Gold Trash Can Is Perfect Honor Says GMU Alum, Tech Fund Donor

FAIRFAX, VA — Most people might not find the gift of a trash can anything special, but that's not the case with Maruf Ahmed, the CEO of $1.2 billion staffing and information technology firm Dexian.

"I may be the only CEO in America who is thrilled to have one," Ahmed told Patch when asked about the golden trash can dedicated to him on the George Mason University campus in Fairfax.

Mason recently dedicated a golden trash can to Ahmed, who graduated from the school with a bachelor of science degree in engineering in 1990. He also received a master of science in electrical and electronics engineering in 1995.

The golden trash can was an acknowledgement of Mason's gratitude for a recent financial gift from Ahmed that helped establish the College of Engineering and Computing’s Dean’s Technology Innovation Fund.

Aimed at increasing the number of master's degrees in computer science, computer engineering, and software engineering, the fund will help bolster the region's tech-talented workforce and support Virginia's Tech Talent Investment Program.

Patch recently interviewed Ahmed about his time at George Mason University, why he felt compelled to provide seed money to help his alma mater's technology students, and why a golden trash can meant so much to him.

PATCH: Could you share some memories you have of studying at GMU?

Like so many students, my college career was filled with classes, studying, and work. I have very fond memories of going to the fourth floor of the library for all-nighters before exams. But what I remember most are the faculty, professors, and supervisors that played a role in my education. I learned a lot from my courses and degrees, but I also learned about the value of hard work and the immeasurable impact of kindness, helping others, and paying it forward.

I specifically remember an instance when one of my professors went out of their way to accommodate make-up exams for me and some of my classmates. Another example is when my shift supervisor provided me with flexibility around my schedule and helped me navigate my work/life/school balance.

Overall, my time at GMU was extremely influential and helped to shape me as the person and entrepreneur I am today.

Why did you choose to donate to the school?

My brother, Mahfuz, and I came to the U.S. on a student visa with very little, and it was quite intimidating. But we soon found that GMU’s inclusive environment would enable us to not only receive a great education, but also gain the foundation to learn, grow, and have the courage to follow our dreams.

Like many immigrants, we came here with the “American Dream.” But if you told me then that eventually we’d start our own company, which has now grown to be a $1 billion enterprise, I’m not sure I would have believed you. In many ways, what we have built in Dexian today couldn’t have been done without our time at GMU. So, it was an easy decision for us to give back to the university. Our goal was to simply help create the College of Engineering and Computing’s Dean’s Technology Innovation Fund, which is already doing great things for students.

But to be honored by the school is humbling, and a reminder that in supportive environments, dreams can come true.

What are your thoughts on the gold trash can?

I may be the only CEO in America who is thrilled to have one. It may not seem like much to others, but it has a very significant meaning to me. While I was a student, I worked as part of the grounds crew, making $3 an hour mowing lawns and cleaning up waste on campus. It helped me pay my way through school. So having a garbage can dedicated to me as an homage to my humble beginnings truly does mean a lot. It brings a smile to my face just thinking about it.

As stated on the plaque, “It’s not where you start, but the road that you take on your journey to success.” I hope the dedication, and more importantly the Innovation Fund, will help spark inspiration and potentially even serve as a symbol of hope to students in similar situations.

Where is the trash can located?

The trash can is in a sentimental location for me. It is in front of the Fenwick Library. While on the grounds crew, this area was my responsibility and where I made sure the trash was picked up and the garbage cans were clean and empty.