C2M Reporter Hana Hanfi

Mason advances in nationwide environmental challenge

The winner of the environmental challenge will be announced on April 9 (photo courtesy of Enviance, Inc.). 

On April 2, George Mason University advanced to the “Finest Four” in a tournament geared toward environmental stability.

“The Second Annual Environmental March Madness Tournament evaluates the strength of environmental degree programs and curriculum, environmental opportunities for students, and campus sustainability efforts in colleges and universities around the country,” read Enviance, Inc.'s website, an environmental software company sponsoring the competition. “The tournament runs in parallel with the NCAA college basketball championship.”

Student government prepares for spring elections

Mason Student Government is preparing to hold its spring elections for student senate, president and vice president of the student body.

According to the student government website, “the Senate is responsible for passing all legislation brought before it, including resolutions that give statements on the opinions of the student body, and bills that provide funding for Student Government events and activities.”

Starting Monday, Feb. 18, packets to file for candidacy are available for students to pick up at the Office of Student Involvement.

New aviation minor to be offered by engineering school

Beginning in fall 2013, the Volgenau School of Engineering will introduce a new minor in “aviation, flight training, and management."

“The demand for pilots is growing as the number of airline pilots is decreasing, so we want to bring this minor to GMU to allow students to gain the necessary skills to fill this growing need,” said Lance Sherry, director of the Center for Air Transportation Systems Research.

Exploratory Hall renovation and addition finishing construction

Exploratory Hall, formerly Science and Tech Building II, is currently undergoing a complete renovation, including new additions to the building.

According to project manager Alex Iszard, the addition is 50,000 square feet and is located between Exploratory Hall and Planetary Hall. The addition will connect the two buildings and allow students and faculty to more easily navigate between them.