This article has been edited by Chelsea Xu, originated as an email from Succeed Insights.
George Mason University President Gregory Washington kicked off fall 2025 New Student Convocation on August 22 by welcoming the largest incoming class in the university’s history. “This institution stands out,” he said. “George Mason transforms more lives than any other Virginia university.”
Rose Pascarell, vice president for University Life (pictured below), told the class of 2029, “This is an amazing community. You are going to thrive here, and we’re going to do everything we can to support you in that.” She noted that University Life has ample resources to support students through challenges and successes.
“Remember, Patriots thrive together, and this is your community now,” Pascarell said. “We are, you are truly altogether different. Each and every one of you belongs here. Show the world what altogether different truly means. That’s the Mason spirit.”
Pascarell also introduced one of the traditional highlights of Convocation—a George Mason-branded sweatshirt given to every first-year student—this year showcasing the university’s well-being initiative Patriots Thriving Together. A new element for the 2025 Convocation was the involvement of the George Mason community—including a parade of 41 student organizations and a spoken word performance by faculty, staff, students, and alumni sharing their Mason experiences and what makes our community special.
After the ceremony, the UL Welcome2Mason steering committee hosted the Kick Off to Success Resource Fair on Mason Pond Drive and Holton Plaza, where first-year students explored tables and displays from numerous offices, organizations, and campus initiatives.
This year, a new initiative, a Mason360-based digital planner called “Plan Your Year,” encouraged students to utilize the student engagement platform to discover events, connect with others, and get involved.