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Former MedStar Health leader, who brings experience in fundraising, government affairs, and institutional partnerships, will steer the college’s fundraising strategy and donor engagement efforts.
Francisco Semião, a leader in health care philanthropy and external affairs who has helped secure more than $150 million in funding across health care systems, universities, and nonprofits, has joined the George Mason University College of Public Health as senior director of development.
In his new role, Semião will steer fundraising strategy and donor engagement efforts supporting the college’s research, education, and public health initiatives.
Before George Mason, Semião worked for MedStar Health as director of government and regulatory affairs for the D.C. region, focused on government appropriations, public policy initiatives, health care expansion projects, and institutional partnerships. He previously held philanthropy and development leadership roles with the Washington Hospital Center Foundation, George Washington University, and Inova Health System.
“We are thrilled to welcome Francisco to the college. He brings a deep understanding of how partnerships and philanthropy help move public health forward,” said Melissa J. Perry, dean of the College of Public Health. “His experience in health care, higher education, and community engagement will be an asset to our college as we expand our impact.”
The role marks a return to George Mason for Semião, who previously served as an adjunct faculty member in the former College of Health and Human Services, now the College of Public Health. He holds master’s degrees in public health from George Washington University and in health care management from Marymount University.
Semião also serves as board chair of the National Salvadoran American Association and previously served as board chair of the National Organization of Portuguese Americans for 10 years.