or more student scholarship awards in compliance with the Minority Advisory Board Scholarship criteria, application, and renewal process established by the George Mason University Board of Visitors at its meeting on January 12, 2000 (available upon request). Additionally, the recipient will be an undergraduate majoring in communication, psychology, or management. This scholarship was established by D. Jean Wu, MS ’87, and her husband, Jeffrey N. Shane, to provide scholarships for socio-economically disadvantaged students majoring in communication, psychology, or management. Ms. Wu is a former trustee of the George Mason University Foundation and former member of the Board of Visitors of the university.
Scholarships
Christine Worthen Eames Memorial Scholarship Endowment
Established in 2006 in memory of Christine W. Eames, Communications ’99, an alumna of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, by her mother, Joan Christensen Eames. The purpose of the fund is to provide scholarships for students who are aspiring writers. Recipients must be an undergraduate majoring in English with a concentration in creative writing or in communications with a concentration in journalism. Recipient may be a full-time or part-time student and an in-state or out-of-state student, and qualify on the basis of academic merit and financial need. The scholarship is renewable, subject to the availability of funds.
Dr. Barry Berkey Personal Essay Award Endowment
Established in 2010 by Velma Berkey, the wife of Dr. Barry Berkey. The purpose of the fund is to provide a prestigious annual award for undergraduate students pursing a degree in English that recognizes and encourages writing excellence in general and creative nonfiction in particular. Candidates must be a junior or senior as defined by at least 60 completed credit hours at the time of application, and must submit a personal essay of 1,000 words or less. Submissions must be original, not previously published, and entirely true. Candidates must include their G numbers on the essay as their names will be blinded. Recipient may be an in-state or out-of-state student, and may be either full or part-time. Junior students may submit in both junior and senior years. One essay per applicant per year may be entered.
Randolph and Lucy Church Scholarship Endowment
Established in 2006 by Randolph W. Church, Jr. and Lucy C. Church, ’81, MPA ’86 to attract outstanding students majoring in English, history, modern languages, philosophy, psychology, political sciences, humanities, or economics. Mr. Church, an attorney, is a former rector of the Board of Visitors and former trustee of the George Mason University Foundation. Mrs. Church, a former trustee of the foundation and a former faculty member, is an alumna of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences.
Recipient must:
- Be an incoming freshman with a minimum high school GPA of 3.5 and a strong record of scholastic achievement in college preparatory courses;
- Be a full-time undergraduate student;
- Be a resident of the Commonwealth of Virginia;
- Show unusual promise of superior scholastic achievement in the opinion of the college dean;
- and major in one of the following: English, history, modern languages philosophy, psychology or economics.
Cynthia Wynn Herman Scholarship Endowment
Established in 1995 in memory of Cynthia Wynn Herman, MA '90, by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Michael Wynn, joined by others, to benefit students pursuing a degree in English with an interest in women's studies. Recipients may be a full-time of part-time and an in-state or out-of-state student. The scholarship may be renewable. Cynthia Wynn Herman, an alumna of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, was assistant director of the Writing Center and editor of the women's studies program newsletter.
Current students may apply for this scholarship through the Office of Financial Aid Academic Works portal.
English Scholarships
Recipients will qualify on basis of merit and/or need; and may be in-state or out-of-state students.
Scholarships
The Jack Fahey Giving Back Scholarship is open for application by BIS students. This scholarship will be applied to student's Spring 2018 account.
To be eligible students must meet these requirements:
- Have a 3.0 GPA
- Have financial need
- Made progress toward degree completion
- Completed BIS 300
- Enrolled fall of 2017 and spring of 2018
Applicants must complete the online application and submit an essay.
Apply for Jack Fahey Giving Back Scholarship here: Jack Fahey Scholarship Application
Karole McKalip is a Mason alumna from the College of Education, former GMU Director of Academic Advising and BIS Academic Advisor. She and her husband, Diehl McKalip, made it possible in 2004 to create a BIS Scholarship Endowment Fund. This fund provides $1000 in scholarship awards to BIS students each year.
Karole graduated in 1981 with a Master of Education Degree in Counseling and Development. She worked part-time as an advisor in the Department of Academic Advising while doing her graduate work. In 1985, she began working full-time and became the Assistant Director in the Academic Advising and Orientation program office. Two years later, she became Director of Academic Advising and Orientation and served as Director until 1997 when she retired.
Shortly after “retiring,” Karole came back to Mason and joined the BIS department as a part-time academic advisor. She was very interested in working with adult students whom she found to be extremely committed and dedicated to finishing their degrees. She enjoyed working with the BIS staff and believed BIS was a strong academic program, often a “breeding ground” for new majors such as the MA in Telecommunications. Karole states that the BIS program is “cutting edge” not only for the creation of new majors but for new ways to pursue degree completion. Following her retirement as an academic advisor for the BIS program in 2002, Karole contacted the Development Office at Mason regarding the possibility of a BIS scholarship from donations made by students and alumni. She was told there was not enough money to sustain a yearly scholarship. It was at this time that she and her husband donated the money necessary to create a scholarship endowment fund. Since 2004, a yearly BIS scholarship has been awarded. Since 2004, Karole and her husband have continued to contribute to the fund as well as to the Mason library.
We extend a hearty thanks to both Karole and Deihl McKalip for their service and generosity!
The BIS Scholarship fund provides $500 - $1000 awards to BIS students. Students may apply through the Financial Aid Office. Scholarship applications are reviewed through the combined efforts of the BIS director, advising staff and with the support of the BIS Scholarship founder, Karole McKalip, who serves as an advisor.
Scholarships
Economics Fellowships
To support fellowships for Economics students
Economics Scholarships
Recipient will be a full time undergraduate or graduate student majoring in economics; will qualify on basis of merit and/or need; and may be an in-state or out-of-state student. The scholarship is renewable, subject to the availability of funds. For scholarship renewal, the recipient must continue to meet the criteria above.
Howard Ruben Bloch Memorial Scholarship and Award Endowment
Dr. Bloch was a faculty member and director of undergraduate studies in the Department of Economics. This award was established in 2001 in memory of Dr. Howard R. Bloch by his wife, Doris Bloch, and others, to honor his legacy of commitment to teaching and dedication to his students and the George Mason Community.
Both the scholarship and award benefit students of economics. For the scholarship, recipients must be a full-time undergraduate majoring in economics and may be an in-state or out-of-state student. Recipient will qualify on the basis of need and academic merit. The scholarship is renewable, for renewal the recipient must reapply each year, maintain at least a 3.0 GPA, and continue to meet the other criteria above.
Award criteria: Recipient will be an undergraduate with at least a 3.65 GPA in economics courses at George Mason University. Recipient will have at least 18 hours in economics courses at the university, and have at least an overall 3.5 GPA with at least 45 total hours at George Mason University. The award is open to all undergraduates, including students graduating in May and August, as well as those who have graduated the previous December. For those December graduates, they must have completed 60 total hours at George Mason University, with 27 of those hours in economics.
Current students may apply for this scholarship through the Office of Financial Aid Academic Works portal.
Randolph and Lucy Church Scholarship Endowment
Established in 2006 by Randolph W. Church, Jr. and Lucy C. Church, ’81, MPA ’86 to attract outstanding students majoring in English, history, modern languages, philosophy, psychology, political sciences, humanities, or economics. Mr. Church, an attorney, is a former rector of the Board of Visitors and former trustee of the George Mason University Foundation. Mrs. Church, a former trustee of the foundation and a former faculty member, is an alumna of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences.
Recipient must:
- Be an incoming freshman with a minimum high school GPA of 3.5 and a strong record of scholastic achievement in college preparatory courses;
- Be a full-time undergraduate student;
- Be a resident of the Commonwealth of Virginia;
- Show unusual promise of superior scholastic achievement in the opinion of the college dean;
- and major in one of the following: English, history, modern languages philosophy, psychology or economics.
Scholarships
Lucas Leadership Scholarship Endowment
Established in 2013 by Diane W. Schulte and David C. Miles to honor the contributions and leadership of Dr. Nance Lucas during her tenure as Associate Dean. The scholarship will be awarded annually to a School of Integrative Studies student who demonstrates exceptional leadership and ethics in all areas of academic and personal life. The scholarship is renewable and may be used for tuition and fees and/or sponsored activities, but not travel expenses. Students may apply for this scholarship on their own or be nominated by faculty or staff members.
To qualify, recipients will: be an undergraduate student classified as “in good academic standing” per university guidelines, must be pursuing a degree in the School of Integrative Studies, preference will be given to students who are verified members of a recognized non-profit group and who demonstrate leadership and service, may be either full- or part-time students, be evaluated on the basis of academic merit, may be either in-state or out-of-state, may be international, non-U.S. citizen.
School of Integrative Studies Awards and Scholarship
Recipients will submit an essay answering the following topic: Tell us how you best exemplify the values of an integrative studies education based the school’s mission statement and describe how you will continue to demonstrate your commitment to the college’s mission throughout the next year. Recipient must be majoring in Integrative Studies, be a full-time undergraduate student with a minimum cumulative 2.5 GPA and must maintain 2.5 GPA throughout. Applicant must have a current FAFSA on file with Mason's Office of Student Financial Aid.
Current students may apply for this scholarship through the Office of Financial Aid Award Spring portal. Applications typically open Spring Semester: March – 1st week of May.
Contact: mailto:sisinfo@gmu.edu
Jon Sultan Creative Writing Award
This award is open to all first-year students who have declared an Integrative Studies major. Mr. Steven A. Sultan and Mrs. Susan E. Sultan established the Jon Sultan Writing Award in memory of their son, Jon, who was a valuable member of the first Integrative Studies cohort in 1995. The Sultan Award winner receives $1,000 and a certificate at an award event at the end of the spring semester. Students must self-nominate and submit writing sample materials, along with the name and contact information of an faculty member within the school who could, if needed, act as a reference.
Applications accepted Spring Semester: January – 1st week of April
Contact: sisinfo@gmu.edu
Scholarships
Jeanne C. Mellinger Scholarship Endowment
Established in 1993 in memory of Dr. Jeanne C. Mellinger, who was first chair of the Department of Psychology. The endowment, funded by multiple donors, provides one or more scholarships for undergraduates pursing a BS or BA in psychology and who qualify on basis of academic merit and financial need. Recipients may be either full/part-time, and reside either in or out-of-state. The scholarship may be renewable.
Current students may apply for this scholarship through the Office of Financial Aid Award Spring portal.
Psychology Emergency Scholarship
To support emergency relief for psychology majors who do not qualify for other aid because they are not independent. Students may not apply for this scholarship. It is awarded by faculty nomination only, at the discretion of the department.
Psychology Scholarship
To support scholarships for psychology students, based on financial need. Students may not apply for this scholarship. It is awarded by faculty nomination only, at the discretion of the department.
Psychology Department Endowment for Student Success
Established in 2010 by Deborah A. Boehm-Davis and Stuart R. Davis. The purpose of this fund is to provide support for the department’s diversity goals, either through direct scholarship or fellowship awards to students pursuing a degree in psychology or through student programs within the psychology department. Support may include graduate fellowships, research support, travel abroad stipends, funding for conference and presentation costs and/or research studies.
Randolph and Lucy Church Scholarship Endowment
Established in 2006 by Randolph W. Church, Jr. and Lucy C. Church, ’81, MPA ’86 to attract outstanding students majoring in English, history, modern languages, philosophy, psychology, political sciences, humanities, or economics. Mr. Church, an attorney, is a former rector of the Board of Visitors and former trustee of the George Mason University Foundation. Mrs. Church, a former trustee of the foundation and a former faculty member, is an alumna of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences.
Recipient must:
- Be an incoming freshman with a minimum high school GPA of 3.5 and a strong record of scholastic achievement in college preparatory courses;
- Be a full-time undergraduate student;
- Be a resident of the Commonwealth of Virginia;
- Show unusual promise of superior scholastic achievement in the opinion of the college dean; and
- Major in one of the following: English, history, modern languages philosophy, psychology or economics.
Suzanne E. Robertson Scholarship Endowment
The Suzanne E. Robertson Scholarship Endowment was established in 1993 by her parents to serve as a lasting memorial of their daughter, Suzi, who was a psychology student at Mason. The purpose of this fund is to provide a scholarship to an undergraduate or graduate student pursuing a degree in psychology. The selection will be based on both merit and need, with the student having demonstrated his/her ability to succeed in a course of study leading to a baccalaureate/graduate degree. This scholarship may be renewable. This scholarship is administered by the office of financial aid
Walter Moretz Scholarship
To support scholarships for undergraduate psychology majors, especially those engaged in research. Students may not apply for this scholarship. It is awarded by faculty nomination only, at the discretion of the department.
Wu-Shane Scholarship Endowment
The Wu-Shane Scholarship was established to support one or more student scholarship awards in compliance with the Minority Advisory Board Scholarship criteria, application, and renewal process established by the George Mason University Board of Visitors at its meeting on January 12, 2000 (available upon request). Additionally, the recipient will be an undergraduate majoring in communication, psychology, or management. This scholarship was established by D. Jean Wu, MS ’87, and her husband, Jeffrey N. Shane, to provide scholarships for socio-economically disadvantaged students majoring in communication, psychology, or management. Ms. Wu is a former trustee of the George Mason University Foundation and former member of the Board of Visitors of the university.
Undergraduate Minors
Scholarships
Please click here for more information on our scholarships, designed specifically for students studying Communication at George Mason University.
Scholarships
Economics Fellowships
To support fellowships for Economics students
Economics Scholarships
Recipient will be a full time undergraduate or graduate student majoring in economics; will qualify on basis of merit and/or need; and may be an in-state or out-of-state student. The scholarship is renewable, subject to the availability of funds. For scholarship renewal, the recipient must continue to meet the criteria above.
Scholarships
Please click here for more information on our scholarships, designed specifically for students studying Communication at George Mason University.
Scholarships
Please click here for more information on our scholarships, designed specifically for students studying Communication at George Mason University.
Scholarships
The George Mason Department of Religious Studies welcomes applications for the inaugural Judaic Studies Scholarship, awarded annually to an incoming (first-year or transfer) student with an expressed interest in Judaic Studies. The scholarship is a one-time award of $2,000. The scholarship is open to any student regardless of major, career goals, or religious belief or affiliation. To apply, please send a 1-2-page letter of inquiry to Prof. John Turner (jturne17@gmu.edu) that articulates an interest in Judaic Studies. Deadline: August 31, 2022.
Scholarships
Please click here for more information on our scholarships, designed specifically for students studying Communication at George Mason University.
Scholarships
Please click here for more information on our scholarships, designed specifically for students studying Communication at George Mason University.
Scholarships
Bruce B. Manchester Forensics Team Member Scholarship Endowment
Established in 2004 by Bruce B. Manchester, Professor Emeritus of Communication, who retired from Mason in 2004 after serving as a faculty member for 29 years. The purpose of the fund is to provide one or more scholarships for an active member of the Mason Forensics Team. Recipient must be a full-time undergraduate student, an active member of the Mason Forensics Team, qualify based on contribution, or potential contribution, to the Mason Forensics Team, and may be an in-state or out-of-state student.
Christine Worthen Eames Memorial Scholarship Endowment
Established in 2006 in memory of Christine W. Eames, Communications ’99, an alumna of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, by her mother, Joan Christensen Eames. The purpose of the fund is to provide scholarships for students who are aspiring writers. Recipients must be an undergraduate majoring in English with a concentration in creative writing or in communications with a concentration in journalism. Recipient may be a full-time or part-time student and an in-state or out-of-state student, and qualify on the basis of academic merit and financial need. The scholarship is renewable, subject to the availability of funds.
George Mason University Forensics Alumni and Friends Endowment
Established in 2002 by alumni, faculty, and friends of the forensics team. The purpose of the fund is to support the team through scholarships, events, awards, and in other ways. Recipients must be full-time undergraduate students, who will qualify based on contribution, or potential contribution, to the George Mason University Forensics team and may be in-state or out-of-state students.
George Mason University Debate Team Scholarship
To support scholarships for members of the debate team.
Kevin Athari Memorial Scholarship Endowment
Established in 1991 by Kevin Athari’s parents, Freydoon Athari, MD and Roshan Athari, ’81, joined by others, to provide scholarships for students majoring in communication. Kevin Athari was awarded a baccalaureate posthumously in 1991. The scholarship will be awarded for the senior year, with selection of the recipient following the junior year, and shall be made to a student who has participated in school publications, such as a school newspaper, and has shown dedication, academic motivation and leadership, and has been an active participant in University affairs. Applicants for this scholarship may apply directly, or be nominated by Department of Communication faculty.
Michael A. Dickerson Endowed Scholarship
Established in 2021, this Endowed Scholarship will provide scholarship support for undergraduate students majoring in communication with a concentration in public relations. Recipients must have completed at least 60 credits, must be full-time, may be in-state or out-of-state, and will qualify on the basis of financial need and academic merit with a required minimum GPA of 3.0. This scholarship is renewable.
Michael L. Pearce Memorial Scholarship Endowment
Established in 1999 by Susan K. Tomasovic, MAIS ’90 in memory of her husband, Lieutenant Colonel Michael Pearce, USAF (Ret.). Ms. Tomasovic, an alumna of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, is a faculty member in the Department of Communication. This fund supports scholarships for undergraduate students pursuing a degree in communications. Recipient must have completed at least 12 credit hours within the Department of Communication and have completed at least 85 credit hours within the university. Recipient will qualify on the basis of academic merit, achieving a minimum GPA of 3.0. Recipient must be an in-state student; and may be either full- or part-time. Preference will be given to a student with an interest in media persuasion and communication. This scholarship is not renewable.
Current students may apply for this scholarship through the Academic Works portal.
Wu-Shane Scholarship Endowment
The Wu-Shane Scholarship was established to support one or more student scholarship awards in compliance with the Minority Advisory Board Scholarship criteria, application, and renewal process established by the George Mason University Board of Visitors at its meeting on January 12, 2000 (available upon request). Additionally, the recipient will be an undergraduate majoring in communication, psychology, or management. This scholarship was established by D. Jean Wu, MS ’87, and her husband, Jeffrey N. Shane, to provide scholarships for socio-economically disadvantaged students majoring in communication, psychology, or management. Ms. Wu is a former trustee of the George Mason University Foundation and former member of the Board of Visitors of the university.
Scholarships
Please click here for more information on our scholarships, designed specifically for students studying Communication at George Mason University.
Scholarships
Cynthia Wynn Herman Scholarship Endowment
Established in 1995 in memory of Cynthia Wynn Herman, MA ’90, by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Michael Wynn, joined by others, to benefit students pursuing a degree in English with an interest in women’s studies. Recipients may be a full-time of part-time and an in-state or out-of-state student. The scholarship may be renewable. Cynthia Wynn Herman, an alumna of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, was assistant director of the Writing Center and editor of the women’s studies program newsletter.
Current students may apply for this scholarship through the Office of Financial Aid Award Spring portal.
Franki Rutherford Memorial Scholarship
The purpose of this fund is to recognize a student who has demonstrated interest in the study of inequalities, especially gender, race, class and sexuality. More than one recipient may receive this award if funds are available. To qualify for this award, the recipient: will be pursuing a minor in women and gender studies or a masters certificate/concentration in women and gender studies, must be a full-time student, may be an undergraduate or graduate student, must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5, may be in-state or out-of-state, an international student, or a United States citizen, must demonstrate financial need.
Additionally, the student should also have a dedication to issues of social justice and the community. Preference will be given to students with demonstrated need for financial support and who face other barriers to a college education including, but not limited to: being a first generation college student, being an immigrant or the child of immigrants, being from the “global south” or other areas in which opportunities for higher education are limited, being from a low-income family, being a student who receives little support from home due to sexual or gender identity. This scholarship may be renewable by recipients if the funds are available. For more information about this fund, please contact Professor Angela Hattery.