On Wednesday, George Mason announced that long-time athletics administrator Marvin Lewis would be the university’s new athletic director.
The Maryland native, who will assume the role on July 1st, signed a five-year deal to become the Patriots’ new Assistant Vice President and Director of Intercollegiate Athletics.
“We are pleased to welcome Marvin Lewis to Mason,” Mason President Gregory Washington said. “His strong background in Division I athletics makes him a great choice to take Patriots Athletics to the next level. But, beyond that, what impressed me from the outset in talking with him are the values he holds dear that run similar to our own. We look forward to the great things he will do in setting the standard of excellence for our student-athletes in every way.”
Lewis has over 15 years of athletic administrative experience, including senior leadership roles at Georgia Tech, the University of Maryland, and Georgia State. He arrives at George Mason from Brown University, where he served as the school’s assistant vice president for athletics and recreation/COO.
“I am attracted to George Mason because of its distinct blend of world-class academics, nationally competitive athletics, and the location in Northern Virginia. Mason is everything that is right about higher education, creating diverse and inclusive communities that enhance the experience for all students,” said Lewis. “There is tremendous energy and excitement around President Washington’s transformational leadership and bold vision for the university and athletics. I am ecstatic to join his leadership team and Mason Nation!”
His experience as an athletic department liaison with the ACC, Big Ten, and the Colonial Athletic Association will help him as he transitions from the Ivy League to the Atlantic 10.
“The A-10 is one of the best conferences in the country,” continued Lewis. “Its diverse membership and presence in competitive media markets makes it extremely attractive for recruits, student-athletes, and fans of highly competitive athletics. My goal is to position Mason to consistently compete for A-10 championships.”
Lewis’ leadership skills began in college, where he was a two-time captain of Georgia Tech’s basketball team and helped lead the team to the NCAA Championship Game in 2004. And he also has the business acumen needed to run an athletic department, particularly in the evolving college sports landscape.
He graduated with honors from Georgia Tech with a BA in management and became a licensed CPA. He then earned his master’s degree in taxation from Georgia State and then began his athletics administration career.
