The ML + MAS Community Awards recognize graduating students and community members who have made meaningful contributions to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and connected culture within MAS and the Media Lab. Nominations were submitted by MAS students to recognize graduating peers and community members whose efforts, both visible and behind the scenes, have strengthened relationships, created welcoming spaces, and positively shaped the collective student experience. Nominations were reviewed by student, staff and faculty representatives from StudCom, ML Community Working Group and MAS Faculty.
A special thanks to 2026 Award Review Committee: Pat Pataranutaporn, Eitan Wolf, Kimy Lecamwasam , Samantha Gutierrez-Arango and Alma Jam.
Awards are presented in two categories:
1. Graduating MAS students who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to community building
2. Any staff member (faculty, staff, researchers, postdocs) who has had a lasting and positive impact on students during their time at the Lab
2026 Student Awardees:
- Ana Schon, Masters (Opera of the Future)
- Camron Blackburn, PhD (Center for Bits and Atoms)
- Daniella DiPaola, PhD (Personal Robots)
- Jessica Stringham, Masters (Future Sketches)
- Maggie Hughes, PhD, (Center for Constructive Communications)
- Patrick Chwalek, PhD (Responsive Environments)
- Perry Naseck, Masters (Responsive Environments)
- Sara Fernandez, Masters (Center for Bits and Atoms)
2026 Staff Awardees:
- Alessandra Davy-Falconi, Sr. Administrative Assistant
- Candido Monteiro, Facilities Assistant
- Cornelle King, Facilities Assistant
- Jimmy Day, Video Producer
- Kevin Davis, Director of Facilities (retired)