Established in 1966, the George Mason University Foundation plays a crucial role in shaping the university’s future and community. As a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, we support the university’s initiatives by carefully managing private gifts. Our journey embodies growth, innovation, and a dedication to excellence, reflecting our strong ties to the university and the broader goal of advancing public education.
From inception to today’s esteemed status as a top research institution, our journey is defined by significant milestones. Each phase highlights our unwavering support for students, faculty, and research, driven by sound financial management and donor commitment. Our legacy thrives on the generosity of countless donors who champion education’s transformative potential.
Since its inception, GMUF has empowered academic excellence and community initiatives. This timeline highlights key milestones, showcasing the programs, partnerships, and moments that have shaped our mission. Explore how GMUF has grown, leaving a lasting impact in higher education and beyond.
Image: Governor A. Linwood Holton signs H-210 separating George Mason College from the University of Virginia, April 7, 1972. Image courtesy of the George Mason University Broadside Photograph Collection.
The George Mason University Foundation, Inc. is established to purchase, accept, and hold real estate and private resources to benefit George Mason University.
LeRoy R. Eakin Chair of Business Administration, George Mason’s first endowed faculty chair, begins with a $25,000 donation from local businessman LeRoy R. Eakin, Sr.
Gov. Linwood Holton signs legislation that formally completes George Mason’s separation from the University of Virginia. From 1957 to 1972, George Mason served as a two-year branch campus of UVA. The George Mason University Foundation acquires the Fairfax High School building, which is used as the North Campus until 1983.
Image: Antonin Scalia Law School, George Mason University.
The Foundation finances the acquisition of the International School of Law in Arlington, now known as the Antonin Scalia Law School.
The Foundation acquires University Park Office and Residential Townhomes, providing administrative office space and 36 units of student housing.
The Foundation acquires the Commerce Buildings in Fairfax City for administrative office use by the university.
Image: Potomac Heights organic garden on the Fairfax Campus.
The Foundation’s endowment exceeds $25 million, with 142 individual endowed accounts.
Potomac Heights, a 504-bed student dormitory built by the Foundation, opens on the Fairfax campus.
George Mason University’s first comprehensive fundraising campaign raises $142 million for university priorities.
Image: Merten Hall rooftop perspective of the Peterson Family Health Sciences Hall on the Fairfax Campus at sunset.
Vernon Smith Hall, a 210,000-square-foot office building adjacent to the Arlington campus, opens. The building, constructed by the Foundation, includes 671 underground parking spots for faculty and student use.
The Foundation’s endowment surpasses $50 million, with 278 individual endowed accounts.
Merten Hall, a 143,000-square-foot office building for university administrative offices, opens on the Fairfax campus. It was built by the Foundation.
Image: Life Sciences and Engineering building on the Science and Technology Campus.
Beacon Hall, a 152-bed student dormitory, opens on the SciTech campus in Prince William County. It was built by the Foundation.
The Prince William Life Sciences Lab, a 76,000-square-foot laboratory, opens on the SciTech campus. It was built by the Foundation.
The Foundation’s endowment exceeds $75 million, with 471 individual endowed accounts.
Image: The George Mason University community celebrates the launch of the Mason Now Power the Possible $1 billion fundraising campaign on the Fairfax Campus.
The largest gift to the Foundation endows the Allison and Dorothy Rouse Chairs at the Antonin Scalia Law School.
The Faster Farther Campaign concludes, having raised over $690 million for university priorities from 2008 to 2018.
The Foundation’s endowment exceeds $185 million, with over 570 individual endowed accounts.
University launches $1B campaign, Mason Now: Power the Possible; largest School naming gift received, establishing the Donald G. Costello School of Business; endowment exceeds $179M with 649 individual endowed accounts.
Endowment exceeds $222M with 675 individual endowed accounts.
The George Mason University Foundation maintains George Mason’s accessibility, innovation, and impact. We provide scholarships, endowments for faculty, and support for pioneering research, enabling students from diverse backgrounds to fulfill their aspirations and make meaningful contributions to society. Our history reflects past successes and our continuous dedication to shaping a better tomorrow for everyone.
The George Mason University Foundation is committed to advancing the university’s mission through responsible financial management, transparency, and donor engagement. We adapt to changing times while honoring our past, ensuring excellence for future generations at George Mason University.
