MIT Better World
Chicago

A Celebration of MIT in Chicago

On May 30, 2018, the MIT Better World tour stopped in Chicago at The Metropolitan at Willis Tower. The event offered more than 200 alumni, parents, and friends an in-depth look at the MIT Campaign for a Better World.

Ilene S. Gordon ’75, SM ’76 welcomed attendees and introduced W. Eric L. Grimson PhD ’80, MIT chancellor for academic advancement. During his remarks, Grimson outlined Campaign priorities focused on MIT’s mission to help make a better world.

Anantha P. Chandrakasan, dean of the MIT School of Engineering, asked guests to “Imagine scientists and engineers joining forces to discover the basis of human intelligence. Then, imagine them using that knowledge to drive the development of new tools that will positively impact virtually every aspect of society.” This, he says, is what drove MIT to launch the MIT Quest for Intelligence.

Chandraksan moderated a panel discussion on human and machine intelligence. The discussion featured Avrim Blum ’87, SM ’89, PhD ’91, Leyla Isik PhD ’15, and Leslie Pack Kaelbling.

Grimson concluded the program with an invitation to guests. “We need you to help inspire the whole family of MIT with your example by attending events—like this one tonight and like the ones offered by your local and regional alumni groups—and by supporting the MIT Campaign for a Better World with your gift.”