The MIT Stephen A. Schwarzman College of Computing recently celebrated a major milestone with the completion and inauguration of its cutting-edge building located on Vassar Street, marked by an inspiring dedication ceremony.
Among the attendees were esteemed members of the MIT community, distinguished guests, and supporters. This event allowed participants to reflect on the substantial gift that instigated the most significant transformation in MIT’s institutional structure in more than seven decades. This landmark donation was made by Stephen A. Schwarzman, the chair, CEO, and co-founder of Blackstone, recognized as one of the largest alternative investment firms globally, laying the foundation for the establishment of the college.
During the ceremony, MIT President Sally Kornbluth expressed that the “success of the MIT Stephen A. Schwarzman College of Computing serves as a testament to Steve’s vision.” She highlighted the new building’s capacity to accommodate 50 computing research groups, promoting a remarkable exchange of knowledge and ideas. “The college will empower MIT to harness this expertise to tackle the pressing challenges facing humanity today,” she elaborated, “ranging from our health and the well-being of our planet to the social, economic, and ethical implications of emerging technologies.”
Schwarzman himself reflected on his connection to MIT, stating, “Opportunities like this are rare in life, allowing you to partake in a minor way in changing the future of a groundbreaking technology that will have a profound impact on people.” He shared that his motivation was partly fueled by his experiences in China, where he observed significant investments in artificial intelligence, leading him to question the pace of development in the United States. He emphasized the necessity of advancing AI while maintaining a strong focus on ethical considerations to mitigate potential risks.
Describing his partnership with the college as “the most marvelous adventure,” he noted the joy of engaging with the remarkable individuals at MIT and gaining insight into their work and thought processes. “You are making significant changes for the greater good of society,” he added.
MIT President Emeritus L. Rafael Reif reminisced about the discussions that led to the concept of the college, referring to Schwarzman as a “perfect partner.” He detailed their collaborative efforts to bring this vision to fruition, noting Schwarzman’s unique talent for simplifying complex situations and focusing on their essence.
After extensive discussions involving Schwarzman, MIT’s leadership, and faculty members, the establishment of the MIT Stephen A. Schwarzman College of Computing was announced in October 2018.
In recognition of Schwarzman’s essential role in envisioning the college, Reif presented him with two meaningful gifts: a sketch of the initial building concept and a photograph capturing the building lobby shortly after its opening in late January. “Thank you, Steve, for making all of this possible,” Reif expressed with gratitude.
Dan Huttenlocher, appointed as the inaugural dean of the MIT Schwarzman College of Computing in 2019, inaugurated the day’s festivities. He articulated how the building embodies the college’s tri-fold mission: to advance the cutting-edge of computing across various fields at MIT, strengthen leadership in computer science and artificial intelligence, and explore the social, ethical, and policy dimensions of computing.
Huttenlocher acknowledged the dedication of everyone involved in the planning, design, and construction of Building 45, including essential partners from MIT Campus Construction and Campus Planning, Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, and Suffolk Construction.
“Seeing the vibrant activity of MIT students, researchers, faculty, and staff in this building fills me with immense satisfaction and pride,” Huttenlocher remarked. “Witnessing this facility come to life and serve as a resource for so many within and beyond the MIT community is truly remarkable.”
He also expressed gratitude towards Anantha Chandrakasan, MIT chief innovation officer and dean of the School of Engineering, for his early contributions to the college, and Asu Ozdaglar, deputy dean of the MIT Schwarzman College of Computing and head of the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, for her ongoing leadership throughout the college’s development.
Photo credit & article inspired by: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
