Metron establishes scholarship fund in memory of George Mason alum

Nathan Kahl — Wed, 14 May 2025 18:27:41 +0000

Metron establishes scholarship fund in memory of George Mason alum Nathan Kahl Wed, 05/14/2025 - 14:27

In This Story

��'s College of Engineering and Computing (CEC) distributed its first award of $2,500 from the Jimmy Chiou Jr. Memorial Endowed Scholarship to Randy Escalera, a freshman computer science student. This named endowed scholarship was created by CEC partner organization Metron, Incorporated, with a $50,000 gift in honor of Chiou, a Metron employee and George Mason alum who passed away suddenly in 2023.

Metron’s gift amount guarantees the scholarship will last in perpetuity and be granted annually. To receive the scholarship, a student must be an undergraduate majoring in computer science and be full-time and Virginia resident. Recipients will qualify on the basis of academic merit and be selected by a committee appointed by the CEC dean in coordination with the Office of Student Financial Aid.

A statement from Metron said, “Metron established the scholarship to honor Jimmy’s legacy by investing in George Mason’s next generation of scholars. Inspired by his work ethic, intellectual curiosity, and unwavering positivity, the scholarship supports students who demonstrate a strong commitment and passion for all areas of computer science. The endowment reflects a forward-looking partnership between Metron and George Mason, grounded in shared dedication to innovation, academic excellence, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Together, we aim to broaden access to exceptional talent who will push the boundaries of what’s possible in computer science.”

A number of Chiou’s instructors recalled his positive influence. Ziyu Yao, a professor of Chiou’s, said, “Jimmy was such a talented student with intellectual curiosity and perseverance. His talent, curiosity to learn, courage to challenge himself, and persistence in delivering outstanding academic progress, will be remembered.”

Assistant Professor Lishan Yang added, “Jimmy did well in class and made good friends with his classmates. He was quiet and warm-hearted.”

Chiou’s parents said they were happy to help their son’s memory live on by being able to help future students. His father said, “Jimmy just liked to help people. He was a very simple person.”

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computer science

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Master of Social Work Student Wins Mason’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute Scholarship

John Brandon Cantrell — Wed, 04 May 2022 16:44:01 +0000

Master of Social Work Student Wins Mason’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute Scholarship John Brandon C… Wed, 05/04/2022 - 12:44

The OLLI Scholarship will help Francesca Keesee support students’ academic success in higher education.

Congratulations to Master of Social Work student Francesca Keesee for receiving the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) Scholarship for the Department of Social Work. The merit scholarship recognizes Mason students who have shown significant academic achievement and community involvement while completing their program.

“I have always loved learning—whether through formal schooling, out-of-school activities, or furious Googling,” said Keesee. “My love of learning motivated me to become an educator when I was 19 years old, and I have been involved with informal education for youth and adults ever since.”

“Part of my love for education and learning stems from the community it creates. Classrooms, camps, clubs, and other learning groups come to life with the spirit of engaged students,” Keesee said. “OLLI is a clear example of a positive community that brings people together in the spirit of continued growth.”

The OLLI Scholarship will help Keesee have a “multidimensional career” as an educator in higher education and to create a dynamic atmosphere where students can connect with their professors while exploring their educational interests.

“I would like to facilitate a space where students feel supported and excited to engage with the material,” said Keesee. “The social work program has exposed me to the most diverse educators I have ever had, and it motivates me to be another example of a successful woman of color educating future practitioners.”

Learn more about the OLLI Scholarship at George Mason.

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College of Health and Human Services Department of Social Work