The College of Humanities and Social Sciences is proud to honor Roy Barnett, BIS '18, with the 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award in School of Integrative Studies/Bachelor of Individualized Studies.
Barnett has served as the group president of land acquisition, planning, and development within the Van Metre organization for more than 20 years. As such, Barnett managed the development of the Broadlands and Stone Ridge communities and the planning and construction of several apartment communities. Barnett was also instrumental in facilitating Van Metre’s donation of 37 acres at Broadlands, valued at $15.5M, to the George Mason University Foundation.
In 2018, Barnett earned his bachelor’s degree in George Mason’s BIS program specializing in global real estate finance, design, and development. Soon after, he obtained his master’s degree in property development from the University of Technology Sydney (Australia). In addition to his Van Metre responsibilities, Barnett is an adjunct at both George Mason and Shippensburg University, providing courses in the principle of real estate and real estate finance.
The College of Humanities and Social Sciences honors distinguished alumni each fall at Community and Catalysts: Achievements, Awards, and Innovations. This signature event is a celebration of alumni, faculty, and students whose leadership, research, and service have made outstanding contributions to their fields, communities, and to the university.