Presenter: Alison Alden, Vice President for Human Resources
Our first recipient of this award is Janie Porter-Nichols, a member of the MIT community for 23 years. A financial assistant in the Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL), Janie works closely with administrative staff to ensure that all financial transactions are processed and paid. This is no small feat— with C-SAIL’s operating budget of almost $60 million. Janie’s office has been described as the C-SAIL triage unit. She ensures that forms are completed correctly and that all documentation is in order. This could make for a stressful atmosphere. But Janie’s colleagues say that she has created an environment of excellence that is always inclusive, fun, and helpful—an environment that brings out the best in everyone.
One nomination letter reads, “Janie’s office has a laid back atmosphere, and C-SAIL staff members come and go throughout the day: dropping off paperwork, asking for help, catching up on the happenings of the lab, or just seeking advice. Janie is one of the first individuals I want our administrative staff to meet because she exemplifies the kind of environment I want for our lab.”
Everyone, let’s welcome Janie Porter-Nichols to the stage for her Bringing Out the Best Award.