George Mason University Gets $1.4M Investment For STEM Education And Research

The $1.4M investment by the philanthropists Stanley and Rosemary Hayes Jones follows a $400,000 commitment to the Early Identification Program (EIP) which includes two STEM-related initiatives.

Study in US: Philanthropists Stanley and Rosemary Hayes Jones offered a transformative $1 million gift to George Mason University in the US to set up the Stanley and Rosemary Hayes Jones Networking Testbed Lab. This lab is expected to open by June 2025 and will support students and faculty in the research efforts.

It will be dedicated to advanced antennae systems, and network applications including secure communications, high-speed and autonomous vehicles, intelligent buildings, smart power grids, technology, manufacturing and national defence.

George Mason President Gregory Washington commented, "George Mason University is deeply grateful for the Jones family's generous investment in our students and faculty and in empowering innovators from across our region. Their support of the testbed lab reflects a commitment to advancing critical research in rapidly developing technologies and fostering a diverse, well-prepared workforce that will serve Northern Virginia employers for decades to come."

George Mason STEM Education And Research: More Details

Stanley Jones, a first-generation college graduate and a former surveillance and communications engineer will offer opportunities for future generations.

He said, “Throughout my career in engineering, I saw the power of access to advanced research and technology. I’m excited about the possibilities this new testbed lab will bring, providing George Mason students with hands-on experiences in a cutting-edge field."

In 2023, George Mason received a $400,000 commitment to the Early Identification Program (EIP) which supports EIP STEM Fusion Expansion and Stanley and Rosemary Jones STEM Scholars Program aimed to increase first-generation students pursuing STEM fields and providing them direct support.

Rose Pascarell, vice president of University Life for George Mason commented, “Stanley Jones exemplifies the potential of first-generation students. When given opportunities, these students excel. This investment in EIP will expand access to STEM fields, and the impact will extend beyond George Mason University to benefit the Northern Virginia community."

“As a first-generation student, I worked my way through undergraduate school and then received a fellowship to attend graduate school. The fellowship made all the difference—it allowed me to pursue a successful career as an engineer. Through our support for the George Mason University Early Identification Program and the internship and mentorship support from MITRE, we are hoping to give a similar opportunity to other deserving students," said Stanley Jones.

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