George Mason University Executive and Leadership Team

Daniel Stephens, the Interim Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP at George Mason University, manages the fiscal health and long-term financial planning of the institution. Overseeing budget development, financial reporting, and investment strategies, the Interim Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP ensures the university maintains the resources necessary to support its research and academic programs. This leadership role involves analyzing economic trends to guide institutional decision-making and resource distribution. By maintaining fiscal discipline, Daniel Stephens directly impacts the university's ability to fund new initiatives in biotechnology and public policy. Stephens collaborates with the Board and executive leadership to align financial goals with the university's strategic vision. Through careful management of revenue streams and expenditures, the Interim Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP secures the financial stability required to drive workforce development and economic growth throughout Virginia.

Julie Zobel, the Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at George Mason University, manages the daily operational functions and administrative services that sustain the university's diverse academic environment. Overseeing campus facilities, auxiliary services, and institutional planning, the Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer ensures alignment with the university's long-term growth objectives. This leadership role involves optimizing resource allocation to support colleges ranging from engineering to public policy. By streamlining operational workflows, Julie Zobel directly impacts the quality of student services and the effectiveness of campus infrastructure. Zobel coordinates with other executive leaders to implement strategic initiatives that enhance the overall campus experience. Through rigorous oversight of operational budgets and physical assets, the Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer drives the institution's capacity to serve a growing student population while maintaining high standards of excellence.

Gregory Washington, the President at George Mason University, provides the overarching strategic vision and leadership for the entire institution. Overseeing the university's academic mission, research output, and community engagement, the President ensures that the institution remains a catalyst for innovation and social progress. This leadership role involves representing the university to government officials, private sector partners, and the broader public. By championing initiatives in cybersecurity and public policy, Gregory Washington directly impacts the university's reputation and influence. Washington fosters a culture of excellence that attracts diverse students and world-class faculty. Through the execution of long-term strategic plans, the President drives the university's contribution to economic growth and workforce development. As the primary advocate for the institution, the President secures the partnerships and resources necessary to maintain the university's status as a premier public research institution.

Solon Simmons, the President, Faculty Senate at George Mason University, represents the interests and perspectives of the faculty in institutional governance. Overseeing the development of academic policies and faculty welfare initiatives, the President, Faculty Senate ensures that the teaching and research staff remain central to the university's decision-making processes. This leadership role involves facilitating dialogue between the faculty and the administration to promote academic freedom and excellence. By advocating for faculty needs, Solon Simmons directly impacts the quality of instruction and the rigor of academic programs. Simmons coordinates with various committees to address issues related to curriculum development and professional standards. Through active participation in university governance, the President, Faculty Senate supports the institution's commitment to shared governance and the advancement of knowledge across all disciplines within the university's diverse academic schools.

Ilyas Hamidzada, the President, Real Estate Association at George Mason University, leads student-driven initiatives focused on the real estate industry and property development. Overseeing professional development workshops and networking events, the President, Real Estate Association ensures that students gain practical insights into the market dynamics of the National Capital Region. This leadership role involves connecting students with industry professionals and alumni to facilitate career growth. By organizing experiential learning opportunities, Ilyas Hamidzada directly impacts the readiness of students for careers in real estate and urban planning. Hamidzada fosters a collaborative environment where members explore trends in commercial and residential development. Through the management of association activities, the President, Real Estate Association supports the university's goal of preparing students for success in diverse fields by bridging the gap between academic theory and real-world industry practice.

Lucas Cedeno Villegas, the President at George Mason University, serves as the primary representative for the student body, focusing on advocacy and campus engagement. Overseeing the student government's efforts to improve campus life and academic support services, the President ensures that student voices influence institutional policy. This leadership role involves collaborating with university administration to address student concerns regarding housing, athletics, and extracurricular activities. By championing student-led initiatives, Lucas Cedeno Villegas directly impacts the quality of the student experience. Villegas facilitates communication between the student population and university leadership to promote an inclusive and supportive environment. Through the management of student government affairs, the President supports the university's mission to provide comprehensive student services that prepare individuals for success while fostering a vibrant community that contributes to the overall growth of the institution.

Tania Abbas, the Co-Founder & Co-President, Pre-Health Guidance Association at George Mason University, directs programs designed to support students pursuing careers in health and human services. Overseeing mentorship initiatives and academic advising resources, the Co-Founder & Co-President, Pre-Health Guidance Association ensures that students receive the guidance necessary to navigate rigorous pre-health curricula. This leadership role involves organizing workshops that connect students with healthcare professionals and research opportunities. By providing essential career development tools, Tania Abbas directly impacts the success of students entering medical and health-related fields. Abbas coordinates with faculty and external partners to expand the association's reach and impact. Through the management of guidance programs, the Co-Founder & Co-President, Pre-Health Guidance Association supports the university's commitment to workforce development by preparing the next generation of healthcare providers for the challenges of the modern medical landscape.

Kassandra Drachman, the President at George Mason University, leads specific student-focused organizational efforts aimed at enhancing academic and professional development. Overseeing the strategic direction of the organization, the President ensures that members have access to resources that facilitate experiential learning and career preparation. This leadership role involves managing organizational operations and fostering partnerships with academic departments to support student success. By driving initiatives that promote professional growth, Kassandra Drachman directly impacts the readiness of students for their future careers. Drachman coordinates with other student leaders to create a cohesive network of support across the university's various colleges. Through the management of organizational activities, the President supports the university's mission to provide comprehensive student services and academic opportunities that prepare students for diverse fields, ultimately contributing to the institution's role in workforce development and economic growth.

Raj Murthy, the Chief Technology Officer at George Mason University, directs the digital infrastructure and cybersecurity initiatives supporting the institution's research mission. Overseeing the integration of advanced computing systems across all campuses, the Chief Technology Officer ensures seamless connectivity for students and faculty. This leadership role involves architecting scalable cloud solutions that facilitate data-driven research in biotechnology and climate science. By modernizing the university's technological framework, Raj Murthy directly impacts the efficiency of online learning platforms and administrative operations. Murthy secures the integrity of institutional data while driving innovation in digital pedagogy. Through collaboration with government agencies and private sector partners, the Chief Technology Officer maintains a robust network that supports the university's position as a leader in cybersecurity education and technological advancement within the National Capital Region.

Eric Fowler, the Department of Police & Public Safety Chief of Staff at George Mason University, coordinates security operations and emergency management protocols across all university locations. Overseeing the implementation of safety policies, the Department of Police & Public Safety Chief of Staff ensures a secure environment for students, faculty, and staff. This leadership role involves managing inter-departmental communications and fostering partnerships with local law enforcement agencies to maintain campus safety. By refining incident response strategies, Eric Fowler directly impacts the university's ability to manage risks effectively. Fowler facilitates the deployment of security resources that protect the institution's physical and intellectual assets. Through proactive engagement with the campus community, the Department of Police & Public Safety Chief of Staff supports the university's mission to provide a safe, inclusive space for academic inquiry and experiential learning in the National Capital Region.