Browse Exhibits (18 total)

This exhibit will tackle the starting roots of George Mason University, and go through the evolution of how it went from a small local college into a massive four year univeristy with a rich student life and school spirit. Throughout this exhibhit, we will analyze how George Mason got its root, and how its growth overtime helped facilitate it into its vibrant and festive campus that it is today.

This exhibit explores the legacy of Dr. Lorraine Brown, a professor emirta of English at George Mason University. Dr. Brown played a vital role in shaping George Mason into what it is today. From challenging misogynistic nepotism policies to being a founding role in the Women and Gender Studies Program. Her dedication to the institution remains under-recognized in the broad historical narrative of the history of George Mason University. 

Information about Lorraine was gathered through primary sources such as yearbooks, student newspapers, and archival materials. Everything is brought together using scholarship from The Digital Past course which uses course readings on radical empathy, digital presence, and spatial history. 

“Much of the most valuable historical work comes from asking why people made the choices they did, and what those choices meant for others.”

— Zachary M. Schrag, The Princeton Guide to Historical Research (Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 2021), 10.

George Mason University (GMU) has undergone a profound transformation in terms of diversity and inclusion since its founding in 1949. As one of the largest public universities in Virginia, GMU has become a leader in fostering an academic and social environment that values and celebrates diversity. From its humble beginnings as a predominantly white commuter school to its current status as a diverse and inclusive institution, GMU’s journey reflects the broader societal shifts toward equality and justice.

This exhibit explores the history and evolution of GMU’s diversity and inclusion policies, from the early days when the university lacked formal diversity initiatives to the present, where DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) is a cornerstone of the university's mission. The exhibit will take you through key historical moments, pivotal events, and important policy changes that have helped shape the university’s commitment to fostering a diverse student body, faculty, and staff.

The Role of Student Activism: GMU’s diversity initiatives were not only shaped by administrative decisions but also by the tireless work of students who advocated for racial, gender, and social equity. Over the years, GMU students have led protests, sit-ins, and campaigns calling for change. Their activism has been a driving force in pushing the university to adopt more inclusive practices, from addressing racial disparities to improving support systems for underrepresented groups.

Key Institutional Changes: Significant milestones include the creation of the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in 1991, which became a pivotal institution in shaping and enforcing GMU’s diversity policies. The university’s strategic efforts to recruit a more diverse student body, promote equity in hiring, and ensure that all students have the resources and support they need to succeed are integral parts of GMU’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity.

National and Regional Context: The university’s policies and actions have been influenced by broader social movements, including the Civil Rights Movement, Black Lives Matter, and other calls for racial justice and equality. GMU’s diversity initiatives were also shaped by federal legislation like the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Affirmative Action policies of the 1970s. These national movements and policies created a framework within which GMU had to adjust its approach to diversity, eventually embracing inclusivity not just as a legal requirement but as a central value.

Looking Ahead: As GMU moves into the future, its commitment to diversity and inclusion continues to grow. The President's Task Force on Anti-Racism and Inclusive Excellence, established in 2020, reflects the university’s dedication to combating systemic racism and creating a more inclusive environment for everyone, particularly for marginalized groups. With ongoing efforts to diversify faculty, ensure access to higher education for all students, and create a campus climate where everyone feels valued, GMU remains a leader in advancing social justice in higher education.

This exhibit aims to highlight the journey GMU has taken to become a more inclusive institution, showcasing both the successes and challenges along the way. Through historical documents, photographs, testimonials, and multimedia, we will explore how GMU’s diversity policies have shaped its present and will continue to shape its future.