George Mason University Foundation extends its gratitude to board members for their service
George Mason statue at dusk on the Fairfax Campus. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Creative Services/George Mason University
As five members of the George Mason University Foundation, Inc. (GMUF) Board of Trustees concluded their service this past June, the foundation recognized them for their meaningful contributions and steadfast commitment.
Trishana E. Bowden, GMUF president and George Mason University’s vice president for advancement and alumni relations, reflected on their impact: “These trustees gave generously of their time and talents in service to this institution. Their leadership, insight, and dedication strengthened the foundation and helped expand opportunities for our students.”
Across the George Mason community, these board members have left a lasting mark, bringing experience, perspective, and passion to advance the university’s mission and vision.
Anirban (AC) Chakrabarti joined the Board of Trustees in July 2020, actively contributing to the Advancement and University Priorities Committee. An alumnus of the Costello College of Business, Chakrabarti was recognized in 2019 as a Prominent Patriot for his professional achievements and commitment to the university. Beyond his role on the board, he also participated in the President’s Innovation Advisory Council and contributed insights to the National Leadership Council. With experience in technology and software management, Chakrabarti served the university with dedication and a strong commitment to innovation.
Christine Halberstadt served on the board for three years. During her tenure, she was an engaged member of the Nominating and Governance Committee, where she helped shape the board’s direction and strengthen its governance. With nearly 20 years of experience in the financial services industry, her professional insight and contributions made a meaningful difference. A champion of student success, she supported the Patriot Pantry and initiatives to ensure students could complete their studies at George Mason. Throughout her treatment for cancer, Halberstadt remained dedicated to her role as a trustee, continuing to serve with strength, grace, and commitment. She passed away in May 2026 following a courageous battle with cancer. Her service, generosity, and commitment to students leave a lasting influence on the university and its community.
Delbert Parks has been a dedicated member of the Board of Trustees since July 2021, serving as the first chair of the Advancement and University Priorities Committee, which developed under his leadership. Over the past five years, Parks has been an energetic and valued presence at George Mason through his service on several advisory boards, including the National Leadership Council and the President’s Innovation Advisory Council. As vice president and site executive of Micron Technology, he has created a strong partnership with the SciTech campus, supporting everything from the arts to research. In January 2026, Governor Abigail Spanberger appointed Parks to the George Mason University Board of Visitors. His enthusiasm and commitment have been evident throughout his time not only on the board but also in his participation in many university events, from the arts to athletics, and in celebrating the achievements of George Mason students.
Sumeet Shrivastava, a proud George Mason alumnus, earned his MBA from the Costello College of Business in 1994 and has been a longtime supporter of the university and its students. His leadership as chair of the Board of Trustees from July 2024 to January 2026, along with more than seven years of active involvement, played an important role in advancing the board’s mission. Under Shrivastava’s leadership, the board implemented changes that elevated trustee engagement, finalized a strategic direction, and grew in overall composition. His prior service to the George Mason University Alumni Association, the Costello College of Business Dean’s Advisory Board — during which he was integral in launching the Center for Government Contracting and the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship — the Steering Committee for the Innovation District, and the National Leadership Council are just some of the many roles he has played in shaping the future of George Mason.
In January 2026, Shrivastava was appointed to the university’s Board of Visitors, continuing his commitment to George Mason, yet another testament to his dedication to education and the community.
Ajay Vinzé served as a dean representative on the Board of Trustees from 2024 to 2026. During his tenure, he was an active and thoughtful member, first serving on the Advancement and University Priorities Committee and later the Investment Committee. Since joining the Costello College of Business in July 2022, Dean Vinzé has focused on positioning the college as a leader among business schools, expanding multi-disciplinary academic programs, promoting inclusive entrepreneurship, offering modular education, and strengthening corporate partnerships. In 2023, he also oversaw the renaming of the School of Business to the Donald G. Costello College of Business. Dean Vinzé brought an invaluable perspective to the Board of Trustees, both as a dean and, more recently, as interim provost, always willing to offer insights and make impactful connections.
