Paula Sorrell

Paula Sorrell is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in technology commercialization, entrepreneurial education, and economic development. She currently serves as the Associate Vice President of Innovation & Economic Development at George Mason University, a position she has held since May 2020.1

Professional Background

In her role at George Mason University, Paula leads a team of over 200 people across various departments and initiatives, including:

• Office of Tech Transfer
• Entrepreneurship programming
• Six business incubators
• Virginia Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
• Virginia Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC)/APEX
• Women's Business Center
• A Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI)
• A maker space
• Mason campus place making, including Innovation Corridor Development related to Amazon HQ21

Board Memberships and Advisory Roles

Paula is actively involved in numerous boards and advisory committees, showcasing her expertise and influence in the field:

• American Lightweight Materials Manufacturing Innovation Institute (LIFT)
• State Science & Technology Institute Leadership Committee
• Institute for Biohealth Innovation Advisory Council
• Potomac Quantum Innovation Center Steering Committee
• Fairfax County Innovation Economic Advisory Board
• Fairfax County Founders Fund Advisory Board
• Prince William County Life Science Leadership Committee
• Arlington Economic Commission1

She has also served as a reviewer for the National Science Foundation and held positions on various other boards in the past, including the University of Michigan Office of Tech Transfer and the Michigan Venture Capital Association.1

Previous Experience

Before joining George Mason University, Paula ran her own consulting firm, Paula, LLC, from June 2015 to present. In this role, she provided strategy consulting services to universities, tech companies, and non-profit organizations. Her clients included the University of Michigan, University of Miami, and the Department of Defense - Office of Economic Adjustment.1

Paula Sorrell's extensive experience and leadership in innovation, economic development, and entrepreneurship make her a valuable asset to George Mason University and the broader innovation ecosystem.