Mason Vision Day: one day, extraordinary impact

Once a year, every corner of George Mason University unites for a 24-hour period, Mason Vision Day, coming together with the singular goal of moving George Mason forward.

“We have the entire community in mind,” said Zavin Smith, BA ’00, MA ’03, assistant vice president for annual and constituent giving and strategic initiatives, “both for their generosity and for the recipients of that generosity. It is truly an opportunity for everyone in the Mason Nation, whether alumni, staff, faculty, parents, or steadfast friends, to support whatever it is they love at the university.” 

Mason Vision Day kicks off at noon on April 3 and continues for 24 hours. Across George Mason’s campuses, units have organized structured challenges, matching opportunities from generous donors and leadership, and specific initiatives—and they have been letting their constituents know about those opportunities. The Schar School of Policy and Government and the College of Public Health, for example, are noting their Student Emergency Assistance Funds, and the College of Visual and Performing Arts is highlighting several initiatives. The College of Science offers opportunities around the goal of supporting scientific innovation. Each unit encourages donors to join matching challenges and support the areas at George Mason that resonate with them.  

Smith emphasized that what matters most is the community nature of Mason Vision Day. “George Mason has a host of initiatives that support students, research, and programs. Everyone in the Mason Nation has been touched by one or more of them, and every donor can help them grow.” A complete listing of all George Mason University giving opportunities is available through masonvisionday.gmu.edu. 

“Mason Vision Day is a yearly reminder of the impact we can make when the entire community comes together,” said Smith. “It truly is the power of YOU.”