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INSIDE MASON NATION
Marvin Lewis was named George Mason University’s sixth Assistant Vice President and Director of Intercollegiate Athletics on July 1, 2023. In just two years, he has led a major transformation of George Mason Athletics—re-energizing student-athletes, fans, and the campus community while elevating the program’s profile to new heights.
Lewis quickly set a bold vision for the department, establishing a clear mission and core values that have guided strategic priorities and fueled both athletic and academic success.
Under the leadership of Marvin Lewis, George Mason Athletics experienced a historic 2024–25 season, capturing five Atlantic 10 conference titles in Men’s Basketball, Women’s Basketball, Men’s Soccer, Women’s Indoor Track & Field, and Men’s Outdoor Track & Field. This marked the most conference championships in a single season in program history, surpassing the previous record of four titles set during George Mason’s inaugural A-10 campaign in 2013–14. It also marked the first time since 1994–95, during the university’s tenure in the Colonial Athletic Association, that the Patriots claimed five total regular season and conference championships in one academic year.
Lewis’ collaborative partnership with A-10 Coach of the Year Tony Skinn led to a breakthrough for the men’s basketball program, which captured a share of the conference regular season title for the first time, earned its first NIT appearance since 2009, and tied the school record with 27 wins. The women’s basketball team also had a record-setting year, making its first NCAA Tournament appearance while posting a program-best 27 victories. Reflecting his commitment to sustained excellence, Lewis extended the contracts of championship-winning head coaches Vanessa Blair-Lewis and Rich Costanzo, ensuring the continued growth and success of George Mason Athletics.
Beyond the scoreboard, Lewis has delivered results across the board. George Mason student-athletes earned a collective GPA of 3.32 in 2024–25, with a record 78 recognized as Provost Scholars. In total, 18 student-athletes won all-conference honors or individual titles, and 75 earned weekly conference awards.
To elevate the student-athlete experience, Lewis spearheaded the $2 million renovation of the Field House locker rooms and led in the development of George Mason’s new 30,000 square foot Basketball and Academic Performance Center— a $30 million project set to open in 2027. This future centerpiece will serve as the home for men’s and women’s basketball and offer academic, mental health, and performance support for our more than 500 student-athletes.
Lewis and Mason Athletics played an integral role in the university’s comprehensive rebrand in 2024. He led the charge in helping develop a unified look that reflects the modern character of George Mason University as well as emphasizing the importance of promoting a consistent identity to unify our community.
Financially, Lewis balanced the department’s $32 million budget while delivering a 14% boost in ticket revenue and a 27% increase in sponsorships. On the fundraising front, while simultaneously building out the athletics development team, the department raised $1.5 million annually, with 10% donor growth and nearly $500,000 raised on Mason Vision Day alone. He also launched the Basketball Greatness Campaign, a bold investment in infrastructure and talent to position George Mason men’s and women’s basketball as a national contender.
Prior to joining George Mason, Lewis held senior roles at Brown, Georgia Tech, Maryland, and Georgia State. At Brown, he modernized the athletics brand, launched new revenue initiatives, and led key operations including finance, facilities, communications, and talent development.
A former two-time captain of Georgia Tech’s basketball team, Lewis led the Yellow Jackets to the 2004 national title game. He earned his bachelor’s in management from Georgia Tech, became a licensed CPA, and later completed a master’s in taxation at Georgia State. He’s a 2020 graduate of the NCAA Pathway Program and was previously recognized as CABMA’s Manager of the Year and a CollegeAD “Next Up” honoree.
Lewis and his wife, Shoshanna, live in Northern Virginia with their son, Callen.
What they are saying about Marvin Lewis
“George Mason is getting an outstanding leader who is very innovative and collaborative. I have had the pleasure of working closely with Marvin the past two years as my sports supervisor. He is a thoughtful leader who has a holistic approach in the development of student-athletes, coaches, and staff. Marvin’s experience as a student-athlete and administrator at the highest level has prepared him to lead and thrive at George Mason.” -- Mike Martin, Brown University men’s head basketball coach
“Marvin is world-class leader, who had an immediate impact on my program, and our athletic department here at Brown. He is a winner, a motivator, he’s thoughtful and forward thinking. He has played at the highest level of collegiate athletics, so he can relate to the D1 demand for peak performance and support. The athletes, coaches, and staff will greatly benefit from his leadership and guidance.” -- Kia McNeill, Brown University, women’s head soccer coach
“George Mason hit a home run hiring Marvin Lewis to lead their athletic department. Marvin is an incredible leader of people. Marvin's leadership abilities and qualities will ultimately lead George Mason athletics to the highest level of success not only in the A10, but on a national stage. All coaches, administrators, and student-athletes at George Mason should be so excited to have a person like Marvin Lewis leading the George Mason team.” -- Josh Pastner, former head basketball coach at Georgia Tech.
"George Mason University has just landed a bright, dedicated, hardworking, loyal and, most essentially, a morally sound individual to lead the Patriots Athletics Department! Marvin understands commitment from coaches, athletes and students and he understands the significance of developing, then nurturing appropriate lines of communication with the various constituencies he will serve. Marvin’s experiences as a student, as an athlete and as an athletics leader are extraordinary! He possesses a keen sense about the value of outreach to others and how to foster togetherness. His warm and sincere personality, coupled with his enthusiasm and constantly positive outlook, will be a major resource for the entire George Mason University community.” -- Paul Brazeau, ACC senior associate commissioner/men’s basketball
“I’m really excited for Marvin and his family. This is a great opportunity for him to continue his growth as an outstanding leader. He is a fantastic hire for George Mason. Having worked with Marvin for several years, I found him to be genuine, passionate, and driven to win. He worked tirelessly to provide a great experience for the student-athletes, the resources to compete at the highest levels, and the support necessary for health and well-being.” -- Alan Drosky, Georgia Tech head coach - cross country and women's track and field
