Fairfax, Va. -- George Mason Assistant Vice President and Director of Athletics Marvin Lewis and five student-athletes, who are studying in the Costello College of Business, shared their vision and past experiences at a recent Dean's Advisory Council Meeting earlier this week.
The new partnership, spearheaded by Lewis and Costello College of Business Dean Ajay Vinzé is a collaboration that will benefit the college, athletics department and most importantly, the student-athletes and faculty.
"It is our priority to build bridges to campus and establish a model partnership with the Costello College of Business," Lewis said. "Our units are aligned and equally dedicated to academic excellence, impactful fundraising, and active engagement of students and the alumni community. Together, our collective efforts can inspire and bring unity to our entire campus community."
Lewis noted that 130 current student-athletes are studying in the Costello College of Business. The five aforementioned George Mason student-athletes who joined the Dean's Advisory Council were:
- Malachi DuVall, Wrestling, Business, Class of 2026
- Vijay Powell. Golf, Finance, Class of 2027
- Anabela Shearer, Rowing, Marketing, Class of 2027
- Paula Suarez, Basketball, Finance, Class of 2025
- Ally Yeary, Swimming and Diving, Accounting, Class of 2026
Each student highlighted their experience at George Mason and how the College of Business has opened their mind to brand new and innovative opportunities to forge a successful career in their respective disciplines.
DuVall noted that his Management 303 course has helped with his leadership and development skills – while Shearer shared she has a stronger understanding of how business connects with people and brands through informational strategy in her principal of marketing classes.
Each student recognized how these classes provide them the opportunity to develop their soft skills for future success. They cited many of the skills they utilize in the classroom: group projects, collaboration, and managing their time effectively -- are very transformable to their specific sport.
"The many styles of management I have learned in my classes and from my professors combined with the discipline, hard work and determination from competing in golf will certainly help direct me in my finance career," Powell said.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Lewis visited and took a photo with Vinze' and the student-athletes in front of the Costello College of Business logo. He smiled and thanked each student for sharing their story and experiences.
"Our student-athletes are our guiding North Star," Lewis said. "Every decision we make keeps their success at the forefront. Whatever a student's area of interest, George Mason offers a pathway to excel both academically and athletically. Our partnership with the Costello College of Business exemplifies how meaningful collaborations can provide student-athletes with truly transformational experiences."
