Dear Octet,

I hope you are enjoying this season! In the academy, work is in high gear with papers, exams, and other deadlines looming before the holidays. In this drive to the finish, I notice how coveted a compelling critique or evaluation is to academics. Similar to other work contexts, we evaluate colleagues' thoughts and work as a part of our daily routine. On occasion, we thank them for contributing to an effort. It is a rare thing, however, to stop and express gratitude for the colleagues and co-collaborators themselves. With Thanksgiving near, I am thanking God for the magnificent personalities and talents He has placed in my life, namely Octet’s team members. May the gift of gratitude also be yours this season wherever you live and work!

With warm regards,

Mia Chung-Yee

Executive Director

• Listen to Christy Vines' intellectual hospitality event presentation on race and reconciliation. 
• Read the 2021-2022 Annual Report.
• Enjoy brief conversations featuring John and Eliana Runyon and Anne McCants.

The Question of Gratitude

Around this time of year, we reflect on what we're thankful for. Research shows that expressing gratitude improves a number of health factors, but for Christians, gratitude isn't only about the practice; it's about who we're grateful to. Who God is shapes the way we give thanks.

Christy Vines' Presentation

Christy Vines, President and CEO of the Ideos Institute, was the speaker at Octet's inaugural intellectual hospitality event in October. Vines presented a neuro-theological perspective on tribalism and shared how this illuminates Scripture in a new way. Listen to the presentation via the link below.

Diálogos: The Overturning of Roe v. Wade

On Dec. 15, Octet welcomes faculty, staff, and alumni for its second event in the Intellectual Hospitality series, Diálogos: The Overturning of Roe v. Wade, with David Skeel, S. Samuel Arsht Professor of Corporate Law at the University of Pennsylvania, Carey Law School.

Save the Date!

In January, the Octet Collaborative will host two classes for IAP with in-person and remote options. More soon! 

2021-2022 Annual Report

Because of your support and generosity, the Octet Collaborative's second fiscal year was a success! Please take time to read through the contents of this annual report and reflect on all that you made possible. Thank you for your partnership and investment in the MIT community.

Year End Giving

The Octet Collaborative is kicking off year end giving on Giving Tuesday, November 29th. Mark your calendars for this date and join Octet in supporting human flourishing at MIT.

Scholarly News

Randy Kirchain, co-director of the Concrete Sustainability Hub at MIT, is cited in an article by WBUR on how cities can reduce CO2 emissions by using lighter colored pavement on streets and parking lots.

New research by Mingda Li details how machine learning and simple X-ray spectra can enable researchers to more quickly uncover compounds to enable the next generation of quantum devices or computer chips.

Muriel Médard is the inaugural recipient of the Excellence in Postdoctoral Mentoring Award, given during the MIT Postdoctoral Association's luncheon.

Rosalind Picard received the Lombardia é Ricerca Award for her groundbreaking research in the field of affective computing and her application of AI.

Linda Griffith published an article in the Boston Globe on her research on women's health.

Incoming MIT assistant professor in the mechanical engineering department, Loza Tadesse, is a Forbes 30 Under 30 Healthcare award recipient.

Alumna Profile: Jee-Hoon Krska

Jee-Hoon Krska, PhD '97, learned to follow Jesus during her time at MIT, a journey that led her from a career in engineering to founding a non-profit teaching piano to inner-city kids in Newark. She sees potential for The Octet Collaborative to offer "a glimpse of heaven" here on MIT's campus.

MIT has a new President. Watch Sally A. Kornbluth, president-elect, address the MIT community. Octet invites you to pray for the Institute during this time of transition.

Ministry News & Events

• The Tech Catholic Community is hosting a Chick-fil-a Thanksgiving dinner Nov. 23 at 5:30 pm in the W11 Main Dining Room.
• Join the Baptist Student Fellowship for its Refuge meeting "Question Night" for a time to ask leaders your questions on Nov. 30 at 5:30 pm in W11-080.
• Join MIT Cru for large group at 8 pm every Tuesday night in the Mezzanine Lounge.
• MIT RUF hosts its large group meeting Nov. 21 at 8 pm in W20-201.
• MIT InterVarsity is hosting an Operation Christmas Child packing party on Nov. 19 from 6-8 pm.