Latest Fourth Estate Articles

Mary Demarco/Fourth Estate

BY MARY J. DEMARCO, OPINION EDITOR

So you’re looking for a place to study, but Fenwick Library and the Johnson Center have become too familiar. It might be time for a change of scenery. Fenwick is often overwhelmingly crowded, and the Johnson Center is rarely silent. Finding an open chair in the building during the middle of the day can feel like trying to summon the ghost of your ex– it’s just not happening. 

Sometimes, a change of scenery is necessary to get any work done. Luckily, Mason students have the advantage of being in close proximity to Washington, D.C, which like any city, offers numerous study spots to explore, including Tatte Bakery and Cafe, Valley Brook Tea and Potter’s House Cafe and Bookstore. 

While coffee shops and bakeries provide an aesthetic environment, they can’t compare to studying at a historic monument like the Library of Congress. If you want to feel like the main character in a movie, this is the place to be.

  A main character in a film is always surrounded by a scenic environment. As you approach the library, you’re surrounded by neoclassical architecture buildings such as the U.S. Capitol and the U.S. Supreme Court. 

Upon entering you’re met with polished wood and detailed European-style paintings. The most common spot for students in the LOC is the Main Reading Room, which contains \ rows of desks where you can set up camp and… finally study.

But before doing so, you will need to secure a temporary library card. Fortunately, the process is quick and simple as long as there isn’t a long line–though, typically, there isn’t. Near the reading room, there is a registration area where you meet with a staff member, show your ID and take a photo. The staff member then prints out your library card, which is  valid for the next four years. 

Mary Demarco/Fourth Estate

If you look 160 feet above, a Michaelangelo-esque painting presents itself, depicting personified countries from around the world. And the domed masterpiece is only a fraction of the stunning artwork contained within the building.

All of this to say: while Fenwick Library is a great place to study, it’s important to take advantage of the opportunities the district has to offer. 

Mason senior Elena Paige Haley tested the wonders of the LOC. 

“It really helped me lock in because you go in [the reading room] and it was dead silent. Everyone was working. It’s not like Fenwick where you go to the silent floor and there’s still people talking,” Haley said. “It was a very immersive space, and it did help me really concentrate. I wrote an insane amount and we were only there 30 minutes”

Between the ethereal artwork, the reverent study space, and the no-cost entry, who wouldn’t want to study in the biggest library in the world? 

According to the library’s official website, it holds over 25.77 million cataloged books  and more than 15.99 million items in its nonclassified print collections–making it the largest  library in existence. 

“[It] had been on my bucket list for a couple of years, and I wish I’d gone sooner. It was probably one of the most beautiful places in D.C. that I’ve ever seen,” Haley said.

The Library of Congress is a free study space for students, and every Mason student should visit at least once before graduating.

Mitchell Richtmyre/Fourth Estate

BY AMELIA JANE SAND, STAFF WRITER

On Thursday, Feb. 20, Gregory Washington hosted his second town hall as Mason President to address the Mason student body’s concerns. The town hall, held in Merten Hall, ranged from topics including housing concerns, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity on campus, and cases of food poisoning.

When asked about concerns regarding DEI, President Washington stated, “[there are] comprehensive plans to manage all of and retain the core aspects of what we do in the DEI space. It doesn’t mean that you, [the students], won’t see things look a little different. You may see programs change and titles change, but the core aspects will remain.” 

President Washington addressed the state of the new Trump administration, calling students to “understand that for lack of a better way of saying this, we are in an ideological battle. There are real forces that don’t want certain people here. I am committed and my leadership team is committed to assuring affordable access to everyone in this state who wants it.” 

Then, President Washington addressed concerns regarding those invited to the Mason Career Fair this spring. 

One student stated that he and others found the inclusion of ICE and “war profiteering” companies—such as General Dynamics— in career fairs, “repulsive” and called for the president to respond to the claims and explain Mason’s stance. 

This statement allegedly referring to the previous inclusion of defense companies such as Lockheed Martin, General Dynamics and Leonardo in the Fall 2024 career fair. This statement further follows a call to “flood their emails” by the @gmu4palestine Instagram. The post covered ICE’s presence at the career fair and called for action against allowing “this fascist agency to infiltrate our campus.” The post then goes on to list several demands, the first calling for the removal of ICE from the fair’s program. 

During the town hall, several students held up signs that stated, “protect your students,” “GMU against genocide,” and “divest from death.” 

Mitchell Richtmyre/Fourth Estate

“These entities come to campus because students seek jobs from them, and we have a responsibility to actually provide them opportunities within those jobs,” President Washington said about the decision to allow ICE and General Dynamics to remain at the career fair. 

Washington stated, “ [ICE’s presence on campus] is not a sign of us supporting ICE, believing in their mission, or their methods and tactics.” He called the partnership, instead “transactional.” Therefore, their presence on campus would neither be championed nor condemned. 

As the town hall progressed, students raised concerns over the increase in reports of food poisoning from the Mason dining halls. 

President Washington stated that he was “not aware of any mass food poisoning event” and that “if something like that had happened, my folks at University Life would have reached out to me immediately.”

President Washington and Vice President of University Life Rose Pascarell assured students together that the situation would be investigated further and students who suffered from food poisoning are encouraged to bring their situations forward.

When President Washington was asked about the future of housing, he mentioned that while there are early plans for more housing to be made available, likely between 2500 and 2800 beds, the university is waiting on the support of “the Board” before moving forward. He ended by noting that campus housing affordability remains a top priority.

Emma Schaible/Fourth Estate

BY TYLER MANDELL, STAFF WRITER

Movies are one of the most important forms of entertainment and art in pop culture. Film successes from 2024, such as Inside Out 2 and Wicked, created over $2 billion in ticket sales and became inescapable conversational talking points for months afterwards.

Since their inception in 1896,  “cinemas” were the ideal place to see the newest films.

 Whether it was an opportunity to see a movie or share the experience with others, theaters remained the sole standard of film intake. The same cannot be said in recent years. 

Recent developments in film distribution have impacted the popularity of theaters as the default way to experience new movies. More options that allow viewers to watch films from home have become more popular, such as streaming services and video-on-demand. 

The first major shift in film distribution came from the rise of streaming services, such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime. Viewers could not only watch popular titles at home after the initial distribution in theaters, but also original programming exclusive to certain services. This was the case for  shows such as Game of Thrones and Stranger Things, which attracted viewers to subscribe to HBO and Netflix, respectively.  

Movie theaters were further impacted during the pandemic. In 2020, COVID-19 forced theaters to close and studios to delay several highly anticipated blockbusters by several months or even a full year. These included movies such as Spider-Man: No Way Home and Avatar: The Way of Water. An inflation surge in mid-2021 increased the prices of many commodities, movie tickets included. According to The New York Times, the average ticket price in 2023 was $11.93, compared to $6.88 in 2007. However, the ticket doesn’t account for concession prices, such as a small popcorn, costing approximately $10 at AMC. 

The prices of concessions aren’t a decision solely decided upon by theaters, instead determined by their relationship with film studios. I interviewed Erin Zimmerman, an LA-based producer who had worked for Missouri-based B&B Theatres, who provided insights into theaters and their relationships with movie studios. She noted that ticket sales go almost entirely to studios, with theaters mainly making their money from concessions. Whether a theater chain can even get a film depends on following specific mandates from studios so they can keep receiving new movies.

“A studio will say, ‘If you want this film, you need to play it on 72 screens the first week… and even if people don’t buy tickets, you still have to play it,’” Zimmerman said. “DCPs–Digital Cinema Packages, or digital film files distributed to cinemas–track the screenings, so they know how many times you’ve played the film, or whether you’re playing it at all.”

Five Mason students, all passionate film fans and some even studying film, also gave feedback on the current state of movie theaters. All stated that the problems theaters are experiencing are because of Hollywood and their choice in film production.

“Hollywood has a big responsibility to produce things [people] want to see,” said senior Joel Alexander. “If something did well in the past, [they think] that means it will do well again. To some extent that’s true, but that mentality has gone overboard, and we’ve been getting uninteresting movies that are the same things we’ve seen before.”

Zimmerman echoed this idea, “Creative ideas are constantly pitched and studios keep trying again on formulas that they think will be blockbuster hits… It’s just a non-starter.”

Despite the high prices and lackluster variety of movies showing, many regular filmgoers view going to the cinemas as the definitive way to see a film. The theater has a certain intimacy and intensity that can’t be replicated.

“[The theater’s] atmosphere can add substantially to the experience,” said sophomore James Beggs. “There are countless movies that if I hadn’t seen in theaters, I wouldn’t have enjoyed it as much because that added so much to the experience.”

Despite streaming and video-on-demand viewings continuing in popularity, the nostalgia associated with theaters won’t allow them to be erased easily. It’s impossible to say whether theaters will fully die out, especially as their mortality depends on Hollywood business decisions. As long as audiences keep finding reasons to show up, they’ll live on.

Emma Schaible/Fourth Estate

BY SAM DOUGLAS, ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR

The Mason Board of Visitors Academic Programs, Diversity and University Community Committee met on Thursday, Feb. 13 in Merten Hall. At the meeting, Visitor Jeffrey A. Rosen proposed a resolution regarding anti-semtitism, which would impact University Policy Number 1201. 

The policy, adopted April 2006 and revised in August 2024, states, “George Mason University is committed to providing equal opportunity and an educational and work environment free from any discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, ethnic national origin (including shared ancestry and/or ethnic characteristics), sex, disability, military status (including veteran status), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital status, pregnancy status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.”

The August 2024 revision added the working definition and examples of anti-semitism from the  International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA). It directs Mason’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) office to utilize it “to the extent that they might be useful as evidence of discriminatory intent.”

Rosen’s resolution would direct Mason to publish a fact sheet on IHRA and provide it to all students and faculty. It would call for discrimination against Zionism to be in violation of Policy 1201 and direct Mason to “refrain from sponsoring or endorsing any organization, event, or other activity whose position or posture is anti-semitic under the IHRA definition.”

The proposed resolution sparked backlash, both from the meeting’s audience and online.

The @gmu4palestine Instagram account released a statement before the meeting, “These examples actively work to target student groups fighting for the complete and total liberation of Palestine,” garnering 429 likes in five days.

“Board of Supervisors, all of you make me sick as a former Mason student for even introducing this resolution, this anti-Palestinian, anti-Arab, islamophobic, racist resolution,” one attendee said, before being escorted out by campus security.

“Why are you using my Jewish identity to repress democratic freedoms?” another attendee asked, before also being removed from the room.

Provost and Executive Vice President Jim Antony said that he feels that the university is currently doing a good job addressing discrimination.“Our commitment to actively addressing anti-seminism is unequivocal,” Antony said.

“There have been some high visibility episodes [of anti-semitism] on our campus I regret. The administration has responded forcefully to those, but the fact that they occurred at all is a disappointing reality,” Visitor Rosen said, adding that he was concerned about the conflation between anti-Zionism and anti-semitism.

“Criticism of Zionism is not precluded,” Rosen said. “What is precluded is using that in a harassing or intimidating manner as a proxy.”

Graduate Student Representative Carolyn Faith Hoffman believed the resolution infringes on freedom of speech and questioned if the university had made individual proposals for other minority groups, stating, “While I agree with the widespread education of anti-semitism, I do not believe IHRA and this resolution to be the best, most unbiased sources of education regarding anti-semitism, the Jewish experience, as well as the Palestinian experience.”

Faculty Senate Chair Solon Simmons, Vice President of DEI and Chief Diversity Officer Sharnnia Artis and Faculty Representative Melissa Broeckelman-Post also expressed concerns about the wording of the resolution during the meeting.

The resolution will be further discussed at the next Board of Visitors meeting on Thursday, Feb. 27 in Merten Hall.

Emma Schaible/Fourth Estate

BY TYLER MANDELL, STAFF WRITER

As a man in my early twenties, it was terrifying when I realized I was balding. I only noticed a little over a year ago, after I saw a bad photo exposing a bald spot at the top of my head. Afterwards, hair loss became a huge insecurity for me.

Male hair loss follows a typical process, called ‘male pattern baldness’ (MPB). It begins with the hair follicles on the temples gradually thinning, then losing density, and finally becoming entirely bald. The same pattern occurs at the crown of the head.

MPB can start as early as one’s teens, typically starting much later. Male pattern baldness occurs in 16% of ages 18-29, 30% of ages 30-39, 50% of ages 40-49, and 80% of ages 70-79, according to HairScience.

The New York Times reported that MPB comes from “an increase in an enzyme in the scalp that converts testosterone to a more potent form, called dihydrotestosterone (DHT).” Yet, dermatologists aren’t certain why some men have more DHT, but it’s believed to come from genetics and hormones. Balding starts at the temples and crown because they have increased activity levels of DHT.

The New York Times noted that dermatologists typically recommend the medications finasteride—under brands like Propecia and Proscar—and minoxidil—under brands like Rogaine and Loniten. Both complement each other as the finasteride counteracts the enzyme response for DHT, whereas minoxidil encourages hair regrowth. More drastic and expensive secondary treatments include hair transplant surgery or low-level laser light therapy.

While MPB has a process, individuals going through it don’t. Three men, from an online community about managing hair loss, shared their stories: Brett, 22, from Texas, Matt, 27, from England, and Martyn, 20, from Germany. Each began losing hair around their late teens; all believing their family genealogy was responsible.

Brett recalled his high school friends outlining his tall hairline with dry-erase markers. Martyn quickly started wearing more hats, and Matt noticed it at a barbershop.

Brett and Martyn looked into trying new medications. However, Matt embraced baldness and shaved. Being done with schooling, he didn’t feel any peer pressure impacting his decision.

“I think it’s the stage of life you’re at, especially when you’re younger. There’s more social pressure in school, but then when you go into the world of work… I think that [pressure] drops,” said Matt. “There’d be quite a difference if I shaved at 21 compared to after I left university.”

The other two, obviously felt that social pressure. While Martyn’s hair loss stopped completely by 18 using finasteride, Brett couldn’t find anything that worked and eventually embraced baldness.

“I just wanted to be in a static state,” Brett said. “Commitment was hard because I still wore a hat for two months, and that [first walk while bald] was so scary.”

As Brett, Martyn and Matt adjusted to their new looks and routines, they felt happier and more confident after moving past such insecurities.

“Your hair is only one part of who you are. If you’re balding, just put more energy elsewhere,” Matt said. “Dress better, grow a beard, get tattoos… As I get older, I realize that my confidence links to how I feel, not my looks.”

Brett echoed, “[Balding is] a time to experiment. Do something different because you’re losing your hair and aesthetic. Try on new clothes, see what other physical traits you can also identify with… You get more in touch with yourself when you can’t control your appearance… It’s made me more three-dimensional than before.”

As someone that experienced the same sentiments as Brett, Martyn and Matt, I found interviewing them to be a healing process. To know I’m not at all alone in my insecurities made me less ashamed of hair loss. As of today, I’m much happier with my hair after using minoxidil and finasteride. The bald spot that sparked my initial research into hair growth is almost completely filled in. However, I also understand now that my hair is just a small part of who I am. It doesn’t define anyone’s worth, and it shouldn’t stop you from being yourself.

Mitchell Richtmyre/Fourth Estate

The Patriots fought back from a 16-point deficit to defeat the St. Joseph’s University Hawks on Saturday, Feb. 15, 58-57. The win extended the team’s streak to 11 games and improved its conference record to 12-1 and overall record to 21-5. 

Senior forward Jaylen Haynes led the way with a game-high 22 points and eight rebounds, while senior guard K.D. Johnson scored nine crucial points to help complete the comeback. Senior guard Jared Billups contributed five steals on the defensive end. 

Mason erased St. Joseph’s 16-point lead with a 17-0 run. At the start of the second half, the Patriots found their offensive spark through Haynes, who scored 12 of 17 points during the run. 

“This team is really talented,” Haynes said after the win. “Tonight was my night, but anyone on our team can have a good game.”

The 11-game win streak, the third longest active streak in the nation, is beginning to garner national attention. This past week, Mason received votes in the AP Top 25 Poll, a weekly ranking released by the Associated Press which ranks the top 25 teams in the country. Although they did not make the top 25, their inclusion in the voting process shows that analysts across the nation are recognizing Mason’s historic performance and believe the team deserves a place on the national stage.

The Patriots’ win also means they stay atop the A-10 conference for another week, ahead of a crucial matchup in Richmond against state rival Virginia Commonwealth University. The Rams are behind the Patriots in the standings with a 10-2 record in conference play. This means the winner of next week’s game could have major implications for both teams vying for the A-10 regular season championship.

“I respect VCU. I think it’s a hell of a program, but we’re going to get on that bus and take that two-hour ride with the same mindset: it’s just another game,” said Patriots Head Coach Tony Skinn.

The Patriots head to Richmond to face the Rams on Saturday, Feb. 22, with tipoff at 4 p.m. The game will be nationally televised on USA Network as Mason looks to extend its win-streak to 12.

Emma Schaible/Fourth Estate

BY BARRETT BALZER, NEWS EDITOR

February is Black History Month, which celebrates and highlights African Americans’ societal impact, struggles and triumphs. Various Resident Student Organizations celebrate Black History Month around or on Feb.1, posting an Instagram post to commemorate. Recently, the Mason Student Government (MSG) received backlash over a delayed upload of such a post.  

On Feb. 7, MSG released an Instagram statement that said, “We honor the painful history of slavery and systemic racism and celebrate the many outstanding achievements and pivotal contributions that Black people have made to society and culture today.” 

Four days before the statement, MSG shared their first February post to announce their new partnership with the First-Gen+ Center. The video featured Student Body President Maria Cuesta discussing how first-generation students can become informed and involved in the Mason community through the “How to Navigate College Guide.” 

A second post, two days later on Feb. 5, spoke on “institutional neutrality.” The post recounted a new policy adopted by Mason on Dec. 5th. The policy states that the office of the president and other high standing offices within the university may only deliver statements to the general public that remain neutral. MSG uses a quote from this policy in their post, “[“The Kalven Report”] advises that universities, which represent a wide array of diverse viewpoints, do not falsely represent their community by making political statements.” 

Within the comment section of the post, around 97 users commented, “Happy Black History Month.”  

“Choosing “neutrality” as opposed to taking a stand against fascism, discrimination, and prejudice IS choosing a side [by the way],” one commenter shared. 

After MSG posted their Black History Month statement on Feb. 7, President Cuesta published an official statement to the cuestamcaulaygmu Instagram account. “It’s February 7th – one week into Black History Month – and our organization, which claims to represent the most diverse student body in Virginia, has failed to properly use both its social media and advocacy platform to honor, celebrate, and uplift George Mason’s Black student community,” said Cuesta. 

Cuesta said that by posting about institutional neutrality instead of Black History Month, “we failed to acknowledge the broader context of our political climate and the significance of Black History Month. It was harmful and there was no excuse for it.” 

Cuesta also expressed regret by not attending a Black student-led presentation due to the decision of attending a dinner with President Washington. “But being the student body president means advocating for all members of the Mason community, and I recognize the harm that was caused as a result of my absence at last night’s Cabinet meeting,” the statement read. 

Emma Schaible/Fourth Estate

BY JAMIE GHOLSON, CULTURE EDITOR

As the clock struck zero signifying the beginning of a new year, people cheered around LA’s famous “Smoking Deaths” billboard. The number of people on the board who died from smoking in 2024 was set back to zero. According to the CDC, 480,000 Americans die due to smoking each year. 

In the Generation Z era, electronic cigarettes, or vapes, have emerged as one of the most pressing public health issues in today’s society. Advertised to be a safer alternative to smoking cigarettes, vaping has infested millions of lives, especially teenagers, to what can only be reported as one of the major public health crises of our generation. The statistics are outrageous, the consequences are drastic, and the need for action has reached an all-time high. 

According to Steven Zauderer from Cross River Therapy, 1 in 20 Americans vape with the teenager e-cigarette consumption rate increasing by 1,800% over the last year. Over 2.14 million high school students and 380,000 middle schoolers have reported using e-cigarettes. This is an alarming epidemic that takes advantage of younger generations. 

In 2021, there were 55 million e-cigarette users worldwide. Statista reported that companies in the United States alone generated $8.827 million in revenue in 2024. 

What makes vaping so dangerous is the nicotine found inside and the health consequences as a result of smoking nicotine. According to NIH, at 200 puffs, 14.4-32.8 mg of nicotine per pod is equivalent to smoking 13-30 cigarettes. Vapes can cause strong dependencies in newly developing brains, making it harder for younger individuals to have the ability to stop and potentially leading to a lifelong path of dependency and addiction.

However, the risks are beyond just the usage of addiction. Since the introduction of e-cigarettes in the United States in 2006, the health issues involved in vaping include asthma, lung scarring, organ damage, cancer, inflammation in the lungs, and a condition known as EVALI (E-cigarette or Vaping Use-Associated Lung Injury). 

EVALI is a serious lung condition that causes extensive damage to an individual’s lungs causing symptoms like shortness of breath, coughing, chest pain, and, in some cases, can be fatal. 

One of the most concerning aspects of e-cigarettes is the interest from younger demographics. The marketing for these products includes innovative designs, fruity flavors, and alluding to people that vaping is harmless. 

Social media platforms are trying to normalize e-cigarette usage, enhancing its appeal and submerging it into youth culture, trying to make it seem ‘cool.’ The result of this innocuous marketing damages young adults with illness and a lifelong addiction. 

Policymakers need to enforce more regulations on e-cigarette advertisements, particularly those targeting minors. 

While local communities and schools educate students on the harmful consequences of smoking nicotine and chewing tobacco, they aren’t doing an extensive job of it. After all, millions of high schoolers and middle schoolers vape. 

It’s not about individual choice but rather the need for societal change and a collective call to action from the public. Allowing this health epidemic to carry on unchecked should not be an option. We owe it to younger generations to provide a future without risk for their health. 

Mary Demarco/Fourth Estate

BY MARY DEMARCO, OPINION EDITOR

Hello Fourth Estate readers, 

My name is Mary “MJ” Demarco, and I am the opinion editor for this semester! I am a sophomore at Mason, majoring in Communications with a focus in Journalism. While I have only been working with Fourth Estate for about a year and a half, I have extensive experience in the journalism world. 

As a freshman in high school, I joined my school’s newspaper and later became editor-in-chief. I had the opportunity to interview local politicians, such as Indiana state Sen. J.D. Ford, as well as high-profile figures like former Vice President Mike Pence.

Last semester, Fourth Estate’s opinion section featured wonderful stories written by talented writers. The stories ranged from study tips and television to food reviews and campus pollution. 

This semester, I aim to expand our team of writers for the opinion section. Have a different perspective on Mason’s decisions regarding campus life? Write for the opinion section! Have a strong view on major current events? Share your opinion! Have a hot take on pop culture? The opinion section is for you. 

While traditional journalism requires writers to maintain objectivity, the opinion section encourages the opposite. The opinion section gives students a platform to express themselves freely.

Write about what makes you angry, what brings you joy beyond measure, and what confuses you. I look forward to an invigorating semester where I have the gift of hearing from so many student voices.

Use your right to free speech to the fullest! 

Mary J. Demarco 

mdemarc@gmu.edu 

Mitchell Richtmyre/Fourth Estate

BY CHRISTIAN SEGOVIA, SPORTS EDITOR 

On Feb. 12, Mason women’s basketball reached its longest win streak in program history after defeating the Rhode Island Rams, 56-44. 

With this victory, both Men’s and Women’s Basketball teams have a total of 42 wins–the most wins at the Division 1 level. 

Graduate student Nalani Kaysia contributed six points and 10 rebounds. With her first rebound against Rhode Island, she became the first Patriot to record 500+ rebounds and 500+ kills at Division 1 level playing basketball and volleyball. 

Senior guard Paula Suárez led the way with 17 points, shooting 8 of 13, along with five assists and five rebounds. Redshirt Sophomore Zahirah Walton added 12 points, getting four in each of the following stats: rebounds, assists and steals. 

Walton scored eight of Mason’s 17 points in the first quarter. “I noticed that they’re sagging,” she said of her early performance. “I was just thinking, like, let me shoot this full confidence because I know I worked on this.”

Suárez scored six of Mason’s 16 points in the fourth quarter, scoring through a mix of layups, mid-range jumpers, and post-fadeaways. “Just trying to stay confident with the shots I take,” Suárez said about her approach. “Some contested shots were engraved, just like mentality of like onto the next play, that doesn’t happen, it doesn’t matter what happened.

Heading into the Rhode Island game, the Patriots had helped opponents to an average of 6.25 second-quarter points in their previous four games. Rhode Island outscored Mason 14-8 in the second quarter, raising that average to 7.8 points per game.

Despite shooting 21-of-52 (40.4%) and 5-of-19 (26.3%) from the three-point line, the Patriots’ defensive efforts secured their win against Rhode Island. They held Rhode Island to 17-of-58 (29.3%) from the field and 4-of-19 (21.1%) from the three-point line while forcing 15 turnovers, blocking eight shots, and recording eight steals as a team. 

“We do a lot of scouting and put a lot of responsibility on the girls to make sure they know exactly what is asked of them,” Mason Head Coach Vanessa Blair-Lewis said on the team’s defensive approach. “If we’re not scoring, they’re not scoring.” 

Junior forward Nekhu Mitchell has averaged 19.4 minutes, 6.4 points, 1.6 rebounds, and 2.4 steals per game over the last five games. As a result, Coach Lewis increased Mitchell’s minutes leaning on her defensive impact.

“She has always been a really good player that could play defense,” Coach Lewis on Mitchell’s defense. “Tonight, she wanted to guard one of the best players on the team, and it’s different when you put someone on versus one guard. And tonight she had that lock-in mentality.”

The Patriots look to get their 11th win of the season against the University of Massachusetts at Eaglebank Arena on Feb. 16.  Student tickets are available on Mason360. Tip-off is set for 3 p.m. and will be broadcast on MASN. 

(Photo Courtesy of Stephanie Kanowitz)

BY VIVIANA SMITH, SENIOR STAFF WRITER

Fitness is one of the main pillars of a healthy lifestyle, alongside balanced nutrition and 7 to 8 hours of sleep. According to Harvard Health, regular exercise lowers the risk of long-term health issues, including heart disease, stroke, and various types of cancer. Though we know exercise is important, many struggle to fit in  daily workouts due to physical or motivational barriers. 

However, some people’s jobs allow them to help others overcome barriers and make room for personal growth. One group fitness instructor has dedicated her career to doing just that for her cycling students.

Stephanie Kanowitz has been motivating students for 16 years. She shared that she was inspired by her own cycling instructor at a Gold’s Gym in Ballston. “One day, I just kind of said to myself, ‘I could probably do this’,” Kanowitz said with a chuckle. 

She asked her instructor about becoming certified, which turned out to be easier than she expected. Though the process requires continuous commitment with bi-annual recertification, she says she found the initial steps simple. After completing a few classes through the Athletics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA) and getting her CPR and AED certifications, Kanowitz was ready to lead. 

Kanowitz started instructing in Arlington and D.C. for about two and a half years before joining to Mason in 2011.

Kanowitz wasn’t initially nervous about instructing, she shared, but stage fright crept in  on her as all eyes were focused on her at the front of the class. Instead of letting fear take over, she reminded herself that everyone in the gym experiences some level of self-consciousness. She explained that easing others’ fear of judgment helped put her own at rest.

A typical day of instruction for Kanowitz begins with class prep, which either occurs the day before or the day of. She builds her workout routine around a playlist, tailoring exercises to match the mood or theme of the ride. “If [the theme] is a little bit alternative, I’ll look for something with a little bit of anger in it to get somebody riled up and ready to sprint,” Kanowitz said. 

“I’ll try to find something that has a little bit of an inspirational message to it to encourage people to keep going,” she added. “Just things like that.”

Usually arriving 15 minutes early, Kanowitz sets up the class to make it comfortable and inviting. She turns on the fans to beat the inevitable workout heat, turns on some hyped-up tunes and plays with the LED lights to create an exciting vibe. With her cycling shoes on, water bottle filled, and microphone pack secured, she channels her passion for fitness to power through the workout. 

Kanowitz enjoys seeing new and returning students walk through the classroom doors. “I’m just happy to see when people are making a commitment to their fitness and being healthy, especially when trying something new,” she said. “I hope to pass along some of my own excitement about [cycling] to new people.”

Students have come into class not feeling their best but leave feeling refreshed once they’ve sweat out all their worries, Kanowitz shared. “It makes me feel really happy for them, and I feel a bit proud that I was able to make their day a little bit better.” 

Outside of class, Kanowitz remains committed to her own fitness and health journey by cycling in her own time, tuning into classes and routines through Peloton and passing on fitness techniques to her two kids. She describes exercise as her personal “therapy.”

Kanowitz said she learns a lot from taking other classes, such as how to choose the appropriate workout music or cueing participants. “I’ve tried to pick up on some of the things from Peloton that I personally enjoy or find inspiring…and I try to use that in class.”

Instructors like Kanowitz can help motivate others to move their body regardless of their skill set. For those who aspire to be fitness instructors, she advises relying on their charismatic personality and helpful nature–and having a good ear for music is a plus, too!

By day, Kanowitz is a freelance journalist. But in the gym, she shares her passion for fitness, proving that her dedication extends far beyond the newsroom.

Viviana Smith/Fourth Estate

On Dec. 12, the 10th anniversary of The Game Awards (TGA) was hosted at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, CA. Canadian video game journalist, Geoff Keighley hosted the event. 

TGA was streamed on multiple platforms, including Twitch, YouTube and the TGA website. The gaming community was buzzing with excitement over the award show, with multiple creators hosting their own watch parties, including IGN. 

Besides game developers and gaming influencers, the crowd was thrilled by major appearances such as “The Father of the Playstation,” Ken Kutaragi, American actor Harrison Ford, and Muppet duo Stalter and Waldorf, who teased the host at the beginning of the show. 

The night was filled with entertaining musical performances from the TGA orchestra, Twenty One Pilots, D4VD, Royal & The Serpent and Snoop Dogg.

Between each award, the audience was presented with the world premieres for upcoming games expected to be released in 2025. 

During the main award show, 19 awards were announced. 

Actress Melina Juergens won “Best Performance” for her work in Senua’s Sage: Hellblade II,  developed by Ninja Theory. Juergens gave thanks to the studio, staff, crew, TGA, and most importantly, the fans. This makes for Juergens’ second win in the category, with her first win being at the 2017 TGA. 

“Best Action Game” went to Black Myth: Wukong by Game Science. “A heartfelt ‘thank you’ to every player…Our game isn’t hard at all, it is perfect for players new to action games,”  game designer and director Baicun Jiang said with the help of a translator. 

Amir Satvat received a standing ovation from the audience as he went on stage to accept the “TGA Game Changer” award, the first of its kind. Satvat is the founder of Amir Satvat’s Gaming Community, a free online resource to assist prospective game makers in finding jobs in the industry. 

“I love video games with all my heart,” said Satvat. Satvat spoke about his journey from a young, hopeful boy who dreamed of being in the industry to making a large and unexpected impact on the future of games. “To all game makers everywhere, you are seen and treasured, and our community will always be there to help you.” 

Afterward, “Most Anticipated Game” was awarded to GTA IV with little surprise. Next, Keighley announced the winners in three categories: Helldivers II received “Best Multiplayer,” Baldur’s Gate III won “Best Community Support” and “Best Art Direction” went to Metaphor: ReFantazio. 

“Best Debut Indie Game” was awarded to Balatro by developer LocalThunk. The games’ publisher, Playstack, accepted on behalf of the developer. PR manager Wouter Van Halderen and Marketing Manager Liz Cheng-Moore accepted the award with a Balataro jester plush in hand. 

“Best Action/Adventure Game” went to Astro Bot, Metaphor: ReFantazio won “Best RPG,” “Best Sports/Racing Game” went to EA Sports FC 25, “Best Simulation/Strategy Game” was won by Frostpunk 2 and “Content Creator of the Year” went to streamer and gamer CaseOh. Case Baker, who goes by the alias “CaseOh,” shouted with confusion and excitement during a stream as Keighley announced his win. 

Snoop Dogg announced the “Best Ongoing Game” award, which went to Helldivers II, securing its second win of the night. 

“Best Adaptation” was awarded to the 2024 series “Fallout.” Game Director Todd Howard accepted the award on stage alongside Director Jonathan Nolan and actress Ella Purnell, who stars as the main character “Lucy MacLean” in the series.

“I can’t believe [Fallout] beat ‘Arcane’,” American YouTuber Charles White Jr., also known as “Cr1TiKaL” or “MoistCr1TiKaL,” said on stream. 

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth won “Best Score and Music.” Director and video game programmer Naoki Hamaguchi accepted the award onstage. “This is my very first time attending the Game Awards today, and I am so honored and pleased to receive this award,” Hamaguchi said with the help of a translator. 

Senua’s Sage: Hellblade II won “Best Audio Design,” while Black Myth: Wukong won “Players’ Voice.” Balatro won two more awards by 10:30 p.m., snagging “Best Independent Game” and “Best Mobile Game.”

The award for “Best Narrative” went to Metaphor: ReFantazio, securing another win later in the night. Katsura Hashino accepted the award on stage, giving thanks to the studio, the audience, and TGA. “I think storytelling is a really important part of games…knowing that we’ve been honored here in this way today is really honoring,” translated Hashino’s interpreter. 

At 11 p.m., the long-awaited announcement for “Game of the Year” was here. As the audience anxiously waited, the TGA orchestra built up suspense for the award with an epic medley featuring music from the nominated games. 

The PS5-exclusive Astro Bot took home the award, with a tearful yet joyful team proudly collecting the trophy. Art Director Sebastian Brueckner gave a heartfelt speech, thanking TeamASOBI and other key studio staff members. “It’s amazing, and we’ll see you again,” Brueckner said.

“More than anything, I hope tonight made you believe the future of our medium is brighter and greater than ever,” Keighley said, wrapping up the award-filled night. 

A full list of the winners and nominees can be viewed on the TGA website.

Nawaal Nackerdien/Fourth Estate

BY BARRETT BALZER, NEWS EDITOR AND SAM DOUGLAS, NEWS ASSISTANT

Barrett Balzer/ Fourth Estate

Salutations! 

My name is Barrett Balzer, and I am thrilled to be your News Editor for the Spring 2025 semester! I am a Political Communication major with a concentration in Political Journalism in my second year here at Mason.

What is the news? News is a recent story, political or nonpolitical. It can be televised, sent as notifications from our phones, or read in print or online. Most importantly, news is the collection of noteworthy events that happened yesterday, today and tomorrow. 

If you have an idea for a story, I want to hear it. What may seem like a bad idea could be the one that shapes a career–so don’t hesitate to pitch it! In my first semester at Mason, three fellow students and I found a topic, reported it, wrote it, and published it. A year and a half later, I am incredibly grateful for that experience, which strengthened my love for journalism. 

As news editor, I promise to ensure stories are published in a timely, accurate and relevant manner, keeping up with the week’s current events. 

Thank you for this opportunity. I am excited to work not only with the editorial staff but also with student writers. I look forward to watching the next generation of journalists flourish within Fourth Estate. 

Write on!

Barrett Balzer

bbalzer@gmu.edu 

Sam Douglas/Fourth Estate

My name is Sam Douglas, and I am happy to serve the Mason body as the assistant news editor for the Spring 2025 semester. I am a freshman majoring in Communication with a concentration in Journalism. I gained editorial experience from my high school newspaper and became a staff writer for Fourth Estate last semester. 

While faith in the news around the country wavers, I am committed to building trust between Fourth Estate and the Mason community. There are important things happening all over campus and the world, and I pledge to give the student body of 40,449+ patriots the unbiased and informative news coverage they deserve.

I hope to cover a wide variety of events, and topics in the news section this semester, no matter how big or small. If you desire to write or want to get involved with Fourth Estate and the Mason community, please reach out! No matter your experience, there is a place for your unique perspective in the news section at Fourth Estate.

Sam Douglas

sdougl4@gmu.edu 

Lamia Gamil/Fourth Estate

BY LAMIA GAMIL, STAFF WRITER

To the ones who found love, to the ones still searching for love, and to the ones whose love comes from within, light a candle and bring chocolate cake because love is calling for a celebration. 

Love is a binding energy. It is the shades of chocolate flakes, with a mix of sweet and bitter. Hardships are defeated by love because it fills our lives with beautiful memories and life lessons. It takes us to places we’ve never gone before. Made us touch the stars and also made us hit the ground. 

Sometimes, we find love in the air, and other times, love becomes air. Over time, it could vanish entirely. Whichever state, love is always young and mirthful. It is forever present. Despite this, from time to time, we lose track on the way. Before one knows it, their heart falls in love again, ready for whatever it entails .

Humanity is centered around love because it gives purpose. We can love a person, a pet, or life. The love of the creator should suffice, but we can, above all else, love love.

Love is not limited to anything. It is the most beautiful feeling that answers the most existential questions: What is the purpose of life? What are we living for? Love is a force that loves itself. It goes back 8000 years ago when the Proto-Indo-European definition of love meant “care.” Since the creation of humanity, caring for another has kept love alive.

Love is not conditional. Without care, humans will be subject to decay. As Margaret Mead puts , “Never believe that a few caring people can’t change the world. For indeed, that’s all who ever have.” That’s why love has no defined form or shape. Because every time love strikes us with the most alluring free-spirited portrayal of itself it depicts beauty in every sense there is. 

Happy Valentine’s Day! 

Fourth Estate/Emma Schaible

BY KATIE KOHLER, STAFF WRITER

Mason celebrated its Spring 2025 homecoming with a week full of festivities, community service and school spirit. The annual tradition,  running from Jan. 31 to Feb. 8, brought together students, alumni, faculty and the Mason community.

The week started with a lip-sync battle presented by the Patriot Activities Council, everyone who attended received a free Homecoming 2025 shirt. Banditos Tacos and Tequila, a Mexican restaurant in University Mall, hosted Taco Tuesday Trivia on Feb. 4. A Day of Service followed on Wednesday. Student volunteers helped prepare food boxes for the Patriot Pantry and Food for Others, two local organizations dedicated to fighting food insecurity. On Thursday, Saturday Night Live star Sarah Sherman headlined this year’s homecoming comedy show.

Students, alumni and fans all gathered in Lot L for the Homecoming Tailgate on Saturday ahead of the men’s basketball game. Registered Student Organizations (RSOs), fraternities and sororities set up tents where members were able to reconnect with alumni. 

Mason Athletics, Student Involvement and Alumni Relations also hosted booths with backyard games such as basketball, Jenga Giant and corn hole, where participants received Mason-themed prizes and spirit wear. Everyone enjoyed an afternoon filled with food, music and a basketball game to top it off. 

Many attendees brought grills to cook hamburgers and hotdogs and passed them out to people walking by. Laughter and conversation filled the air as students, alumni and faculty bonded over their shared Mason pride. 

Fourth Estate/Katie Kohler

The Green Machine drumline welcomed guests as they arrived at the tailgate festivities. The Patriot mascot also joined the festivities as he made his way through the lot, stopping for photos and dancing with fans. 

The week ended with a victory from the men’s basketball team on Feb. 8. The Mason Patriots played against the University of Rhode Island Rams and secured their ninth consecutive win. A sea of green and gold filled the EagleBank Arena as Mason Nation cheered on the men’s team. The Patriots took an early lead in the first quarter and maintained it for the rest of the game with senior guard Darius Maddox leading the team with a career-high 24 points 

At halftime, men’s basketball alumni were recognized, along with current head coach Tony Skinn. In the second half, the Patriots strengthened their defense, preventing the Rams from closing the gap and extending their lead. The game ended with a final score of 82-67. Fourth Estate will continue to cover the Patriots win-streak, match by match, in the sports section located here. 

Homecoming 2025 united the Mason community through a week of events, school spirit and a thrilling basketball win, making it a homecoming to remember.

Emma Schaible/Fourth Estate

BY EMMA SCHAIBLE, SOCIAL MEDIA AND GRAPHICS EDITOR

The Center for the Arts welcomes a current Saturday Night Live (SNL) cast member and comedy actress, Sarah Sherman, to continue the tradition of spring comedy headliners. Sherman shared how excited she was to perform at Mason, while being so close to Washington, DC. 

Sherman’s show began with around ten minutes of disclaimers, in which she was distracted by the crowd’s antics before she introduced her opener, Jack Bensinger, a comedian from Stephen Colbert’s show Tooning out the News. 

Bensinger started by admitting, “I did grow up around here.” Then proceeded on a long rant to prove he’s truly from Brooklyn. Bensinger spoke on wanting to “change the world” and gave the audience a few ways in which he plans to do so.

Emma Schaible/Fourth Estate

For the main act, Sherman took the stage. Sherman’s jokes centered around the college experience, such as exploring your sexuality, city bikes and voting. Audience interaction was a key feature throughout the three main bits of Sherman’s show. 

The first bit highlighted the late-comers arriving at the show in a tardy manner. Ever felt embarrassed walking into a performance late? Well, imagine if the performer called you out on it. For about three groups that walked in late, Sherman got a spotlight on them and asked them why they were late. She used this as an opportunity to lean into college stereotypes such as overloading homework and getting high with your roommate in a Rick and Morty t-shirt. 

Sherman’s second bit poked at the CRIM major at Mason. What started with “ate and left no crumbs” led her to ask about the misunderstood “CRUMBS” major. Two front row members told Sherman that it was actually a criminology major, more commonly known on campus as “CRIMS.” The bit continued with Sherman asking about other majors at Mason, making quips about the importance and social significance that they would have in the future. 

Sherman’s final bit was about a nurse watching from the audience. This was Sherman’s longest bit of the night, as she spent time describing her symptoms, looking for a diagnosis. She acted out an interaction she has with her boyfriend on a regular basis. Sherman would  come home upset and her boyfriend would have to ask again and again what was wrong. Sherman then went on a tangent where she impersonated her father, suggesting that he was left unsatisfied by her career choices. 

To close out the show, Sherman welcomed five Mason students on stage to cold read two rejected SNL sketches. One written by her and the second by Bensinger. “Study Abroad” was the first sketch. Five college students greet their friend who has just returned from a slippery study abroad program. But in reality, it was just a cover-up to avoid sharing an embarrassing bathroom story. 

The second cold read was unnamed, as Bensinger claimed he was “forced to write against his will” when applying to work at SNL. The sketch was about support groups for regular people with celebrity names, but with one imposter. 

Even walking out of the show, the crowd was buzzing with predictions on who next year’s comedy headliner will be. This is now the second year with an SNL cast member. Last year, on Jan. 24 2024, Mason announced Marcello Hernandez as its spring comedy headliner. Spring 2026 headliner possibilities seem endless. 

Viviana Smith/Fourth Estate

BY VIVIANA SMITH, SENIOR STAFF WRITER

Climbing up the ladder is something most of us expect our next few years to be like. As we start from the bottom, possibly as an intern or a low-level assistant, we can hope that our next moves carry us up the corporate ladder until we sit in the high seat with “the big dogs.”

But what happens when we make it there and we realize that’s not where we truly want to be? 

In 2022, I joined Fourth Estate as a staff writer. As a writer at heart, I was excited to get my hands on anything I could write. I jumped on opportunities like they were mine alone and hoped to shine through the rest of the writers, impressing those above me. When I spoke to the editor-in-chief at the time, I only hoped I could one day fill his shoes. 

The following fall semester, I was asked to be the news editor. I was ecstatic to know I was moving up the ranks and being recognized for the work I put in. Although I ran into some bumps here and there, I continued moving forward, giving my position everything I had. I eventually moved up once more to managing editor. 

After serving in that role, which felt like being vice-president, I knew there was only one more position to aim for: editor-in-chief. When my peers elected me, alongside my colleague and good friend Gabe, I felt like I had finally made it; however, something felt off. I was running out of fuel. Coupled with personal stressors and being a college student, the role of editor-in-chief was a lot to bear. 

“I wanted this,” I thought. “This is all I’ve been aiming for.” 

“Where do I go from here?”

The answer for me was to go back. Going back to what I knew and where I began. Though it was the peak of my leadership experience, I realized that my team needed a leader who had a lot of mental strength to continue their growth. 

As the saying goes, “you can’t pour from an empty cup.” I had to make a decision to allow those around me to grow. I didn’t want to feel like a captain that goes down with the ship– that’s not fair to my crew.

As I stepped down from the role I had strived for, there was emptiness in my heart. I had worked so hard to trudge up the mountain of success only to turn back around and sprint to the beginning. That’s when the imposter syndrome crept up, telling me, “you’re a quitter,” or “you didn’t deserve that position in the first place.” Silencing the voice was hard, especially in the quiet weeks during break with no stories to follow. 

However, when the voice quieted, I realized that this wasn’t the end, rather the beginning. 

In Genki Kawarmura’s international-bestseller novel, “If Cats Disappeared from the World,” a particular line stands out: “In order to gain something, you have to lose something.” This parable isn’t of the author’s mind, as I’m sure you have heard it before. Regardless of its origins, I felt inspired by this more so than ever. 

I lost my position (though I departed on my own volition), but I’ve gained much more. I’ve gained unique experiences that set me apart as a journalist. I’ve found my voice, made deep connections with my peers and community, learned a lot about the world, and helped many of our staff put their best foot forward and grow on their own. Most importantly, I realized that it’s okay to take a step back. 

In a world that values rising through the ranks over everything, also known as  hustle culture, I believe it’s more important to value your wellbeing. You can only ignore your body’s cries for relief as you silently burn yourself into exhaustion for so long. After a while you start to drag others down with you. As a leader, you have an undeniable responsibility to lift up those around you—but even professional bodybuilders have a max. You can only do so much heavy lifting before you’ve reached your limit. 

Instead of pushing your limits, sometimes it’s best to take a step back, reassess your path and try again. Going back does not mean you’re doing bad or that you’ve lost value. It means you’ve readjusted your sails in order to find the right direction. 

There’s no one-size-fits-all way of navigating life. Accomplishments or a lack thereof are not equivalent to personal worth. Just as spring makes room for new life, only for winter to wither it away, spring comes again to welcome in the new and beautiful once more. 

Madalyn Godfrey/Fourth Estate

BY DELAIAH IYOB, STAFF WRITER

Here at George Mason University, there are tons of free resources readily available. Here are three resources to start exploring with.

1.  Rosetta Stone

Would you like to be bilingual or multilingual? Maybe you have had dreams of becoming a polyglot or even a hyperpolyglot! Well, there’s good news for you. The language learning program Rosetta Stone is free for students via the Mason Library website.  

With Rosetta Stone you have access to learning over 25 different languages. Some of these include Urdu, Swahili, Turkish, etc. Don’t believe this? See for yourself! You can sign up via the University Library website. In the search bar above, look up “Rosetta Stone” and click the appropriate link to get started. 

 The current regular 12-month subscription for Rosetta Stone costs $13.99 per month, which means that non-students pay an annual fee of $167.88 per year.  

As for the cognitive benefits, learning a second language helps to improve academic performance, boost creativity, and strengthen memory according to a 2022 Cambridge University article. Moreover, learning another language will help you develop better communication skills and be more marketable to potential employers!  

2. Tutoring

Are you struggling to understand the content in one of your classes? Rest assured, there are tutors at Mason who can help you for free and available in just about every subject! To find a tutor for your specific class, visit https://gmu.edu.Then, in the search bar, type out the class subject and the word “tutoring.” For example, if you type “statistics tutoring” in the search engine, you will find the location and contact information for tutoring in statistics.  

Outside of Mason, tutoring costs may vary depending on the state. According to care.com, a private (college-level) tutor ranges from $20 to $110 per hour. On average, 12 one-hour tutoring sessions could cost about $65.00 per session. Luckily, with tutors at GMU, you do not have to worry about this!  

1. Therapy Services

Do you find yourself stressed, lonely, anxious or depressed? From the onslaught of exams, work and personal issues arising throughout the semester, it’s common to feel this way. Taking care of your mental health is important; however, therapy can be expensive.

Fortunately, students have access to counseling and various forms of therapy services free of charge through Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) . You can call “703-993-2380” or visit room 3129 inside the Student Union Building I (SUB I) to schedule an appointment to start individual therapy or even use other services such as psychiatry and their mind spa.

Once you have contacted CAPS, the process to get counseling is simple. The check in process should only take about 15 minutes. Visit their website for operating hours and more details to get the support you need.

Although the cost of therapy varies by state,  Forbes’s findings have discovered that psychotherapy costs an average of $150 per session. At this rate, 12 sessions would cost about $1,800. Thanks to CAPS, this fee would not apply to you while utilizing their services. 

Please take advantage of these helpful resources that Mason has to offer during your time here.

The Fourth Estate

BY VIVIANA SMITH, SENIOR STAFF WRITER

During the month of December, as Mason’s fall 2024 semester wrapped up, several monumental moments have landed Mason in a few large news stories. 

On Dec. 13, 2024, President Gregory Washington addressed the “investigation of felony destruction” and the November FBI-raid of two students home in an official statement. The statement included details of the investigation, the suspension of a registered student group and addressed campus safety concerns. “GMU Police had cause under University Policy 1132 to issue a criminal trespass notice, barring two George Mason students from physically entering university property,” reads the statement. “Additionally, under the student code of conduct, the university imposed an interim suspension on a registered student organization.”

“Our university life staff are keeping a close eye on conditions for your well-being, and are available to you when you need them. Whether you can see them or not, extensive protections are in place, working as they are intended to, maintaining the safe learning and living environment we cherish,” the statement reads. 

The entire statement can be viewed below. 

On Dec. 4, a statement was published by the faculty and staff for Justice in Palestine at Mason. The statement, addressed to President Washington, recounts the details of the raid Nov. 7 and calls for the reinstatement of the Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) chapter, revoking the trespass orders on the two students, returning their belongings and conducting a “full and independent investigation” on the decisions that led to the raid. The statement was signed by over 90 different organizations, including several SJP chapters around the commonwealth.  

After the fall semester ended, news broke of a Mason student linked to plotting a mass casualty attack. The student, a Mason freshman, is reported to be facing federal charges including, “distributing information related to explosives, destructive devices and weapons of mass destruction and the intent to murder internationally protected persons.” 

The FBI was alerted by the student’s behavior on social media. During an undercover investigation, an FBI informant communicated with the student who discussed further details of the plot, eventually leading to arrest. 

On Dec. 19, President Washington released another statement to provide an update on campus safety. “George Mason University continues to take enhanced precautions to maintain a safe and secure university community in light of the recent FBI arrest of one of its students,” reads the statement. 

The statement highlights that the arrest, which the university was made aware of on Dec. 17, is not tied to the Nov. 7 raid. “As criminal proceedings progress, the university will take appropriate action on student code of conduct violations.”

The statement cites the Patriot Plan for Community Safety and Well-Being to explain the safety measures the university expects to implement. This plan was first announced on Nov. 2, 2023, where President Washington addressed the “increased acts of violence and hostility toward members of the Jewish and Muslim communities.” The plan promises increased police presence, enhanced enforcement of codes of conduct, increased resources and “individual Compassionate Listening Sessions.”

The entire statement can be viewed below. 

There have been no official updates released regarding either arrests. 

Statement from President Gregory Washington published on Friday, Dec. 13, 2024. 

Editor’s note: President Washington’s statement can be viewed here, on the Office of the President website.

“Dear fellow Patriots:

As we approach the close of the fall semester, I want to put to rest concerns we have heard voiced on campus in recent weeks, as recent headlines and social media have left some worried about the safety of the George Mason University campus. In particular, a recent off-campus police action has left many alarmed. Unfortunately, the often-distortive nature of social media has made matters worse.

Last month an ongoing investigation of felony destruction of university property necessitated that a search warrant be executed at the off-campus home of two students. Among the findings, the search turned up sufficient amounts of weaponry and materials calling for violence against Americans and in particular Jews to warrant immediate precautionary action to maintain the safety of the university community.

Following the completion of the search, based on the evidence obtained and in furtherance of the investigation, GMU Police had cause under University Policy 1132 to issue a criminal trespass notice, barring two George Mason students from physically entering university property.

Additionally, under the student code of conduct, the university imposed an interim suspension on a registered student organization.

As the criminal investigation continues, the bottom line for you is this: You are safe here, and you belong here, no matter what community you identify with. Our police department and a number of other less visible security teams are looking out for you 24/7. Our university life staff are keeping a close eye on conditions for your well-being, and are available to you when you need them. Whether you can see them or not, extensive protections are in place, working as they are intended to, maintaining the safe learning and living environment we cherish.

I hope you are focused on three priorities now: final exams, commencement for those graduating, and a well-earned winter break. Those are what this time of year is really all about. 

Good luck on your finals, travel safely when you are done, and have a joyous, restful and restorative winter break. You’ve earned it, Patriots!

Sincerely,

Gregory Washington

President”

Statement from President Gregory Washington published on Thursday, Dec. 19, 2024. 

Editor’s note: President Washington’s statement can be viewed here, on the Office of the President website.

“Dear fellow Patriots:

I am writing to update you on a new situation we are managing relative to a student who was recently arrested by the FBI, as it has caused security concerns among some members of the community that I want to address.

George Mason University continues to take enhanced precautions to maintain a safe and secure university community in light of the recent FBI arrest of one of its students. The arrest, which the university learned of on Tuesday, December 17, so far appears to have no connection to an earlier police action involving two George Mason students whose home was searched in November.

Although the student did not live on campus, he has been barred from entering university property. As criminal proceedings progress, the university will take appropriate action on student code of conduct violations.

The recent developments have caused the university to take additional appropriate measures to maintain the safety of the university community. In addition to campus security measures first announced in November 2023 in the Patriot Plan for Campus Safety and Community Well-Being, the university has expanded its protective commitment on a number of fronts. Events like the two recent actions are proof that these systems are working as intended.

Enhanced law enforcement capacities – Robust law enforcement capacities are operational at George Mason, including the first fully equipped university SWAT team in Virginia.

Coordinated network of protection – George Mason University Police (GMUPD) maintains close ties with local, state, and federal law enforcement to enhance early detection, prevention, and when necessary, law enforcement actions. 

Student engagement – GMUPD officers are routinely present at student gatherings for those who express the need for enhanced security, and safety escorts around campus are increasingly conducted by uniformed personnel.  

Constant university vigilance – A university threat assessment team meets whenever needed to assess each threat reported and quickly address appropriate measures to resolve it. The University is constantly evaluating its safety protocols based on shifting conditions.

Emergency Operations Group – A cross-functional team of university officials meets regularly and as needed to provide on-demand emergency operations services to address a wide variety of campus emergencies.

These capabilities, plus more measures that by design remain invisible, form a protective web around the university campus that our proximity to the nation’s capital demands, with capabilities not always available to universities elsewhere.

As we work to maintain your safety here, my wish for you is a joyous and restful holiday. I’ll see you in the new year, Patriots.

Sincerely,

Gregory Washington

President”

Mitchell Richtmyre/Fourth Estate

BY MICAHI OPPONG, STAFF WRITER

Now ranked as the fastest team in program history to reach 20 wins, Mason women’s basketball  extended its winning streak to eight with a 66-48 victory against the VCU Rams, the current #1 defense in the A-10, on Wednesday, Feb. 5. at the homecoming game.

Senior guard Paula Suarez led the Patriots with 17 points on 6-of-10 (60%) from the field and 3-of-5 (60%) from beyond the arc, adding seven assists. Redshirt sophomore forward Zahirah Walton followed with 15 points, six rebounds and two steals.  

Sophomore guard Kennedy Harris returned to action after missing a game due to injury, opening the scoring with a three, That shot sparked a run of three consecutive 3-pointers between Harris, Walton, and Suarez.

Mason continued to move the ball and create shots, with Suarez scoring seven points without missing a shot in the second quarter. Mason’s defense held the Rams to 2-of-9 shooting (22%) in the 2nd quarter and 7-of-26 (27%) for the entire first half. Mason entered halftime leading 33-18. 

The second half brought more of the same defensive intensity. The Rams did their best to fight back, scoring 17 points in the third quarter compared to Mason’s 20, and tied Mason with 13 points in the fourth quarter. 

Mason forced 19 turnovers, converting them into 19 points on offense, creating 10 fastbreak points compared to the Rams’ two. This ultimately propelled Mason to another decisive win with the final score 66-48, with their largest lead being 21 points. 

The story of the game was on the defensive end of the floor, with a great overall defensive effort from everyone on the floor. Graduate forward Nalani Kaysia anchored the defense with 14 rebounds, two blocks and three steals. 

“That’s what she does first, is defend,” Mason head coach Vanessa Blair-Lewis said of Kaysia’s defensive performance.“She’s quick off her feet, coming from volleyball, being able to jump, and get back on. She’s an amazing rebounder as you can see.”

The Patriots bench had a significant impact, contributing 25 points. Junior forward Nekhu Mitchell led the reserves with nine points and two steals, while sophomore forward Louis Volker scored six points and five rebounds. Graduate student Khamya McNeal  hit two 3-pointers off the bench. 

Following this win, Mason further extended the win streak to nine after defeating the Fordham Rams 70-43 on Saturday, Feb. 8. with Walton leading the way with 18 points and six rebounds, followed by junior guard Jada Brown with 12 points. Volker led the reserves with 9 points and five rebounds, with Mitchell contributing with five steals.

Mason had delivered another stellar defensive performance on the road, holding Fordham to under 30% shooting from the field and forcing 22 turnovers, converting into 28 points on offense.

The Patriots will play University of Rhode Island at EagleBank Arena on Feb. 12. Student tickets are available on Mason360, tip off is at 7:00 p.m. and will be broadcasting on ESPN+.