Statement from the AbuSulayman Center for Global Islamic Studies at George Mason University
It is with profound sorrow that the AbuSulayman Center for Global Islamic Studies at George Mason University mourns the passing of Dr. Yaqub Mirza and Dr. Abdulaziz Sachedina, both of whom left this world on December 3, 2025. Their loss marks a deeply painful moment for our community, for the broader field of Islamic studies, and for all who benefited from their wisdom, generosity, and unwavering commitment to knowledge.
Dr. Yaqub Mirza, of the Mirza Family Foundation, was a steadfast friend and benefactor of the Center. His support, rooted in a lifelong dedication to advancing education, ethical leadership, and Muslim civic engagement, strengthened our mission and helped nurture generations of scholars. Dr. Mirza boldly supported the development of Islamic Studies as a field at GMU, spearheading efforts to establish an Islamic Studies Chair ( the IIIT Chair in Islamic Studies), and his generous, transformative gift in 2022 that allowed the continuation of Islamic Studies at Mason under the newly named the AbuSulayman Center for Global Islamic Studies- https://chss.gmu.edu/articles/18126.
Dr. Mirza’s legacy of philanthropy and principled service will continue to shape the field of Islamic studies for decades to come. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.
Dr. Abdulaziz Sachedina, a core faculty member of the Center and a globally respected scholar of Islam, devoted his life to illuminating the ethical, theological, and pluralistic foundations of the Islamic tradition. His intellectual courage, expansive knowledge, and deep compassion enriched the lives of his students and colleagues and elevated the academic study of Islam worldwide. Dr. Sachedina was also arguably a foremost expert on Islamic ethics and interfaith matters. His prolific writing and lived experiences helped shape both fields of study. Dr. Sachedina’s scholarship and mentorship have left an indelible mark on our Center and on countless individuals who learned from him. An interview conducted with Dr. Sachedina on his life and scholarship was published on Maydan, the Center’s online publication in 2017.
On this day of immense loss, we honor the memories of these two extraordinary individuals—each visionary in his own way, each committed to advancing understanding and fostering a more just, thoughtful, and humane world.
May God grant mercy to Dr. Mirza and Dr. Sachedina, comfort to their families, and peace to all who mourn their passing.
AbuSulayman Center for Global Islamic Studies
George Mason University
December 04, 2025