MIT Media Lab was founded in 1985 by Nicholas Negroponte and Jerome Wiesner. It turns 40 in October when a 2-day event is planned Meanwhile you are invited to contribute to its 40 For 40 fund raising campaign.

Blowing its own trumpet, 

For the past 40 years MIT Media Lab has been a pioneering force in redefining technology as a medium for human creativity, learning, and empowerment. Emerging as an ambitious experiment blending disciplines like digital technology, cognitive sciences, art, and design, the Lab revolutionized how humans interact with technology. 

The video illustrates how, since 1985, the MIT Media Lab has provided a home for interdisciplinary research, transformative technologies, and innovative approaches to solving some of humanity’s greatest challenges.

The 40th Anniversary is also an opportunity for fund-raising. As stated in its announcement:

As we celebrate our 40th anniversary year, we’re looking ahead to decades more of imagining, designing, and inventing a future in which everyone has the opportunity to flourish.

The 40 For 40 campaign aims to secure $40 million, split equally four ways.

1. Inventing future academic fields at MIT and enhancing a legacy of continual innovation

MIT is looking for $10+ million to support professorships and aid in establishing faculty positions across areas including Cultivating Creativity, where artistic and creative innovations are nurtured; Creative Learning, which reimagines educational methods; Life with AI, focusing on transformative human experiences through AI; health and wellbeing, including a focus on women's health; Energy and Climate research in line with MIT's Climate Project initiatives; and Exploration from oceans to space.  According to the campaign blurb:

Such funding secures the future of these fields at the Media Lab and MIT and allows the creation of Named Professorships and a Named Directorship, thus cementing a legacy of continual innovation.

2. Nurturing future leaders and sustained investment in intellectual growth

A further $10+million is sought to support for graduate student fellowships to provide equitable educational opportunities for exceptional graduate students. The plan includes offering 40 fellowships over the next decade, supporting four scholars annually with significant funding aimed at nurturing future leaders who are well-prepared to tackle global challenges. Additionally, the endowment of two Named Media Lab Fellowships ensures a sustained investment in intellectual growth and innovation.

3. Continued research leadership across sectors

The Director’s Innovation Fund is intended focus on fostering cutting-edge research and collaborative projects. With a commitment of $10+ million, this fund is intended to be used to explore new research avenues, enabling the Media Lab to remain at the forefront of technological and societal advancements. This proactive approach ensures that the Media Lab continues to be a leader in innovation across various sectors.

4. Leading transformative and impactful research

Lastly, Flagship Research Initiatives are vital for ensuring continuous impact in areas crucial for human betterment. With another $10+ million, these initiatives can further research in designing AI for humanity, enhancing health and wellbeing, and promoting sustainable practices in oceans, cities, and space. The establishment of named research funds and provision for current-use research support reinforces the Lab's role in leading transformative and impactful research.

More Information

MIT Media Lab 40th Anniversary

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