Mason Science Mentors
Meet our Mason Science Mentors
Meet our Mason Science alumni who are serving as mentors for our College of Science Students.
Degrees listed by name are Mason degrees, many of our alumni have gone on to get Masters, PhD's from other fine universities. Please scroll through the whole list to learn more!
Environment
Harry Castelly, PhD Environmental Science and Policy '18
Ph.D., Environmental Science and Policy '18 - George Mason University
MS, Chemistry '07 - George Mason University
BA, Chemistry '02 - George Mason University
Harry Castelly is a three-time Mason alumnus and United States Army Veteran. He was on active duty in the U.S. Army while he earned both his bachelor's and master's degrees. He served as the Branch Chief of the Forensic Laboratory for the DHS, Chem-Bio Division scientist for the U.S. Department of Commerce, and worked at the U.S. Department of Defense. With over twenty years of military and federal government experience, he is familiar with various federal agencies, consulting, the military, and the private sector.
Why do I want to be a mentor?
I want to help new scientists and be a good Patriot.
William Eckel, PhD Environmental Science and Policy '01
Ph.D., Environmental Science and Policy '01 - George Mason University
MS, Analytical Chemistry '88 - American University
BS, Biology and Environmental Studies '81 - George Washington University
William Eckel has nineteen years in environmental consulting (hazardous waste, groundwater, litigation, citizen group representation) followed by 23 years in the EPA Office of Pesticide Programs conducting ecological risk assessments on conventional chemical pesticides. His Mason dissertation was the subject of a series of articles by USA Today in 2012. With an interdisciplinary background (biology, chemistry, and environmental studies/science), William brings almost a decade of experience working in the federal and consulting sectors.
Why do I want to be a mentor?
I would like younger scientists to gain the benefit from my experience.
Amy Fowler, George Mason University Professor
BS Biology '05 - University of New Hampshire
PhD '11 - University of Auckland, New Zealand
Amy Fowler is an Associate Professor in the Environmental Science and Policy Department. She got her BS from the University of New Hampshire and spent summers at the Shoals Marine Lab off the coast of Maine. After undergraduate years, she performed seasonal work for the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center and Maryland DNR. With a Fulbright scholarship, she obtained her PhD from the University of Auckland in New Zealand in 2011. She was a postdoctoral researcher for the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center and a teaching postdoc at Villanova University. After managing the crustacean research section at South Carolina DNR, Dr. Fowler started her position at GMU in ESP as an aquatic invertebrate ecologist.
Why do I want to be a mentor?
I've mentored over 40 undergraduates since 2016. This is a passion of mine because I appreciated working with my mentors as an undergraduate.
Michelle Ryan, PhD Environmental Science and Policy '15
BA, Economics '92, Franklin and Marshall College
MBA, International Business '96, George Washington University
Masters in Natural Resources '11, Virginia Tech
PhD Environmental Science and Policy '15, George Mason University
Michelle Ryan is currently serving on the College of Science alumni board and is co-chair of the science mentorship program.
Michelle has more than 25 years of leading federal contracts in Information Technology (IT), IT operations and portfolio management, and environmental program management. She made a mid-career change from IT to Environmental Science. Ryan has lived all over the world, having attended grade school in Nepal, and high school in Egypt. She is also a member of the College of Science's Alumni Board and helps lead the Mason Science mentorship program.
Why do I want to be a mentor?
To help students navigate through the transition between university and the working world. I want to give back to GMU!
Darrell Smith, PhD Environmental Science and Policy '10
Ph.D., Environmental Science and Policy '10 - George Mason University
MS, Leadership - The Citadel
MPH, Environmental Science - University of South Carolina
BS, Physical Education and Public Health - The Citadel
Darrell Smith is a Government Relations Executive, award-winning advocacy leader, public speaker, and published author. He has invested more than 20 years in influencing public policy and promoting a responsible industry image underpinned by science for the manufacturing, industrial, mining, waste, and chemical sectors. His specialties include environment and sustainability. Most recently, he served as the President & CEO of the National Waste & Recycling Association. During his career, he has worked with the Essential Minerals Association and the American Chemistry Council. Before entering public policy, he worked in manufacturing. He considers himself to be an environmentalist and does environmental volunteering.
Why do I want to be a mentor?
I would like to help students interested in public policy and nonprofit management. Particularly, I would be interested in helping students with an interest in environmental and sustainability careers. I would also like to gain experience as a coach.
Mukul Sonwalkar, PhD Earth Systems/Geoinformation Sciences '12
PhD, Earth Systems/Geoinformation Sciences '12 - George Mason University
Graduate Certificate, Geography '08 - George Mason University
MS, Computer Science - Midwestern State University
BE, Construction Engineering - University of Mumbai
Mukul Sonwalkar is the founder and president of H3C LLC, a technology development business. He has been in the federal contracting space for over twenty years and serves as an adjunct faculty at Bay Atlantic University teaching technology programs. He has experience in the federal, state, consulting, corporate, IT, private, and contract research sectors.
Why do I want to be a mentor?
So I can guide students on how to navigate the job market, and the necessary skills needed beyond the diploma and exchange new ideas for entrepreneurship and start-up companies.
Government
Tom Briggs, PhD Computational Social Science '23 - George Mason University
Ph.D. Computational Social Science '23 - George Mason University
MPS Industrial/Organizational Psychology - University of Maryland, Baltimore County
Tom Briggs has had a 17+ year career as an applied social scientist/researcher for the government. He currently works as a data analyst at the SEC. Prior employers included the Department of Defense and NORC at the University of Chicago. He has experience with the federal, state, non-profit, and military sectors.
Why do I want to be a mentor?
I have mentored students in the industry and find helping future scientists rewarding.
Arthur Poland
Ph.D. Indiana University University, 1969
I am a retired NASA/GSFC astrophysicist who now works at GMU as a research professor.
Why do I want to be a mentor?
I enjoy mentoring students to help them with their career.
Peter Walter, BS Chemistry '84 - George Mason University
BS, Chemistry '84 - George Mason University
MS, Analytical Chemistry - Virginia Tech
Ph.D., Analytical Chemistry - Duquesne University
Peter Walter earned a PhD in analytical chemistry and has worked in the industry (mass spectrometry instrument manufacturer) and government laboratories (Center for Disease Control and the National Institute of Health) for the past forty years. For the past 16 years, he's served as the director of the NIDDK Clinical Mass Spectrometry Core lab at the National Institute of Health and has worked with many post-bac's, post-docs, and fellows. He has over forty years of experience working in the federal, private, and medical sectors.
Why do I want to be a mentor?
I work with many students and recent graduates who are trying to find their career path. I would really like to extend that to GMU students.
Medical
Laila Al Musawi, BS Biology '25
BS, Biology '25 - George Mason University
I am. George Mason University alumna with a bachelor’s degree in biology and a minor in clinical psychology. I currently work full time as a medical assistant as a medical assistant in the thoracic surgery department at the Inova schar cancer institute, where I support patient care, clinical workflows, and multidisciplinary care teams. Through my academic background and hands on clinical experience, I have developed a strong foundation in patient centered care and a deep interest in mentoring students pursuing careers in healthcare.
Why do I want to be a mentor?
My motivation for becoming a mentor comes from my own experience in navigating academics, clinical opportunities, and career decisions as a George Mason student. I understand how valuable guidance and encouragement can be when pursuing a path and healthcare, especially as a first step into a clinical environment. As an alumni now working full-time and a hospital setting, I hope to support students by sharing practical insights, building confidence, and helping them make informed decisions about their professional goals.
Christina Barnes, BS Biology '20
BS, Biology '20 - George Mason University
MS, Biology '23 - University of Texas San Antonio
Christina Barnes' background is in microbiology and immunology at a molecular level of medicine. She is familiar with the federal and medical sectors and worked with the Henry Jackson Foundation. While at Mason, Barnes was an off-campus commuter student.
Why do I want to be a mentor?
The professors and post-doctoral mentors I had during undergraduate and graduate school inspired me to want to give back. I hope to help and watch students succeed and learn new things from them.
Victoria Choe, BS Biology '16
BS, Biology '16 - George Mason University
Victoria Choe is an experienced clinical researcher. She currently works at Miltenyi Biotec as a quality assurance specialist. She has experience working in the medical, contract research, and BioTech sectors.
Why do I want to be a mentor?
I believe networking is crucial when it comes to finding a new job with no experience or switching to different career industries. I received a lot of help from other alumni and want to give back to the community.
Izabella Du Mont, BS Biology '23
BS, Biology '23 - George Mason University
Izabella is a Quality Control Laboratory Technician for FujiFilm in Richmond, Virginia. They are currently enrolled at Colorado State University pursuing their MS in Immunology and Microbiology. While building their laboratory skills, they have an extensive background in consumer health and healthcare administration. This has equipped them with information on how to find an indirect way into a field of study.
Why do I want to be a mentor?
When I was in college, I found myself overwhelmed with the number of choices I had to make. Being a first-generation student, I had few people in my life who knew what the "correct" path was. Through mentoring, I aim to share my experiences and support the next generation of graduates in achieving their best while navigating an ever-changing field.
Leila Glover, Advance Biomedical Sciences Certificate '19
BS, Biology '18 - UNC, Greensboro
Advance Biomedical Sciences Certificate '19 - George Mason University
MS, Physiology '20 - Georgetown
Leila Glover is a 2nd-year medical student at Brody School of Medicine. Before medical school, I worked as a Medical Data Specialist and a medical assistant in an ophthalmologist's office. Currently, I serve on the E-board for Brody's chapter of SNMA and volunteer as a doula at the local hospital. She has vast experience in the medical profession and experience with the DTRA, DHA, HHS, DC DOH, and DHS.
Why do I want to be a mentor?
I want to pass down knowledge and wisdom for entering the medical field and navigating the sciences as my mentors did for me.
Sage Grimmell-Roewer, BS Biology '23
BS, Biology '23 - George Mason University
Sage Grimmell-Roewer is employed as an intern for CVS Pharmacy. She is currently obtaining her PharmD degree at the University of Wyoming, graduating in May 2027. She plans to continue working with CVS after she graduates. During her time at Mason, she played club soccer and worked in PAC, the on-campus activities council. Outside of work and school, she loves to travel, hike, and crochet.
Why do you want to be a mentor?
I am currently in my first year as a PharmD student. It took a long time to get to the path that I am on currently. I wish I had someone with more experience than me when I was younger to help guide me through tough times in undergrad. I hope to be a beneficial resource for someone who is still figuring out their future.
Devyn Hodge, BS Biology '15
BS, Biology '15 - George Mason University
Pre-Medical and General Science Studies Certificate '20 - UCLA
MS, Reproductive Clinical Science '23 - Eastern Virginia Medical School
Devyn Hodge is a reproductive biologist with specialized knowledge of embryology, andrology, and endocrinology. I’m currently working as a lab manager for an IVF clinic. I am very passionate about optimizing patient care and education regarding reproductive science. I am also interested in recruiting the next generation of reproductive biologists; the field is growing rapidly and there’s a tremendous need for more health professionals.
Why do I want to be a mentor?
I am currently very focused on refining my leadership and mentoring skills. I hope to give individuals the support and insights I wish I had on my journey.
Taharah Islam, BS Biology '21
BS, Biology '21 - George Mason University
TTaharah Islam is a medical student at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, graduating in May 2027. She will be applying to psychiatry residency this year. Taharah came to VCU through the Preferred Applicant Track from George Mason University in 2020. Through her clinical training and research experiences, she understands the challenges of pursuing medicine and is passionate about helping undergraduate students navigate their own paths. She enjoys connecting with students who are exploring careers in medicine and healthcare, whether they are just starting to consider medical school or are in the application process. Taharah is happy to share insights, answer questions, and offer guidance along the way.
Why do I want to be a mentor?
I’m motivated to become a mentor because I navigated the medical school application process largely on my own, without much guidance, and I know how challenging that can be. I want to offer the support and perspective I wish I had to students exploring similar paths. Through this mentorship program, I hope to build meaningful connections while providing practical guidance and encouragement.
Ahnaf Akmal Navid, BS Biology '24
BS, Biology '24 - George Mason University
As a dedicated advocate for student success, I have served as a contemporary student mentor (CSS) at George Mason University for over 3 years, providing personalized guidance to help peers build rapport and feel at home on campus. Being an international student from Bangladesh, an 18-year-old booking their 1st flight to a foreign land alone might not seem like the best idea on paper, but it was one of the best decisions I have made coming to George Mason. My diverse professional experience ranges from pediatric dentistry to hospital support at Inova Fairfax, giving me a broad perspective on the various pathways within the College of Science. I am committed to helping students overcome challenges and find their unique place at George Mason, especially if they are pre-health students.
Why do you want to be a mentor?
I plan to set an example for international students like me who are often discouraged by seeing only on average 2-3 seats open for dental and medical schools for international students. I also aim to build a network of mentors and peers within the dental profession, which will help in navigating the unique challenges international students often face in healthcare fields. When I first came here, I had no one to guide me through the complex path of choosing a career in healthcare. Now that I have lived through it, I want to be there for the students so that they are not lost just like I was when I first started considering a career path.
Kellie Perry, PhD Molecular and Microbiology '16
BA, Biology '99 - University of Louisville
MS, Biology '04 - University of Maryland, Baltimore
PhD, Molecular and Microbiology '16 - George Mason University
Kellie Perry is an infectious diseases and biosciences technical expert who is dedicated to making strong contributions and developments that will ensure the safety of the United States and its citizens by implementing novel practices and policies that will prevent, curtail, or counteract emerging infectious diseases and chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) epidemics or incidents and to assist in furthering advancements of pretreatments and therapeutics for infectious diseases research to improve the overall quality of life for health challenged and health compromised individuals.
Why do you want to be a mentor?
I have been a mentor before, and I would like to help students navigate through their academic and professional careers.
Cathy Pumphrey, MA Clinical Psychology '76
MA, Clinical Psychology '76 - George Mason University
BS, Psychology/Sociology '72 - Juniata College
Cathy Pumphrey has over forty years in the counseling and behavioral health field. She worked at the Fairfax Falls Church Community Service Board from 1976 to 2012, as a clinician (forensic psychologist, adolescent day treatment, MH Quality Assurance), and Director of Informatics (implemented 2 electronic health records, strategic planning, and performance management). She has served on the following boards: Virginia State HIE, strategic planning for NoVa RHIO, and volunteers on various local government boards and committees.
Why do I want to be a mentor?
I like to help develop the next generation of leaders and professionals, especially in the behavioral health area and local government. My primary clinical work was with adolescents and their families, and I was lucky enough to see their resilience in the face of difficulties. I support electronic health records and their use to improve outcomes and patient participation in their healthcare.
Maiah Wright, BS Biology '18
MSN, Clinical Leadership '21 - Sentara College of Health Sciences
BS, Biology (biopsychology) '18 - George Mason University
Maiah Wright has spent four years working as a Pharmacy technician along with becoming a Registered Nurse with Sentara Healthcare. After graduating with her master’s in nursing, she started working in the intensive care unit. While at Mason she held many offices and was active in many groups. She was part of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., modeled in the Reign modeling troop, held a seat as a programs char for NSBE, and was the past president of WOC STEM. She also volunteered at INOVA throughout her college career all while having two leadership campus jobs.
She also served as a Learning Assistant for the RADSS Scholar Peer Program, where she mentored students from rural and diverse backgrounds to support their academic success at George Mason University. Through this role, she also conducted research focused on this student population, which culminated in a presentation at the College of Science Colloquium and earned an Honorable Mention.
Why do I want to be a mentor?
I have always had a passion for mentorship and giving back. While at GMU, I was president of women of color in STEM. This was a mentorship organization for women of color who needed support and community to complete their stem-related degrees. I worked with Masonlife as well. I worked in the academic sector and in the residential sector. Both involved me acting as a role model and leader to students with disabilities. These are just a few examples of the mentorship roles I held while attending GMU. I would love to continue to give back now as an alumnus.
I am passionate about self-care, fitness, and fashion, and I enjoy traveling and experiencing new places. This year, I had the opportunity to visit Belize—my mother’s home country—which was a particularly meaningful and enriching experience. I also enjoy spending time with my family because we are pretty close-knit.
Corporate and Technology
Alhassan Elbarasse, BS Mathematics '02
MBA, Finance '19 - George Washington University
BS, Mathematics '02 - George Mason University
Alhassan Elbarasse has always been a person who learned that a story goes a lot further in winning hearts and minds. He has used my degree in math to move the needle with the employee value proposition at companies he's worked at. Alhassan is the VP of Human Resources at Maximus in Mclean, VA. He has experience in the federal, consulting, nonprofit, corporate, and manufacturing sectors.
Why do I want to be a mentor?
Someone once helped me and I would love to pay it forward.
Julie Muskett
MS Human Genetics, 2005, University of Michigan
BS Molecular Biology, 2000, University of Michigan
Since graduating with a Masters in human genetics, Julie has worked in research at an academic medical center and NIH, a community hospital (Inova), and 2 commercial labs. It's been an exciting journey as our knowledge of medical genetics grew rapidly during that time.
Why do I want to be a mentor?
I work from home, and am looking for a way to interact with students, help them along their career paths, and give back to the field.
Brandon Shapiro, PhD Computational Social Science '21
Ph.D., Computational Social Science '21 - George Mason University
MA, Applied Economics '12 - John Hopkins University
BS, Economics '08 - University of Mary Washington
Brandon Shapiro worked in economics consulting for the first four-and-a-half years of his professional career. He has been a research analyst at the Institute for Defense Analyses for the past eleven years in the areas of strategy and risk, personnel readiness, intelligence, and test & evaluation. He leverages SAS, SQL, and computational modeling and data analyses to support research. As a non-traditional student, he worked full-time while earning his master's and PhD and has experience in the federal, consulting, nonprofit, military, and private sectors.
Why do I want to be a mentor?
To help undergraduate students prepare for the working world and help ensure they have a balanced curriculum to become well-rounded analysts.