August 21, 2025

4400 University Drive
Fairfax, VA 22030

media contact

Greg Johnson
Marketing and Communications Manager
Costello College of Business at George Mason University
703-993-5798
gjohnsonsoc@gmu.edu

 


for immediate release



FAIRFAX CITY, VA, AUGUST 15, 2025 — The Costello College of Business at George Mason University is proud to announce a strategic partnership with Fairfax City Economic Development (FCED), marking a significant milestone in advancing innovation, economic development, and student career readiness across Northern Virginia. The collaboration was formalized by Christopher Bruno, CEO and director of Fairfax City Economic Development, who signed the Corporate and Community Partnership notification on behalf of the Fairfax City Economic Development Authority, the first organization to participate in the sponsorship program. 

This partnership reinforces the longstanding relationship between George Mason University and the City of Fairfax by establishing a strategic framework that aligns academic excellence with practical economic development. It promotes innovation, supports regional growth, and enhances student learning through real-world experiences. By connecting students, businesses, and city government through the college’s Centers of Excellence, the partnership serves as a model for effective public-academic collaboration. 

“George Mason University is Fairfax City’s hometown university, and this partnership continues to turn proximity into purpose by expanding and utilizing a pipeline for talent, research, and innovation. In strengthening the connection with Fairfax City Economic Development and the Costello College of Business with our employers and city priorities, we’ll increase internships and real-world projects, help local companies solve problems faster, and create more pathways for Mason students to build their careers right here in Fairfax City."

Matt Easley
Assistant Director of Finance and Operations, Fairfax City Economic Development

“We are honored to have Fairfax City Economic Development join our network of engaged partners whose contributions help shape the future of business education. Their support of our Centers of Excellence, student engagement initiatives, and innovative programs plays a vital role in advancing the college's strategic priorities: enhancing the student experience and career readiness, fostering impactful research, and cultivating innovative business collaboration.”

Nadine Bullock-Pottinga
Senior Director of Development, Costello College of Business

As a program partner, FCED will receive exclusive benefits including enhanced visibility, direct access to student recruitment opportunities, and invitations to high-profile college events. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to innovation, workforce development, and community impact, and serves as a model for collaboration between municipalities and academic institutions. 



About Costello College of Business 

The Donald G. Costello College of Business at George Mason University is one of the largest business schools in Virginia, and is located near Washington, D.C., and in South Korea. The AACSB-accredited college prepares undergraduate and graduate students from the U.S. and across the globe for career success in business and government, through its research-based faculty and focus on multi-disciplinary academic programs, inclusive entrepreneurship, modular education, and corporate partner engagement. Learn more at business.gmu.edu.  



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