Sept 24-25 | SHASS 75th Anniversary Symposium

Since 1950, SHASS has advanced a human-centered approach to research, teaching, and innovation.

The SHASS 75th Anniversary Symposium is a two-day celebration Sept. 24-25, 2026 in the Thomas Tull Concert Hall in MIT’s Edward and Joyce Linde Music Building. The symposium will feature faculty panel thematic sessions, student performances, and alumni talks. Between sessions, attendees will have opportunities for connecting and networking.

The event will conclude with a closing reception and party at the MIT Museum evening of Sept. 25.

Learn more about our history: https://shass.mit.edu/about-the-school/shass-timeline/

Learn more about the symposium and full schedule here: https://shass.mit.edu/news-events/shass-75th-anniversary-symposium/

Below are events we have highlighted, featuring Literature faculty!

11:30 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.: Session 2 – Teaching and Learning Innovations (panel discussion)
Register here: https://luma.com/dbq24p53

Panelists:

• Takako Aikawa, Senior Lecturer in Japanese, Global Languages
• Suzanne Berger, Institute Professor, Department of Political Science
• Sara Ellison, Senior Lecturer, Department of Economics
• Stephanie Seed, Associate Professor, Literature
• Eric Klopfer, Professor, Comparative Media Studies/Writing; Director, Scheller Teacher Education Program
• Norvin Richards, the Dean’s Distinguished Professor of Linguistics

Moderator

• Will Broadhead, Associate Professor of History

2 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.: Session 7 – Perception, Cognition, Expression (panel discussion)
Register here: https://luma.com/g84s43it

Panelists:

• Sandy Alexandre, Associate Professor, Literature
• Elise Newman, Assistant Professor, Department of Linguistics and Philosophy
• Justin Khoo, Associate Professor, Department of Linguistics and Philosophy
• Jay Scheib, Class of 1949 Professor, Section Head, Music and Theater Arts

Moderator

• • Angela Saini, Assistant Professor, Comparative Media Studies/Writing