MESSAGE FROM ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT, DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS
Dear Mason Nation,
Welcome to the next chapter of George Mason Athletics! Today, we’re not just unveiling a new strategic plan —we’re igniting a movement, one that will rally our entire community under a powerful banner for the future.
"Patriots United. Together We Thrive." serves as the playbook to take George Mason Athletics' to new heights. It outlines the roadmap for success over the next five years for all of Mason Nation. George Mason Athletics is the “front porch” of our university—it’s where our community, our spirit, and our pride are on full display.
- Our Mission: To inspire and transform lives through the power of sports.
- Our Purpose: To unite communities by developing champions.
- Our Core Values: Teamwork. Inclusivity. Accountability. Ambition. Innovation.
Our mission, purpose, and core values fuel our drive to reach new heights. These principles have inspired our strategic priorities and laid the foundation for a transformative future. Our goal is to be distinctly George Mason—to create experiences that transcend the court or field and to empower our student-athletes as leaders in the classroom, in the community, and in life.
George Mason Athletics has already proven itself a force to be reckoned with. From our women’s soccer team seizing the national championship in 1985, to our men’s indoor track and field team’s national championship in 1996, to the men’s basketball team captivating the nation with a historic run to the Final Four in 2006—we have a legacy of courage, grit, and triumph. And while our history is filled with unforgettable moments, our greatest triumphs are yet to come.
For our strategic plan to succeed, we need everyone—every student, faculty member, alumni, and local community member—to come together with unwavering commitment. This is our moment to reach our full potential, build something that will last, and create a legacy that will unite our community for generations.
Mason Nation, the time is now: Patriots United. Together We Thrive.
Go Patriots!
Marvin Lewis
MISSION
PURPOSE
PRIORITY AREAS
1
Student-Athlete Experience
Objectives
1. Create a flexible, customizable academic support system that adapts to the unique needs of each student-athlete.
2. Prioritize mental health, well-being, and the personal growth of every individual through tailored support and wellness initiatives.
3. Offer diverse experiences and holistic programs focused on career readiness, life skills, civic engagement, and leadership development.
2
Competition
Objectives
1. Basketball programs consistently contending for A10 regular-season titles and NCAA Tournament berths.
2. Design, develop, and manage cutting-edge training and competition facilities that enhance athlete performance and set us apart from competitors.
3. Establish a comprehensive performance ecosystem integrating research, technology, sports medicine, athletic training, strength and conditioning, nutrition, and sports psychology to optimize athlete development.
4. Align competitive goals with strategic resource investments to cultivate a championship culture and deliver impactful experiences across all programs.
3
Resources
Objectives
1. Develop a sustainable, university-backed long-term financial model to ensure consistent growth and stability.
2. Strengthen support and advocacy from university and community partners to enhance collaboration and shared success.
3. Expand operating revenue by leveraging both new and existing funding streams, maximizing financial resources.
4. Drive capital growth through strategic annual giving campaigns and targeted major gift programs.
5. Optimize expenditures while investing in cutting-edge technology, systems, and industry best practices to boost operational efficiency.
4
Storytelling & Engagement
Objectives
1. Foster a unified campus community and elevate overall university pride through shared experiences and collective achievements.
2. Create lasting connections and unforgettable experiences for students, fans, and the broader campus community, strengthening lifelong bonds.
3. Develop and refine communication channels to effectively share our story, engage diverse audiences, and amplify our message.
4. Leverage university and local partnerships to elevate the athletics brand and significantly enhance visibility and community engagement.
5
Championship Culture
Objectives
1. Strengthen diversity and inclusion initiatives to cultivate a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all.
2. Optimize university and local partnerships to create distinctive engagement opportunities, deepen relationships, and broaden our impact across the community.
3. Invest in strategic initiatives and programs aimed at attracting, recruiting, and retaining top talent to ensure sustained excellence and a competitive edge.
4. Leverage university and local partnerships to elevate the athletics brand and significantly enhance visibility and community engagement.