‘Moderate’ Abigail Spanberger Appoints Two Qatari Lobbyists To Serve on George Mason University Board ‘Moderate’ Abigail Spanberger Appoints Two Qatari Lobbyists To Serve on George Mason University Board January 20, 2026 Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger appointed two lobbyists tied to Qatar to George Mason University’s board of visitors. The move raises concerns over foreign influence in American higher education.