General Assembly

Civic engagement and community service paved road to success for alumni legislators Wiley and McPike

Colleen Rich — Fri, 02 Aug 2024 14:55:24 +0000

Civic engagement and community service paved road to success for alumni legislators Wiley and McPike Colleen Rich Fri, 08/02/2024 - 10:55

As the saying goes “Once a Patriot, Always a Patriot,” and ��AV is proud to have a large group of Patriots serving the Commonwealth of Virginia in the General Assembly.

George Mason’s General Assembly alumni include Majority Leader Delegate Charniele Herring (D-4), BA Economics ’93; Senators Jeremy McPike (D-29), BA Government and Politics ’97, MPA ’06; Stella Pekarsky (D-36), BA Government and Politics ’00, MEd ’03; Bryce Reeves (R-28), MPA ’99; Saddam Salim (D-37), BS Public Administration ’12, MPH ’15; and Glen Sturtevant (R-12), JD ’06; and Delegates Michael J. Webert (R-61), BA Communications ’10; and William “Bill” Wiley (R-32), BS Economics ’93, MEd ’98.

Majority Leader Herring and Senators Salim and Sturtevant were profiled in an article published earlier this year. Here is the second article in the series spotlighting Mason alumni in the legislature:

Bill Wiley

Bill Wiley. Photo provided

Delegate Bill Wiley represents Virginians in the City of Winchester and part of Frederick County. He’s been a member of the House of Delegates since 2020.

Wiley, a business development manager and associate real estate broker, credits his time at George Mason for preparing him for professional success and the university’s diversity for expanding his worldview.

“I graduated from a private high school and stepped into a different world [at George Mason],” he said. “Mason opened my eyes to all the great things our country offers. I met and became friends with many people of different backgrounds and cultures.”

He’s most proud of his work on the House Appropriations Committee during the 2024 General Assembly session, in which he championed a budget amendment that accelerated the timeline for construction projects on Interstate 81 in Winchester and Frederick County.

“I-81 is the main artery for traffic in my district. Without having this highway move traffic efficiently, our daily business and way of life would become stagnant,” he explained.

Civic engagement is a key element to Wiley’s personal and professional development. His path to the House of Delegates began with his service on the Winchester Planning Commission; he served on the board for five years and was chairman for three of those years. He also served on the Winchester City Council from 2014 to 2020, where he was vice president in 2015 and president in 2018.

He encourages fellow Patriots to explore community service. “You do not need to be a politician. Just do something that you are passionate about,” he said.

“Civic engagement and community service will open doors to many opportunities and give you a sense of gratification,” Wiley said. “ You will make contacts and build relationships that will become lifelong connections, some invaluable. Even better, it can enable your career ambitions to enhance your future success.”

Jeremy McPike

Jeremy McPike. Photo provided

Senator Jeremy McPike represents Virginians in parts of Prince William and Stafford counties. He’s been a member of the Virginia Senate since 2016.

For several years, McPike served as a member of the welcome wagon duo greeting Mason students at the General Assembly as part of Mason Lobbies, the annual lobbying campaign spearheaded by the Student Government.

He said he is immensely proud of the university’s commitment to diversity, innovation, and excellence. George Mason also instilled in him a strong commitment to public service and community engagement. McPike has served the citizens of Dale City as a volunteer firefighter and EMT for 20 years with the Dale City Fire Department, where he is an assistant chief.

He’s proud of his work with colleagues across the political aisle during the 2024 General Assembly session to increase teacher pay, protect the environment, and prioritize public education.

Mental health is also a top priority for McPike and his constituents. During the 2024 session, he secured an additional $4.6 million in funding for the Prince William County Crisis Receiving Center to expand to youth services. “The youth of our county and surrounding areas can receive the critical mental health care services they deserve,” he said.

As McPike reflected on his time at George Mason, he emphasize for current and future George Mason students the importance of learning outside the classroom.

“Remember that your time at Mason is a unique opportunity to build a strong foundation for your future career and personal growth,” he said. “Actively engage your professors, participate in internships, and enjoy the vibrant campus life. Stay curious, be resilient, and always strive to make a positive impact in your community.”

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Virginia budget increases funding for ��AV students, infrastructure, and employee compensation

Colleen Rich — Fri, 17 May 2024 14:08:09 +0000

Virginia budget increases funding for ��AV students, infrastructure, and employee compensation Colleen Rich Fri, 05/17/2024 - 10:08

��AV received essential investments in its students, faculty and staff from Virginia’s biennium budget, which the General Assembly passed and Governor Glenn Youngkin signed on May 13, 2024. The funding goes into effect July 1, 2024.

George Mason’s priorities included increased support for university operations, student financial aid, Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Program (VMSDEP) support, capital investments, and employee compensation.

“We are grateful to our partners in the General Assembly who have been tremendous supporters of George Mason’s mission to provide accessible and affordable education pathways,” said George Mason President Gregory Washington. “We look forward to continued collaboration in support of all students across the commonwealth.”

Students and Programs

From left, Sen. Mamie Locke, Del. Kannan Srinivasan, Sen. Louise Lucas, Sen. Saddam Salim, Mayor Derrick Wood (Dumfries), Sen. Jennifer Carroll Foy, and Sen. Dave Marsden take a tour of the MIX makerspace. Photo by Cristian Torres/Office of University Branding

The biennium budget provides George Mason an additional $11.5 million in each year of the biennium to maintain students’ affordable access to quality education, attract and retain faculty and staff in positions delivering critical services needed to serve students, and to increase degree completion. Senator L. Louise Lucas, President pro tempore of the Senate and chair of the Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee, and Delegate Luke Torian, chair of the Virginia House Appropriations Committee championed efforts to secure investments in higher education. These efforts were supported by Senator Dave Marsden and Delegates David Bulova and Paul Krizek, who carried budget amendments to increase operating support.

Student financial aid will increase by $2.9 million in FY25 and $3.3 million in FY26. Additionally, legislators retained $37.5 million in funding to enhance efforts to recruit and retain students eligible for Pell Grant assistance across all institutions.

The budget provides state support to help offset the cost of tuition waiver programs, such as the Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program, helping to ensure the sustainability of these programs going forward.

Infrastructure and Compensation

Delegate Michelle Maldonado and Senator Jeremy McPike sponsored budget amendments to authorize pre-planning for a facility to house interdisciplinary science and engineering programs on the Fairfax Campus. Senator McPike led efforts to secure funding for maintenance reserve, supporting existing capital projects and one-time funding for projects with more immediate need of repair and updates.

Additionally, state employees will receive a pay raise each year of the biennium.

Appropriators visited Fairfax Campus

From left, Sen. Saddam Salim, Del. Mark Sickles, Del. Holly Seibold, Sen. Louis Lucas, Sen. Jennifer Carroll Foy, Del. Luke Torian, Del. Paul Krizek, Sen. Mamie Locke, Sen. Barbara Favola, Sen. Dave Marsden, Del. Kannan Srinivasan, and Fairfax County Public Schools Board Member Marcia St. John-Cunning. Photo by Cristian Torres/Office of University Branding

On March 26, a delegation of state appropriators led by Senator L. Louise Lucas and Delegate Luke Torian visited the Fairfax Campus to hear directly from students and administrators about the impact of the state’s investment in higher education. They toured the Mason Innovation Exchange (MIX) Makerspace in Horizon Hall, stopping to speak with student innovators and entrepreneurs. Senators Barbara Favola, Jennifer Carrol Foy, Mamie Locke, Dave Marsden, and Saddam Salim, and Delegates Mark Sickles, Holly Seibold, Kannan Srinivasan, and Paul Krizek participated in the event.

“We’re at ��AV because we want our students to know how much we value them. We’re investing in them through this budget,” said Torian.

An investment in Mason students is an investment in the commonwealth’s robust economic prosperity. A recent study by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia found that 73% of in-state George Mason graduates reside in Virginia—3% higher than other Virginia public four-year institutions. For out-of-state George Mason students, 29% settle in Virginia after graduation, 9% higher than the state average.

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Students visit Richmond to advocate for Mason at annual Mason Lobbies event

Colleen Rich — Fri, 23 Feb 2024 19:26:59 +0000

Students visit Richmond to advocate for Mason at annual Mason Lobbies event Colleen Rich Fri, 02/23/2024 - 14:26

More than 70 ��AV students traveled to Richmond on Thursday, Feb. 15, to advocate for Mason’s legislative priorities during Mason Lobbies.

Mason students Charlotte Bell (left) and Adila Aghayeva (right) visited Delegate Holly Seibold (D-12). Photo provided

The eager group was welcomed to the General Assembly by Mason President Gregory Washington and Mason alumni—Majority Leader Charniele Herring (D-4), BA Economics ’93, and Senator Jeremy McPike (D-29), BA Government and Politics ’97.

Sporting their trademark green and gold scarves and filled with Patriot Pride, students dispersed through the legislative offices prepared to discuss their agenda items with lawmakers and their staff.

^{Mason Lobbies is an opportunity for students to use their voice to improve our university and learn about the Virginia legislative process,” said Adila Aghayeva, a first-year student from Azerbaijan studying government and international politics.}

The primary ask was for an additional $18 million to address historical underfunding concerning appropriations aid for undergraduate students, echoing the State Council of Higher Education of Virginia’s recommendation.

From left Mason student Honestie Kern, Delegate Patrick Hope, and Mason students Isabela Vieira and Griffin Crouch met during annual Mason Lobbies event. Photo provided

Other agenda items included additional funding for the Virginia Military Survivors and Dependent Education Program, increased funding for Mason’s 26 Small Business Development Centers serving the commonwealth, capital investment for the proposed Student Innovation Factory on the Fairfax Campus and Life Sciences and Engineering Building at Mason’s SciTech Campus, and maintenance reserve support funding.

Charlotte Bell, a first-year student studying government and international politics, visited Delegate Holly Seibold (D-12). Bell shared the insights she gained from participating in the lobbying campaign. “Lawmakers are working on many different bills and resolutions simultaneously, just like Mason’s Student Government. They’re also very open to listening to our voices and opinions.”

Legislators said they value the opportunity to meet with constituents.

^{As lawmakers, we need to hear from you,” Seibold said. “We need to know what’s important to you and how our work impacts your life. These visits are very critical to our work.”}

Student Government Vice President Nell Palumbo, a junior government and international politics major, helped plan last year’s Mason Lobbies. “Mason is extremely valuable to the commonwealth, and legislators know we are underfunded,” she said. “After having many great conversations with legislators, I think we are making actual progress toward closing the funding gap for Mason. Every year we get a little bit closer to our goal. I’m proud to be part of that change.”

Zayd Hamid, a senior studying public administration who is pursuing an accelerated master of public policy degree, said he believes students have a role in advocating for Mason. “A great deal of student complaints related to the cost of attendance, building conditions, etc. can be ameliorated through increased support from the commonwealth. Advocating for and ensuring the passage of Mason’s legislative priorities is important to me as a student. Students succeed when the university succeeds.”

Hamid said he encourages more students to get involved with next year’s event. “Help Mason achieve its goals, and it will be in a better position to support you.”

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Mason’s impact flourishes with alumni legislators in Richmond

Colleen Rich — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 18:57:19 +0000

Mason’s impact flourishes with alumni legislators in Richmond Colleen Rich Wed, 02/14/2024 - 13:57

The legislative session is underway in Virginia’s General Assembly. ��AV’s presence continues to make an impact in Richmond, with an increased number of proud Mason Patriots serving the commonwealth.

Mason’s General Assembly alumni include Majority Leader Delegate Charniele Herring (D-4), BA Economics ’93; Senators Jeremy McPike (D-29), BA Government and Politics ’97 MPA ’06; Stella Pekarsky (D-36), BA Government and Politics ’00, MEd ’03; Bryce Reeves (R-28), MPA ’99; Saddam Salim (D-37), BS Public Administration ’12, MPH ’15; and Glen Sturtevant (R-12), JD ’06; and Delegates Michael J. Webert (R-61), BA Communications ’10; and Bill Wiley (R-32), BS Economics ’93, MEd ’98.

Here is the first in an occasional series spotlighting Mason alumni in the legislature:

Charniele Herring. Photo provided

Majority Leader Delegate Charniele Herring

Majority Leader Delegate Charniele Herring exemplifies the alumni motto: Once a Patriot, Always a Patriot. She welcomed students at Mason Lobbies, served as the Winter 2020 Commencement speaker, and hosted ceremonies for President Gregory Washington’s investiture. She also volunteers as a member of the Schar Gender and Policy Advisory Board and University Life Advisory Board.

“George Mason is unlike other universities,” Herring said. “We pride ourselves on the number of people accepted, not the number excluded. Mason pride runs throughout Virginia because of the love and dedication of its alumni. The university continues to fulfill its mission of inclusivity and preparing the next generation of leaders, in science, politics, education, and so much more. That’s why I’m proud to call myself a Mason alumna.”

One of Herring’s priorities this session is expanding broadband internet infrastructure. “Closing the digital divide would expand economic and educational opportunities to disadvantaged communities across Virginia.”

Herring takes pride in being a voice for her constituents. “I am an advocate for women’s rights, voting rights, and looking out for our most vulnerable populations. I’m lucky to be able to have the support of the communities in my district and be an advocate for their interests.”

She urges students to pursue their passion. “If you are passionate about what you do, success will follow. Make a plan, look for and experience opportunities, and do your best to enact change in the world around you.”

Glen Sturtevant. Photo provided

Senator Glen Sturtevant

Senator Glen Sturtevant’s journey to Capitol Square was nurtured at Mason. While pursuing his law degree, he worked to protect citizens by prosecuting crimes in the local Commonwealth Attorney's Office. After his Mason years, he was elected as a member of the Richmond School Board advocating for students and their families. A commitment to public service is at the core of Sturtevant’s legislative work.

His agenda for this session includes empowering parents in educational decisions, reducing taxes, supporting law enforcement, promoting employment opportunities, and ensuring that veterans receive their benefits.

True to his beginnings, Sturtevant challenges students to lean into service. “Advocate for your community, engage in the civic process, and embrace Mason’s spirit of innovation.”

Saddem Salim. Photo provided

Senator Saddam Salim

Senator Saddam Salim is the latest alumnus to join the green and gold contingent in Richmond.

Salim won his Senate seat in the recent 2023 election. His district encompasses the City of Fairfax and Mason’s Fairfax Campus, Falls Church City, and parts of Fairfax County.

“I’m a proud George Mason alumnus and honored to serve in the Senate of Virginia. This milestone underscores the exceptional quality of the education I received at Mason,” said Salim.

His Mason experience paved the way for his career. He’s a senior consultant providing financial advice to federal clients at 11th Hour Service. He previously worked at PenFed Credit Union, Kearney and Company, and the United States Institute of Peace.

His journey as a first-generation Bangladeshi immigrant adapting to life in America informs his views on issues everyday Virginians encounter. When his family settled in Northern Virginia, they endured unexpected hardships—homelessness, economic hardship, and a health care crisis. However, they overcame those barriers with the assistance of community organizations and government programs.

Salim has a history of advocating for the inclusion of diverse perspectives in the political process. Before his Senate run, Salim was active in local politics, where he was the founding member of the Fairfax County Democratic Committee’s Asian and Pacific Islander and Black Caucuses. His advocacy propelled him into public service.

“People like me were not adequately represented in public office. I felt a responsibility to step forward and be a voice for everyday people facing various challenges,” he said. In the current General Assembly session, he is championing legislation addressing affordable housing, public safety, and the overall well-being of all Virginians.

Similar to Herring, Salim encourages Mason students to “always pursue your dreams. Take advantage of opportunities in academics, extracurricular activities, or community engagement. By following your dreams and staying committed to your goals, you can make a meaningful impact on your life and the lives of those around you.”