Patricia Vargas

MIT's Technology and Development Program (TDP for short) aspires to help developing countries better the lives of its citizens. TDP has developed programs in a number of countries abroad including Malaysia , Thailand , and Egypt . Pat has been there throughout, as the Institute fulfills one of its basic goals: to be a good world citizen. As the Assistant Director of TDP, Pat has played an enormously important role in shaping the development of a new university in Asia- the Malaysian University of Science and Technology.

The new university makes extensive use of MIT's educational materials for its classes. Pat has been the critical organizing force and certainly qualifies for Going the Extra Mile. In fact, her efforts would be better described as Going the Extra Light Year. Pat, more than anybody else, has poured enormous energy into establishing the new University-her efforts have ranged from the logistics of organizing MIT faculty to helping prepare and deliver class materials, creating library resources and putting the MIT stamp and sense of excellence into the program as a whole. She is a wonderfully caring person and has paid special attention to looking after MIT students on their visits to Malaysia . She is an exceptional ambassador for MIT and has been tireless in her efforts to make the program a great success.

This is just one example of the many accomplishments and contributions described in Pat's nomination. She has shown great dedication and commitment to MIT over her many years here and we are very pleased to be able to present her with this award.